Doha, 12 Feb 2026

The event opened with a message from Philippine Ambassador to Qatar Mardomel C. Melicor, delivered by Consul General Cassandra Sawadjaan. Her remarks highlighted the strengthening investment corridor between Qatar and the Philippines, emphasizing strategic cooperation, growing investor confidence, and the important role of the Filipino diaspora in linking opportunities between the two nations.

AFREEQ Vice Chairperson and 6th PPISQ Committee Chairperson Nuaira H. Muhammad welcomed participants by underscoring the value of Filipino business engagement in Qatar. She also recognized AFREEQ’s decade of advocacy and growth, commending the leadership and vision of founding Chairman Dr. Joseph Timothy Rivera as the organization marked its 10th anniversary.

In line with this milestone, a documentary honoring the heroism and contributions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) was presented. The film focused on empowerment, nation-building, and cross-border collaboration, reinforcing the central role of OFWs in driving economic and social progress.

Institutional perspectives followed with a video presentation by Tereso Panga, Director General of the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, who outlined the Philippines as an investment destination, highlighting legal, tax, and policy frameworks for foreign direct investment.

Despite a busy schedule, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Administrator Patricia Yvonne Caunan also delivered a virtual address, detailing government programs that support OFWs through upskilling, reintegration, and long-term financial security.

An inspirational message was shared by 2025 Noble Queen of the Universe – Globe Jeanette Gotangogan, who spoke about the importance of advocacy and sustainable passive income in helping OFWs achieve smart and dignified retirement planning.

A key highlight of the program was the virtual keynote address by Philippine Vice President Sara Z. Duterte. She emphasized the importance of protecting the sacrifices of OFWs through strict compliance with Qatari laws and regulations. She stressed that investment initiatives and business events abroad must be led by licensed and duly recognized organizations to ensure credibility, protection, and sustainability, allowing OFWs to engage safely in long-term wealth-building opportunities aligned with national development goals.

Throughout the day, industry leaders and experts led forums and talks covering green development by Qavah International, smart cities by Robinsons Land Corporation, countryside staycations by Vero Gines Prime Properties, Philippine real estate opportunities by Vista Land and La Theoz Solutions, Food safety & franchising by Loming Barako & expert food hygienists, financial literacy, entrepreneurship by StrategAlz, Qatar Real Estate compliance by Westpac properties & select landlords, banking innovation by BDO Remit, he rising washateria industry by IsItClean Consultancies, the benefits of business leveraging by B2B network.

Exhibitors and speakers praised the strong engagement and meaningful networking, noting that discussions translated into concrete leads and partnerships. The program concluded with the AFREEQ Community Awards and closing ceremonies led by Chairman Dr. Joseph Rivera, reaffirming AFREEQ’s commitment to positioning Filipinos as trusted business and real estate professionals in Qatar while promoting the Philippines as a prime destination for investment and sustainable growth.

Supporting community institutions and enterprises included Academia International Institute, Wisdom & Success, Dimandal Institute, the Overseas Filipino Investments & Entrepreneurs Movement (OFIEM), The Fraternal Order of Eagles, Tasa Café, GW Events, Frich Revolution, Aria Beauty, Blueberry travel, Createx Events, Ahla Makan Manpower & Wasit Alkhyr, and www.asiantelegraphqatar.com as media partner.