Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, became a lively hub of Filipino culture this week as members of the Filipino expatriate community gathered at Suwaidi Park for the Global Harmony event. Organized by the Ministry of Media, the festival featured an array of performances that highlighted the rich musical and cultural traditions of the Philippines. The event not only entertained but also strengthened the bonds within the Filipino community in the Kingdom.
A Night of Music and Dance
The atmosphere was electric as Filipino superstars took the stage to showcase their talents. DJ Jimmy Nocon was one of the standout performers, captivating the audience with his dynamic set that included live drumming. His energetic performance resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom are Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) making significant sacrifices back home.
“It’s very special; it feels amazing. Of course, spinning, performing in front of my fellow Filipinos is very huge for me. It’s my pleasure,” DJ Jimmy Nocon shared with Arab News after his set.
The event also featured performances by The Power Duo, winners of “Pilipinas Got Talent,” and a vibrant marching band that paraded through the park, engaging attendees of all ages. Children from the International Philippines School added to the festivities with their own dance performances, delighting proud parents and onlookers.
Celebrating Filipino Culture and Community
The Global Harmony event was more than just a showcase of talent; it was a celebration of Filipino culture and the strong sense of community among expatriates. Cheysser Pragillata, a nurse working in Saudi Arabia for eight years, emphasized the importance of such events for socializing and relieving work-related stress.
Key Highlights:
- Live Performances: Featuring top Filipino artists and dance groups.
- Interactive Sessions: Opportunities for attendees to engage with performers.
- Cultural Displays: Traditional Filipino attire and crafts on display.
Pragillata expressed her appreciation for the event, stating, “It can help you to relieve your stress at work, this kind of event. It’s really helping us, for our social life, going out with our friends.” Her sentiments echoed those of many Filipinos who find solace and joy in celebrating their heritage abroad.
Economic and Social Impact
The Filipino community plays a significant role in Saudi Arabia’s economy, with remittances from OFWs accounting for 8.5% of the Philippines’ GDP, according to the Philippine News Agency. With over 725,890 Filipinos residing in Saudi Arabia as of the 2022 national census, their contributions are vital both economically and socially.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Expatriate Population | 725,890 Filipinos in Saudi Arabia |
| Key Sectors | Medical field, hospitality, engineering |
| Economic Contribution | Remittances make up 8.5% of Philippines’ GDP |
| Community Support | Events like Global Harmony foster unity |
Many Filipinos in Saudi Arabia are employed in the medical sector, with an estimated 130,000 Filipino nurses working in hospitals and clinics across the Kingdom. These professionals not only provide essential services but also contribute to the cultural diversity of the country.
Personal Stories and Community Bonds
Kurt Dabalos, a father whose daughter performed at the event, highlighted the personal significance of the Global Harmony festival. He attended primarily to support his daughter but stayed to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere extended by Saudi Arabia towards the Filipino community.
“We came here for, firstly, to be honest, because my daughter is performing, but if my daughter was not performing, I think I would still come here just to appreciate the hospitality of Saudi Arabia in welcoming the Filipinos, having this kind of activity for us all,” Dabalos told Arab News.
Such personal accounts underscore the event’s role in fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation among Filipinos living away from their homeland. The opportunity to celebrate their culture together provides much-needed emotional support and strengthens community ties.
Future of Global Harmony Initiatives
The Global Harmony initiative, launched on October 17, aims to celebrate the diverse cultures of expatriate communities in Saudi Arabia. After spotlighting the Filipino community this week, the event series will continue with Indonesian culture from October 26-29, followed by Pakistani, Yemeni, Sudanese, Jordanian, Lebanese, Syrian, Bangladeshi, and Egyptian cultures in the subsequent weeks.
Upcoming Highlights:
- Indonesian Week: Featuring traditional music and dance.
- Pakistani Showcase: Displaying vibrant costumes and performances.
- Yemeni Culture: Highlighting unique culinary and artistic traditions.
Each week’s celebration is designed to promote cultural understanding and unity among the diverse expatriate populations residing in Saudi Arabia. By spotlighting different cultures, the initiative aims to create an inclusive environment where all communities feel valued and recognized.
