Embassy Provides Airport Assistance to 50 Filipino Repatriates from Saudi Arabia

DOHA 20 October 2026 — The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar, along with the Migrant Workers Office-Doha and OWWA Qatar, provided airport assistance to at least 50 Filipino repatriates from Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia transiting in Doha en route to Manila on 19-20 October 2026.

Composed of 34 female and 16 male Filipinos, the group included distressed nationals, children, and passengers stranded in the Kingdom on account of prevailing security developments.

Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, met the group at the Hamad International Airport to personally check on their condition and ensure their safe flight back to the Philippines.

Dedicated teams from the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and OWWA are set to provide further assistance to the group upon their arrival in Manila and for their onward travel to their respective provinces.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Resident Election Registration Board Convenes Third Hearing for Halalan 2028

DOHA 20 October 2026 — The Resident Election Registration Board (RERB) of the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar convened its third hearing at Sentro Rizal Doha on 19 October 2026.

The hearing approved 270 uncontested applications for overseas voting registration, certification, reactivation, correction of entries, change of address, recapture, transfer, and multiple applications for #Halalan2028 filed between 01 July 2026 and 30 September 2026.

Under Republic Act No. 9189 as amended by Republic Act No. 10590, and COMELEC Resolution No. 11171, all citizens of the Philippines abroad, who are not otherwise disqualified by law, and who are at least eighteen (18) years of age on or before 08 May 2028, may register as overseas voters for purposes of participating in the 2028 Philippine Elections Overseas.

All qualified Filipino citizens in Qatar who are not yet registered overseas voters may file their applications for registration/certification at the Embassy, Sundays to Thursdays, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Applicants are advised to bring a valid Philippine passport, or a Seafarer's Record Book (SRB) for seafarers, or the original or certified true copy of Order of Approval of Filipino Citizenship or Identification for dual citizens.

The registration period for the 2028 National and Local Elections is from 01 December 2025 to 30 September 2027. 

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Embassy Lights Up Green for National Mental Health Week

DOHA 19 October 2026 — As part of its observance of the National Mental Health Week, the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar lit up its chancery in green on 11 October 2026.

The National Mental Health Week happens in the second week of October of every year pursuant to Proclamation No. 452 issued in 1994.

This weeklong observance complements the implementation of the Mental Health Act (Republic Act No. 11036), which establishes a framework to expand healthcare access, embed mental health services across national health channels, and reduce stigma across the Philippines and beyond.

To learn more about the Philippines’ national mental health program, visit the Department of Health’s official website here.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Embassy Partners with Al Baladiya, IKEA for World Food Day Poster-Making Contest

DOHA 17 October 2026 — The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar partnered with the Ministry of Municipality, represented by the Al Daayen Municipality, and IKEA Qatar for a poster-making competition centered around this year’s World Food Day theme, “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.”

The competition drew 180 entries from students in Grades 5–7 from the Philippine International School-Qatar (PIS-Q) and Philippine School Doha (PSD).

The top 40 scorers were recognized during the awarding rites at IKEA Qatar on 15 October 2026.

The entries were judged based on their relevance to the theme, creativity and originality, technique, and visual impact.

Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, was joined by officials from Al Daayen Municipality and IKEA Qatar in handing out prizes to the winners, with special citation to the top 5 honorees, namely:

• Willadel Qatara B. Arenaza (PSD);

• Pierre Gabriel M. Salterio (PSD);

• Javen Laurizze O. Parcero (PSD);

• Erica Mendoza (PIS-Q); and

• Jofiel Rafa S. Codera (PIS-Q).

In his remarks, Ambassador Melicor said the observance of World Food Day provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about global hunger, malnutrition, and food security challenges.

“This year’s theme underscores that building long-term food security requires modernizing global agri-food value chains through technology, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable resource management,” he said. “It urges commercial enterprises, tech innovators, and public sector stakeholders to invest in proactive solutions to address supply chain disruptions, climate vulnerability, and inequitable distribution that cause global hunger.”

He added that the competition was “a platform to express students’ creativity and contribute unique perspectives on sustainable food systems, food security, and nutrition — grounded in their distinct lived experiences as Filipinos living in Qatar.”

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Filipino Culinary Heritage Shines at Hospitality Qatar 2026

DOHA 13 October 2026 — The rich flavors of Filipino cuisine take the spotlight at the Philippine Embassy Pavilion at Hospitality Qatar 2026, a trade exhibition and business conference taking place from 12 to 14 October 2026 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC).

At Booth E03 (Hall 5), visitors can discover Cabalen Signatures, which features Filipino favorites such as canned Gatang Laing and signature Bagoong, bringing the distinctive flavors of Filipino culinary heritage to consumers in Qatar.

The showcase also highlights the upcoming opening of Cabalen Express in Qatar, an initiative aimed at bringing more Filipino food offerings closer to the Filipino community and introducing authentic Filipino flavors to a wider market.

Similarly, the Philippine Embassy Pavilion features a curated selection of Philippine food products and local delicacies, offering visitors a refreshing taste of Filipino culinary tradition. Among those featured is the classic halo-halo, one of the Philippines’ most beloved desserts.

These offerings promote Filipino enterprises and create opportunities to connect Philippine brands with potential buyers, distributors, and business partners in Qatar.

The Embassy invites members of the Filipino community, food enthusiasts, importers, distributors, and industry partners to visit the Philippine Embassy Pavilion, discover Filipino food products, meet the Cabalen team, and sample selected products.

📍 Booth E03 – Philippine Embassy Pavilion, Hall 5

📅 12–14 October 2026

⏰ 12:00 noon–9:00 p.m.

 📌 Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC)

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Need to Reduce Inequalities in Breast Cancer Outcomes Highlighted at Embassy Talk

DOHA 11 October 2026 – As part of its continuing observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar conducted a breast cancer awareness talk, entitled “Building Resilience: Breast Cancer Awareness, Treatment, and Care.” 

Held at the Embassy Chancery on 08 October 2026, the event was organized in cooperation with the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in the State of Qatar, Filipino Medical Association - Qatar (FMA-Q), female advocacy group IAM Filipina, and Doha-based media outfit Qabayan Radio 94.3. 

In his welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, said breast cancer is the leading form of cancer in the Philippines, with 33,000 new cases and 11,000 lives lost every single year. 

“These are not just numbers – they are our mothers, sisters, and daughters, sometimes, our fathers and brothers,” he said. “Therefore, equipping ourselves with the necessary know-how about breast cancer – from early detection to effective prevention – is critical to changing this reality.” 

The talk featured specialized talks on breast cancer prevention and treatment. 

Dr. Rayana Bou Haka, WHO Representative for the WHO Country Office in Qatar, provided an overview of the global situation on breast cancer. Page 1 of 3 

Disparity in outcomes 

She noted in particular the disparity in breast cancer survival rates between women in low-income countries and women in high-income countries, highlighted even further by the five-year breast cancer survival rates in different WHO regions. 

Much of this disparity stems from the availability (or non-availability) of medical facilities and experts, state-sponsored support mechanisms, and public awareness of breast cancer symptoms and treatment options. 

Dr. Bou Haka ended her presentation by highlighting WHO’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) – a program that seeks to reduce inequalities in breast cancer outcomes and save 2.5 million lives by 2040. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Nino Carlo S. Cioco, President of FMA-Q, provided details for routine screening for women without symptoms and treatment options for those diagnosed with breast cancer. 

He highlighted the importance of early detection, with five-year relative survival rate being highest for cancer that is confined to the breast alone and lowest once the cancer spreads to distant organs. 

Comfort and emotions 

Apart from medical treatments, Dr. Cioco underscored that breast cancer care involves the implementation of mechanisms to look after patients’ comfort, emotions, and everyday needs. 

He added that initial treatment must be accompanied by a follow-up plan involving hospital appointments and medication, continuing coordination with medical and support teams, and gradual return to everyday activities. 

A subsequent panel discussion moderated by RJ Millie G of Qabayan Radio featured Angelina Alcala Naga, a Qatar-based OFW and breast cancer survivor. 

Ms. Naga shared her personal experience from the moment of discovery of symptoms to actual diagnosis. She recalled the various medical treatments she went through, the challenges she dealt with as an outcome of undergoing treatment while trying to earn a living, and now leading a life as a breast cancer survivor. 

The program concluded with the illumination of the Embassy Chancery in pink. 

The lighting served as a symbol of Post’s support for and solidarity with partners and institutions advocating for greater awareness, prevention, early detection, and treatment of breast cancer. 

To learn more about the various cancer support programs and treatment facilities of the Philippines’ Department of Health, click here. 

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Embassy Lights Up Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month 

DOHA 09 October 2026 — As part of its observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar illuminated its chancery in pink on 08 October 2026.

The pink lighting symbolizes the Embassy’s support for and solidarity with partners and institutions advocating for greater awareness, prevention, early detection, and treatment of breast cancer.

Held every year in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month casts a spotlight on global efforts to advance early diagnosis and timely intervention, as well as improve health outcomes for patients worldwide.

This year’s theme, “Every story is unique, every journey matters,” highlights the distinct medical and personal challenges surrounding each diagnosis.

For more information on the cancer support programs and treatment facilities of the Philippines’ Department of Health, click here.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Embassy Donates Commemorative Stamps to Qatar Philatelic Center

DOHA 04 October 2026 — The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar donated Philippine commemorative stamps to the Qatar Philatelic and Numismatic Center, affiliated with the Ministry of Culture, on 27 September 2026.

The donation was turned over by Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, to the Center’s Director, Mr. Hussain Rajab Al Ismail.

The official first day covers highlight three milestone events in the Philippines.

The latest of the three are the commemorative stamps marking the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award. These stamps cast a spotlight on how the 10-year-old Award has now become an unshakable and permanent anchor of rules-based international order in the South China Sea.

Also released in 2026 were stamps marking the 75th year of the UNESCO-Philippine National Commission (UNACOM). Launched to underscore the Philippines’ enduring partnership with UNESCO, these stamps reaffirm the Philippines’ commitment to multilateralism, cultural diplomacy, and international cooperation.

The final set of stamps commemorates the United Nations’ (UN) 80th founding anniversary in 2025. Inspired by the theme, “A Journey of Hope & Endeavor,” these stamps also celebrate the Philippines’ pioneering membership in the organization.

The visit to the Center culminated in a tour of the Center’s new facility, which houses its extensive collection of stamps from around the world, including the Philippines.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Ambassador Receives World Health Organization Representative in Qatar

DOHA 01 October 2026 — Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, received Her Excellency Dr. Rayana Ahmed Bou Haka, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Qatar, on 27 September 2026.

The two officials explored ways to enhance cooperation in the field of health, alongside discussions on recent developments in the region and other matters of mutual concern.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Sentro Rizal Doha Hosts Film Screening for Filipino Students

DOHA 01 October 2026 — High school students and teachers from Philippine International School-Qatar (PIS-Q) and Philippine School Doha (PSD) gathered for a screening of the Filipino short film “Bakit Ako Sinusundan ng Buwan?” (Moon Under My Feet) at the Philippine Embassy’s Sentro Rizal on 30 September 2026.

Written and directed by Richard Soriano Legaspi, the 30-minute drama follows Lino, who returns to his hometown to discover that the life, relationships, and dreams he once knew are gone. Against these changes, the moon serves as a symbol of Lino’s enduring connection with his mother, as well as the memories and longing that remain through the passage of time.

“Bakit Ako Sinusundan ng Buwan?” (Moon Under My Feet) was screened as part of Sentro Rizal Film Club, which showcases curated Filipino films for Filipinos around the world.

The screening also formed part of the Embassy’s continuing observance of the Philippine Creative Industries Month.

Pursuant to Republic Act No. 11904, or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, the month of September of every year is designated as the Philippine Creative Industries Month.

This month-long observance is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the vital contributions of the Philippines’ creative industries — including audiovisual media — to the country’s culture, society, and economy.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Ambassador, Philippine Delegation Attend Opening of 2026 AIIB Annual Meeting

DOHA 29 September 2026 — Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, joined members of the Philippine delegation to the opening of the 11th Annual Meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in Qatar on 28 September 2026.

The Philippine delegation was composed of officials from the Department of Finance (DOF) led by Undersecretary of the International Finance Group and AIIB Director Joven Z. Balbosa.

Held under the theme, “Tomorrow’s Infrastructure: Impact and Innovation,” the meeting gathered financial executives and delegates from Member States as the multilateral development bank detailed its future lending strategies, particularly with respect to investment in sustainable infrastructure.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Seafood-based Philippine Cuisine, Products Highlighted in Creative Industries Month Celebration

DOHA 27 September 2026 — As part of its observance of the Philippine Creative Industries Month this September, the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar staged “Filipino Seafood Night” on 24 September 2026.

 The event cast a spotlight on the country’s seafood-based cuisine and how the Philippines’ rich waters have shaped Filipino food culture.

The night saw the Embassy host a dinner featuring Filipino seafood staples, complemented by a display of traditional Philippine seafood products, including shrimp and squid crackers, salted anchovies, shrimp paste or bagoong, crab paste or aligue, danggit, and dried sapsap, as well as asín tibuók, an artisanal sea salt from the province of Bohol.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, said Filipinos’ maritime and archipelagic heritage extends to traditional cultural expressions, such as culinary practices and gastronomy.

“Our culture is reflected in the food we consume,” he said. “Our rich seafood tradition constitutes a body of cultural expressions that is a natural outcome of our profound relationship with our seas and oceans.”

Pursuant to Republic Act No. 11904, or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, the month of September of every year is designated as the Philippine Creative Industries Month.

This month-long observance is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the vital contributions of the Philippines’ creative industries — including culinary practices and gastronomy — to the country’s culture, society, and economy.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Ambassador Meets with Acting Dean of Georgetown Qatar

DOHA 26 September 2026 — Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, paid a courtesy visit to Acting Dean of the Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) Clyde Wilcox on 23 September 2026.

The two officials discussed recent developments in the region and other areas of mutual concern, including prospects for collaboration in the future.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Embassy Lights Up Chancery in Blue for World Maritime Day

DOHA 24 September 2026 — The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar lit up its chancery in blue on the occasion of World Maritime Day on 24 September 2026.

In his remarks during the event, Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, said the lighting ceremony reflects the Embassy’s full support for initiatives that protect the Philippines’ waters and shed light on critical issues facing this most vital resource.

“The theme for this year’s World Maritime Day — ‘From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence’ — addresses a critical governance challenge: translating international regulations into real-world impact,” he said. “Toward this end, the Philippine Embassy commits to promoting diplomacy and international cooperation that supports a sustainable blue economy, and positions the Philippines at the forefront of this global shift.”

Coinciding with the observance of World Maritime Day is the Embassy’s continuing celebration of the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month or MANA Mo.

MANA Mo encourages all agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, including the private sector, to implement programs and activities that seek to raise awareness and consciousness on maritime and archipelagic issues.

This year's MANA Mo theme, “Karapatan sa Karagatan, Sama-sama Nating Alagaan,” articulates the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to defending its legitimate maritime rights based on international law.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.

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Embassy Provides Airport Assistance, Counseling to Trafficking Victim

DOHA 23 September 2026 — The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar provided airport assistance, counseling service, and logistical support to a Filipino national identified as a victim of international human trafficking.

Said national was personally received by Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, His Excellency Mardomel Celo D. Melicor, along with officials of OWWA and Migrant Workers Office, upon her arrival at the Hamad International Airport on 21 September 2026 en route to Manila.

The successful repatriation of said national formed part of the coordinated assistance extended by the Philippine Embassy in Doha, Philippine Embassy in Brasília, and relevant partner agencies.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.