RIYADH, 28 February 2003 — More than a thousand spectators witnessed the opening ceremonies of the 12th FIMAB Invitational Tournament held at Liwasang Bonifacio Quadrangle inside the Philippine Embassy. Individual and synchronized demonstrations of Black Belt Kata Form Competition set the mood into action.
“It was one of those activities enjoyed by Filipinos and non-Filipinos alike,” observed Cultural Attache Carmelita Hidalgo. Hidalgo herself participated in an exhibition during the opening ceremonies. She is a sensei of Philippine Aiki Kai. The first day of competition saw action among competitors in Division A, B, and C.
Nelson Pobleo, president of Filipino International Martial Arts and Brotherhood (FIMAB) and this year’s tournament director said that the tournament resumes today and will conclude on March 7 for more action and intense clashes between rivals in the exciting world of martial arts.
“Elimination and semifinal rounds are set for today for the lightweight, middleweight, and heavyweight categories. Awarding of trophies to the winners will be on Friday during the closing ceremonies,” he added.
Philippine Ambassador Bahnarim A. Guinomla inducted into office the new FIMAB officers for the year 2002-2004. “As the current president of FIMAB, I intend to bring together more clubs under the umbrella organization,” Obleo said.
For the fourth consecutive year, Power Horse, “the official energy drink of Filipino martial artist”, sponsored the event. Ahmad Haron, Marketing and Country Manager of Power Horse Middle East, was also one of the guests.
A medical team composed of Corazon Quiambao, Zachary Calauay and May Quiambao, all from Shumaise Hospital, provides first aid. Ernie Santillan, Edgardo Serrano, Raul Dacquel, Alex Quinto, and Danilo Enriquez are the table officials.
FIMAB’s council of elders and board of advisers are Armando P. Salamat (Raging Bulls Judo-Karate International, Omar Flor Balotoc of Panthers International Martial Arts Federation, Rex M. Vega of Cat-Walk Sikaran Martial Arts Association, and Fernando Mohamamd Solinap Jr. of King Tiger Taekwondo Association.
The following complete the list of officers of FIMAB: Vicente Villaruz, executive vice-president; Pablito Briones, VP internal; Faisal Mercurio, VP external; Edgardo Serrano, secretary general; Danny Enriquez, Benjamin Cabaya, Jr., Freddie Laxa, assistant secretaries; Amado Santillan, treasurer; Raul Dacquel, assistant treasurer; Rene Tibe, auditor; Juan Galano, Feddy Mataga, Lito Calaguas, Saulo Matavia, Samuel dela Cruz, Eduardo Abrera, public relations officers; Benjie Orobia, sports director.
