RIYADH, 12 April — In their all-out intention of offering an alternative means of entertainment to their staff and guest participants, and to promote solidarity among Filipinos and other nationalities, the Jeraisy Group of Companies Overall Sports Coordinator Riad Siblini led the opening of its First Open Inter-Company Basketball League. The event is taking place at the Jeraisy Staff Compound Basketball Court, Exit 7 — Riyadh and will be in action every Thursday from 6 p.m. onward and Friday games start at 5p.m.
Lucky Jeraisy Furniture team cagers’ bursting guts and will power opened the door for them to grab an early lead at the expense of the Communication team, 65-52. The first quarter saw the latter taking the driver’s seat but was a short-lived scenario as the furniture boyz battled and determined to highlight an impressive record. Ernie Dela Cruz and Mohammad Villamena were officiated the match.
Equally, the Cotabato Hunters proved not to settle for anything less as they overpowered the host team, Steelcase Jeraisy in a 40 points margin game, 110-70. Salac top scored the Hunters with his 34 points contribution getting excellent support from Dennis Magbanua, Ayyan Dibaratum and Badawi. Ahbet Garcia and Nestor Carlos kept an eye of the players’ movements.
According to Tournament Commissioner Ed Tamayo, 16 teams had confirmed their participation in this league, which were divided into two groups. Host team Steelcase Jeraisy led the partakers in Group A followed by the International Philippine School of Riyadh (IPSR), Manila Plaza (with Friendship Game Best Coach Awardee, Armel Trambulo coaching), Yamaha, Cotabato Hunters, Dasnet, Meed and the Filipino Channel (TFC).
Early winners Jeraisy Furniture team piloted Group B of this league with Saudi Lighting, Communication, King Faisal Hospital, Bustan, Dunkin Donut, Metro Star and Panda completing the roster.
Riad Siblini acknowledged the presence and all-out support of Jeraisy Group of Companies executives headed by Mahmoud Awada — Furniture General Manager, Vijaya Das — Furniture Factory Manager, Ahmad Abdulrahman — Furniture Administration Manager. In the same manner, he also welcomed the tournament officials and members of the participating teams after which the traditional parade immediately followed. Saudi Lighting Co. team won the best in uniform award.
The staging of the Jeraisy Group of Companies First Open Inter-Company Basketball League will not be possible without the generous support of its sponsors Batelco Jeraisy, Ltd. through Rashid Al-Snan - Executive Director, Pacific Cargo, Top Cargo through Abdul Yamin Ismail, Pinoy Supermarket (located in Batha area) through Joseph Magdalena, Metro Star through Romy Ocbena, and Luzviminda Speed Sports (located at Manila Plaza, Batha) through Roger Bajenting, among others.
The Executive Committee of the Jeraisy Group of Companies First Open Inter-Company Basketball League include: Ed Tamayo (Commissioner), Alvin Mendoza (Committee Chairman), Ton Ton Fajardo, Belmar Indencia, Nelson Cajayon, and Riad Siblini (Overall Chairman).
