by Laliebeth Petancio
Abu Dhabi – The newly elected leaders of the Bayanihan Council Executive Board 2018 – 2019 took the oath of office last April 13, Friday at the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi 
administered by Vice Consul Von Ryan Pangwi and witnessed by Embassy’s officials headed by Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Constancio R. Vingno Jr.
The board is composed of Chairman Engr. Elmer O. Casao; Ronald R. Precilla (Vice Chairman); Sheryl A. Palacios-Manalo (Secretary); Emma W. Sentones (Tresurer); Engr. Alvin Ruiz Jr. (Auditor); Eldie S. Tadalan (Asst. Secretary); Engr. Analiza Binondo (Asst. Treasurer); Woderick M. Pareja (Asst. Auditor); Gerald P. Ignacio ( Sgt. At Arms) and Directors Ms. Miriam P. Sergio, Valentin T. Samonte Jr., Erick Michael A. Paguia, Albert S. Sabado, Marvin P. Espiritu & Chona Catherine S. Bernabe.
Prior to the formalities, outgoing Chairman Engr. Jeffrey Uy extended his grateful appreciation to the members of the board during his term and fast tracking the major accomplishments of the council. It has included even the recently held Constitutional review that kick-offed in December and came the election of officers and hand-over activity last month.
“Today, we will witness the oath taking or pledge of commitment of the new set of officers. This is not an easy task, rather it is a challenging task but let us convert this challenging task to an opportunity to grow”, expressed Engr. Uy at the gathering.
“As long as you are committed, and you work together as a team then you will succeed as
a team. Just remain focused, united and committed”, he added quoting that the Philippine Embassy and the Filipino community are always there to support.
Hon. Constancio R. Vingno Jr., keynote speaker at the ceremony commenced his talk with acknowledging the presence and support of his constituents and recognizing the great achievements of the Bayanihan Council from 2016 to 2018.
“I have witnessed the Philippine spirit of bayanihan, the collective and collaborative spirit of almost a heroism – an element that binds us all Filipinos together”, expressed Ambassador Vingno as he was referring to the volunteerism, initiative and efforts of the leaders and members of the council by promoting the activities of all Filipino organizations.
Further he has mentioned the benefit of having the umbrella organization such that it became a channel for fostering continuous and effective communication between and amongst the Council’s leaders and members.
Moving on in relation to the oath taking, the envoy has stressed the importance of commitment and leadership.
“By hand taken that position, you have accepted the responsibilities and the mission & vision of the organization for which you cannot go astray from”, he said adding that the success of any organization will depend on how leaders subscribe to the mission and vision that they have submitted for.
Ambassador Vingno has addressed his concluding statement to all community leader by applauding their contribution in the fulfillment of the advocacy of the Philippine Embassy and the support given to kababayans in the UAE.
Also highlighted in the morning’s program apart from the oath taking ceremony was the
turnover of responsibilities by a plaque from outgoing Chairman Jeffrey Uy to current Chairman Elmer Casao that followed speech of acceptance.
“There will always be challenges in reaching greater heights and success but there is nothing that we can’t surpass, accomplish and achieve if we at all times are united and work as one team”, stressed Engr. Elmer Casao with the belief and confidence that the Bayanihan Council can go a higher level in reaching out the overseas Filipinos.
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