RIYADH: Filipino photographers have once again won at the annual Colors of Saudi Arabia 2015 in the smart phone category being organized by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTNH) every year in the capital.

The ongoing high profile event was inaugurated by SCTNH President Prince Sultan bin Salman last Sunday and has seen participation of various nationalities living in Saudi Arabia including Filipino and German nationals.

The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh said that two of its nationals won in the photography event and received prizes at the opening of the event at Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center in the presence of the SCTNH President Prince Sultan.

In the smart phone category, photographer Herbert Bagolbagol garnered second place this year for his entry in the Colors of Qassim category, entitled “Alkhobar Old Village.”

Bagolbagol won first place last year in the same category and said through his smart phone camera, he explored the Kingdom, its food, culture, heritage sites, beautiful sceneries and landscapes, and experienced firsthand kindness and hospitality.

“As my hobby, I enjoy taking photos of any interesting view or angle using a smart phone or a camera,” he told Arab News.

Another Filipino participant, Alvin Purification, won the fourth prize in the Eco-Tourism Category with his entry “Alkhobar-Bahrain Bridge” taken in 2014 in the Eastern Province where he is currently residing.

“I was so excited to travel from Alkhobar to Riyadh to receive my award and that will remain great memory for me and my family to remind us of our stay in this beautiful and very accommodating country,” Alvin said.