Bayanihan’ or the spirit of working together was indeed manifested last December 16, 2016 at Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC) as the Filipino community celebrated The Bayanihan Festival 2016 with the leadership of Chairman Wafa Qasimieh and Vice Chairman Engr. Tata Dayot in partnership with Philippine Consulate General Dubai under the guidance of Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes.
Over 5,000 Filipinos from all over Dubai and the Northern Emirates went to see the event which was also graced by Ambassador Constancio Vingno Jr. and Consul General Paul Raymund Cortes.
Crowned Bayanihan Festival Queen 2016 was Paula Franchesca Ramirez; first runner-up was Marlyn Armamento; second was Kathleen Lausingco.
Special awards went to Marlyn Armamento (Best in Talent); Kathleen Mae Lausingco (Best in Casual Wear); Paula Franchesca Ramirez (Miss Friendship) Marlyn Armamento (Most Facebook Likes); Maryjane Gama (Best in Evening Gown); Marlyn Armamento (Best in Festival Costume); and Maryjane Gama (Miss Photogenic).
Meantime, the Dakilang Bayani Award went to Emelda Ortiz Gutay, Alvin Pancito, Jovielyn Castor, Nora Manliquis, Jethroel Ramboyong, Nina Marie Pureza Juan, Genesis Lontoc, Salvador Belosillo, Jr., Kristine Abante, Sugar Termoso Espadera, Dr. Nino Decenorio, Amy Miranda, Benigno Lebig, Jr., Joel Nedamo, Anthony Tario Austria, Christine Casero Nucasa, Rizzabelle C. Mendoza, Danilo Bartolome Aquino, Abdulla Pancho Aldea, Engr. Albert Suerte and Dr. Marilyn “Wafa” Qasimieh, who was given special recognition by the Consul General for leadership excellence.
Winners of the On The Spot Painting were Charlie Villagracia, grand champion in the non-professional category; runners up were Jason Obelidor and Ma. Rabel Ceprado. In the students category, grand champion was Yvette Margot while runners up were Eran De Leon and Tyron Aragones
The Barangay PunongKahoy group bested various organizations in the Christmas Lantern and Tree Contest. Voice Kids singing contest winners were Zahra Ross Shariff, grand champion and Maika Cheniz Sarmiento and John Jhuriel Barreto, runners-up.
Philippine stars Daniel Matsunaga and Francine Prieto entertained the crowd.
OSN conducted their Choral Competition and the Grand Winner amongst the 5 participants was The Philippine School who rendered a beautiful medley of Christmas songs.
