JEDDAH, 14 March 2004 — The Cebuano-Speaking Organization in Saudi Arabia (CSOSA) Western region has elected a new of Board of Directors. Elected were Jovy Rosas, Bong Retuya, Manny Alkuino, Alfred Cristino, Wenfred Castolome, Nelson Baraga, Algier Reganon, Arnold Empuerto, Froilan Miro, Willy Dungog, Ian Fernandez, Jun Sierras, Albert Osorio, Raul Sienes, and Bart Fernandez.
The election was held during a grand re-union of sorts at the Philippine Consulate last week.
To enliven the occasion, the group hosted a musical show and mini-sports fest with various teams participating.
Erfan Bagedo Hospital emerged as champion in the volleyball tournament. Saudia D’Spikers was 1st runner-up; International Philippine School in Jeddah (IPSJ), 2nd runner-up; Al Majal Service Master, 3rd runner up; and King Abdulaziz Hospital, 4th runner-up. Arlyn dela Cruz was adjudged the most valuable player and Tony Mahakijkampol, best coach. (Francis Salud)
Rick Amphir was declared champion in the chess tournament. The other winners were Bong Marquez, 1st runner-up; Willie Sabunagan, 2nd runner-up; Glen Orlina, 3rd runner-up; and June Aguilar, 4th runner-up.
A martial arts exhibition and an array of talented singers from various Philippine schools in Jeddah added excitement to the day-long festivity.
CSOSA, is one of the many active Filipino organizations in the Kingdom, not just in festivities but also in helping distressed workers. The group was able to raise money to help stranded drivers Diosdado Cosenero and Cezar Benitez return home to the Philippines.
“At least we were able to help in our own little way,” said the incumbent association president, engineer Nelson Baraga.