In celebration of International Nurses Week, the Filipino Nurses League (FNL) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, hosted a lively sports tournament on May 16, 2025, featuring basketball and volleyball competitions. The event, held at Manara Sports Academy, aimed to promote camaraderie, well-being, and work-life balance among Filipino nurses.
The tournament brought together Filipino nurses across various departments, fostering a spirit of unity and teamwork. Participants began the day with a colorful parade of teams, each proudly represented by their muses and escorts. The energetic and fabulous Mr. Boots Brito served as the master of ceremonies, setting the tone for a fun-filled and engaging celebration.
In the volleyball category, the Hemodynamic Hitters (ICU and CCU Nurses) emerged as champions, followed by the ED Rescue Rangers (Emergency Department Nurses) as the first runner-up, and the Renal Rebels (Renal Dialysis Nurses) as the second runner-up. Special awards in volleyball were presented to Ms. Athena Sucalit for Best Spiker, Ms. Marites Amodo for Best Setter, and Ms. Joanne Marie Alapan for Best Libero.
In the basketball category, the OPD Warriors (FMD, HSC, and Surgical Nurses) claimed the championship title. The Hemodynamic Shooters (Critical Area and Medical Nurses) took the first runner-up spot, while the Renal Rebels secured the second runner-up position. The basketball tournament also featured a Mythical Five selection, with Eman de Castro recognized as the Most Valuable Player (MVP). Other standout players included Darwin Amparo, Schenly Gee Cabigon, John Michael Seno, and Anther Hernandez.
Mr. Erwin Bolante, President of the Filipino Nurses League, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all participants, supporters, officers, and coordinators who made the event a success. “Saying ‘thank you’ is not enough to express how deeply grateful I am. This event was not just mine—it was ours. Its success was made possible by the collective efforts and commitment of everyone involved,” Bolante emphasized.
He also highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially in the demanding field of healthcare. “In today’s always-connected world, balancing work demands with personal well-being is more important than ever. This event was our way of setting aside the stress and simply enjoying time together,” he added.
The Filipino Nurses League, established on May 12, 2019, was founded by Ms. Susan Ibarra, Ms. Agnies Alviola, and Ms. Luisa Pangilinan, with Mr. Bolante initially serving as a consultant before becoming the organization’s president. The group is committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of Filipino nurses in Jeddah, providing support, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
As the event concluded, Mr. Bolante shared his vision for the future, expressing hope for more meaningful activities that will continue to strengthen bonds within the Filipino nursing community. “A great leader leads with legacy, integrity, and compassion—where everyone is valued, respected, and their safety is a priority,” he stated, promising more initiatives to foster solidarity and excellence among Filipino nurses.
