Doha, Qatar – June 25, 2024 – In a significant move to strengthen ties and continue their mutual support, Qabayan Radio and the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines (IECEP) Qatar Chapter have renewed their collaboration agreement for another year. The signing ceremony, held at the Qabayan Radio office, was led by Qabayan Radio Managing Director Mr. Salim Kainikkara and Engr. Jaeger M. Gaorano, PECE, Governor of IECEP Qatar Chapter, in the presence of key officials from both parties. The renewed agreement underscores the commitment of both entities to support each other and to implement programs that benefit their members as well as the broader Filipino community in Qatar. Mr. Kainikkara expressed his enthusiasm about the renewed partnership, highlighting the successful collaboration over the past year. "This agreement not only reinforces our relationship with IECEP but also strengthens our commitment to the Filipino community in Qatar. Together, we aim to provide valuable programs and initiatives that will enhance the professional and personal lives of Filipino expats in the country," he stated. Engr. Gaorano echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the collaboration for the engineering community. "Our continued partnership with Qabayan Radio is a testament to our shared vision of empowering Filipino electronics engineers and professionals in Qatar. This renewal signifies our dedication to creating more opportunities for growth, education, and community engagement," he remarked. The collaboration between Qabayan Radio and IECEP Qatar Chapter has been instrumental in offering various programs and events that cater to the needs of the organization members and the broader Filipino community. The renewed agreement ensures that these initiatives will continue to thrive, fostering a sense of collaboration for mutual benefits. As the ceremony concluded, both Mr. Kainikkara and Engr. Gaorano expressed their optimism for the future, looking forward to another year of productive collaboration. The event was a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between Qabayan Radio and IECEP, promising continued support to each other, with a common objective of benefiting the Filipino community in the country.

Doha, Qatar, June 22, 2024: Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar, is excited to help customers create unforgettable summer memories with a diverse range of offers on their acclaimed lineup of Nissan SUVs. Until July 31, customers can enjoy attractive monthly installments starting from QAR 999 for the Kicks, QAR 1,399 for the X-Trail, QAR 1,499 for the X-Terra, and QAR 2,599 for the Nissan Patrol. These offers aim to provide exceptional value and unforgettable driving experiences throughout summer and beyond. These limited-time summer offers present an opportunity for customers to drive away in a new Nissan crossover or SUV. Through Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., extensive network of showrooms and service centers across Qatar, both new and existing customers can access these exclusive offers. The Summer Savings package includes a host of practical benefits such as a five-year/300,000 KMs Nissan warranty, one-year/20,000 KMs service, up to four years comprehensive insurance, a three-month payment grace period, best trade-in value and free registration. Nassim Mourani, General Manager of the Automotive Group at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., expressed his excitement about the new summer savings, stating: "As we enjoy the school holidays and a more relaxed pace of life, we are thrilled to introduce our latest summer savings. These exclusive offers reflect our unwavering commitment to providing enhanced ownership value and unforgettable driving experiences. With comprehensive service packages, extensive warranties, and carefully selected perks, our aim is to ensure every customer feels truly valued." He added: "As a company founded on family values, Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co., the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar, encourages you to cherish time together and create special memories this summer. Whether it's embarking on road trips, enjoying days out, or simply relishing the day-to-day moments, your vehicle plays a vital role in bringing you closer. We invite you to take advantage of these exceptional offers and make this summer one to remember." Nissan is an automotive brand embraced by families throughout Qatar. Since its inception in 1957, the Patrol has become ingrained in the local culture, creating enduring memories passed down through generations. Combining refinement, innovation, and connectivity, the 2024 Nissan Patrol continues to defy the ordinary with its exceptional off-road capabilities and advanced technologies. The 2024 Nissan Patrol delivers the complete SUV package that can handle everything from daily commutes to weekend adventures off the beaten path with its powerful performance, luxurious interior, and innovative technology, the new Patrol raises the bar for the full-size SUV segment in the region. At the heart of the 2024 Patrol is a 4.0-liter V6 engine generating 275 horsepower and 396 Nm of peak torque, providing ample power for towing, hauling, and conquering the toughest terrain. The interior offers a premium experience with a 7-inch TFT instrument cluster, 12.3-inch infotainment display, and dual 10.1-inch rear entertainment screens as standard equipment. The 2024 Nissan Patrol represents a rare achievement in the automotive world – a single vehicle that can truly do it all with exceptional capability both on and off the road. The Patrol is designed to be the ultimate "go-anywhere" family vehicle. Similarly, the 2023 Nissan X-TRAIL, available in both 5- and 7-seater configurations, remains a popular choice among drivers. Its versatility is a major draw, with customers valuing the extensive customization options that cater to a variety of preferences and needs. The X-TRAIL's appeal is further enhanced by a range of stylish accessories, including the illuminated grille, roof rail crossbars, kick plates, cargo organizer, and splash guards. These features allow owners to personalize their vehicle's appearance, adding a touch of personal flair and sophistication. Available in 2WD and 4WD versions, the X-TRAIL is designed to meet the diverse requirements and lifestyles of its owners. Renowned for its customization capabilities, the X-TRAIL offers unmatched flexibility, enabling drivers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs. With a broad selection of aesthetic and practical enhancements, the X-TRAIL has struck a chord with customers throughout the region, elevating the style and functionality of this Premium Urban Crossover. Explore Nissan's Summer offers at Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. showrooms - the exclusive agent of Nissan in Qatar - conveniently located across Qatar. For more information or to book your test drive, visit showrooms on Salwa Road, The Pearl, Al Sadd, Bin Omran, Barwa, and Al Khor or call 8000505.

In a groundbreaking move, BMKQ and OFIE-M have teamed up to launch a financial literacy program aimed at empowering overseas Filipinos, set to kick off this August. 15 June 2024, Doha, Qatar – In a significant step towards empowering grassroots Filipino organizations, BMKQ and OFIE-M have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to roll out a comprehensive Financial Literacy program. The MoU was signed by Eliseo Bermido, President of BMKQ, and Engr. Edgar Boyano, President of OFIE-M, on June 15, 2024, at Somerset Hotel Doha. The signing ceremony was attended by officers from both organizations, highlighting the collaborative spirit and shared vision for financial empowerment. The partnership focuses on conducting a 5-week financial literacy class series, meticulously tailored for overseas Filipinos. These classes aim to address critical aspects of financial management and entrepreneurship, aligning with the Philippine government's reintegration program. This initiative underscores the importance of equipping Filipinos abroad with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage their finances effectively and explore entrepreneurial opportunities. Scheduled to kick-off this August, the program targets an initial batch of at least 30 participants. This first batch is just the beginning, with the program expected to continue with additional batches through the end of the year. The structured modules are designed to provide practical and actionable insights, ensuring that participants can apply what they learn to their personal and professional lives. The MoU between BMKQ and OFIE-M also includes provisions for extension, allowing the program to expand and adapt as needed. This flexibility ensures that the collaboration can evolve to meet the ongoing needs of the Filipino community. This initiative marks a crucial milestone in the efforts to foster financial literacy among overseas Filipinos, ultimately contributing to their financial stability and entrepreneurial success. Both BMKQ and OFIE-M are committed to supporting the Filipino diaspora through education and empowerment, reflecting a deep dedication to community development and sustainable growth. BMKQ is a non-profit organization of Filipino construction workers in Qatar, accredited by the Philippine Embassy on July 24, 2015. It focuses on enhancing the social, civic, and spiritual well-being of its members, fostering responsibility, and providing assistance and support. BMKQ operates under the laws of Qatar and the Philippines, collaborating with governmental agencies to implement community programs. OFIE-M, another non-profit organization, promotes financial literacy among Overseas Filipinos, particularly Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). It was accredited by the Philippine Embassy in Qatar on September 20, 2012.

DOHA - The vibrant celebration of the 126th Philippine Independence Day in Qatar, jointly organized by the Oryx Knights Eagles Club (OKEC) and Creative Events Management & Services, is set to take place from June 20 to June 22, 2024, at the Ezdan Palace Hotel in Duhail. This year's celebration, themed "MAKULAY ANG KALAYAAN 2024" (Our Colorful Freedom), promises a lively array of cultural presentations, competitions, trade fair exhibitions, authentic cuisine, a motor show, and appearances by inspiring celebrities from the Philippines. During a press conference on June 10 at the Swiss Belinn, the organizing committee, led by OKEC Charter President Joseph Timothy Rivera, Creative Events Cluster Director Mrs. Kamila Bellamlih, events advisor Dr. Jeanette Gotangogan, and Filipino Association of Manpower Services (FAMS) Chairman Mr. Juan Paolo Ferrer unveiled pioneering programs and activities designed to make this year's celebration truly meaningful. The festivities will commence on June 20 with an opening gala dinner, launching the event’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. These include support for children with cancer at Hamad General Hospital and skills enhancement programs for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Qatar, in partnership with FAMS. The event will also address the need for additional Filipino schools in Qatar. Attendees will enjoy musical performances by select Filipino bands in Qatar, as well as ethnic and contemporary acts by students from the Philippine International School of Qatar and the Philippine School Doha, including Middle East finalists for the Dance World Cup in Prague. The highlight of the celebration will be on June 21, beginning with the traditional community parade/sagala, followed by a grand opening ceremony attended by Philippine embassy officials, visiting VIPs, community leaders, and the general public. Philippine Senator Loren Legarda will join the ceremonies virtually. The day’s program will feature various performances and culminate in the pageant finals of the Ginoo at Binibining Agila ng Kalayaan (Mr & Miss Eagles of Freedom). The winning contestant will advance to the Miss Philippine Eagles 2024 pageant in Manila, hosted by The Fraternal Order of Eagles – Philippines Eagles (TFOE-PE), with over one million pesos in cash prizes at stake. This pageant supports the First 1,000 Days of a Child (F1KD) initiative. Rivera announced that over 86 Filipino organizations have confirmed participation in the morning parade, expressing confidence that this year's attendance will surpass previous years. "We are overwhelmed with the community’s support and grateful for the collaboration of this year’s executive committee composed of 12 leading organizations," he added. Special performances supporting the Philippine government’s campaign, including a rendition of the Bagong Pilipinas hymn, will also be part of the event, reflecting the community’s support for Presidential Memorandum Circular No. 52. The two-day Filipino food, trade, and service exhibitions will continue on June 22, featuring special livelihood seminars, CSR activities, community awards, and the celebration of Philippine Eagles Week, under Presidential Proclamation No. 600-1995 by the late President Fidel V. Ramos. All four active Eagles clubs in Qatar will converge for this milestone event. Mrs. Bellamlih assured that the celebration will deliver a spectacular world-class experience, enhanced by cutting-edge entertainment systems from Kobeco Concept and the elite event management team of Creative Events. Traditional raffle prizes, including round-trip airline tickets to the Philippines, travel certificates, staycation vouchers, and novelty items, will be offered. Exclusive vouchers for Meryal Water Park will also be available at promotional rates. The 126th Philippine Independence Day celebration in Qatar promises to be an unforgettable event, bringing together the Filipino community in a joyous and meaningful commemoration of their heritage.

Doha, Qatar - Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), has officially opened nominations for the second edition of the Qatar Tourism Awards. This announcement was made during a press conference held on 09 June 2024 at the Rixos Premium Hotel on Qetifan North Island. Omar Al Jaber, Acting Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, revealed that the application portal is now live and will remain open until August 8, 2024. The Qatar Tourism Awards are designed to recognize outstanding contributions to service excellence within Qatar's tourism and hospitality sectors. Expressing his enthusiasm, Al Jaber invited a wide range of participants to apply for the awards. "I am delighted to announce the opening of submissions for the 2024 edition. We invite companies, individuals, entrepreneurs, tourist attraction owners, workers, influencers, and all entities promoting tourism in Qatar to apply. This year, we aim to celebrate our vision for sustainable development, promote cultural heritage, and encourage collaboration between the public and private sectors." Al Jaber emphasized the awards' role in advancing Qatar Tourism's mission. "Through these awards, we seek to lead Qatar's tourism sector by enhancing standards of excellence and fostering innovation, excellence, and healthy competition. This ultimately elevates the quality of tourism services and experiences across the industry." Joining him at the press conference, Jaime I. Mayaki, Director of Technical Cooperation and Silk Road at UN Tourism, highlighted the significance of the awards. "Now in its second edition, the Qatar Tourism Awards aim to spotlight exceptional talents and visionary leaders driving Qatar forward. This initiative reflects Qatar’s commitment to excellence and innovation. By recognizing outstanding achievements, the awards not only commend the efforts of individuals and organizations but also inspire future generations to aim for higher standards." Aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030, the awards underscore Qatar Tourism's dedication to developing the tourism industry and bolstering the economy through service excellence. Recognizing and celebrating businesses contributing to the sector's success is seen as integral to enhancing Qatar's unique visitor experience. Submission Process The Qatar Tourism Awards are open to all tourism businesses and individuals within the sector. The seven main categories are: Service Excellence Gastronomic Experiences Iconic Attractions and Activities World Class Events Digital Footprint Smart and Sustainable Tourism Community Leadership The submission process is straightforward, requiring applicants to answer five questions and provide supporting documents. For comprehensive entry guidelines, visit www.qatartourismawards.com, call the dedicated hotline at 106, or email qtawards@visitqatar.qa.

Doha, Qatar; June 5, 2024: Doha Film Institute proudly announces the return of Geekend, Qatar’s premier pop culture event, scheduled from June 6 to 8 at the Geekdom Building on Lusail Boulevard. Geekend 2024 promises an immersive experience for enthusiasts of all ages and interests, featuring a diverse range of activities, markets, and shows. Daily passes are available for just 20 QAR, granting access to a world of creativity and fandom. Providing a unique platform for local talent to share their passion for pop culture, and experiences that engage and inspire, the event presents ever-popular Geekdom Market, awesome activities and stage programmes, thrilling games, competitions, workshops and much more. Abdulla Al Mosallam, Chief Administrative Officer of Doha Film Institute, Founder of Geekdom said: “We are thrilled to unveil the highly anticipated Geekend with an array of captivating events and activations. Emerging as a cornerstone of culture in Qatar, Geekend once again promises an electrifying atmosphere for creatives, visitors, and gaming enthusiasts alike to revel in the camaraderie of this illustrious gathering of Geeks. Drawing participants from across the region showcases the event's significance within our local creative community and beyond, and we look forward to an ultimate weekend of fun and fandom for all.” Visitors can discover a rare collection of memorabilia at Geekdom’s artist and vendor alley curated by 23 collectors from Qatar and Bahrain, where they will also showcase the works of local and regional artists, enticing passionate collectors. The three-day extravaganza includes Mission Possible (formerly known as "Escape Table") and Geekdom Side Quests, offering interactive daily activities such as the "Treasure Hunt," where participants decode hints and puzzles to uncover hidden treasures. The Beyond Solar Gaming Challenge, presented by COREGAME and developed by local game developer Fadi Soufi, invites players to compete in a survival-style challenge, vying for top scores on the leaderboard. The Geekend CATAN Boardgame Tournament, presented by Majlis Shabab, will see 16 players battle it out over the first two days, culminating in a grand showdown on the final day. The event’s spectacular stage programme will feature Karaoke nights and events organised by Nakama, including the Tokyo Street Fashion Contest, Family Feud Anime Edition, Nakama Classroom, and an Art Contest where participants create themed character drawings.

The BMKQ Bowling Tournament 2024 highlighted community spirit and skill, with 32 Filipino teams competing; OFIE-M Team 2 emerged as champions. 07 June 2024, Doha, Qatar – The BMKQ Bowling Tournament 2024, a vibrant showcase of skill and camaraderie, took place on June 7th, from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at the Qatar Bowling Center. Spearheaded by the BMKQ Sports and Events Committee, the event was a testament to the dedication and organizational prowess of its chairman, Mr. Joseph Catarungan. This year's tournament saw enthusiastic participation from 32 teams representing 24 Filipino community organizations, all rallying in support of BMKQ's cause. The diverse mix of teams and players underscored the strong sense of community and mutual support prevalent among the Filipino diaspora in Qatar. After intense hours of competition, OFIE-M Team 2 emerged as the champions, demonstrating exceptional skill and teamwork. Their victory was a highlight of the event, celebrating not just their prowess in bowling but also the spirit of unity and sportsmanship that the tournament aims to foster. Other notable achievers included Oryx Knights Eagles Club (OKEC), who secured the 1st Runner-Up position, and JIMMEK, who took 2nd Runner-Up. Additionally, Engr. Lester Militante of OKEC was recognized for achieving the Most Strikes, while Mr. Allen Dale Zapanta and Ms. Lorie Ramos earned the Highest Scores in the male and female categories, respectively. BMKQ organizes this bowling tournament at least twice a year, aligning it with their broader mission of promoting sports, healthy lifestyles, and team building among the community. These events provide an excellent platform for members to engage in physical activity, build stronger bonds, and maintain a healthy balance between work and recreation. In addition to bowling, BMKQ's commitment to sports and fitness is evident in their annual sports program held every November. This program includes a variety of sports events such as basketball and volleyball, catering to different interests and encouraging widespread participation. The BMKQ Bowling Tournament 2024 was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of community spirit, healthy living, and the joy of sports. Through such initiatives, BMKQ continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for the Filipino community in Qatar, fostering unity, and promoting a vibrant, active lifestyle. Mr. Eliseo Bermido, the President of BMKQ, extended his heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the tournament’s sponsors: Lifestyle Avenue Restaurant, LBC, and East Optic. In recognition of their invaluable support, each sponsor was presented with a certificate of appreciation. Mr. Bermido also expressed his deep thanks to all BMKQ officers and committee members for their unwavering solidarity and support, acknowledging their essential role in the event's success.

Doha, June 4, 2024: The State of Qatar, represented by the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA), is participating in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council meeting, held in Geneva, Switzerland, from June 4 to 14, 2024. The Qatari delegation is led by Engineer Ahmad Abdulla Al Muslemani President of CRA. CRA participates in the meeting as an observer member of the ITU Council, composed of 48 ITU Member States, acts as the Union’s governing body in the interval between ITU plenipotentiary conferences, which is held every four years. The Council meeting ensures that the Union’s activities, policies, and strategies fully respond to the rapidly evolving telecommunications environment. Also, it ensures the smooth day-to-day running of the Union, coordinating work programmes, approving budgets, and controlling finances and expenditure. Key agenda items include discussions about the achievements of the Strategic Plan of the Union for 2023-2024 and discussing the operational plans of the Union 2025-2028. During the meeting, CRA will deliver a comprehensive presentation on Qatar's preparations to host the Plenipotentiary Conference in 2026 (PP-26). Additionally, CRA has a booth featuring interactive content highlighting Qatar's readiness to welcome the participating delegations. The booth also offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Qatar's evolving Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. The Plenipotentiary Conference is the highest policy-making body of the ITU. This is the key event for the ITU Member States to determine the future role of the organization and thereby the organization’s ability to influence the development of ICTs worldwide. Hosting this conference in Qatar will enhance opportunities for collaboration with stakeholders, contributing to attracting future investments and partnerships. This, in turn, will enhance the growth of the ICT sector towards supporting Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third Qatar National Development Strategy, which include providing world-class telecom services and improving the quality of life for citizens and residents.

Doha, Qatar – The Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) Qatar Chapter marked its 17th Foundation Day on May 24, 2024, at the Qatar Bowling Center in Doha. The celebration was a vibrant and dynamic affair, with members actively participating in a variety of games including billiards, darts, table tennis, and foosball. These activities not only provided entertainment but also strengthened the bonds within the community through friendly competition. The festivities began the previous evening, on May 23, 2024, with a special event titled "Bowling for a Cause." This charitable bowling tournament set the tone for Foundation Day, allowing members to enjoy a night of fun while contributing to a noble cause. The bowling event was a great success, creating a positive atmosphere that carried over to the next day's celebrations. In addition to the games, the event featured an Inter-color Basketball League and the Presidents Cup, adding to the excitement and competitive spirit. The basketball games were intensely contested, showcasing the skills and teamwork of the participating teams. The awards ceremony, held during the Foundation Day celebration on May 24, recognized the winners and celebrated their achievements. The current PICE Qatar President Engr. Dave G. Sanchez opened the program with a warm welcome speech, expressing his gratitude for the members' active participation and dedication to the organization. His remarks highlighted the importance of such events in fostering a strong sense of community and professional growth among civil engineers in Qatar. Past PICE Qatar Presidents were also present at the event, each delivering heartfelt speeches that reminisced about the chapter's journey and its accomplishments over the years, inspiring members to continue striving for excellence. The event concluded with the announcement of the winners of the various competitions. The list of winners is as follows: Billiards Men's Category: Champion Engr. Alvin Alanguilan, 1st Runner-up Engr. Ellezer Jayoma, 2nd Runner-up Engr. Dave G. Sanchez Billiards Women’s Category: Champion Michella Reyes-Nacario, 1st Runner-up Maria Michelle Revillosa, 2nd Runner-up Aileen Joyce Ordoñez Darts Men's: Champion Edilbert Baysa, 1st Runner-up Leo Manrique, 2nd Runner-up Lester Militante Darts Women's: Champion Danica Rose Alcantara, 1st Runner-up Lilibeth Tolentino, 2nd Runner-up Maria Michelle Revillosa Table Tennis Men's: Champion Aushford Acera, 1st Runner-up Remegio Alan Nacario, 2nd Runner-up Allen Nacario Jr. Table Tennis Women's: Champion Fatima Alene Nacario, 1st Runner-up Victoria Nicole Nacario, Lilibeth Tolentino Foosball Men's: Team Champion Jerson Robles/Aushford Acera, 1st Runner-up Allen Nacario Sr. / Allen Nacario Jr., 2nd Runner-up Rosendo Berja Jr. / Edilbert Baysa Fossball Women's: Team Champion Fatima Alene Nacario/Lilibeth Tolentino, 1st Runner-up Danica Rose Alcantara/Aileen Joyce Ordoñez, 2nd Runner-up Michella Reyes-Nacario/Jude Christie Torralba The 17th Foundation Day of PICE Qatar was a resounding success, marked by enthusiastic participation, spirited competition, and a shared commitment to professional excellence and community service. This celebration not only highlighted the vibrant and supportive community of Filipino civil engineers in Qatar but also set a high standard for future events.

Doha, June 2, 2024: The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has launched a public consultation on its Reference Offer for Access to Submarine Cable Landing Station (ROA for SCLS) international connectivity services. The Reference Offer outlines the findings of CRA's comprehensive market assessment on access to international connectivity through Submarine Cable Landing Stations (SCLSs). The goal of this consultation is to receive views and comments from stakeholders and interested parties on the proposed Reference Offer, which, upon adoption, will be required from all licensed owners of SCLSs that provide access to international connectivity services in the State of Qatar. CRA values inputs from all stakeholders and interested parties in this important consultation. The SCLS Reference Offer aims to ensure an open access to international connectivity services in support to Qatar’s ambition to be an international digital technology hub regionally and globally. This CRA initiative is aligned with the national strategic goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030, the Third Qatar National Development Strategy, and Qatar Digital Agenda 2030 which aim at sustainable economic growth and support of the private sector, development of knowledge-based digital economy, both diverse and competitive, and based on innovation and entrepreneurship. Stakeholders and interested parties can email their views and comments on the public consultation to raconsultation@cra.gov.qa, by Sunday, June 30, 2024. The public consultation document is available on CRA’s website through the link below: https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/document/cra-reference-offer-for-access-to-submarine

Source: Qatar News Agency (QNA) Doha, May 25, 2024 – The 36th edition of the Doha Theater Festival commenced today, inaugurated by the play "Rosheta" at the Juventio Theater. This marks the first time the festival is being hosted at this venue, which was filled with theater enthusiasts celebrating the "father of the arts." The play "Rosheta," a production by Advertisement Company, was written by Tamim Al-Burshid and directed by Faisal Al-Athba. The cast includes Maryam Fahd, Munther Thani, Abdullah Al-Hajri, Nada Ahmed, Abdullah Al-Mulla, Jassim Ashir, Faris Yousef, and Ahmed Al-Ajmi. The festival, organized by the Center for Theater Affairs in collaboration with the Qatar Events Center, runs until June 4. It aligns with the Ministry of Culture's objectives to enhance and develop the theatrical scene in Qatar. The festival aims to present diverse theatrical performances, foster young playwrights through seminars, and support local theatrical talent. In his opening speech, Abdulrahman Abdullah Al-Dulaimi, Director of the Culture and Arts Department at the Ministry of Culture, emphasized the importance of theater in cultural expression. He highlighted the Ministry's dedication to sustaining the theatrical movement and empowering young artists. "We are witnessing a distinctive cultural and artistic movement worthy of our capabilities and our brilliant presence," he stated. Abdul Rahim Al-Siddiqi, Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Director General of the Center for Theater Affairs, noted that the festival provides a platform for both public and private theater groups to showcase their work. This edition includes performances by three civil troupes (Qatar, Doha, and Al-Watan) and private companies, underscoring the vitality of theater in Qatar. The festival also features the launch of new publications celebrating Qatari theater artists Hadiya Saeed and Ali Hassan. Additionally, the festival marks the return of awards to honor distinguished playwrights and critics. The opening play, "Rosheta," set in a psychiatric hospital, explores themes of freedom and rights. The plot unfolds with the characters revealing their personal struggles, leading to a discovery of corruption within the hospital. Following the performance, a seminar was held, with Syrian actor-director Asaad Fadda and Tunisian critic Dr. Nizar Chakroun providing analysis. Fadda praised the play's universal appeal, while Chakroun emphasized the importance of critical follow-up for theatrical development. Over the next ten days, the festival will feature 10 theatrical performances, including: "Planet of Loans" by Al-Saeed Company (May 26) "An Hour of Time" by Doha Theater Group (May 27) "A Love Story in the Eighty" by Al-Mawal Company (May 28) "Pit and Bass" by Q Fun (May 29) "Kharaba" by Al-Watan Theater Troupe (May 30) "Spirit of the Late" by Qatar Theater Group (May 31) "Sikka bin Assi" by Al Wakra Artistic Production Company (June 1) "Mazyon and Dhabia" by Memory Company for Arts and Heritage (June 2) "Between Two Hearts" by Msheireb Productions (June 3) "Theatrical Stations" by the Center for Theater Affairs (June 4) Each performance will be followed by a seminar involving critics and specialists. The festival will conclude with an awards ceremony honoring notable Qatari artists, including the late Abdullah Ahmed and Hadiya Saeed. The winners will be selected by a committee chaired by Dr. Ahmed Abdulmalik, featuring prominent artists from the region. The festival represents a significant cultural gathering, bringing together playwrights, actors, and critics to celebrate and advance the art of theater in Qatar.

Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) is a crucial component of any workplace, central to the collaborative initiative focused on enhancing the welfare of Filipino workers through essential resources and education. 31 May 2024, Doha, Qatar – In a collaborative effort to enhance safety and health awareness, the Philippine Association of Safety Engineers Qatar (PHASE Qatar) and Bayanihan ng Manggagawa sa Konstruksiyon ng Qatar (BMKQ) have extended their outreach to the Philippine Migrant Workers and Other Overseas Filipino Resource Center (MWOOFRC) in Onaiza, Qatar. The center serves as a refuge for many distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The joint initiative between PHASE Qatar and BMKQ is focused on educating and raising awareness about occupational safety and health (OSH) focusing more on household safety among the OFWs residing at the MWOOFRC facility. This program is part of their broader mission to support and protect Filipino workers in Qatar. PHASE Qatar, a proactive organization composed of safety engineers and professionals, has a long-standing commitment to OSH advocacy across various industries. Their expertise and dedication to promoting a culture of safety have made significant impacts on the well-being of workers in Qatar. BMKQ, representing Filipino overseas workers in the construction and related sectors, plays a crucial role in this initiative. The organization is known for its active involvement in advocating for the rights and welfare of Filipino workers abroad. Through their partnership with PHASE Qatar, they aim to ensure that OFWs are well-informed about safety protocols and health practices that are essential in their daily lives and workplaces. The outreach program at MWOOFRC includes training sessions, workshops, and interactive activities designed to equip the OFWs with knowledge and skills to manage safety and health risks effectively especially within household settings. By bringing these vital resources to the shelter, PHASE Qatar and BMKQ are making significant strides in fostering a safer and healthier environment for the overseas workers. This collaboration underscores the importance of community and organizational support in safeguarding the welfare of OFWs, reflecting a shared commitment to improving the lives of Filipino workers in Qatar. The program concluded by distributing personal items to 55 wards, along with diapers and vitamins provided to 5 children at the MWO center.