By: Cecil V. Ancheta
MANAMA: Orlando Fontanilla, the Public Officer of Filipino American Association of Bahrain came to Bahrain in 2001 when he was deployed as one of the United States of America (USA) military servicemen at the US Naval Base, Manama.
He shared his views as he looked back on significant experiences and how their organization observed the growing partnership between the two countries.
It was in 2002 when Fontanilla together with eight other colleagues in the Navy realized the need to establish an organization. ‘’ I was elected as president of Fil-Am Bahrain. It was during that time when members were exclusively military personnel and their dependents who were working in the base until the membership was opened to Filipino nationals outside the camp.
Fil-Am Bahrain initiated the line of communication with the Philippine Embassy coordinating all their activities of community charities and outreach programs to then Philippine Ambassador Eduardo Maglaya.
‘’As the president of the organization I represented the group in various meetings and gatherings including invitations to grace many occasions and formal gatherings with the Bahrain government,” Fontanilla narrated.
‘’I observed the strong ties between the leaders of both countries, on one occasion on the celebration of Philippine Independence Day wherein the leaders turned out to be very appreciative of the presentation on Philippine cultural numbers in the program including the Filipino food served,” Fontanilla said.
Cultural presentations have indeed broadened the connections and have created common understanding and mutual appreciation.
When Fontanilla returned to Bahrain for another assignment, he observed that the relationship between the two nations became stronger as work opportunities for Filipinos in Bahrain had tremendously expanded. Juffair was a boomtown, buildings were being built here and there, and the confidence and growth were captivating.
Given that companies adore the Filipino labor force because of their tenacity and unmatched commitment to their jobs, the Philippines’ economic relationship with Bahrain has been growing and expanding ever since it began.
On the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the Philippines and Bahrain, Fontanilla congratulated both countries for the milestones they achieved.
