BACOLOD Tay Tung High School and Silay City dominated their respective opponents to rule the Under 15 (U15) and Under 18 (U18) categories in the recently staged PVF-Tanduay Athletics Tournament “Series in the City” at the Montalbo court in Bacolod City.

Tay Tung Thunderbolts beat Calvary-Pontevedra in the U15 while Silay City dropped Bata National High School to win the U18 division.

Philippine Volleyball Federation president Edgardo “Boy” Cantada, the lead organizer, explained that the tournament is a major part of the association’s grassroots development outreach program wherein they conduct tournaments practically in all major cities.

“We are looking at seven or eight cities in the Visayas, as many cities in Mindanao, and twice or more in Luzon and Metro Manila. Our target here is to give equal opportunities to everyone especially the public schools.

We don’t charge entry fees. As much as possible, we provide complimentary meals to ensure that the players aren’t hungry while playing,” said Cantada.

“This has always been part of my crusade and advocacy to treat all children equally regardless of their social status in the society. My concentration here is on the marginalized sector because they are the ones who need attention, not those major schools in Metro Manila and big cities that get what they want,” added Cantada.

He further explained that at the end of the elimination phase, two champions will be declared from each island: Visayas, Mindanao, Luzon, plus the National Capital Region, which complete the eight teams for the national finals to be held in Manila at the Tanduay Athletic Center.

“They will be provided complimentary board and lodging,” continued Cantada.

Meanwhile, the national champion will be brought to Singapore.

“Even if we don’t get our POC (Philippine Olympic Committee) recognition, we will still send our champions to play against our partner schools and clubs,” he added. (JSG)