OFWs Fighting Conflict with Combat

In the “war zone” they may be the fiercest of foes, but the UFAC-UAE Airsoft Federation actually consists of a closely knit group of OFWs willing to lend their kababayans a helping hand.

Thank God for Japan’s contributions such as Judo (modern Japanese martial art), Anime (Japanese animation), Nintendo (multinational videogame console corporation), Tamagotchi (handheld virtual pet), first-class brands on automobile and gadgets, and advanced robotics. But do you know that there’s another sport originating from the “land of the rising sun?” To the gun aficionados, this was invented as an alternative to privately owning firearms. To the adventurous, the sport provides a feel of an actual warfare. In layman’s terms it is simply what we now call as ‘AIRSOFT’—the combat sport utilizing exact replicas of real weapons and battle gears, an effective venue for combat training.

In some parts of the globe, airsoft is restricted or even prohibited due to its ‘almost real’ aggression and damages. Luckily, it is not restricted nor banned in the UAE. Taking advantage of this are troops of Filipino (and Filipina) expatriates clad in their most intimidating combat attire making one mistake them for real soldiers. Joining the Unified Filipino Airsoft Club (UFAC) – UAE Airsoft Federation requires compliance with certain requirements and demands one’s discipline and dedication. And although the sport is Japanese in origin, the alliance has completely owned the craft for a truly ‘Pinoy experience.’

FORMATION OF TROOPS
On the 7th of September last year, UFAC–UAE Airsoft Federation was formed among airsoft enthusiasts in Sharjah and Dubai with Ramses Ruidera (a Sales Manager in American Insurance Company) as their Founding President, Roland Cruz (Interior Designer in KCA International), Johnny Fernandez (Industrial Hygienist in Dubai Aluminum), Jeff Amparado (Company Purchaser in Intersports-Al Futtaim), Zandro Tumaliuan (Interior Designer in KCA International), Napoleon Cajandab (Architect – Engr. Adnan Saffarini), and Ibrahim Bernal (Logistics Manager) as the Founding Members.

Not long after its inception, the notable reputation of the federation spread across the neighboring emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. Soon, troops of UFAC-UAE Federation Airsoft Clubs & Teams were assembled with their respective Team Leaders: Johnny Fernandez for Mistah Forces, Jeff Amparado for Magdalo Seal Team, Naploeon Cajandab for F.E.A.R., Zandro Tumaliuan for Ghost Recon, Ibrahim Bernal for A.R.M.A.S., Joseph Laihee for Bwelta Force, Miguel Sta. Barbara for Triskelion Airsoft Unit, William Macalayos for Black P.A.W., Andy Damondon for S.W.A.T., Ricardo Santos for Nautical Force, Eufrecino Duarte for P.A.R.A.K., Manuel Rodriguez, Jr. for Black Scorpion, Voltarr Manguilin for Musang, Victorio Bohol for D.A.W.G., and Angelo Navarro for P.S.I.C.O. The Federation now has 510 active members.

Every Friday, the Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club transforms into the ultimate “war zone.” The alliance is open to Filipino airsoft enthusiasts 16-45 years old, regardless of gender and social background. Although membership is absolutely free, one must submit a duly-signed UFAC Registration Form and Waiver, be a responsible owner of an AEG (Auto Electric Gun). Other accessories required include eye protectors (goggles or mask), battle dress uniform and other airsoft gears. Upon membership, basic game orientation is provided by the federation team leaders.

“WAR” FOR A CAUSE
But don’t be mislead by the “aggressive” nature of the federation. Note that after each competition, the UFAC-UAE Air Soft Federation, as a team, then sits down and works out plans and strategies to fight oppression and help our distressed compatriots through community services and projects of Lingkod OFW. These initiatives make them more than just a bunch of hobbyists. They form a new breed of social and civic service oriented club. The current Executive Council overseeing the entire organization is composed of the following:

President - Ramses Elrey Ruidera
Vice President - Roland Michael Cruz
Secretary - Marizel Tabinga
Treasurer - Dulce Palermo
Asst. Treasurer - Joseph Cruz
Auditor - Arnaldo Tumaliuan
P.R.O. - Mario Elmenzo
Internal Affairs Officer - Lidio Lim
External Affairs Officer - Rico Martinez.

The firearms may almost be too real. The physical impact may be as staggering and the mental and emotional excitement may be just as adrenaline-pumping as the real thing. But these are merely intangibles when compared to the camaraderie, bravery, and service rendered by the dedicated members of UFAC-UAE Airsoft Federation, our fellow OFWs.

Source: ABS CBN Global
by: Nikki Famador