Sep 26, 2025 | News
Doha, Qatar – September 26, 2026 — The Bayanihan ng Manggagawa sa Konstruksiyon ng Qatar (BMKQ) has officially signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Lifestyle Avenue Restaurant, marking the start of a partnership aimed at delivering mutual benefits and strengthening support for both parties, members, and even the Filipino community in Qatar.
The signing ceremony, held on September 26 at Lifestyle Avenue Restaurant, was led by Engr. Jundee Mar B. Tejedo representing the restaurant, and Ms. Malou Moral, Chairperson of BMKQ’s Education Committee.
Under the agreement, Lifestyle Avenue Restaurant will extend special discounts to BMKQ’s active members and provide additional support to the organization. In return, BMKQ has committed to promoting and endorsing Lifestyle Avenue Restaurant within its membership network.
Both parties emphasized that the collaboration symbolizes unity and shared commitment to uplift the Filipino community in Qatar by offering tangible benefits and fostering stronger community ties.
Aug 17, 2025 | News
Doha, Qatar — The Bayanihan ng Manggagawa sa Konstruksyon ng Qatar (BMKQ), an association of Filipino construction workers, successfully hosted a Workers’ Rights Awareness Session for Migrant Workers on August 15 at the Ministry of Labour’s training facility in Al Huda Tower, West Bay.
The initiative was made possible through the collaboration of the Women Community Leaders Forum (WCLF), the Ministry of Labour (MoL), the Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund (WSIF), and the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI). Together, these organizations ensured participants received well-rounded information and guidance on labour rights and support mechanisms in Qatar.
Attendees included members of The Brotherhood Organization (TBO), such as the Scouts Royale Brotherhood Qatar Alumni Association (SRBQAA), Alpha Phi Omega Alumni Association Qatar (APO), and Alpha Kappa Rho Qatar Council (AKRHO). Migrant workers from various sectors—including construction, hospitality, administration, and other professions—were also present.
The session aimed to empower migrants by raising awareness of their rights and responsibilities under Qatari labour laws. Topics included legal protection mechanisms, complaint filing procedures, and available support services. Participants were encouraged to assert their rights through peaceful and lawful means, while also promoting a workplace culture rooted in dignity and respect.
Interactive discussions allowed attendees to share real-life challenges, such as delayed salary payments. Resource persons provided practical, step-by-step guidance on how to lodge complaints with the Ministry of Labour, boosting participants’ confidence in exercising their rights.
Key speakers included Cheryl Marielou V. Cayaban from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Engr. Ressie Fos, senior adviser of BMKQ. Both welcomed the opportunity to address the issues raised and reinforce the importance of informed, empowered migrant workers in Qatar’s workforce.
Jun 15, 2024 | News
In a groundbreaking move, BMKQ and OFIE-M have teamed up to launch a financial literacy program aimed at empowering overseas Filipinos, set to kick off this August.
15 June 2024, Doha, Qatar – In a significant step towards empowering grassroots Filipino organizations, BMKQ and OFIE-M have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to roll out a comprehensive Financial Literacy program. The MoU was signed by Eliseo Bermido, President of BMKQ, and Engr. Edgar Boyano, President of OFIE-M, on June 15, 2024, at Somerset Hotel Doha. The signing ceremony was attended by officers from both organizations, highlighting the collaborative spirit and shared vision for financial empowerment.
The partnership focuses on conducting a 5-week financial literacy class series, meticulously tailored for overseas Filipinos. These classes aim to address critical aspects of financial management and entrepreneurship, aligning with the Philippine government’s reintegration program. This initiative underscores the importance of equipping Filipinos abroad with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage their finances effectively and explore entrepreneurial opportunities.
Scheduled to kick-off this August, the program targets an initial batch of at least 30 participants. This first batch is just the beginning, with the program expected to continue with additional batches through the end of the year. The structured modules are designed to provide practical and actionable insights, ensuring that participants can apply what they learn to their personal and professional lives.
The MoU between BMKQ and OFIE-M also includes provisions for extension, allowing the program to expand and adapt as needed. This flexibility ensures that the collaboration can evolve to meet the ongoing needs of the Filipino community.
This initiative marks a crucial milestone in the efforts to foster financial literacy among overseas Filipinos, ultimately contributing to their financial stability and entrepreneurial success. Both BMKQ and OFIE-M are committed to supporting the Filipino diaspora through education and empowerment, reflecting a deep dedication to community development and sustainable growth.
BMKQ is a non-profit organization of Filipino construction workers in Qatar, accredited by the Philippine Embassy on July 24, 2015. It focuses on enhancing the social, civic, and spiritual well-being of its members, fostering responsibility, and providing assistance and support. BMKQ operates under the laws of Qatar and the Philippines, collaborating with governmental agencies to implement community programs.
OFIE-M, another non-profit organization, promotes financial literacy among Overseas Filipinos, particularly Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). It was accredited by the Philippine Embassy in Qatar on September 20, 2012.
Jun 7, 2024 | News
The BMKQ Bowling Tournament 2024 highlighted community spirit and skill, with 32 Filipino teams competing; OFIE-M Team 2 emerged as champions.
07 June 2024, Doha, Qatar – The BMKQ Bowling Tournament 2024, a vibrant showcase of skill and camaraderie, took place on June 7th, from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at the Qatar Bowling Center. Spearheaded by the BMKQ Sports and Events Committee, the event was a testament to the dedication and organizational prowess of its chairman, Mr. Joseph Catarungan.
This year’s tournament saw enthusiastic participation from 32 teams representing 24 Filipino community organizations, all rallying in support of BMKQ’s cause. The diverse mix of teams and players underscored the strong sense of community and mutual support prevalent among the Filipino diaspora in Qatar.
After intense hours of competition, OFIE-M Team 2 emerged as the champions, demonstrating exceptional skill and teamwork. Their victory was a highlight of the event, celebrating not just their prowess in bowling but also the spirit of unity and sportsmanship that the tournament aims to foster.
Other notable achievers included Oryx Knights Eagles Club (OKEC), who secured the 1st Runner-Up position, and JIMMEK, who took 2nd Runner-Up. Additionally, Engr. Lester Militante of OKEC was recognized for achieving the Most Strikes, while Mr. Allen Dale Zapanta and Ms. Lorie Ramos earned the Highest Scores in the male and female categories, respectively.
BMKQ organizes this bowling tournament at least twice a year, aligning it with their broader mission of promoting sports, healthy lifestyles, and team building among the community. These events provide an excellent platform for members to engage in physical activity, build stronger bonds, and maintain a healthy balance between work and recreation.
In addition to bowling, BMKQ’s commitment to sports and fitness is evident in their annual sports program held every November. This program includes a variety of sports events such as basketball and volleyball, catering to different interests and encouraging widespread participation.
The BMKQ Bowling Tournament 2024 was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of community spirit, healthy living, and the joy of sports. Through such initiatives, BMKQ continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for the Filipino community in Qatar, fostering unity, and promoting a vibrant, active lifestyle.
Mr. Eliseo Bermido, the President of BMKQ, extended his heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the tournament’s sponsors: Lifestyle Avenue Restaurant, LBC, and East Optic. In recognition of their invaluable support, each sponsor was presented with a certificate of appreciation. Mr. Bermido also expressed his deep thanks to all BMKQ officers and committee members for their unwavering solidarity and support, acknowledging their essential role in the event’s success.
May 31, 2024 | News
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) is a crucial component of any workplace, central to the collaborative initiative focused on enhancing the welfare of Filipino workers through essential resources and education.
31 May 2024, Doha, Qatar – In a collaborative effort to enhance safety and health awareness, the Philippine Association of Safety Engineers Qatar (PHASE Qatar) and Bayanihan ng Manggagawa sa Konstruksiyon ng Qatar (BMKQ) have extended their outreach to the Philippine Migrant Workers and Other Overseas Filipino Resource Center (MWOOFRC) in Onaiza, Qatar. The center serves as a refuge for many distressed Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
The joint initiative between PHASE Qatar and BMKQ is focused on educating and raising awareness about occupational safety and health (OSH) focusing more on household safety among the OFWs residing at the MWOOFRC facility. This program is part of their broader mission to support and protect Filipino workers in Qatar.
PHASE Qatar, a proactive organization composed of safety engineers and professionals, has a long-standing commitment to OSH advocacy across various industries. Their expertise and dedication to promoting a culture of safety have made significant impacts on the well-being of workers in Qatar.
BMKQ, representing Filipino overseas workers in the construction and related sectors, plays a crucial role in this initiative. The organization is known for its active involvement in advocating for the rights and welfare of Filipino workers abroad. Through their partnership with PHASE Qatar, they aim to ensure that OFWs are well-informed about safety protocols and health practices that are essential in their daily lives and workplaces.
The outreach program at MWOOFRC includes training sessions, workshops, and interactive activities designed to equip the OFWs with knowledge and skills to manage safety and health risks effectively especially within household settings. By bringing these vital resources to the shelter, PHASE Qatar and BMKQ are making significant strides in fostering a safer and healthier environment for the overseas workers.
This collaboration underscores the importance of community and organizational support in safeguarding the welfare of OFWs, reflecting a shared commitment to improving the lives of Filipino workers in Qatar.
The program concluded by distributing personal items to 55 wards, along with diapers and vitamins provided to 5 children at the MWO center.
May 24, 2024 | News
Doha, Qatar – May 24, 2024: The Education and Training Committee of Bayanihan ng Manggagawa sa Konstruksiyon ng Qatar (BMKQ) successfully initiated its Train the Trainers program, emphasizing workers’ rights awareness. The inaugural session took place on Friday, gathering leaders and key officers from various Filipino community organizations in Qatar to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to facilitate training sessions for Filipino expatriates.
The event saw participation from over 50 leaders representing a diverse array of job industries. The program included comprehensive sessions on case handling and documentation, alongside facilitating referrals to competent authorities.
Keynote speakers at the event were notable figures in the community: Mr. Marco Ferrer, Community Liaison Officer of Building and Wood Workers International (BWI) and long-time BMKQ Advisor; Ms. Cheryl Marielou Valientes-Cayaban, President of HERO-Qatar and Chairperson of the BMKQ Education and Training Committee; and Mr. Henry Dimaano, Chairman Emeritus of HERO-Qatar, former Chairman of UFOQ, Founding Advisor of BMKQ, and recently appointed Council Member of the Philippine National Anti-Poverty Commission.
The discussions delved into specific situational topics, teaching trainers how to identify common workplace violations and guide proper reporting procedures. Emphasis was placed on developing effective communication skills to convey complex legal concepts and rights to diverse audiences. Furthermore, the training covered conflict resolution techniques, empathetic handling of worker disputes, and providing trainers with resources to create engaging and participatory training sessions on workers’ rights.
BMKQ President, Mr. Eliseo Bermido, concluded Part 1 of the training with a message of gratitude, acknowledging the participants’ dedication to becoming effective trainers. “As BMKQ aims to continually equip Filipino community leaders with the knowledge and skills to help resolve worker disputes in line with the case resolution and reporting mechanisms of both the Philippine and Qatar governments, Part 2 of this training program will likely be conducted next month,” Mr. Bermido announced.
Certificates of appreciation and participation were awarded to the keynote speakers and participants, marking the successful commencement of the Train the Trainers program.
