The countdown has begun for the highly anticipated Philippine Independence Day 2023 (PID23) celebration on June 23, 2023, at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel in Doha, Qatar. With only 21 days left for the main event, preparations are in full swing as organizers are busy finalizing arrangements for a grand and memorable celebration. The Executive Committee (ExeCom) of the PID23 celebration, along with designated committees and sub-committees, have been fully immersed in planning and executing the event since its launch on April 5, 2023. The organizers have left no stone unturned to ensure that the Filipino community in Doha has the best possible experience during the celebration. The PID23 celebration promises to be an exciting event for everyone in attendance. The highlights of the event include several attractions such as the Almusalang Bayan, Community Parade, Cultural Presentations, Regional Exhibits, Bazaar, Filipino Traditional Games, Battle of the Band, Vocal Solo Competition, and the Ginoo at Mutya ng Kalayaan 2023 pageant. The pageant, in particular, is expected to be a showstopper, featuring the stunning beauty and immense talent of Filipinos residing in the country. The competition will not only promote Filipino culture and values but also showcase the community's diversity. Apart from providing endless entertainment, the organizers have also ensured that the event upholds traditional Filipino values. Sticking to these values is an essential aspect of the Filipino culture. Therefore, organizers have made sure to include cultural events that imbibe the principles of giving, sharing, and community spirit. The PID23 celebration is eagerly anticipated by the Filipino community in Doha as it not only celebrates the 125th anniversary of the Philippines' independence but also highlights the community's contributions to Qatar's growth and development. The event is expected to bring together Filipinos from across the country, creating a sense of unity, and contributing to a positive and harmonious atmosphere. The PID23 celebration promises to be a grand and memorable event for all in attendance, showcasing the beauty of the Filipino culture while promoting unity, togetherness, and harmony. Organizers are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the event is a grand success. So, mark your calendars and join in the revelry on June 23, 2023, at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel in Doha.

There are certain foods and habits that can damage or harm the kidneys: High sodium diet - Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and put unnecessary strain on the kidneys. Processed foods - Many processed foods contain high amounts of sodium, preservatives, and additives which can be detrimental to kidney health. Sugary drinks - Consumption of sugary drinks can lead to obesity and diabetes, both of which increase the risk of kidney disease. Alcohol - Excessive alcohol intake can cause kidney damage and may increase the risk of kidney disease. Smoking - Smoking can reduce blood flow and oxygen to the kidneys, which can harm their function. Dehydration - Dehydration can lead to kidney damage by reducing blood flow and increasing the concentration of substances in the blood that can damage the kidneys. High protein diet - Consuming a high-protein diet may increase levels of creatinine in the blood, which can be a sign of kidney damage. It is important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid habits that can harm the kidneys in order to maintain good kidney health. However, if you have concerns about your kidney health, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.

Qatar Tourism (QT) has successfully attained four ISO certifications from Bureau Veritas International, Doha (W.L.L.), one of the world's leading certification bodies. The prestigious achievement is testament to QT's commitment to implementing world-class management systems adhering to the highest international standards. Following an extensive assessment of QT’s management systems, Bureau Veritas awarded the tourism body with the following certifications: ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (with UKAS accreditation), ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System (with UKAS accreditation), ISO 27001:2015 Information Security Management System (with UKAS accreditation), and ISO 20121:2012 Events Sustainability Management System. Berthold Trenkel, Chief Operating Officer at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are proud to achieve the four ISO certifications from the renowned certification body Bureau Veritas, as it demonstrates Qatar Tourism's unwavering commitment in implementing robust policies, streamlined procedures, and efficient processes, while increasing environmental awareness and delivering sustainable events. Through adhering to the rigorous requirements of these international standards, Qatar Tourism continues to showcase its dedication to excellence across all of its operations and management systems.” The ISO 9001:2015 certification demonstrates QT’s dedication to customer satisfaction and world-class services, while the ISO 14001:2015 certification underscores QT's responsible stewardship of Qatar's natural resources. The ISO 27001:2015 certification emphasises QT’s commitment to data security and privacy, and the ISO 20121:2012 certification showcases its dedication to organising events that align with sustainable development. This achievement marks a significant step forward in QT’s pursuit of excellence, with the organisation’s Quality Section successfully driving the requirements of all four ISO management systems standards. As QT continues to advance its management systems, it remains steadfast in its commitment to providing exceptional services while fostering sustainable tourism practices.

Khazaen Economic City has recently secured another foreign direct investment agreement from Al Seeb Technical (SARRCO), a subsidiary of Al Mana Holding - Qatari Group. The agreement aims to establish an integrated logistics center that will offer a wide range of storage and distribution services to the surrounding areas. The investment is valued at an estimated $50 million (OMR 19 million), covering a total project area of 37,000 square meters. This new deal brings the total investment value in Khazaen Economic City to over half a billion dollars in various sectors, including logistics, food, industrial, pharmaceutical, energy, and residential. It demonstrates Khazaen's strong economic potential, as it continues to attract significant investments and innovation from both local and international businesses. As Khazaen continues to grow, this investment agreement will also create new job opportunities and economic growth in the region, further strengthening Oman's position as a leading player in the global economy. Khazaen Economic City: Khazaen is an integrated economic city being developed Barka, Al Batinah South Governorate, Sultanate of Oman. The project is considered the first of its kind as an integrated economic zone and a free zone being developed in partnership between the public and private sector. Located strategically on the Muscat Expressway, the main growth corridor in Muscat and South Al Batinah South Governorate, as the corridor connects it to Muscat International Airport, Sohar Port and Al Suwaiq Port. Among the most prominent Khazaen strategic projects are Khazaen Dry Port and the Food City, which holds Khazaen Central Fruits and Vegetables market. Pharma City and Labour Villages. Also, Khazaen will connect to future railway networks, as a promising integrated economic city in key-driving sectors. Al Seeb Technical (SARCO): Al-Seeb Technical company (SARCO) is one of the leading companies in Qatar and the GCC, SARCO business integrates several sectors, including retail, distribution, trading, contracting, real estate. SARCO is one of the largest companies in the market, due to its strong presence in the fields of marketing, sales, distribution, and solid relationships with customers. SARCO activities include electronics, home appliances, office technologies, luxury watches, air conditioning solutions, mobile phones, IT devices and project management. It is also the official distributor of several leading brands in the world such as Samsung, Casio, citizen, Haier, Acer, candy, BenQ.

By: Engr. Dave G. Sanchez Qatar Bowling Center in Doha, Qatar came alive with the vibrant celebrations of PICE Qatar's 16th Foundation Day on May 26, 2023. The event, which brought together PICE Qatar members, officers, and their families, was a delightful blend of nostalgia, camaraderie, and exciting games. The foundation day celebration served as a memorable occasion for PICE Qatar to reflect on its journey over the past 16 years. The organization has been instrumental in bringing together Filipino civil engineers in Qatar, fostering professional development, and contributing to the development of the engineering industry in both Qatar and the Philippines. In his opening remarks, PICE Qatar's President Engr. Elvin Fajutagana extended a hearty welcome. He emphasized the work of the Chapters' Founding Members and Presidents for staying with the Organization to this day. They taught us that we should all be united; after 16 years of mutual understanding and respect for one another, we stayed bonded and understood that we are all the same in this organization as PICE Qatar members. Another message from PICE Qatar Chapter President Engr. Roy Baquiran reflects on the Chapter's formation, which began in 2007 on the rooftop of his house with 25 founding members. The highlight of the celebration was the presence of two esteemed guests who graced the occasion with their wisdom and words of encouragement. Ms. Cherry Rhose Cureg, representing the Department of Migrant Workers, shared her insights on the vital role that overseas Filipino worker, particularly engineers, play in Qatar's development. She emphasized the importance of unity, brotherhood and support within the Filipino community, especially in times of challenges and uncertainties. Her Excellency Ambassador Lillibeth Pono from the Philippine Embassy to Doha also delivered a heartfelt message, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of PICE Qatar in promoting the interests of Filipino engineers in Qatar. She commended the organization for its continuous efforts in upholding professionalism, excellence, and camaraderie among its members. The event further captivated the attendees with an array of fun-filled activities and exciting games. The Qatar Bowling Center provided the perfect setting for friendly competitions among the participants. Laughter and cheers echoed through the lanes as PICE Qatar members, officers, and their families enthusiastically showcased their sportsmanship skills. It was an opportunity for everyone to bond, create new memories, and strengthen the already close-knit PICE Qatar community. As the day progressed, participants engaged in various games and challenges that further added to the excitement and camaraderie. From thrilling table tennis games to focused minded billiards & darts, brain teasing Chess & extra speed hands for table football, the event fostered a spirit of friendly competition and teamwork. The 16th Foundation Day celebration not only served as a platform for reflection and enjoyment but also as an avenue for PICE Qatar to express its gratitude to its members and officers for their unwavering support. Through their commitment and dedication, PICE Qatar has been able to achieve significant milestones and make a positive impact in the lives of Filipino civil engineers in Qatar. The event concluded with a closing ceremony that included expressions of appreciation for everyone who contributed to the success of the celebration. PICE Qatar's 16th Foundation Day celebration at Qatar Bowling Center Doha marked a significant milestone in the organization's journey. It was a day filled with cherished memories, laughter, and exciting games, all contributing to the strengthening of the bond among PICE Qatar members, officers, and their families. The presence of esteemed guests added further significance, reminding everyone of the vital role that Filipino engineers play in Qatar's development and the importance of unity within the community. As PICE Qatar looks to the future, this foundation day celebration serves as a reminder of its commitment to excellence, professionalism, and camaraderie. With each passing year, the organization continues to evolve, creating more opportunities for its members and contributing to the growth of the engineering industry in Qatar and the Philippines.

Qatar Tourism leads delegation of Qatar’s finest hotels and travel agencies at one of the region’s biggest travel and tourism events Qatar Tourism will lead a delegation of 10 hospitality partners at the 13th edition of the Riyadh Travel Fair, which takes place from May 22-24, 2023 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center in Riyadh. This follows Qatar’s remarkable success in welcoming over a million visitors in the first quarter of this year, led by arrivals from Saudi Arabia mounting to 892 k visitors who predominantly visited Qatar via the Abu Samra land border. Qatar Tourism’s 96 sqm pavilion will showcase the destination’s one-of-a-kind infrastructure and latest hospitality developments which uniquely blend cultural authenticity with modernity. Qatar's participation at Riyadh Travel Fair strongly demonstrates the country’s ongoing commitment to the Saudi traveler market and marks Qatar Tourism’s second participation in a major travel exhibition in Saudi Arabia this year. Omar Al Jaber, Director of Shared Services at Qatar Tourism, said: “We are pleased to take part in the Riyadh Travel Fair and showcase Qatar as a world-class tourism destination that is within close proximity to Saudi travellers. Saudi Arabia is a key market according to our longer-term tourism strategy and we continue to witness significant arrival figures, particularly around festive occasions and national holidays. Throughout the event, we aim to bring industry leaders up to speed with the sheer scale of the expansion in Qatar’s tourism sector as well as highlight eased travel procedures that the country extends to its neighbours. We invite all attendees to visit our pavilion and experience Qatar’s famed warm Arabian hospitality and explore the latest tourism offerings.” Along with showcasing Qatar’s latest attractions, visitors to Qatar Tourism's pavilion at Riyadh Travel Fair will receive a new summer guide on all there is to see and do in Qatar during the summer season along with highlights on offers for stays and attractions. With the city of Doha’s recently awarded title of Arab Tourism Capital for 2023, Qatar continues to invest in its tourism sector and work toward its 2030 strategy which sees the sector’s contribution to GDP grow to 12%. Building on the country’s legacy of hosting the first FIFA World CupTM tournament in the region, Qatar has re-launched the Hayya Platform in a new form, unifying visa processes to the country and creating even more seamless travel opportunities for visitors who require a visa. While GCC nationals and over 95 nationalities already can travel visa free to Qatar; all remaining nationalities – independent of job category - who require a visa, can apply easily for the GCC resident Visa A2 category on Hayya. Riyadh Travel Fair is one of the largest travel events in the region that connects global industry professionals from leading national, regional, and international organisations. The event highlights tourism products, services and investments made by some of the most significant names in accommodation and hospitality, airlines, and tourism destinations.

Qatar Tourism has installed an official monument on the Doha Corniche, in recognition of Doha’s landmark Arab Tourism Capital for 2023 title, which was awarded by the Arab Ministerial Council earlier this year. The monument, which reflects the official Doha Arab Tourism Capital 2023 logo, is positioned in a photogenic location on the Corniche. The design of the monument was inspired by the slogan of Doha Capital of Arab Tourism 2023, which reflects the city of Doha as a modern centre for tourism rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Since Doha received the prestigious award, Qatar’s tourism sector has welcomed an incredible start to the year. With over a million visitors in the first quarter of 2023, Qatar registered its highest ever first quarter of international arrivals. In April, Qatar Tourism announced the re-launch of the Hayya platform in its new form, inviting tourists who currently need a visa to Qatar to enjoy the country’s famously warm Arabian hospitality and diverse touristic offering. The Hayya platform unifies all visa process for tourists and business visas to Qatar.

29 inspiring projects by Arab and international filmmakers from 18 countries highlight DFI’s commitment to promoting independent voices in cinema. Four projects by Qatari and Qatar-based talent along with 12 projects from women filmmakers and 10 returning filmmakers. More than 750 films from 75 countries have been awarded DFI’s Grants, the region’s longest-serving film development initiative that supports first-and second-time filmmakers globally. Cannes, France; May 20, 2023: The Doha Film Institute underlined its commitment to nurturing emerging voices in cinema from across the world today at Cannes Film Festival 2023 with the announcement of the recipients of its 2023 Spring Grants cycle. A total of 29 films from 18 countries have been selected for the current cycle of the Middle East region’s longest-serving film development initiative that has supported over 750 diverse projects from 75 countries to date. Awarded in two cycles – Spring and Fall, the Institute Grants programme has evolved as one of the flagship film funding initiatives focused on strengthening a vibrant creative ecosystem and supporting emerging voices from all over the world to help them realise their cinematic aspirations. The Grants support projects including feature and short narratives, documentaries and experimentals as well as TV series. In addition to Qatar, recipients of the 2023 Spring Grants include film projects from Algeria, Bahrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Egypt, Lebanon, Mongolia, Morocco, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Sudan and Tunisia. Recipients include 12 women filmmakers and 10 returning grantees along with four projects from Qatar-based talent, underlining the Institute’s commitment to supporting important voices and the continued evolution of independent cinema from the region and beyond. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha Film Institute, said: “We are on a mission to discover and promote original and independent voices in cinema, and have had the great privilege of supporting the most powerful and important voices from the region and beyond through our Grants programme. Our Spring Grants 2023 reinforces our continued commitment to filmmakers globally who have once again impressed us with the diversity and depth of the original themes they are exploring in their stories. This current cycle of projects was chosen from hundreds of compelling submissions, and we are proud to bring these soulful stories to global audiences.” The 2023 Spring Grants recipients are: MENA – Feature Narrative – Development Kohl & Cardamom (Egypt, Sweden, Qatar) by Fady Atallah is set in a small Egyptian town in the late 1980s, where 14-year-old Abdullah faces a nerve-wracking challenge when he agrees with his father not to cause trouble for five days in return for being able to attend a concert by the then-rising superstar Mohamed Mounir. Rabies (Lebanon, Qatar) by Sandra Tabet is about a History professor who obsesses over the unresolved Lebanese civil war while struggling to mend her fragile relationship with her son. To Bled or Not to Bled (France, Algeria, Qatar) by Azedine Kasri follows Dali, who wants to live the Algerian dream but a chance meeting with a woman changes everything. MENA – Feature Narrative – Production A Quarter to Thursday in Algiers (Algeria, France, Belgium, Qatar) by Sofia Djama depicts a risky mission given by three friends disillusioned with the demonstrations that shake the city of Algiers. Aïcha (Tunisia, France, Saudi Arabia, Qatar) by Mehdi M. Barsaoui explores how far one can go to break free from their past. Aisha Can’t Fly Away Anymore (Egypt, Tunisia, Qatar) by Morad Mostafa is about Aisha, a Somali caregiver living in Cairo, who witnesses the underworld of African migrants’ society and the tension between the different groups. La mer au loin (France, Qatar) by Saïd Hamich Benlarbi is about 27-year-old Nour who emigrated illegally to Marseille and lives off petty crime with friends leading marginal lives, and partying hard. MENA – Feature Narrative – Post-Production Back to Alexandria (Switzerland, France, Qatar) by Tamer Ruggli is about Sue, who returns to Egypt to meet her estranged mother, Fairouz, an eccentric aristocrat. This surprising journey, leading her from Cairo back to Alexandria, allows Sue to become the empowered woman she ought to be. East of Noon (Egypt, Netherlands, Qatar) by Hala Elkoussy is a fable about musician Abdo, who rebels against his elders, seeking freedom through his art in a confined world outside of time. Non-MENA – Feature Narrative – Post-Production Banel & Adama (France, Senegal, Mali, Qatar) by Ramata-Toulaye Sy is set in a small village in northern Senegal, where Banel and Adama's love challenges traditional customs, disrupting their community. Excursion (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Norway, France, Qatar) by Una Gunjak highlights the contemporary life of a teenage girl whose seemingly little lie leads her into a storm of expectations, condemnation, and social dogmas. Lost Country (France, Serbia, Luxembourg, Croatia, Qatar) by Vladimir Perišić is about a 15-year-old who must accept the unacceptable—that his mother is an accomplice of the regime’s crimes. The Women (Germany, Italy, Qatar) by The Maw Naing is about a young Burmese woman who moves to the big city to work in a garment factory to support her family. Ze (France, Mongolia, Netherlands, Germany, Qatar) by Lkhagvadulam Purev-Ochir is about a teenage shaman who falls in love with a girl, shattering his fragile existence in modern Mongolia. MENA – Feature – Experimental/Essay – Development Tell it to Bridges (Lebanon, Qatar) by Ali Hammoud follows a quest for a forever home which leads to one being lost and the other not entirely found. MENA – Feature Documentary – Production I Am One of Them (Poland, Qatar) by Nadim Suleiman is about a Syrian immigrant who shoots a film about a Polish nationalist, and becomes an excuse to bring the two together, setting them out on a faraway trip to discover their identities. MENA – Feature Documentary – Post-Production The Language of Fire (Algeria, France, Qatar) by Tarek Sami highlights that while a nomad is free from accountability, immobility must be accounted for. Non-MENA – Feature Documentary – Post-Production Ozogoche (Ecuador, Qatar) by Joe Houlberg is about the migration of the Cuviví bird to the Ecuadorian highlands, which ends in collective suicide as they plunge into the Ozogoche Lakes Rising Up at Night (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Belgium, Germany, Burkina Faso, Qatar) by Nelson Makengo documents how plans to build the largest power plant on the Congo plunge 17 million people into darkness and insecurity. MENA – TV Series – Development Dyouf (Guests) (Palestine, Qatar) by Saleh Saadi is about a family of five that runs a guesthouse in their Bedouin village in Occupied Palestine while living in a turmoil of relations, identity, and career. Halaa’ (Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Qatar) by Amal Al Muftah is an anthology of Middle Eastern crime stories that explores the complex ironies of human morality. MENA – Web Series – Production The House That My Mother Built (Sudan, Qatar) by Alyaa Musa introduces eight women from across Sudan as they share their astonishing encounters with the inhabitants of the households they took refuge in during Sudan’s revolution in 2019. MENA – Shorts – Narrative – Production Autumn (Qatar) by Aisha Al-Jaidah is a romantic tragedy of the captivity of ambitious thoughts under short roofs. The Experiment (Qatar) by Abdulla Alhor is set in a prison in a Middle Eastern city where a Qatari researcher must win a promotion challenge to prove that his rehab experiment works. The Day I Smoked a Cigarette with My Father (Egypt, France, Qatar) by Sameh Alaa is set in 1964, when 12-year-old Alaa and his three siblings prepare to welcome their father who is returning from prison. MENA – Shorts Documentary – Production Fast Net Palestine (France, Qatar) by Mohamed Khamkham narrates the story of a Palestinian computer scientist who reconstructs the killing of hundreds of children in Gaza during the summer of 2014 in a video game. MENA – Shorts – Experimental/Essay – Production No Reaching Hand (Qatar) by Batla Aldosari follows a young woman through a series of disturbing events as she tries to find her true self. L’mina (France, Morocco, Qatar) by Rande Maroufi is set in a former mining town in Morocco, which declines in its fortunes until all mining is ceased in 2001. The Grocery List (Bahrain, Qatar) by Taqwa Ali is about a young man who rebels against his mother after she rejects a bottle of milk of his choice.

Doha - Qatar, May 20, 2023: BSH Middle East celebrated its 10th anniversary of partnership with Darwish Holding, its exclusive Bosch distributor in Qatar during a gathering held in Doha and attended by a dedicated team from both entities to celebrate this milestone. The partnership between BSH Middle East and Darwish Holding started in 2013, with Darwish Holding becoming the exclusive distributor of Bosch products in Qatar. Over the last 10 years, the partnership has been able to continuously grow the business and increase Bosch’s share in the home appliances market in Qatar. During the last decade, the partnership between BSH Middle East and Darwish Holding has flourished, driven by a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With Darwish Holding's expertise and Bosch’s high-quality appliances, the partnership has been able to expand its reach across Qatar, making Bosch home appliances available across all major retailers in the country and successfully involving Bosch home appliances in major projects in Qatar. As part of its commitment to the Qatari market, BSH Middle East, in partnership with Darwish Holding, opened its first brand store on Salwa Road in September 2014 and then relocated to its permanent location at Lagoona Mall in October 2018. At the same time, Darwish Holding has been a perfect partner for Bosch as it took part in many premium projects across the city during the last few years including Katara Towers, QatarEnergy District, The Seef, Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha, Floresta Gardens, and Giardino Village to name a few, and thus assuring a perfect pipeline of many other projects to come. Bosch’s commitment to providing innovative and reliable home appliances has made it the go-to choice for many customers, whether they are looking to outfit their new houses, upgrade their kitchens or make their homes more sustainable. Today, Bosch home appliances are available across all major retailers in Qatar, and Darwish Holding has a dedicated Fifty-One East Service Centre with certified technicians. This ensures that customers can receive the highest quality of service and support for their Bosch home appliances. BSH Home Appliances Middle East CEO, Tomas Alonso, in a statement on the occasion of the anniversary, said, “At BSH, loyalty and trust are two of the main values we hold while working with our partners. In this case, we can only be proud of the business and personal relationship that developed between Bosch and Darwish Holding during these last 10 years of collaboration, based on the foundation of our mutual values. Now, as part of our DNA, let’s continue working together to grow and gain a bigger market share for the years to come.” Commenting on this special occasion, Mr. Bader Al-Darwish, Chairman and Managing Director of Darwish Holding said: "Today, as we celebrate a decade of partnership with Bosch as the brand’s exclusive distributor in Qatar, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this incredible journey. I extend a special thank you to Mr. Tomas Alonso and his team, who have joined us in celebrating this milestone. Over the past decade, our team has worked tirelessly to build a very strong database of loyal customers which helped in establishing Bosch as a household name in Qatar. Our solid partnership with the brand has been instrumental in achieving outstanding growth year after year. We have developed a relationship of strong cooperation built on mutual trust and respect that has enabled us to deliver the highest quality products and after-sale services.” “As we reflect on the past ten years, we take pride in our accomplishments, and we stay indebted to our loyal customers who have entrusted us throughout. The next decade promises to be even more exciting as we work closely with Bosch to bring them the best in German technology and know-how. I truly look forward to continued success together," he added. The partnership between BSH Middle East and Darwish Holding has been a testament to the success that can be achieved when two companies work together to provide the best products and services to their customers. BSH Middle East looks forward to continuing this partnership, bringing Bosch's innovative home appliances to even more customers and improving the lives of every home in Qatar.

18 May 2023, Doha, Qatar. The excitement was palpable as the preliminary screening for Ginoo at Mutya ng Kalayaan 2023 took place at the Philippine School Doha (PSD) Gymnasium on May 18, 2023. This is in preparation for the upcoming Philippine Independence Day 2023 Celebration on June 23, 2023, at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel. A total of 11 candidates for Mutya and eight candidates for Ginoo participated in the screening representing various regions of the Philippines. The regions represented by the Mutya candidates are NCR, CAR, Region 3, Region 4A, Region 6, Region 7, Region 9, and Region 12. On the other hand, the Ginoo candidates hailed from NCR, Region 3, Region 4B, Region 5, Region 7, Region 9, and Region 11. All candidates successfully qualified to advance to the official pageantry, a promising sign for what is to come in the upcoming event. A board of judges, composed of Mr. Jyerex Abrasado, Mr. Isaias Marcelo, Mr. Ivan Caceres, Dr. Rosanna Barrera, Engr. Danica Rose Alcantara, and Mr. Mike Saratan, conducted the preliminary screening. The pageant committee is now eagerly looking forward to the next phase of the pageant, which includes rehearsals, official sashing, photoshoots, personality development seminars and workshops, and an official press conference before the main event. The event organizers expect this year’s celebration to be more significant than ever due to the pandemic and all the challenges it has presented. Despite this, the organizers remain committed to providing an enriching experience for the participants and a memorable event for everyone attending.

Whether you're a fan of intense fight scenes, epic battles, or heroic journeys, these action movies offer something for everyone. Get ready to be thrilled and entertained by these adrenaline-fueled adventures! Corrective Measures, streaming now on STARZPLAY Starring action icons Bruce Willis and Michael Rooker, Corrective Measures is a gripping thriller that follows two inmates as they team up against prison corruption. Packed with intense action sequences and adrenaline-pumping moments, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The Matrix movies , streaming now on STARZPLAY A ground-breaking sci-fi action franchise , The Matrix stars Keanu Reeves as Neo, a computer programmer who discovers the horrifying truth about the simulated reality controlling humanity and the real world that lies behind it. With mind-bending visuals and jaw-dropping fight scenes, this franchise has become a cult classic and a must-watch for action enthusiasts. Batman Begins, streaming now on STARZPLAY This reboot of the Batman franchise introduced Christian Bale as the iconic Dark Knight. Batman Begins explores the origins of the caped crusader as he takes on the corrupt forces threatening Gotham City. With a stellar cast and Christopher Nolan's signature storytelling, this film showcases Batman's transformation into a symbol of justice. Justice League, streaming now on STARZPLAY Bringing together DC's greatest superheroes, Justice League unites Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), Batman (Ben Affleck), Aquaman (Jason Momoa), The Flash (Ezra Miller), and other iconic characters to save the world from a catastrophic threat. Action-packed battles, charismatic heroes, and a touch of humor make this superhero ensemble an exciting watch for fans of the genre. Dunkirk, streaming now on STARZPLAY Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Tom Hardy, Dunkirk is based on true events. The film tells the gripping story of the evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk during World War II. Featuring intense aerial dogfights and heart-pounding sequences, the film showcases the heroism and resilience of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. With thousands of hours of premium content including blockbuster movies, exclusive TV shows, kids’ content, Arabic series, as well as varied content via add-on channels, STARZPLAY is the number one player in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The service is available in 19 countries across the MENA for fans to enjoy quality content anytime, anywhere, and from any device.

Globally renowned #TrainDifferent philosophy by UFC GYM continues to take Qatar by storm promoting athletic inclusion with its unique market offering May 17, Doha, Qatar: UFC GYM Qatar, an extension of UFC® and Al-Mana Holding, celebrated the Grand Opening of their second gym by hosting renowned UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, as he took the gloves off and cut the ribbon at the inauguration event held at The Pearl, Qatar. Global leaders in MMA-inspired fitness, UFC GYM continue to disrupt the fitness industry in Qatar with Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) inspired training. The new state-of-the-art gym offers unlimited classes and personal training sessions in MMA, Boxing, Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling, Muay Thai, HIIT and an array of Youth Programs, as well as a dedicated gym-area, a UFC Octagon, and much more. There is also an exclusive women’s area in the gym hosting female-only classes. To mark The Pearl gym’s opening, the UFC GYM team are offering a free pass to help unleash your inner fighter - visit the UFC Gym Qatar website to get your spot now and discover the customised membership tiers that fit your needs! During his visit, Islam Makhachev commented: “This gym has everything, its great! We can do our training camps here since it has everything. It’s a major platform for combat sports in Qatar and hopefully MMA’s future champions in the octagon. It’s clear to see how the country’s created this amazing reputation for hosting sporting events and why it’s becoming the sports capital of the world. Inshallah we will see a few UFC events here!” As Qatar continues to become a leading sports destination, what better place to kick-start your fitness goals than MMA. It is a brilliant way to exercise and stay in shape, as well as being far more enjoyable than hours on the treadmill! “The much-anticipated opening of our second location on The Pearl has become a central focus for Al Mana Holding,” said Abdulrahman Hamad Al Mana, Deputy CEO, Al Mana Holding. “Our research shows there is an appetite for an all-inclusive facility offering an MMA-inspired training space and traditional fitness under one roof,” he explained. “We’re very much looking forward to contributing to the growth of Qatar’s vibrant fitness community by continuously expanding our sports offering,” he added. The inauguration of The Pearl is part of Al Mana Holding’s expansion plans to promote UFC GYM’s unique ‘Train Different’ philosophy. This follows the New Salata branch opening last summer (Aug ’22) and another massive location opening in Al Kheesa at the end of the year. For all the latest news follow UFC GYM Qatar - The Pearl on Instagram (@UFCGYMPearl) and Facebook (@UFCGYMQA), visit the website (https://ufcgym.qa/), or contact the team about membership via +974 5111 8501 and +974 5111 8502.