A group of overseas Filipino workers mainly from Lanao del Sur province held an event on building their capacity amid the competitive work environment in Saudi Arabia’s workforce market.

The event was organized by AMTAR-Tugaya International Foundation (TIF).

Speakers who addressed the event include Professor Amrollah Diambangan, Rasol Abbas and Hussein Zacaria Datu, the newly elected chairman of the group, in the presence of various community leaders including Jamaluden Umpat, Rasool Cali and Jamael Bagul.

Founded by Abbas, the organization has been operating since 1990 with the aim of promoting solidarity, brotherhood and to encourage mutual support in accordance with Islamic precepts.

According to the foundation’s general framework, every member is bound to help other members in terms of moral and material assistance. It is based on harmony within an organization and respect for the laws of the Kingdom and Islam.

Speaking on the occasion, elected chairman Datu said, “I have been chosen by you to shoulder the responsibility of the future of the organization. I will try with my fellow new officers to fulfill our commitment to support the projects of the foundation,” adding, “We have family and work responsibilities and your cooperation and understanding is needed to facilitate the growth of the organization.”

“As an elected chairman, I am humbly accepting the responsibility with all my ability and honesty. I shall be the guardian to protect our interests in line with the laws of the Kingdom and Islamic teaching,” he said.

Members who were inducted into the office for a three-year term are: Hussein Zacaria Datu, chairman; Adel Calapardo GuroAlim, vice chairman and Jehad Zacaria Pangcoga, secretary.

Lanao del Sur province is a Muslim majority region in the Philippines and a major source of handicraft decorative and cultural products. These products include Agong, Kulintang, Landap, Tabo and several kinds of items exported worldwide.