Bahrain, Philippines bilateral ties growing from strength to strength

TDT | Manama                                                   

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com    

The Philippines and Bahrain are celebrating the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. The ties have achieved a milestone as a result of steadfast cooperation and mutual support.

Home to about 51,000 Filipinos, their presence has been an integral part of the country’s economic development in key sectors such as construction, tourism, information technology, telecommunications, health care, and hospitality, among others.

The bilateral relations have instituted reforms to protect the rights and welfare of migrant workers as a way of recognising their important role in nation-building.

As part of their diplomatic mission, the Philippine Embassy provides assistance to Filipinos and collaborates with the Bahrain government and other organisations. In return, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), who regard Bahrain as their second home, have remained grateful for the excellent support and hospitality of the Bahrainis.

The Daily Tribune spoke to Filipinos, and they had lovely things to say about their time in the Kingdom. “As an OFW working in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and an elementary school teacher at the Philippine School Bahrain (PSB), I truly value the relationship between Bahrain and the Philippines.

It is because Bahrain is a peaceful country where people are helpful and friendly. I feel secured, protected and safe. Bahrain has a high regard for its residents and expatriates, especially Filipinos.” – Ruth Mirhan Orense, teacher at Philippine School Bahrain.

“On the occasion of the 45th year bilateral relations of the Republic of the Philippines and the Kingdom of Bahrain, I am extending my warmest congratulations. Managing a business and diplomatic relations come hand in hand. I am hoping that the partnership between Bahrain and the Philippines will prosper more particularly in the field of tourism.” – Rowena Crisostomo, entrepreneur/managing director at WC Production International Company.

“The economic impact of the pandemic has greatly affected the lives of Filipinos in Bahrain, thankfully various initiatives from the government side to support the foreign workers were launched.

As a leader in the Filipino community for more than 20 years, we will never forget the humanitarian assistance extended to the Filipino expatriates both by public and private sectors during the critical times.

Congratulations to the citizens of Bahrain and to my fellow kababayans as we celebrate the 45th year of bilateral relations.” – Antonette Guese Avila, leader, Good Cause Bahrain “Bahrain has been my second home, and I consider this country as my second family.

I am proud to be a Filipino working here because Bahrain has been good to me and helped me become a better person. I would like to congratulate both countries on this occasion.” – Victoria Dumrique, nanny “Filipino architects and engineers have vast experience in building a broad variety of structures, including high-rise buildings, educational and leisure facilities, office buildings, malls, bridges, and oil platforms.

With our significant role in bringing innovative designs, we hold the trust and confidence of the Kingdom of Bahrain showcasing the extraordinary skills and expertise of Filipinos. I am extremely proud of the contributions of Filipino engineers and architects in the development of Bahrain.” – Ramon C. Angel, architect “As a foreign worker in this country, I found out that communication and relations are really important in dealing with the locals.

Through the years, FCBG continues to achieve key milestones from participating in and organizing local competitions to the holding of friendly exhibition matches, especially when it involves bringing professional Filipino basketball teams to the kingdom.” – Narciso Santos, Youth Sports Coordinator at Filipino Club Basketball Group (FCBG) “The diversity of cultures in the kingdom has allowed me to produce creative designs and innovations.

As a graphic artist who’s been working in this country for 13 years, I am very thankful to the relations of the Philippines and Bahrain, I wish it will flourish in the socio-economic level.” – Noreen Octaviano, graphic artist.