The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Event Director, Butch Antonio, lauded Governor Dennis Pineda and the Provincial Government of Pampanga for the hosting of the 2025 FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers.
Antonio said the SBP thanks the governor for Pampanga's hospitality to all players, officials and organizers of the sports competition.
He expressed SBP's gratitude during a Cultural Night held at the Laus Event Center in the City of San Fernando, which was attended by players and coaches of the six participating teams.
“On behalf of SBP, we would like to thank the province of Pampanga under the leadership of Governor Dennis ‘Delta’ Pineda. We enjoyed the food, we had a great meal. This week is not just a tournament of games, of winning and losing. It's s about growth and learning by giving your best on and off the court,” Antonio said.
During the cultural night, the province presented each player "a uniquely crafted souvenir plaque made from the ashes of Mt. Pinatubo that symbolizes Pampanga’s resilience and rich heritage."
In a message delivered by Board Member Ananias Canlas Jr., the governor expressed his full support for sports programs and events for the youth.
“Our province is honored to be the venue of the games for the talented young athletes of the new generation. Basketball is deeply rooted in Filipino culture, and through events like these, the youth are given meaningful opportunities to be inspired. By seeing their peers compete with pride to represent their countries, they too are encouraged to dream big and pursue sports,” the governor’s message stated.
The 2025 FIBA U16 Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers will run until May 30.