Collective kindness

Travelers Tribe Masonic Club Bahrain distributes in-kind gifts to Filipino community during Christmas programme

The Travelers Tribe Masonic Club (T2) Bahrain has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Filipinos in the Kingdom, particularly those facing hardship, through a recent Christmas outreach initiative.

The programme involved the distribution of in-kind gifts to needy members of the Filipino community and was organised in coordination with, and supported by, the Filipino American Association of Bahrain and PHAmly Club Bahrain, underscoring the strong spirit of collaboration among Filipino organisations in the country.

Addressing attendees, Mr Orlando Fontanilla shared a moving account of one of the group’s previous outreach efforts. He recalled meeting Bisma, an eight-year-old girl with mobility challenges, during a Christmas gift-giving activity last year.

Prosthetic leg

“Together with my brothers in T2, and the officers and members of Fil-Am Bahrain, we immediately resolved to help her,” Mr Fontanilla said. “We completed all the necessary legal and medical procedures to provide her with a prosthetic leg.”

He added that Bisma is now attending kindergarten and continuing her education. “I sincerely hope that one day she will become a lawyer and an advocate for the rights of overseas Filipino workers. Her progress is truly inspiring and reminds us why these initiatives matter,” he said.

An active performance by the Philippine Dance Crew set the stage for a heartwarming gift-giving activity that brought joy to the beneficiaries.

Santa Claus

Adding to the festive spirit, Mr. Fermin Garcia, former T2 President in 2019 and 2020, delighted both children and adults as he donned the red suit, white beard, and twinkling eyes of Santa Claus while handing out gifts alongside T2 President Mitch de Guzman.

Beyond the gift-giving, T2 also provided financial support, extending meaningful assistance to Filipinos navigating difficult circumstances abroad.

Likewise, beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude for the gifts and support they received, which brought comfort and renewed hope during the holiday season.

The event was further distinguished by the presence of four former Travelers Tribe (T2) presidents, including Vic Cabali, who served as president in 2011, underscoring the organization’s enduring leadership and strong sense of brotherhood.

Health and wellness services were offered through T2’s collaboration with the Philippine Bahrain Caregivers Society, which provided free blood pressure checks and random blood sugar testing. Attendees also enjoyed a photo booth courtesy of RJ Events and free back massages by Solice Spa, creating a warm, welcoming environment that addressed both physical well-being and emotional comfort. To ensure a hospitable, family-like atmosphere free breakfast were served to all the attendees.

The program was further enriched by the El Shaddai Music Ministry soul-stirring Christmas musical performances, fostering a deeper sense of fellowship. Certificates of recognition were presented to community relation’s participants in appreciation of their dedication and support.