The previous sports festival of 2024, organized by the Philippine Professional Organization (PPO), has become a landmark event, uniting more than 500 participants from 22 accredited professional organizations operating in the United Arab Emirates. The event, held on November 16 and 23 at Al Bateen World Academy, not only gathered participants for the competitions and victories but also fostered the strengthening of unity, friendship, and close ties within the community.
During the festival, Deputy Head of Mission and Philippine Consul General in Abu Dhabi, Arveval, expressed high praise for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the UAE, especially following the recent recognition of two OFWs at the Emirates Labour Market Award. "The fact that they were recognized not by themselves, not by our compatriots, but by their employers, clearly indicates that they deserve that recognition, which they earn for their faithful service and diligent work with employers - and I know that you would have done the same," Arveval noted.
The winners in various subcategories were Norhana Mohammad Omar and Nestor Montalbo Handog. The latter received prize placements in the "Workforce" subcategories of "Domestic Workers" and "Electricity, Mechanics, Operating Machines, and Equipment" respectively. "This is about creating more significant connections among our various fields of activity, fostering cooperation, and celebrating shared values that unite us," said PPO President Elmer Casao during his speech.
"We are not just colleagues or competitors; we are a community that flourishes when lifting each other up," Casao added. Each of the winners received a cash prize of 100,000 dirhams. Two OFWs were also recognized with the 2nd ceremony award from the Emirates Labour Market Award. The Consul General also commended the PPO community for elevating the pride of Filipinos working abroad.
