DUBAI, 12 June 2006 — Filipinos in the United Arab Emirates will be treated to a festival of songs, dance and cultural presentations at the Al Nars Leisureland on Friday as part of the Philippine Independence Day celebrations, officials have said.
The extravaganza, scheduled from 1-10 p.m., is being organized by 30 Filipino community groups from Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates.
“Everyone is welcome to attend our national day celebration. Entrance to the show is free,” said Gina Salazar, head of the executive committee of the Dubai Celebration Committee on Philippine Independence, which is working under the auspices of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai.
To be showcased in mini-bazaars are Filipino products as well as books, remittance services, freight services, real estate, beauty care products and special airline packages.
Parlor games and a popular hilarious impersonation act, called Doble Kara competition, will also be held, followed by a raffle draw is with four airline tickets and several electronic goods as grand prizes.
The mini-cultural show will feature folk dances by the Bisdak Group (Bisayang Dako), St. Mary’s Cultural Group, and the Filipino Dance Club. A modern dance is to be presented by the Al Wasl Dancers and modern music will be provided by the Odyssey and Neo White Bands, courtesy of Ratsky Club, Dubai.
The eight qualifiers for the national finals of the UAE leg of the TFC Pop Star Search 2006 will also grace the event.
Sen. Joker P. Arroyo, one of the Philippines’ most colorful lawmakers, is expected to join the celebration, together with Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Libran Cabactulan, Consul General Antonio Curameng and Labor Attaché Vicente Cabe.
