“Philippine Architecture is an elusive thing, because while it makes full use of modern technology, it is a residue of the different overlays of foreign influences left in the Philippines over the centuries: the early Malay culture and vestiges of earlier Hindu influences, the more than 300 years of Spanish domination, the almost 50 years of American rule, the Arab and Chinese influences through commerce and trade over the centuries. What resulted may have been a hybrid, a totally new configuration which may include a remembrance of the past but transformed or framed in terms of its significance today.” ~ Ar. Leandro V. Locsin, National Artist of the Philippine Architecture 1990. Filipino architecture has always strived to find its voice in the global architecture community. An emerging vision of Filipino architecture is breaking the surface in the international arena and a significant indication that Filipino architects are starting to engage globally. This 11th founding year anniversary of the United Architects of the Philippines Qatar Chapter and its 3rd GMM CPD MENA Webinar with a theme “Filipino Architecture Decoded: The Global Perspective” was held Friday morning of September 17, 2021, via zoom conference in Doha, Qatar has enlightened and inspired us about how Filipino Architecture must look on global development. With a distinguished panel of top-caliber resource speakers from the Philippines discussing how architecture in the Philippines have evolved, and its role in the country's history and generously sharing about their works, the very engaging talks were almost like a refresher on Philippine history. Hearing the many great stories of how architecture has been a huge contributing factor in the molding of communities in the Philippines, as well as the Filipino people's everyday lives has fascinated the participants of the event. Panel reactors from the neighboring MENA UAP Chapters represented by their respective Chapter Presidents, have amazingly expressed their thoughts on the topics presented which makes the discussion more interesting to all attendees. The masters of the ceremonies UAP Qatar Chapter Head of the Committee on Outreach and Welfare Ar. Bernard Krismon T. Cabugnason, UAP and UAP Qatar Chapter Director of Committee on Education & Arkitekturang Filipino Ar. Joan P. De Guzman, UAP kickstarted the first part of the program with the opening ceremonies and invocation led by Chapter Director for Committee on External & Governmental Affairs Ar. Ferdinand R. Magpantay, UAP. Whilst UAP Qatar Chapter President Ar. Marvin M. Tejada officially opened the ceremony by administering the call to order and ground rules for the event. UAP Qatar Chapter Vice-President for Programs and Development, Ar. Janel S. Hipolito, UAP graciously delivered his welcoming remarks and was followed by the acknowledgment of the guests by UAP Qatar Chapter Secretary Ar. Kathleen B. Osio-Arevalo, UAP. Henceforth, a video anniversary message from the past presidents and current president of the UAP Qatar Chapter were presented beginning with Ar. Miluna Simpron-Alegada, UAP, FY 2019-2020; Ar. Virgo C. Ibarra, UAP, FY 2018-2019; Ar. Melito M. Gomez, UAP, FY 2017-2018; Ar. Ricardo H. Sesbreno, UAP FY 2016-2017; Ar. Wilson D. Bernardino, UAP, FY 2014-2016; Ar. Michael Nino G. Garcia, UAP FY 2013-2014; Ar. Jonathan M. Vanta, UAP, FY 2012-2013; Ar. Mario Herman M. Macaranas, UAP, FY 2011-2012, and 2020-2021 and the current chapter president of UAP Qatar, Ar. Marvin M. Tejada, UAP. Afterwards, subsequent anniversary messages were meaningfully expressed by the UAP Qatar Chapter Co-Founder/ Adviser, Ar. Pete T. Frac, UAP and the Founder/ Adviser, Ar. Isaias B. Tabuzo Jr., UAP. Moreover, warm greetings and anniversary messages from the following esteemed guest continued, starting off with PPOQ Chairman Engr. Adonis Q. Talabo; the UAP National Executive Vice President Ar. Richard M. Garcia, FUAP; our POLO OWWA Labour Attaché Hon. Adam A. Musa; the UAP District A4 Director Ar. Markel Cesar A. Luna, FUAP; the UAP National President Ar. Armando Eugene C. De Guzman III, FUAP through a video message and lastly was a wonderful message coming from UAP Past National President Ar. Benjamin Panganiban Jr., FUAP. Midpart of the programme proper was pouring with excitement and surprises steered by the UAP Qatar chapter member’s astounding intermission numbers and raffle draw portion that was full of amazing prizes. Furthermore, the awarding of the 5-Year & 10-Year Membership in Continuous Good Standing were jointly facilitated by UAP Qatar Chapter Vice President for Programs and Development Ar. Janel S. Hipolito, UAP and UAP Qatar Chapter Vice President for Operations Ar. Jayson Z. Santos, UAP. On the other hand, UAP Qatar Chapter President Ar. Marvin M. Tejada, UAP announced the UAP College of Fellows Nominations, Guidelines and Procedures to guide prospective and interested members who are eligible to be UAP Fellow nominees. The masters of ceremonies read the presentation of token of appreciation for the distinguished guests, co-founder, founder, and past presidents as they are recognized. The morning session culminated with a video montage of the UAP Qatar Chapter’ 11 glorious and memorable years of existence as a professional organization and the 6th year anniversary commemorative video of Arki- Riders were played as prompted by the masters of the ceremonies. Proceeding with the second part of the program, the culmination of the event were structured into three topics discussed by the top-caliber resource speakers. Chapter Director Committee on Continuing Professional Development Ar. Carmelita G. Flores, UAP introduced the first resource speaker Dr. Lorelei D.C. de Viana, Ph.D., FUAP, the Executive Director of the UAP Sentro ng Arkitekturang Filipino. Dr. Lorelei De Viana presented her topic entitled “Arkitektura at Kasaysayan: Heritage and the Filipino Identity”, which decoded on her discussion that architecture is intertwined with our history as a nation and in listening to the histories of our architectural heritage, we open ourselves to the collective story of the Filipino people. Forgotten stories, lost histories, and continued traditions, all collectively contribute to what makes up the Filipino identity and soul. Panel reactors for this topic were MENA UAP Chapter Presidents as introduced by UAP Qatar Chapter Auditor Ar. Melani S. Ramos, UAP. They were as follows: UAP Dubai Chapter President Ar. Kristine Rose O. Marasigan, UAP; UAP Oman Chapter President Ar. Darwin N. Pascua, UAP and UAP KSA Western Region Chapter President Ar. Jan Marlou A. Luis, UAP. Each panel reactor have profoundly spoken about their insights on the topic, in which Question and Answer segment followed. UAP Qatar Chapter Director of Committee on Internal Affairs Ar. Maria Michaela A. Pasiona, introduced the second resource speaker Dr. Gerard Rey A. Lico, Ph.D., FUAP, the Deputy Director of the UAP Sentro ng Arkitekturang Filipino. Dr. Gerard Rey Lico, a multi-awarded author of conservation works, books and documentary films about Philippine Architecture, discussed his topic entitled “Old Building New Life: Conserving Philippine Architecture”. He has expounded on his lectures about heritage conservation that it may be a tangible or intangible thing that is worth cherishing and nurturing. He further stated that adaptive reuse strategies and preservation of historic structures have been proven to be an effective tool towards economic, environmental, and social sustainability. He ended his discussion with a quote, “Stop Building. Start Reusing” – “Architecture is all too often imagined as if buildings do not – and should not – change. But change they do and have always done. Buildings are gifts and because they are, we must pass them on.” UAP Qatar Director of Committee on Professional Practice Ar. Melanie V. Sandicho, UAP introduced the MENA UAP Chapter Presidents as panel reactors for this topic. They were as follows: UAP Bahrain Chapter President Ar. Jesus C. Palingkod Jr., UAP; UAP Kuwait Chapter President Ar. Rachel Joy S. Barela,UAP and UAP KSA Eastern Province Chapter President Ar. Geraldin G. Suede, UAP. All panel reactors for the topic amazingly shared their thoughts on the discussed subject matter by the resource speaker, in which a Question-and-Answer segment followed. For the last topic of the webinar, UAP Qatar Director of Committee on Education & Arkitekturang Filipino Ar. Joan P. De Guzman, graciously introduced the last but not the least esteemed resource speaker Ar. Deo Alrashid T. Alam, UAP, Design Principal of DADA. Ar. Deo Alrashid Alam, whose local leading architectural firm renowned for its creative and innovative design incorporating unique Filipino indigenous iconography which received multiple awards in numerous international design competitions, presented his topic entitled “Indigenous Injection: Regenerating Traditional Architecture”. His talk was such an inspiring subject matter showcasing a few of his design projects that he started pitching in through the years of his practice as an Architect and exhibiting how Filipino Architect should design Filipino. He stated that “whether it’s about the infusion of indigenous materials, cultural identity, history, or topography of the place, the only thing that makes your design Filipino is yourself, your passion, and your creativity in you, the flexibility in your design and the manner how you adapt to who you are to your work”. Moving along with the discussion, UAP Qatar Chapter Treasurer Ar. Leah DC. Bianan, UAP introduced the MENA UAP Chapter Presidents as the remaining panel reactors for this last topic. They are as follows: UAP Abu Dhabi Chapter President Ar. Eleazar Jay-jay T. Bertoldo,UAP (who unfortunately was not able to join due to his Master thesis defense on the same day); UAP KSA Riyadh Chapter President Ar. Raul F. Panelo (provided his video reaction); UAP Qatar Chapter President Ar. Marvin M. Tejada and UAP Bahrain Chapter President Ar. Jesus C. Palingkod Jr., UAP. Each of the panel reactors keenly delivered their perspective about the subject matter of the last resource speaker, in which a Question-and-Answer segment followed. The masters of ceremonies read the presentation of token of appreciation and recognition which were honorably presented to the resource speakers and panel reactors for extensively sharing their exemplary works and body of knowledge about decoding what truly is Filipino Architecture in a global context. The end part of the programme proceeded with reminders on program evaluation and assessment tests via Google doc links which was followed by the participant’s zoom attendance pictorials. UAP Qatar Chapter Vice President for Operations Ar. Jayson Z. Santos, UAP relayed his closing remarks providing tributes to the exemplary leadership of leaders and members comprising the UAP Qatar Chapter through its 11 years of tradition and history. Finally, the UAP Qatar Chapter President Ar. Marvin M. Tejada officially closed the programme. In this fiscal year 2021-2022, may the UAP Qatar Chapter continuously provide our chapter members more avant-garde webinar collaboration of outstanding Architects. We are looking forward to more greater learning experiences and a never-ending infusion of knowledge. Thank you UAP Qatar Chapter and to all the BOD’s, Committees, and members of the committees who work hard for making this program marvellously transpired. Happy 11th Founding Year Anniversary UAP Qatar! Mabuhay ang Arkitektong Filipino!

Part of QT’s Service Excellence Program, the contest invites all Qatar residents with a valid QID to register now to submit designs for Qatar’s newest iconic limousines. Qatar Tourism in partnership with Mowasalat (Karwa) announces its first contest, and invites residents to participate in creating the design for a new fleet of iconic limousines. Part of Service Excellence, the “Iconic Limousine” initiative by Qatar Tourism and Mowasalat (Karwa) introduces fully electric luxury vehicles for the discerning traveller. The competition is part of Qatar Tourism’s efforts to celebrate the country’s cultural identity and heritage, reflected in the tourist experiences offered in destination. Chairman of Qatar Tourism and, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker commented: “We are pleased to announce our Iconic Limousine Design competition, which engages Qatari citizens and residents to participate in the development of tourism products and experiences. Part of Qatar Tourism’s Service Excellence initiative, the Iconic Limousines will showcase Qatar to the world, helping provide end-to-end service excellence to visitors and reflecting Qatar’s culture and identity in an authentic and innovative manner.” Mr. Fahad Saad Al Qahtani, CEO of Mowasalat (Karwa), stated: “As part of our alliance for Service Excellence, we are happy to team up with Qatar Tourism for a project that taps into the creative wealth of the country and shines a light on a greener future of transportation. We embrace the idea of fusing luxury with sustainability and see the introduction of the ‘Iconic Limousine’ as an important step towards a broad electrification of our fleet without compromising on comfort. I truly look forward to this competition of inventive minds. The result will surely represent Qatar in the most vibrant colours.” Open to residents aged 18 years and above with a valid Qatari identification card (ID), the contest starts today, and artists of all stripes who are based in the country are encouraged to develop designs which reflect Qatar’s: culture and heritage, progressive future, or sustainability and eco-friendly vision. A panel at Qatar Tourism will shortlist designs, which will then be open to a public vote, as well as evaluation by a jury of notable Qatari personalities. The jury will select a winning design, which will be used on the luxury electric limousines. The winner of the public vote will be given the people’s choice award. To register and learn more about the contest, please visit www.iconiclimousinedesign.qa. The competition is part of Qatar Tourism’s "Service Excellence” program, which works with stakeholders across sectors to enhance the consumer experience at every touchpoint along the visitor journey. It is part of Qatar Tourism’s strategy to reinvigorate the sector as the country welcomes visitors once again. With Shop Qatar having launched, the upcoming winter season promises a return to a packed calendar of events, with numerous events and festivals, as well as the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021™ which will be held from 30 November to 18 December 2021, with the participation of 16 Arab teams.

Park Hyatt Doha announced Official Hospitality Partner of Shop Qatar 2021 Residents and visitors can enjoy enticing discounts on staycations, Food & Beverage offerings, spa, and gym at over 60 hotels Qatar Tourism is continuing its long-standing collaboration with the hospitality sector, with the 5th edition of Shop Qatar including offering from over 60 hotels across the country. In addition to enticing discounts, participating hotels are offering a wide range of incentives and promotions on facilities for their guests from 10 September to 10 October 2021. Hamad AlKhaja from Qatar Tourism said, “We are excited to launch Shop Qatar 2021 with fifteen retail partners and over sixty hotels participating in this edition – the largest number of hotels to ever take part in Shop Qatar. Thanks to Qatar Clean, a key initiative by Qatar Tourism and the Ministry of Public Health, residents and visitors can enjoy Qatar’s award-winning hospitality offerings with absolute peace of mind as they avail amazing discounts and promotions on stays along with a host of offers and incentives at facilities.” Park Hayatt Doha is the Official Hospitality Partner of the fifth edition of Shop Qatar. Stefan Gaessler, General Manager at Park Hyatt Doha, also commented: “We are thrilled to be the Official Hospitality Partner of the 5th edition of Shop Qatar, and to have the opportunity to present the exclusive offering of our luxury property to Qatar residents as well as to the discerning travellers from across the globe. We are looking forward to welcoming our guests from our prestigious location nestled in the heart of Msheireb Downtown Doha and amidst the vibrant capital of Doha”. The Shop Qatar promotions highlight Qatar’s hospitality industry’s award-winning service and facilities, while encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy a memorable visit. The hotels have tailored offers, for details visit www.shopqatar.qa or contact the hotels directly. Reservations are required for all hotel offers and must be made directly with the hotel. Staycations Exclusive packages are available for families, groups, and individuals to enjoy hotel stays at reduced room rates with discounts of up to 75% or pay for 2 nights and get the third free. Additions such as free breakfast or discounts on other in-house facilities are also available. Gym and spa promotions Fitness enthusiasts can head to gyms and health clubs at selected hotels, with day passes available for as low as QAR 35, or promotions and discounts of up to 25% on annual memberships with unlimited pool access. Spa and salon treatments To make your hotel stay even more relaxing, selected hotels have special packages and promotions with up to 30% off spa and salon services. Pool and beach access In-house guests and those who avail the Family Fun Package get free access to the pool and private beach. In addition, visitors can enjoy pool and beach facilities for as low as QAR 90 per day, with some hotels offering discounts on swimming lessons. There is also ‘buy one, get one free’ promotion on accessing a water park. Food & Beverage promotions Guests can enjoy meals at their favourite restaurants in 5-star hotels at discounted prices. Discounts of up to 20% are available on weekdays, and up to 10% on weekend brunch menus. In addition, affordable business lunch deals and group discounts are available. Participating hotels are: Al Aziziyah Boutique hotel​ Al Madina Suites​ Al Mansour Suites​ AL Messila Resort and Spa​ Aleph Doha Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton ​Al Rayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton​ Alwadi Hotel Doha MGallery​ Banyan Tree Doha​ Best Western Plus Doha Centara West Bay Hotel & Residences Doha Century Hotel Doha​ Cielo Hotel Lusail​ City Centre Rotana Doha ​Crowne Plaza Doha ​Doha Dynasty Hotel ​Doha Palace Residence 2​ Doubletree by Hilton Doha - Al Sadd ​DoubleTree by Hilton Doha - Old Town​ Dusit Doha Hotel​ DusitD2 Salwa​ Four Points Doha ​Golden Tulip Doha Hotel​ Grand Hyatt Doha Hotel & Villas​ Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas​ Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence​ Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha​ Imperial Suites Hotel Apartments Intercontinental Doha & Residence Jouri A Murwab Hotel JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha​ ​Intercontinental Doha & Residence ​Kempinski Residences and Suites, Doha​ La Castle Hotel​ La Cigale Hotel​ La Villa Hotel​ La Villa Inn Hotel Apartments​ La Villa Palace Hotel​ La Villa Suites Hotel​ Liberty Suites​ Mandarin Oriental Doha​ Marriott Marquis City Center Doha​ Mercure Grand Hotel Doha​ Millennium Plaza Doha​ New Blue Rose Hotel​ Park Hayatt Doha Plaza Inn Doha​ Radisson Blu Hotel​ Rabban Suites Retaj Al Rayyan Hotel​ Retaj Hotels & Hospitality​ Retaj Salwa Resort & SPA​ Sapphire Plaza Hotel​ Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel​ Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel​ The Avenue, A Murwab Hotel​ The Curve Hotel​ The Ritz Carlton Hotel Doha​ The Royal Riviera Hotel​ The St. Regis Doha​ The Torch Doha​ The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa​ Wyndham Grand Regency Doha​ Zubarah Hotel​

SC taking climate action as set out in Qatar 2022 Sustainability Strategy . When Qatar was awarded the right to stage the first FIFA World Cup™ in the Middle East and Arab world, it not only committed to organising an amazing tournament – but also a mega-event delivered in a sustainable manner. In January 2020, the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), FIFA and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 LLC (Q22) published the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Sustainability Strategy. It was the f­irst such strategy to be planned and delivered jointly by FIFA, the host country and local organisers. Part of the strategy includes the delivery of the first carbon-neutral FIFA World Cup™ in the history of the event. To achieve this, all infrastructure projects – including the eight stadiums that will be used for Qatar 2022 – must meet stringent sustainability benchmarks. “From the beginning, our preparation efforts for Qatar 2022 have been undertaken with the goal of building a sustainable and lasting legacy,” said Engineer Abdulrahman Al Muftah, the SC's Sustainability & Environment Expert. “The sustainability initiatives we have implemented in our projects contribute to Qatar National Vision 2030 and will also have a positive impact on the way future World Cups and other large-scale sporting events are organised around the world.” When the SC, Q22 and FIFA set out its carbon-neutral objectives, several key areas were identified in their planning. Staging the most compact version of the World Cup in modern history was one important feature. “Achieving carbon-neutrality is a process made up of four key components,” added Al Muftah. “Firstly, it required raising awareness among key stakeholders, including the general public. This was followed by us creating a detailed estimation of what our carbon footprint will be. The third step is the one that most people will hear about, and that is the measures taken to limit carbon emissions, which will lead us to the final part of the process, which is investing in green projects that will offset any of the remaining emissions associated with Qatar 2022.” Many of the measures taken to reduce carbon emissions are centered around the compact nature of the tournament. Fans, players and officials will fly into one airport and stay in one accommodation during the tournament. With the longest distance between stadiums just 75km, fans will have the opportunity to attend at least two matches in a single day during the group stage, thanks to five of the stadiums being connected to the Doha Metro and the other three accessible by connecting bus services. The SC has also worked with the hotel sector in Qatar to encourage green practices to reduce carbon emissions from accommodation. The compact nature of Qatar 2022 will not only provide convenience for fans and an optimal performance environment for participating teams, it also eliminates the carbon footprint of domestic air travel that fans, players and officials were required to do to attend matches in previous World Cups. With air travel being recognised as one of the world’s largest sources of carbon emissions, this will undoubtedly have a significant impact on reducing the tournament’s carbon footprint. “The close proximity of our venues will see many people use our public transport infrastructure during Qatar 2022, particularly the impressive Doha Metro system,” said Al Muftah. “Even our light rail trams and fuel-efficient bus fleet will play an important contribution in mitigating carbon emissions, with a number of electric buses being deployed for the event.” Reducing carbon emissions was also factored into the building of Qatar 2022 venues – most notably the eight World Cup stadiums. Careful consideration was given during the design and construction of the stadiums for lower energy and water consumption, the reusing and recycling of water and materials wherever possible, highly efficient cooling systems, the use of renewable energy for lighting in some stadiums, creating designs that allows for natural light, native trees and plants in stadium parklands, and efficient waste management strategies. All eight stadiums which will be used during Qatar 2022 have been built to be water and energy efficient. Many of the stadiums have exceeded industry ratings by implementing non-mandated requirements for sustainability. One such example is Ras Abu Aboud Stadium. The 40,000-capacity venue will be the first fully dismountable stadium in FIFA World Cup™ history, with its components being used to create other sporting projects during legacy mode. This pioneering approach will set new benchmarks in waste reduction. Another key component to achieving carbon-neutrality will be the use of solar energy to help power Qatar during the tournament. Qatar is currently developing a large-scale 800MW solar energy plant on a 10km² plot. Once the tournament concludes, the plant will continue to produce clean renewable energy for decades, leaving a significant legacy as a carbon reduction project. These initiatives will leave an important sustainability legacy for Qatar and the region and provide an invaluable blueprint for the use of sustainable practices in future sporting events held around the world.

No challenge can hinder the Filipino Planning Engineers Association in serving its members especially towards the path of professional advancement. On 27th August 2021, the organization successfully held its 8th General Assembly, headed by the event chair and program director, Engr. Susana O. Nacario and Allen L. Nacario respectively. Attended by its members, sponsors and guests, the event took place at the DusitD2 Hotel in Doha, State of Qatar. In accordance with Qatar Ministry of Public Health COVID-19 protocols, the program smoothly started, commenced by the masters of ceremony, the energetic Engr. Jundee Mar B. Tejedo and the dazzling Engr. Mikaela L. Espiritu. The event was graced by several dignitaries including, POLO-OWWA Qatar Labor Attache, Hon. Adam A. Musa, Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) Qatar Chapter President, Engr. Mark Anthony P. Abendan, Filipino Association of Material Engineers (FAME) Qatar President, Engr. Ruel N. Reyes, Philippine Institute of Certified Quantity Surveyors (PICQS) – Regional Coordinating Committee Qatar representative, Engr. Michelle Macaraig. Furthermore, it was equally supported by its generous sponsors with corresponding representatives including, Quantum Global Solutions represented by their Country Director Lucia Vernon and Director Dawn Francis, Al Abdulghani Law Firm with Atty. Neth Briones-Soller, IND-PHIL Construction Company with Business Development Manager Ms. Marie Geneve Pulido and Pil Daily Group of Companies with Founding President Engr. Felipe D. Catinoy. One of the highlights of the event was the Introduction and Oath Taking of the New Members. It was followed by the Introduction of 2021-2022 Board of Directors candidate then the election proceedings. The technical presentations were one of the most awaited parts of the program, as they greatly contributed to the continuous learning for the members to be more competitive in their profession. The topics presented by the respective speaker are as follows, Guidelines in Schedule Maintenance by Engr. Vanessa P. Gallego, Damages for Delay to Completion by Engr. Asuncion V. Lopez and Baseline Programme l Engineer’s Review of Contractor Submittal by Engr. Elvin D. Fajutagana. It was then followed by the company’s sponsors and affiliate organization's presentations. The General Assembly will not be complete without an inspirational message from dignitaries. The message of the Republic of the Philippines President, His Excellency Pres. Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the Philippine Embassy Doha Ambassador, Hon. Alan L. Timbayan, and Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) National, Pres. Engr. Peter Paul P. Dy, Jr. were read by Engr. Ryan Ace C. Tan. POLO-OWWA Qatar Labour Attache, Hon. Adam M. Musa, also delivered his message as the Event Guest of Honour. Another highlight of the event was the awarding of LIFE Members and Special Awardees/Sikatunay, a Certificate of Honorary Membership was given to PICE National Immediate Past President, Dr. Erdsan Rene S. Suero. To add up to the excitement of the attendees, there was also a raffle draw with a lot of prizes given away. To wrap up the event, the new set of Board of Directors for the term 2021-2022 was announced, namely: President - Engr. Susana O. Nacario, 1st Vice President - Engr. Ryan Ace C. Tan, 2nd Vice President - Engr. Aurora M. Asda, Secretary - Engr. Shielu L. Manantan, Treasurer - Engr. Vannielyn E. Belen, Auditor - Engr. Gregorio M. Balleta Jr., Public Relations Officer - Engr. Maria Fatima F. Rafael, Business Manager - Engr. Guillermo Sabadisto Jr., Sergeant-at-Arms - Engr. Richelle Joy S. Lutrago, Committee on Publications & Information (CoPI) - Chairman Engr. Felipe D. Catinoy, Committee on Ways & Means (CoWMe) - Chairman Engr. Wendell C. Gacula, Committee on Membership (CoMe) - Chairman Engr. Nestor C. Malinao Jr., Contributed by: Felipe Catinoy, FPEA CoPI Chairman

Isa sa mga pagbabago at inisyatibo ng Ministry of Administrative Development and Social Affairs (MADLSA) ay ang pagkakaroon sa website nito ng platform kung saan maaaring makita at madownload ng manggagawa ang kopya ng kanyang electronic contract. Narito ang link: http://empcont.adlsa.gov.qa/ Bagamat maaaring hindi available ang kopya ng e-contract sa lahat ng manggagawa dahil maaaring hindi updated ng kompanya ang kopya ng kontrata matapos ang implementasyon nito simula pa noong 2018.

Ngayong darating na Miyerkules (September 15) ay sisimulan na ng Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) ang pagbibigay ng booster vaccine doses sa bansa para sa mga nakatanggap ng Pfizer-BioNtech o Moderna vaccines sa nakalipas na lampas walong (8) buwan. Matatandaan na noong August 24, 2021 ay inaprubahn ng MoPH ang pagbibigay ng third dose vaccines kontra COVID-19 para sa Pfizer-BioNtech at Moderna, para sa mga taong mahina ang immunity. Dagdag pa ng MoPH, sa unang buwan ng pagsasagawa nito, nakatuon ang booster vaccination program para sa mga taong mahihina ang immunity at may seryusong komplikasyon ng impeksyon, tulad ng mga ang edad ay mahigit na sa 65, at mga may malalang sakit na maaaring magresulta sa malubhang komplikasyon kapag nahawa ng COVID-19 virus, bilang dagdag sa mga nagtatrabaho bilang mga first row health care cadres at iba pang personalidad. Para sa iba pang detalye: Read the news on MoPH website

Sa pinakahuling taya ng panahon na inilabas ng Qatar Meteorology Department (QMD), magiging kapansin-pansin ang pagbaba ng humidity sa susunod na dalawang araw. Sa post nito sa Twitter nitong Miyerkules, sinabi nito na ang pagbaba ng humidity sa susunod na dalawang araw ay bunsod ng northwesterly wind na umiihip ng banayad hanggang sa malakas sa araw. Dahil dito, inaasahan rin na magiging maalikabok at mababa ang visibility lalong lalo na sa mga open areas sa susunod na dalawang araw.

Simula July ng taong ito, maraming mga pagbabago ang naisakatuparan na ng Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs (MADLSA) kaugnay sa pagpapalit ng employer o paglipat sa ibang kumpanya, katulad na lamang halimbawa ng online application platform o electronic system nito para sa aplikasyon sa paglipat sa ibang kompanya o pagpalit ng employer ng isang manggagawa. Maaari ng alamin ng manggagawa ang status ng kanyang change employer status sa pamamagitan ng electronic system ng MADLSA. Narito ang link: https://ecai.adlsa.gov.qa/default.aspx Kapag naka sumite na ng aplikasyon ang isang manggagawa para sa paglipat sa ibang kumpanya o pagpalit ng employer sa pamamagitan ng electronic o online system ng ADLSA, hindi na sya maaaring kasuhan ng absconding o run-away ng kanyang kasalukuyang employer, o kaya ay kanselahin ang kanyang QID. Ang kasalukuyang employer at ang magiging bagong employer ay makakatanggap lamang ng SMS mula sa ADLSA's electronic system kapag ang aplikasyon ng manggagawa para sa pagpapalit ng kumpanya o employer ay naaprubahan na ng ADLSA. Kapag ang aplikasyon naman ay hindi naaprubahan dahil sa mga sapat na dahilang itinakda ng batas, ang manggagawa lamang ang makakatanggap ng SMS na hindi ito naaprubahan. May bagong dagdag din na feature ang electronic system ng ADLSA dahil maaari na ring kanselahin online ng aplikanteng manggagawa ang kanyang aplikasyon para sa pagpapalit ng kumpanya o employer, kung ito ay nasa ilalim pa lamang ng pagsusuri ng ADLSA. Samantala, ang mga nasabing pagbabago at inisyatibo ng ADLSA at ng pamahalaan ng Qatar sa pangkalahatan ay lubos na hinahangaan at pinapasalamatan ng Filipino community sa bansa at maging ng iba pang mga working expatriates sa Qatar.

Sa ulat ng Ministry of Interior (MoI), isa na sa pinakamaraming violators ng COVID-19 precautionary measures na umabot sa 2,047 sa isang araw na operasyon lamang, ang nahuli ng kapulisan nitong nagdaang Sabado. Nasa 1,289 ang mga nahuli na hindi nagsusuot o kaya ay mali ang pagsuot ng face mask, samantalang nasa 736 naman ang nahuli dahil sa hindi pagsunod sa takdang social distancing, at 22 naman ang nahuli na di naka install ng Ehteraz app. Dinala na ang kanilang mga kaso sa Public Prosecution. Ayon sa Cabinet decision na halaw sa Law No. 17 of 1990 kaugnay sa nakakahawang mga sakit at mga preventive measures nito, ang mga hindi nagsusuot ng facemask kapag nasa labas ng kanilang bahay ay maaaring mapagmulta ng aabot sa QAR 200,000 o kaya ay mabilanggo hanggang tatlong (3) taon.

The 14-day course provides comprehensive information about Qatar’s history, environment and culture, and is required to obtain an official tour guide license. Qatar Tourism is offering its Tour Guide Training Programme to give practicing tour guides and eligible residents the opportunity to enhance their skills in the tourism sector. Developed by Qatar Tourism in collaboration with stakeholders, the programme aims to raise standards and regulate tourism service providers through providing official tour guide licenses to those who complete the required work. The initiative is part of Qatar Tourism’s efforts to achieve Service Excellence in the sector and provide an unforgettable experience to the visitors, especially as borders reopen and Qatar prepares to host mega sporting events. Dates of the upcoming training sessions will be announced in the coming months. Interested parties can register through the Qatar Tourism website or in person at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry office in Lusail, Al-Jassra Tower, first floor counter 44. The course will be conducted in English and the exam fee is QAR1,200 while the Tour Guide license fee is QAR1,000. Berthold Trenkel from Qatar Tourism said: “As the main point of contact for visitors, tour guides need to be able to tell stories, giving visitors information and insights into the country’s history, culture and heritage, that will help deliver an unparalleled experience. As part of our Tourism Sector Strategy, we are working closely with all tourism-facing entities to implement Service Excellence at every touch point of the visitor’s journey. With Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2022 around the corner, we need more guides to cater to the huge number of visitors who will be arriving in the country.” The Tour Guide Training Programme uses the Tour Guide Manual that was developed by Qatar Tourism in partnership with stakeholders including Qatar Museums, Msheireb Museums, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, Souq Waqif, Qatar Foundation, Qatar TV, and Sheikh Abdulla bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic and Cultural Center (Al Fanar). While enabling tour guides to deliver insightful information about Qatar’s society and ecosystem, the manual also contains a section on tour group management, highlighting the skills tour guides need to provide an ideal visitor experience. Since the beginning of the programme in 2017, more than 100 tour guides have been trained, helping position Qatar as an ideal tourism spot.

Maituturing na isang milestone achievement ng Qatar para sa National COVID-19 Vaccination Program nito, dahil umabot na sa 2 milyon ang bilang ng populasyong nakatanggap na ng kompleto o dalawang doses ng COVID-19 vaccine. Sa post ng MoPH, nagpapasalamat ito sa lahat ng mga tumanggap ng bakuna. Pinapaalalahanan at inaanyayahan din ng MoPH ang mga iba pang hindi pa nakakatanggap ng bakuna na magpalista na para sa schedule ng kanilang vaccination. Samantala, bilang isa sa may pinakamaraming expat population sa Qatar, nagpapasalamat ang Filipino community sa pamahalan ng Qatar para sa libre at maayos na serbisyo at sistema sa pagsugpo sa COVID-19, serbisyong medical, at program sa pagbabakuna.