Pilipinas Global Network Limited (PGNL), TV5’s international arm, officially launched in the Middle East via a 3-day event dubbed “Give Me 5, Kapatid.”

Held last November 3-5 in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the events were made possible with the help of its partner, Orbit Showtime Network (OSN).

“Give Me 5, Kapatid” kicked off on November 3 with a press conference and a luncheon at the Sky Lounge of Gloria Hotel in Dubai. TV5 President and CEO Atty. Ray Espinosa and PGNL President Claro Carmelo Ramirez were joined by chosen community leaders and members of the local press. Kapatid star Ruffa Gutierrez and comedian Shalala were also present during the said press conference.

The following day, the group took off to Abu Dhabi for a whole day of celebration. Shalala and Pinoy Explorer Aga Muhlach prepared a special presentation for Filipinos living in the area. This grand Fans Day brought enjoyment and happiness to Kapatids yearning for Pinoy entertainment.

Side A band also performed that evening, much to the delight of the 4,000 Filipinos who attended the event. Everyone sang along to Side A’s hits, turning the venue into a videoke bar. Aga once again put out a “concert artist” performance during his portion. The lovable actor/host brought out his musical talent by gamely dancing and singing with each song. Ruffa Gutierrez then came on stage, looking breathtakingly beautiful in her Cary Santiago gown.

The former beauty queen introduced TV5’s Corporate Social Responsibility campaign. TV5 and OSN are committed to helping out distressed Filipinos in the UAE. Through “Give Me 5, Kapatid,” OFWs are encouraged to donate money to help out their fellow Filipinos in the region. The total donation amount will be matched or doubled by TV5 and OSN and will then be given to the Philippine embassy in UAE, headed by Ambassador Grace Princesa who also graciously attended the event. The money collected during the campaign will be used to buy airline tickets for chosen kababayans, giving them a chance to return to the Philippines to be with their families this coming Christmas.

Aside from a Fans Day, the crew of Pinoy Explorer also shot new episodes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi which will air soon on Aksyon TV International.
Talentadong Pinoy also held a special international audition last November 5 at the Boracay Club of the Asiana Hotel in Dubai. The chosen Talentados will fly back to Manila to join other chosen Filipino contestants from all over the world for a special international episode of the hit talent show.

“Give Me 5, Kapatid” in the Middle East is in line with the network’s commitment to not only provide quality entertainment but to reach out and connect overseas Filipinos to their loved ones in the Philippines . With the success of “Give Me 5, Kapatid,” Filipinos living abroad can expect similar events to come their way as TV5 continues to expand worldwide.