SBP Zone 7 continues to make strides in advancing grassroots basketball across the Negros Island Region, earning national recognition as the Best Performing SBP Zone at the 2026 SamahangBasketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) National Congress.
the Certificate of Recognition awarded to Zone 7.
For a newly established zone representing Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor, the distinction marks a meaningful milestone in its continuing journey of basketball development. The award recognizes Zone 7’s outstanding performance, exemplary commitment, and active engagement in advancing basketball development and strengthening SBP membership within its region.
Held on October 27, 2026, at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, the National Congress carried the theme “Beyond the Professional Game.” The gathering brought together SBP officials, regional representatives, coaches, and other basketball stakeholders to discuss the continuing growth of Philippine basketball and the responsibility of nurturing the next generation of players.
The congress opened with welcome remarks from SBP President Victorico P. Vargas, followed by the Executive Director’s Report delivered by Atty. Erika Caitlin T. Dy. A keynote address by SBP Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan, titled “Beyond the Professional Game: The Welfare of the Youth Basketball Player,” emphasized the importance of looking beyond competition and professional success by prioritizing the welfare, development, and future of young athletes. The event concluded with closing remarks from SBP Vice President Robert L. Uy.
Among the highlights of the event was the presentation of special awards recognizing the outstanding contributions of individuals, organizations, coaches, basketball stakeholders, and SBP zones.
The recognition reflects Zone 7’s dedication to grassroots basketball, effective membership engagement, collaboration with local stakeholders, and meaningful contributions to the programs and objectives of the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas. For a newly established zone, the award serves as an encouraging affirmation of the work being done to build a stronger and more active basketball community throughout the Negros Island Region.
Beyond the recognition, the National Congress also provided opportunities for learning and strengthening institutional practices through specialized workshops on important areas of basketball governance and player protection. Delegates also had the opportunity to revisit the rich history of Philippine basketball through the SBP x Dr. Michael Mesina Exhibit, “A Legacy in Basketball,” which commemorated two decades of SBP history and celebrated the broader heritage of Philippine basketball.
Building Beyond the Game
This milestone reflects the growing efforts of SBP Zone 7 to establish a stronger foundation for basketball development in the region. While its recent award recognizes the work being done behind the scenes through grassroots initiatives, membership development, and collaboration, the zone is equally committed to life on the court by providing young athletes with opportunities to compete, grow, and represent their communities at the national level.
For Zone 7 Director Tony Agustin, these achievements are not simply about awards and recognition. They reflect the collective efforts and support of the people who have helped shape the zone’s journey, including Assistant Zone Directors Dexter Dy, Nico Lopingco, and Venancio Lachica; provincial directors Vice Governor Dindo A. Tumala(Siquijor), Dr. Dinno Depositario (Negros Oriental), and Coach Mark Jomalesa (Negros Occidental); lead coaches Den Velez and Bernard Suante Jr.; provincial representatives Christopher Lofranco, RomartRamos, John Michael Caducoy, and Ted Maata; as well as local government partners, schools, athletes, and communities across the Negros Island Region.
Their continued support, trust, and shared dedication have been instrumental in advancing the zone’s grassroots initiatives and strengthening the foundation for the growth of the sport in the region.
As the zone moves forward, it remains committed to working closely with the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and its local stakeholders in expanding grassroots programs, strengthening its basketball network, and creating more meaningful opportunities for aspiring players and basketball communities across the Negros Island Region.
Still young as a zone but strengthened by a shared purpose, SBP Zone 7 looks forward to building on these milestones and contributing to a brighter future for Philippine basketball by reaching more communities, developing local talents, and creating more opportunities for the next generation.
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