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Filipino Times
6 days ago
- Politics
- Filipino Times
Filipino community in Bahrain celebrates Independence Day with pride and gratitude
In honor of the 127th anniversary of the Philippine Independence Proclamation, a flag-raising ceremony and a commemorative program took place at the Sentro Rizal, Philippine Embassy Manama on June 12, 2025. The event was led by Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis, alongside her spouse, Dr. Gerard Joseph Louis, and the officers and staff of the Philippine Embassy. This ceremony served as a reminder of the nation's hard-earned freedom and the sacrifices made by its heroes. Attendees included representatives from various Filipino community organizations, partner groups, and distinguished guests. This year's celebration echoed a distinctly deep sense of national pride, highlighting the lasting spirit of freedom and unity that connects Filipinos, transcending distances. The event began with a sincere ecumenical invocation. Fr. Anthony Almazan, OFM Cap., opened the proceedings with a Christian prayer, which was then succeeded by a Muslim prayer led by Ismail Dimapuno, illustrating spiritual diversity and unity. Subsequently, a solemn rendition of the Philippine National Anthem took place, evoking a profound sense of patriotic pride, which was then followed by the pledge of allegiance to the Filipino flag. The event was honored by a series of inspiring messages from prominent figures in Philippine governance. John C. Baluba of the Social Security System (SSS) conveyed a special message from SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph Montes de Claro. This was succeeded by a video greeting from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan, who acknowledged the invaluable contributions of overseas Filipinos. The program paid particular tribute to the significant role played by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Migrant Workers Office, Officer-in-Charge Celia V. Cabadonga communicated messages from the Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Hans Leo Cacdac, which were further enhanced by a video message from Secretary Cacdac himself. This segment emphasized the sincerity of the government in giving credit and appreciation to the remarkable contributions of Filipino migrant workers. An intermission number, through the power of music in expressing national pride, was beautifully demonstrated during an uplifting cultural performance. Mr. Virgilio Pasive Jr., the Administrative Officer of the Philippine Embassy, welcomed Attachés Linoernbar Blanco and Lucia Ramirez. They delivered a moving rendition of 'Isang Mundo, Isang Awit' (One World, One Song), exceeding boundaries and languages and embodying the spirit of unity and shared identity. Following the presentation, a video message from the Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique A. Manalo was introduced by Consul Bryan Jess T. Baguio, conveying the Philippine government's message of unity, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to overseas Filipinos. This was followed by special video messages of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, whose heartfelt words captured the nation's pride, reflecting on the Philippines' journey toward independence and the collective strength needed to face future challenges. These messages resonated with the core theme of the celebration, 'Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan' (Freedom, Future, History), emphasizing the significant relevance of the event for Filipinos living and working abroad. During her address, Her Excellency, Anne Jalando-on Louis, took a moment to sincerely thank the community for graciously dedicating their time to participate in this significant event. Reflecting on the nation's advancements over the past 127 years, Ambassador Louis highlighted the ongoing progress and development of the Philippines. 'Each of us has a responsibility and a part to play in nation-building—whether we are in government, the private sector, civil society, or as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs),' she remarked. 'Through our collective efforts, we contribute to the growth of our nation and our communities both here and in our homeland.' In her speech, Ambassador Louis expressed, 'On this occasion, let us once again cultivate a deeper appreciation for our country—its rich and lasting history.' Ambassador Louis also honored the legacy of the nation's heroes, stating, 'We are fortunate to inherit the legacy of our ancestors, especially our national heroes. We have much to celebrate and take pride in as Filipinos.' During the program, the ambassador announced an exciting lineup of activities to celebrate the occasion, including an art exhibit, promotion of Filipino products in various malls and supermarkets, and performances by the Lakbay Guitar Duo. In a notable highlight of the day, International Triathlon Club member Michael Alfredo 'Mico' Faminial, an OFW, was given a commendation by the Philippine Embassy for his incredible sporting achievement. Michael just finished a grueling 170-kilometer ultramarathon in Bahrain, the ultimate test of human endurance. His race began at 4:18 PM on Friday, June 6th, and concluded at 9:26 AM on Sunday, June 8th, and took an astonishing 41 hours and 8 minutes. However, Michael's challenge extended beyond mere personal athletic ability. He undertook this demanding endurance run to raise awareness about the health and welfare of cats and dogs in Bahrain. The Embassy recognized his initiative in adopting the same mission of promoting health, well-being, and social responsibility. His dedication to animal welfare exemplifies the Filipino values of compassion and service, and his accomplishments represent a significant contribution to the spirit of independence and patriotism that this special day signifies. Likewise, one of the attendees, Eliza Carang, 57, hailing from La Union, has dedicated 20 years of her career to working as a health assistant in Bahrain. She conveyed her happiness at being able to participate in the Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Philippine Embassy, describing it as a significant experience that revitalized her connection to her native land. 'As an OFW, this celebration represents proof of our determination to foster unity and collaboration among individuals in pursuit of a better life', she remarked. Attendees who graced the occasion include OWWA Welfare Officer Juvilyn Anns Gumabay, Captain Noel Escalona, the Senior National Representative of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to the Combined Maritime Forces (AFPSNR to CMF), and officers from the Philippine School Bahrain (PSB). Additionally, representatives from Good Cause, Filipino Club, Pinay Ikaw Na (PIN), Katolikong Pinoy Bahrain, Filipino Badminton League Bahrain (FBLB), and the Filipino Writers' Circle (Filwrite) were present at the event. After the program, a traditional Filipino breakfast was served as part of the celebration, adding a warm and communal touch to the occasion.
Daily Tribune
7 days ago
- Politics
- Daily Tribune
Filipinos Celebrate Independence Day with Pride and Gratitude
In honor of the 127th anniversary of the Philippine Independence Proclamation, a flag-raising ceremony and a commemorative program took place at the Sentro Rizal, Philippine Embassy Manama, on June 12, 2025. The event was led by Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis, alongside her spouse, Dr. Gerard Joseph Louis, and the officers and staff of the Philippine Embassy. This ceremony served as a reminder of the nation's hard-earned freedom and the sacrifices made by its heroes. Attendees included representatives from various Filipino community organizations, partner groups, and distinguished guests. This year's celebration echoed a distinctly deep sense of national pride, highlighting the lasting spirit of freedom and unity that connects Filipinos transcending distances. The event began with a sincere ecumenical invocation. Fr. Anthony Almazan, OFM Cap., opened the proceedings with a Christian prayer, which was then succeeded by a Muslim prayer led by Ismail Dimapuno, illustrating spiritual diversity and unity. Subsequently, a solemn rendition of the Philippine National Anthem took place, evoking a profound sense of patriotic pride, which was then followed by the pledge of allegiance to the Filipino flag. The event was honored by a series of inspiring messages from prominent figures in Philippine governance. John C. Baluba of the Social Security System (SSS) conveyed a special message from SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph Montes de Claro. This was succeeded by a video greeting from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan, who acknowledged the invaluable contributions of overseas Filipinos. The program paid particular tribute to the significant role played by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). 'Each of us has a responsibility and a part to play in nation-building — whether we are in government, the private sector, civil society, or as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Through our collective efforts, we contribute to the growth of our nation and our communities both here and in our homeland.' — H.E. Anne Jalando-on Louis, Ambassador of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain
CBS News
21-04-2025
- Politics
- CBS News
Despite deportation fears in U.S., South Florida Nicaguarans continue to protest Ortega regime back in home country
Fear of immigration raids took over the City of Sweetwater on Easter Sunday. Unlike prior years, members of the Nicaraguan community in South Florida did not march through the streets of the municipality, as this Sunday was also a special day commemorating the uprising of these people against the Nicaraguan government , but with limitations. On Sunday, Nicaraguans honored the seventh anniversary of the civil insurrection against the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega . Every year, the activity begins with a Catholic Mass at a Sweetwater church; however, in 2025, their acts of solidarity were limited to the haven of a temple. South Florida Nicaraguans paid tribute to the victims of repression in their home country, chanting for freedom in their native land. They brought their signs and flags, but this year was different. "We don't want to expose our people to marches in the streets of the city because some of them are still waiting on their political asylum to be approved," said Starina Jerez, a Nicaraguan exiled in South Florida. In 2024, dozens of Nicaraguans marched through the streets of Sweetwater after a massive Mass. The city is a landmark for the community because of the evident presence of Nicaraguans, but now, immigration enforcement raids all over the U.S., including Florida, have sparked fear among the community who fled from a regime. April 2018 marked a before-and-after in Nicaragua's recent history — protests against arbitrary reforms to the Nicaraguan Social Security System sparked a nationwide civic uprising, led by students and civil society fed up with authoritarian rule. But Ortega's regime responded with bullets against banners, flags and unarmed citizens. According to the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights, at least 355 people died because of the protests. The Ortega regime was blamed for the bloodshed. Seven years later, more than 800,000 Nicaraguans have fled the Central American nation and were forced into exile . "Most of them to Costa Rica, some to the U.S. and Spain mainly," said Lesther Aleman. "Nicaragua is the North Korea of the Americas." Aleman, now 24, gained notoriety when he confronted the Nicaraguan dictator and his wife, Rosario Murillo, in 2018 and told them that the people of Nicaragua wanted them to end repression and relinquish power. "I was arrested and became a political prisoner," he said. Aleman was one of the 222 political prisoners released in February 2023 because of U.S. negotiations. They were flown to the U.S. and many moved to South Florida, including former presidential candidate Felix, whose crime was to challenge Ortega on the ballot. There is no opposition in Nicaragua. No free press, no independent organizations and ample repression against the Catholic Church , one of the few entities that has raised its voice against Ortega's repression. "Some Nicaraguans have been deported, even some who have returned on their own have been detained by the dictatorship the moment they arrived," said Padre Somarriba, a priest. "They are locked in jail and now accused of terrorism because they denounced repression on social media — that is also a human rights violation and we want Washington to know about this." The activity organizers said that resistance against the Nicaraguan dictatorship is still alive. Now, they're calling on the community to continue denouncing human rights violations under the Ortega regime, despite the atmosphere , even in the U.S.
Leaders
11-04-2025
- Politics
- Leaders
Trump Administration Removes Thousands of Immigrants from Social Security System
The Trump administration has reportedly added more than 6,000 immigrants to a federal database of deceased Social Security System recipients, cutting off their benefits and limiting their ability to work, according to U.S. media reports on Thursday. The Washington Post, citing a White House official, reported that this move is part of an effort to pressure undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the country. This approach is in line with other hardline immigration policies implemented since the beginning of Donald Trump's second term, including the transfer of over 200 suspected gang members to a high-security prison in El Salvador. Social Security Numbers In the United States, Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are essential for tracking income, accessing welfare benefits, and verifying identity for employment and housing. Despite their undocumented status, many immigrants—particularly those who arrived under Biden-era policies allowing temporary entry to ease border pressure—possess valid SSNs. According to the White House official, individuals flagged as deceased in the Social Security system are effectively locked out of basic services, including employment, housing, banking, and government aid, making it nearly impossible for them to sustain a living. Media outlets also noted that the initiative to use the so-called 'death file' was led by staff within Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The New York Times reported that the first group of 6,300 affected individuals were classified as 'convicted criminals and suspected terrorists,' based on internal administration documents. However, both the Times and the Post indicated that this policy could be expanded to target a broader group of undocumented immigrants. This controversial use of the Social Security system follows another recent move by the administration to share taxpayer data from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) with immigration authorities. For years, millions of undocumented immigrants have contributed taxes, hoping it would support their cases for legal status and help fund large-scale programs like Social Security. Related Topics : Ministry of Interior Highlights Importance of Media Collaboration in Hajj System Saudi Arabia's Harvest 2023: Social Projects Supporting Women's Empowerment Food Security Challenges in the Kingdom: Opportunities & Solutions INTERVIEW-Saudi Arabia Plays Pivotal Role in Promoting Regional Stability: Dr. Hesham Alghannam Short link : Post Views: 7
Filipino Times
10-04-2025
- Politics
- Filipino Times
Duterte lawyer pushes ICC to tighten ID rules for drug war victims, draws criticism from victims' counsel
The legal team of former President Rodrigo Duterte has requested the International Criminal Court's (ICC) Pre-Trial Chamber I to enforce stricter rules for identifying victims who wish to participate in the drug war trial, arguing that only national ID cards or passports with recent photos should be accepted for verification. Lead defense counsel Nicholas Kaufman said the move would prevent fraud and ensure more reliable identification. If these IDs are unavailable, he proposed a staggered ID system, similar to that used by the Social Security System. Kaufman warned that accepting varied and loosely verified documents could result in misidentification, duplicate entries, or false victim claims, leading to delays in the proceedings. The ICC Registry previously allowed other government-issued IDs, citing delays in the national ID rollout. But Duterte's camp argued that this approach was vague and overly broad. The defense also requested that only the ICC's Office of Public Counsel for Victims represent victims in court, pushing back against a Registry recommendation to allow victims' current lawyers to continue submissions while waiting for a common legal representative to be appointed. Kaufman argued that multiple submissions would burden the defense and delay the trial, potentially violating Duterte's right to a speedy process. Human rights lawyer Kristina Conti, who represents drug war victims, called the petition an 'anti-poor' attempt to restrict victim participation. She emphasized that many victims' relatives lack the financial means to secure the proposed identification documents. 'This is an attempt to reduce the number of participating victims,' Conti said. 'Even if there are just ten victims, the case will go on.' She clarified that participating victims need not testify like prosecution witnesses but can offer personal perspectives, which the court considers vital. Duterte, 80, is currently detained by the ICC after his arrest in Manila on March 11. He faces a charge of murder related to 43 extrajudicial killings from 2011 to 2019, during his presidency and term as Davao City mayor. More charges could be filed depending on additional evidence expected at the confirmation of charges hearing in September. Duterte's camp is also seeking his temporary release before trial, a move that victim lawyers plan to oppose. While government figures list over 6,000 deaths during the drug war, rights groups estimate the real toll could be as high as 30,000, mostly from impoverished communities.
