LEGAZPI CITY—A total of 161 basketball teams involving 1,930 players and some 320 coaches are now enthusiastically competing in the ongoing First Albay Congressional Cup, sponsored by PDP-Laban Rep. Joey S. Salceda of Albay, setting a national record by itself in terms of overwhelming participation.
To manage the tournament, Salceda’s Albay Second Congressional District Office here has enlisted the help of at least 52 referees, and activated a 78-member secretariat.
Launched earlier this month, the sporting event has four categories—Interbarangay with juniors and seniors divisions, inter local government, intercommercial and open category. Daily games are played in their respective separate venues to the delight of local basketball fans and visitors alike.
“You spell it as UNITY,” noted Salceda, taking pride of the popular public response to his call for the “promotion of sports, healthy lifestyle, sportsmanship, bonding of communities and engaging and training community members, especially the youth, in worthwhile activities.” He said the tournament will “help in benchmarking and promoting discipline, prevention of dysfunctional activities, and for both locals and visitors alike, especially tourists, to enjoy summer.”
The sports competition runs until May 31. It was launched on April 1 with a grand parade from the Daraga Covered Court to the Bicol University Grounds in Legazpi City. Salceda and local government officials led the parade, participated in by teams and visitors.
Salceda said the competition will surely spur a more active sports program in Albay’s second district with the participation of the entire province. Sports promotion is among his priority programs. Cash prizes and trophies await the winners, while medals will be awarded to victorious team members.