Filipinos find summer is the time to devote to ‘worthy projects’

By Joey Aguilar/Staff Reporter

Many of these groups see the hot season as an opportunity to do what they describe as “worthy projects” to help their fellowmen, who may be in dire need.

Some of them are expected to organise fun-filled activities like videoke and singing competitions to raise funds for the distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). The Foundation for Family and Life (FFL) migrant workers has partnered with the Overseas Filipino Investors and Entrepreneurs Movement (OFIE-M) for a medical mission tentatively set on the last week of July.  It aims to help underprivileged OFWs staying in Al Khor, Ras Laffan.

Marisol Amihan, OFIE-M’s overall chairman organising committee, told Gulf Times that it is a whole-day activity supported by various organisations.

“Initially we are collaborating with the group working in Qatar Foundation, a fraternity, and a group founded by Bo Sanchez for the counselling,” she added.

OFIE-M is a non-stock, non-profit organisation which aims to educate Filipino expatriate workers on how to manage their hard-earned money. It also encourages them to start saving and investing in the Philippines while still in Qatar.

Some organisations like the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) and the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) have also set their respective seminars for their members this month.

PICE president Arnel Punsalan said after their sports fest in May, they will now focus in conducting “more serious activities” for its engineer-members this summer.

Another Filipino group called The Brotherhood, which has an on-going basketball league, is set to organise indoor games like darts, chess and billiards next week.

The United Architect of the Philippines (UAP) will hold its induction of officers on July 18. UAP-Qatar adviser and founder Jhin Tabuzo said the activity is a protocol and procedure required by their main headquarters in the Philippines.

Some groups disclosed that they will continue holding regular blood donation during summer and winter seasons at the Hamad Medical Center.

In an attempt  to promote an active and healthy lifestyle, the Philippines embassy has decided to continue its weekly fun run and “Qataerobics” every Friday morning on the Doha Corniche.

“The only adjustment is that they should not drink on the venue and in their cars after the exercise,” said culture attaché Richard Billedo.

Many photographer groups like The Catchers of Light-Qatar (TCLQ) and the Doha Pinoy Shooters Club (DPSC) will continue their regular photo shoots and trainings.

DPSC president Irwin Saquing said part of their objective is to teach their new members on basic and even advance photography.

“We usually do our photo shoots and actual trainings during summer at night at the Museum of Islamic Art,” he said.