Twenty-two teams are part of the latest programme of Pibaq, which focuses on the theme ‘Isang Dekada ng Barkadahan’ in line with the group’s celebration of its 10th anniversary.

Reports by: Ailyn Agonia
Photos by: Ronnie Castro

 

DOHA:  A colourful parade of participating teams and an exciting opening game marked the start of Pinoy Basketball of Qatar (PIBAQ) 18^th Men’s Basketball Championship season at Al Gharafa Training Gym.

Twenty-two teams are part of the latest programme of Pibaq, which focuses on the theme ‘Isang Dekada ng Barkadahan’ in line with the group’s celebration of its 10th anniversary which will officially fall on November 17.

 Pibaq Founder and Chairman, Mr. Pat Carido, together with Philippine Ambassador to Qatar HE Wilfredo Santos led the opening ceremony. It was also graced by representatives of the league’s sponsors and other supporters.

Following the presentation of the teams, the player took the oath of fair-play and introduced the muse of each team. Awards were given to teams with the Best Muse and Best Uniform. After the ceremonial tossing of the ball, some of the teams were selected to be featured in the exciting opening games.

“Pibaq was officially formed on November 17, 2005 at the Mcdonald’s Markhiya Branch. As we are now marking the 18^th season of our league, we expected more support from the community and better quality of games,” Mr. Carido remarked on the occasion.

The latest format of Pibaq featured three divisions showcasing different levels of talent of Filipinos when it comes to basketball. Being the number one sport in the Philippines, basketball is embraced by the old and the young across gender.

The new season features the elite division, for those who have played professional basketball back home. Seven teams will vie for the championship title in that category/ In Aspirant’s Division, non-professionals yet serious players will be showcased as part of the eight teams competing in the category.

For the Filipino youth, Pibaq  has once again opened its U-18 League. Parents expressed excitement about the programme that engages talented young Filipinos on the sport. Seven teams will face off in the category.

“Among the programmes of Pibaq, the league for the youth is one of the best by far. It shows how much Filipinos have embraced basketball, at the same time inspiring the young generation on the benefits of engaging in sports at an early age,” one of the parents on the audience remarked.

Another parents added, “I grew up watching and playing basketball and to see my son embracing the sport as well is very important for me.”

 

Source: Qatar Tribune Daily English Newspaper

http://www.qatar-tribune.com/data/20150830/pdf/index.html#p=6