Iloilo Sports League Unites Barangay Officials

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

More than 200 barangay officials from Iloilo’s five districts are joining a monthlong sports competition aimed at fostering camaraderie and unity among local leaders.

The second season of the Provincial Barangay Officials League kicked off Saturday, July 5, at the Tamasak Arena in Barotac Nuevo.

Barangay-Iloilo President and ex-officio Board Member Amalia Debuque said the event provides a platform for officials to connect and share experiences beyond their duties.

“It is not always that our barangay officials know or meet each other,” she said.

“Now, we are giving them an opportunity to meet and bond.”

This year’s tournament features basketball and volleyball matches among teams from all five districts.

About 200 barangay officials are participating, with team rosters limited to 20 players, down from 30 last year.

Debuque said participants must submit a Department of the Interior and Local Government certification confirming their status as either barangay captain or kagawad.

Each district received PHP20,000 to support team preparations and activities.

The championship prize for both basketball and volleyball has increased from PHP50,000 to PHP60,000.

In the league’s inaugural season, the 3rd District won the volleyball title, while the 4th District took the basketball crown.

No specific beneficiary has been named for this year’s event, though Debuque said one may be chosen during a future Legal Day celebration.

She also announced plans to expand the league to broader competitions.

“We are pushing it in the National Liga, but we will try it first at the regional level,” she said.

“That’s already in the plan and concept.”