More than 55,000 Filipinos gathered at the Dubai World Trade Centre for the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration, filling the venue with vibrant cultural performances, patriotic pride, and the spirit of unity that defines the Filipino community abroad.
Organized by the Filipino Social Club (FilSoc) in partnership with Philippine government agencies and various Filipino groups across the UAE, the full-day festival carried the theme “Filipino Pride: Embracing Diversity, Celebrating Unity and Love of Country.”
“This year’s celebration reflects the strength and unity of the Filipino community,” said FilSoc President Ericson Reyes. “More than just a commemoration of our independence, PID 2025 has become a platform where we celebrate our culture, honor our heritage, and empower our youth to lead the next generation of Filipinos in the UAE.”
Distinguished guests from both the UAE and the Philippines graced the event, including Dr. Hamad Al Musafri from the UAE Ministry of Community Empowerment and Huraiz Bin Huraiz, CEO of the Social Development & Regulatory Sector at the Community Development Authority. From the Philippine side, Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac of the Department of Migrant Workers, Ambassador Alfonso Ver, and Consul General Marford Angeles joined the celebration.
One of the event’s most talked-about appearances was that of Karolina Agata Sankiewicz — better known online as “Boss Baby.” The Polish-born wake-surfer went viral after surfing Dubai’s waters in a modern Filipiniana while proudly holding the Philippine flag, an act of solidarity that drew admiration from Filipinos across the globe.
The program was packed with cultural presentations, headlined by the Philippine Festivals Dance Competition featuring performances from Far Eastern Private School, Universal Philippine School, and New Filipino Private School. The highlight of the day was the Gawad Pinoy Awards 2025, honoring ten outstanding Filipinos for their meaningful contributions to the community.