A cultural odyssey comes alive
Organized by TRIBE, a subcommittee of the Philippine Business Council Dubai & Northern Emirates, and co-created by 63Kolektib in collaboration with the Emirates Literature Foundation (ELF) and TODA, Sulyap 2.0 marked a bold return after its inaugural run, this time with even richer layers of storytelling and deeper cultural immersion.
Audiences were treated to a powerful theatrical performance by 63Kolektib, electrifying traditional dances from United Filipino Culture & Arts, and soul-stirring vocals by the Dubai Vocal Ensemble. The atmosphere was elevated further by the mesmerizing visuals of Baybayin script artist Gino Banola, whose work tied past and present together with fluid strokes of cultural memory.
It wasn’t just a show, it was a cultural statement, one that echoed through the digital walls of TODA and into the hearts of everyone present.
A movement rooted in community and passion
Behind the curtain of lights and applause stood a committed network of volunteers, artists, partners, and visionaries, all united by a single goal: to amplify Filipino stories on a global stage.
“For TRIBE, Sulyap 2.0 is more than a performance, it’s a celebration and sharing of Filipino culture with the UAE’s diverse community,” said TRIBE President Bethoven Filomeno. “We hope platforms like this inspire more collaborations and opportunities that showcase the creativity and talent of Filipinos worldwide.”
Carrying the torch of heritage
The night also earned high praise from the Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, His Excellency Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, who recognized the event’s deeper cultural resonance.
“You are now the new torchbearers of Philippine culture in the UAE and to a global audience,” he told the performers. “Thank you for this glimpse, but more than that, you invited us to dive deeper, to reconnect with our roots, especially for second and third-generation Filipinos. May you continue to shine the light for all of us.”
Beyond the stage: What Sulyap 2.0 represents
Sulyap means “glimpse” in Filipino, but this second edition offered more than a passing look, it was an invitation to immerse, remember, and celebrate. As the final bow was taken and the applause roared through TODA, it was clear that Sulyap 2.0 was not just a cultural event, it was a movement of memory, identity, and imagination.
In a city that thrives on global diversity, Sulyap 2.0 reminded the world that Filipino artistry has a rightful place on the international stage, bold, brilliant, and bursting with stories waiting to be told.
Manuel has been with Gulf News for 24 years, currently serving as a Senior News Editor and a vital member of the team. From managing social media platforms and crafting viral content to shooting and editing videos on various topics such as weather, gold prices, and traffic updates, Manuel ensures news is not just timely but engaging. He also moderates reader comments and keeps the digital space respectful and impactful.
Formerly the Community Editor for the Readers section, Manuel helped residents resolve issues with banks, telecom providers, utilities, and government agencies—giving people a voice and driving accountability. “I’m proud that, with the cooperation of companies, I was able to help people get the answers they needed,” he says.
Beyond the newsroom, Manuel is driven by a passion for human interest stories—amplifying voices that often go unheard. “From rags-to-riches journeys to the quiet resilience of people with special needs, I believe these stories restore hope in humanity,” he added.
“In every story I tell,” Manuel says, “my goal is simple: to inspire hearts, inform minds, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s a viral video, a quiet act of resilience, or a voice that needs to be heard, I believe every story has the power to connect us—and sometimes, even change us.”
Manuel’s impact goes far beyond the newsroom—he’s been honored as one of the 300 most influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition 2020 by Illustrado. His dedication to telling powerful stories, along with his influence in community, culture, and human interest, has earned him a well-deserved place on this prestigious list.
