Doha, Qatar: Kulinarya Qatar hosted a vibrant three-day celebration from May 29 to 31 at the Al Jasrah Cultural and Social Club in Souq Waqif, commemorating the 127th Philippine Independence Day with a rich blend of cultural pride, performances, and community engagement.
Organized under the leadership of Kulinarya Qatar Chairperson Dahlia Agbanlog, the event brought together hundreds of members of the Filipino community in Qatar to celebrate heritage, unity, and talent through a series of cultural showcases and family-friendly activities.
Day One: Launch and Opening Ceremony
The festivities kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Mohammed Saeed Abdullah, Managing Representative of the Al Jasrah Cultural and Social Club (AJCSC); Dahlia Agbanlog; Sheikha Bimby Tammy; and Saeed Al Ghanim of Nayong Filipino. In his welcome remarks, Abdullah expressed strong support for the Filipino community and its contribution to Qatari society.
Traditional Filipino dance performances by the Xtreme Level Danz Crew followed, highlighting the rich cultural roots of the Philippines. The opening segment of the fifth season of Munting Prinsipe at Prinsesa (MPP S5) was launched, led by MPP Managing Director Jeannie Trixia De Vera.
Philippine Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Mardomel Melicor, was represented by Antonia “Girlie” Bejarin Caba from the Philippine Embassy during the ceremony.
Day Two: Sagala Parade and Talent Showcase
The second day featured the colorful Sagala, a traditional Filipino parade showcasing participants in formal attire walking through the alleys of Souq Waqif, reviving one of the Philippines’ cherished cultural traditions.
Cultural presentations by Tanghalang Overseas Pinoy (TOPi), including “Bagani” and “Liwanag sa Dilim,” honored Filipino warriors and modern-day heroes. Kevin Mallari, Chairman of TOPi, highlighted the performances as a tribute to both historical and contemporary Filipino bravery.
Live musical entertainment came from Dahon Mix, who energized the audience with Original Pilipino Music (OPM) hits.
Kasambahay Got Talent Season 2
One of the event’s highlights was the Grand Finals of Kasambahay Got Talent Season 2, directed by Imelda Torres. The competition celebrated the talents of Filipino domestic workers in Qatar. Out of ten finalists, Alma Mort was crowned Grand Winner, while Monica Camacho and Cherish Ventura were named First and Second Runners-Up respectively.
Day Three: MPP Season 5 Grand Coronation
The final day featured the grand coronation of Munting Prinsipe at Prinsesa Season 5, preceded by a welcome performance from YOUnited, winners of the PSD INDAK Category 1.
Thirteen young contestants competed in the pageant, which highlighted their creativity, confidence, and charm. The program was mentored by Unica De Vera, Kulinarya Qatar’s first Munting Prinsesa.
The 2025 winners were:
Munting Prinsipe: Simon Joaquin Visaya (Crowned), Renzo Marius Castillo (1st Runner-Up), Thirrion James Dedase (2nd Runner-Up)
Munting Prinsesa: Sabine Ruth Adelheid Perez (Crowned), Maia Aniela Bondoc (1st Runner-Up), Chloe Jamon (2nd Runner-Up)
Celebrating Culture Beyond the Stage
Throughout the venue, booths offered traditional Filipino cuisine, halal street food, caricature art, and visual displays curated by the Filipino Art Society in Qatar. Filipino entrepreneurs also showcased locally owned brands, including Boba and Brew by Rhon Palmaria.
The event was hosted by a team of emcees including Cloud Camacho, Marian Lovie Francia, Veronica Bianca Millena, Loren Margarette Espiritu, Don Franco Gian Camat, Fatma Meihaya Hadji Ali, and Unica De Vera. Certificates and plaques of appreciation were presented to individuals and partners who contributed to the event’s success.
Kulinarya Qatar: A Decade of Promoting Filipino Heritage
Since its founding in 2015, Kulinarya Qatar has grown into a key platform for promoting Filipino heritage, culinary art, and cultural pride in Qatar. The organization continues to support programs that blend cultural education with community celebration, championing Filipino-made halal products and showcasing local talent.