A group of Filipino photographers has elected a new set of office-bearers for 2013 and vowed to do more community service, volunteering and train their members regularly.
The Catchers of Light Qatar (TCLQ) has been active in teaching its neophyte members on basic and advance photography whether they are using point-and-shoot or digital single lens reflex cameras (DSLRs). It aims to enhance the skills of many enthusiastic and passionate Filipino photographers in Qatar.
Besides photo-shoots, TCLQ president Alvin Bongon told Gulf Times that they will continue to serve the Filipino community through their ‘shoot for a cause projects’. Other officers included Philip Gealan (vice president-internal), Michael Fernando (vice president-external), Noli Pronto (secretary), Megi Savilla (treasurer), and Gine Naval
(auditor).
“It may not be a regular activity but we will always be here to help our fellowmen who are in need,” he said.
They held various fund drives which benefited victims of natural calamities in the Philippines.
Known to produce quality images, TCLQ has been invited in many gatherings and events in Doha.
Many of TCLQ photographers had volunteered to shoot for the 2013 Philippine Independence Day celebration at Sheraton Doha on June 14. It now has 60 active members who meet at Avenue 23 for their weekly
gathering.
Part of their activities is the monthly photo competition where organisers choose a theme for a particular month.
In his message, Bongon mentioned how the group grew and struggled to overcome many challenges in the past years.
He stressed the importance of working as a team in achieving their objectives and goals.
“We will do our best to perform our duties but remember that we are only your guide. We have to work together as one family,” said Bongon, who is also member of many organisations like the Sarong Boses-Qatar and BalitangQ.
These organisations also hold fund drives to help distressed overseas Filipino workers, the sick and those who are in dire need. In many cases, they support the activities of the Philippine embassy and other attached agencies of the government.
Many leaders of Filipino organisations in Qatar have vouched for the integrity of Bongon saying that he possesses the qualities of a true leader and a father because of his experience, attitude and skills.