UFTBR Overview

The Unified Filipino Tenpin Bowlers of Riyadh (UFTBR) was formed in November 8, 2007. The original concept behind the creation of UFTBR was to serve as an umbrella organization for three Filipino bowling groups: (i) the Filipino Bowlers of Riyadh (FOBR), (ii) the Filipino Bowling Group of Riyadh (FBGR), and (iii) the Riyadh Tenpin Bowlers Coalition (RTBC). The unifications of all bowling communities in Riyadh have been a long-sought aspiration of Filipino bowlers in the capital city of Saudi Arabia. Thus, with the formation of UFTBR a semblance of unity was established and initiatives towards the ultimate goal of unification rolled off.

On October 12, 2010, in an unprecedented move, the officers of FOBR, FBGR, and RTBC jointly and unanimously decided that the time has come for genuine unity to emerge and materialize. The three organization unequivocally and unselfishly declared that they will unify and merge under the name of UFTBR. As a result of the union, both FOBR, FBGR, and RTBC will cease to exist and all officers and members of the two groups will then become members of UFTBR. It was a milestone achievement for Riyadh bowlers as whole, one giant step towards unity. The merger of the three groups also solidly established UFTBR as the biggest organization of bowlers in Riyadh. As an upshot of the unification, the former officers of FOBR, FBGR and RTBC also unanimously elected Ernee Noto, as the interim Chairman of UFTBR. Mr. Noto is a multi-awarded bowler and aptly personifies unity and friendship among bowlers in Riyadh. He was given the clear mandate and objective not only to formalize the union by amending UFTBR’s constitution and by-laws but most importantly to establish and strengthen the foundation of unity and ensure that this long-sought aspiration which has just been realized will take its solid roots and foothold to last for as long as there are avid bowlers and dedicated and committed leaders in Riyadh.

On May 10, 2011, UFTBR was duly recognized and given due accreditation by the Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia as a legitimate community association representing bowlers residing in Riyadh. UFTBR is expected to take the lead in organizing bowling leagues, undertake community services and send delegations to participate in regional and international competitions.