By: Nanju Francisco
Manama: The Filipino Club of Bahrain and various volunteer organizations are banding together to extend vital relief to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) navigating the current challenges in the region. Despite heightened anxieties and uncertainties, the local Filipino community is stepping up to embody the true spirit of Bayanihan through mass relief efforts and a coordinated food packing program.
Ms. Rosemarie Hernandez, President of the Filipino Club of Bahrain, shared that their involvement was a direct response to the immediate needs of fellow Filipinos. She stated:
“We got involved in this project as a response to the needs of our kababayans during these challenging times. It is our way of helping and supporting the community while working together as a group. Our goal is to reach as many families or individuals as possible. We are committed to extending our help to everyone we can, while ensuring that the support we provide remains meaningful and organized.”
The grocery packs—featuring everyday essentials such as rice, canned goods, and instant noodles—are provided by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). These items were carefully selected based on the common needs of OFWs to focus on everyday essentials that are easy to prepare. Recipients are actively identified based on the official list provided by MWO and OWWA. This process ensures that those who actively reached out for assistance through registration emails and hotlines are prioritized.
This extensive community outreach is supported by the dedicated efforts of local Philippine government officials on the ground. MWO Labor Attaché Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc and OWWA Welfare Officer Juvilyn Anns B. Gumabay are guiding these vital efforts. To ensure the safety of the volunteers while they carry out this work, organizers ensure that participants are kept informed of the latest advisories issued by the Philippine Embassy led by Ambassador Gines Jaime Ricardo D. Gallaga and the Bahrain government.
According to the online updates and active directives from the Philippine Embassy, MWO and OWWA channels, on-site aid and welfare measures are continuing across the region to ensure that the immediate needs of the Filipino community are systematically handled.
The relief sessions have become an emotional anchor for volunteers navigating regional uncertainties. Janeth Amistad, a volunteer from the FC Bahrain Eagles Club, recalled the panic she felt when sirens first sounded on February 28:
“To begin, I was teaching during Feb 28 (first day of the bomb issue). I was teaching an American kid that day and before ending my class they came over and told me that they needed to go. I thought they were going somewhere, that’s why they needed to go early. By that time, they showed me the alert message then I started panicking too. Fast forward, the first 2-3 days experiencing the bomb sound or interception sequence made me anxious, stressed, and having an asthma attack, but day by day the sound and siren on my phone became the new normal.”
Faced with company closures and forced time off, Amistad joined the repacking efforts without hesitation.
“Instead of using my time just to lay down and browse and think a lot of negative things, I turned it into a worthwhile day by helping to pack groceries and some deliveries too. In this way, I make myself calm and at the same time, my heart feels happy that in this kind of commitment, I have the means to help my fellow Filipinos, and of course, all of this because of God’s protection too.”
Michelle Alcera, another volunteer from the Bahrain Eagles Club, underlined this sentiment.
“One of our main objectives at Bahrain Eagles Club is to support the Filipino community. During these challenging times, we strive to help in any way we can. By giving as much of our time as possible to distribute food packs and assist in repacking, we hope to show that we are here for our fellow Filipinos.”
Assisting in this massive undertaking is the ALSE Bahrain team, who showed up to package relief goods despite the distractions and tension. An anonymous volunteer from ALSE highlighted that the team practiced Magis—choosing the more loving and generous response. By working side-by-side, they aim to help the community “feel seen, supported, and not alone.”
Amistad similarly observed mixed reactions, noting that while some are deeply grateful, others voiced complaints about the size or contents of the food packs.
Nevertheless, for most, the relief packages provide true hope. Recipient Shiery Jane B. Garro extended her deepest appreciation:
“Pinapakita nito ang tunay na bayanihan. Ang pagtulong kahit walang hinihinging kapalit at malasakit at pagkakaisa ng bawat Pilipino. Maraming salamat sa lahat ng sacrifices. Sobrang laki ng tulong ninyo lahat, oras at pagod ang ibinigay ninyo lahat. More power & God bless.”
Another unnamed recipient echoed the exact same gratitude: “It means so much to me. I’m truly grateful and touched by the kindness of fellow Filipinos. These bags are not just help, they are a blessing.”
