Isang Araw ng Linggo sa buhay ng mga Manggagawa sa Abuja, Nigeria

A Very Busy Sunday

SPORTSFEST which has become an annual event since its ABL initiation held this year’s opening ceremony last Sunday  the 6^th of October 2013.

And much to the delight of the OFWS, this was held at the Nigerian Turkish Nile University as kindly offered to the Philippine Ambassador Alex V. Lamadrid by Dr. Karakoc, the Dean of the University. Such was the hospitality that it encompassed the use of the sporting facilities until the end of the sportsfest.

As the OFWS turned away from the tarred highway and entered the rough road as sketched, upon reaching their destination were taken aback as they laid eyes on the sprawling landscape of the University. Very impressive. Notable is the huge chessboard populated by huge royals and subjects.

Understandably, the impressionable OFWS posed and took pictures of this new environs.

The OFWS comprising the four teams assembled early. The usual line up of events ensued: Parade of the competing teams – A White, B Orange, C Black, D Violet – with their friendly rowdy banters. Followed by the singing of the Nigerian and the Philippine Anthems. The opening prayers were led by Mr. Jabar Guro for the Muslims and Mr. Ruste for the non-Muslims. Incidentally, both were from the Violet team.

The Philippine Ambassador addressed the assembly and introduced the benefactor Dean Karakoc. The Oath of Sportsmanship was led by PPA 2013-2014 Treasurer TJ Barilla.

The Vice-President of PPA Mr. Bernard Mercado officially declared the games open.

Part I

Andrea sacrificing her Queen and Vangie with the pawn...

Angie and Rose with Sherwin of the Orange Team and Benny of the White Team; with Vangie and Marilyn...

.... the Violet Team - sa Tagalog Ubi....(middle pix) Mar, Rose Bernales, Melanie Pastor and James

Mother and son of opposing team - Raymond is for Violet and Mom Mabelle is for Orange; Bernard 'Doods' of the Orange Team posed with Rose, Angie and Benny; Clifford with Janice and the pretty ladies; and with Jabar

John of the Black Team with Ernel of the Violet Team

Volleyball: Violet vs Black - in action...that's Sean scrambling for the ball (2nd pix)

...quite an intense game...

Raymond giving the serve and Marisa with her unstoppable serve

Lalaine with the Black Team anticipating the landing of the ball...Finally Violet team dominated...

Part II  The ultra-modern Nigerian Turkish Nizamiye Hospital

After the games, some members of The Filipino Migrants decided to join Dean Karakoc to visit their state-of-the-art hospital nearby. The imposing building is overlooking the nearby town looked more like a luxurious hotel than what it really is.  Dr. Mustafa Ahsen graciously toured us while explaining the facilities located therein. The building was constructed by their own people. Materials, equipment and furniture were all imported from their country.

We were so engrossed and intent on listening to Dr. Ahsen that only very few photos were taken. We went to the different sections of the hospital - including their blood bank, and theater. There's a restaurant (sort of) at the rooftop.  Maybe one day we'll all climb to the top and see Abuja from that spot while sipping Turkish coffee.

...the hospital's facade; Lito, Dean Karakoc, Marisa, Angie and Mrs. Grace Blair in front of the hospital; Dean Karakoc and Dr. Mustafa Ahsen

...Ward and  its rest room.  

Angie Alcaria, Grace Blair, Marisa Mercado, Lito Nucum, Dr. Ahsen, Bernie Mercado and Dean Karakoc

...view from a window at the ground floor...

Part III  Sherwin's House Blessing

From the hospital, we proceeded to Sherwin's house.  He has moved to a bigger house for the coming of his wife and daughter. Ninang Otie read the house blessing prayers as Ninong Nonits sprinkled holy water around the house.

...the Blessed Virgin Mother

at the dining area...

...from room to room...

Rex, Sherwin, Angie

Benny and Marilyn

...Praying the Rosary...

Thank you Lord .....

Bon apetit