RIYADH, 24 April 2003 - For a song, more than 500 Filipinos based in Riyadh have completed basic and advanced computer courses, thanks to volunteers from the Institute of Computer Engineers - Riyadh (ICE-R).

Among the courses offered were computer hardware engineering (COHE), networking, and programming, which the instructors themselves took years to learn in college.

So when the ICE-R passed the hat around for donations during their graduation ceremonies recently at the Philippine Embassy, the grateful graduates responded with a resounding "why not?"

ICE-R President Tony Layco said the contributions from the graduates and guests were meant for stranded Filipino workers being housed at the embassy's Bahay-Kalinga, a temporary shelter for distressed OFWs.

"We were able to collect more than a thousand riyals from our impromptu fund-raising campaign," Layco told Arab News.

Last weekend, Labor Attach? Jainal Rasul and Bajunaid Andi, coordinator of Bahay Kalinga, received the donations from ICE-R, which also included other basic commodities.

The amount collected was apart from the SR1,000 the institute had collected from its previous batch of classes, said Layco.

Rasul cited the ICE-R and its members for their volunteerist spirit and selflessness. He said the group's assistance would go a long way in benefiting distressed OFWs, especially since the POLO's resources were simply not enough.

The embassy has also established a project called "Hatid Tulong," a campaign to help distressed OFWs in the Kingdom by giving them donations in kind.

During the turnover of the ICE-R's collections, ICE-R leaders came in full force. Apart from Layco, the officers are: Richard Magnetico, vice president for membership; Ricardo Berredo, VP for logistics; Jamal Lucman, auditor; Fernando Rivera, PRO; Andrew Dennis R. Co–ate, instructor; Alex Olicia and Virgilio Naval, trainees.

ICE-R had also started its 6th batch of classes with the following computer courses: COHE, Basic and Advance Networking, Java Script Programming, Programming with PLF using C++ - 32, Web Design, AUTOCAD 14 & 2000 with 3D, and Microsoft Applications (XP-OS & XP-Office).

Those who missed to register may contact Layco at 053-215686, Ailene Pamintuan at 052-248917, Berredo at 052-182960, Bong Mendoza at 052-183941, and Co–ate at 403-2222 ext. 11617.

Classes are held every Friday at 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Riyadh International School (RIS) in Suleimania District. Pamintuan holds classes for women every Thursday from 2-6 p.m.