Negrense Sardon joins Batang Gilas’ official SEABA roster

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Kyle Sardon, a product of the prestigious St. Robert’s International College of Iloilo basketball program, just earned his biggest break after being selected to be part of the Gilas Pilipinas Under-18 national team roster for the Southeast Asia Basketball Association (SEABA) Qualifiers.

A native of Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, Sardon first joined Batang Gilas a month ago as part of the team’s initial roster and was later handpicked to become part of Gilas Youth’s official pool.

It all started with his consistent two-way performance during the 2025 Palarong Pambansa, where he helped Western Visayas earn a return ticket to the championship stage.

Despite losing to the Davao Region Athletic Association (DAVRAA), Sardon turned heads with his 3-point shooting prowess, athleticism, and ability to defend all positions.

Sardon is already a household name in Iloilo City’s secondary boys’ basketball scene, leading St. Robert’s to back-to-back Iloilo Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) championship titles.

Mentoring Sardon since his arrival in Iloilo City is the legendary John Guanco, the longtime head coach of St. Robert’s and the Palarong Pambansa squad.

“Tungod sa dedication mo na achieve mo ang mga bagay nga may ara ka subong,” Guanco wrote in a Facebook post.

“Ka damo sang changes nga natabo. From playing 4 and 5 positions to becoming an elite guard. Tani di ka mag untat sa pag lagas sang handom mo para sa imo kag sa pamilya mo. Stay grounded and continue to work harder.”

Joining Sardon in Batang Gilas’ official 12-man lineup are Ethan Aguas, JB Cagurungan, Prince Cariño, Andrew Chio, Ziv Espinas, Chog Moral, Patrick Pasinos, Hans Patagoc, Louis Razon, Joaquin Tovera, and Bruce Tubongbanua.

Calling the shots for Gilas’ U-18 squad is coach Juno Sauler, with LA Tenorio serving as main program adviser and consultant and Norman Black as head of the Talent Identification and Grassroots Development Program.