Iloilo City government mulls revival of IBL

Toyota was one of the prestigious IBL teams in early 2000. (Photo courtesy of Leonida-blogspot.com)

By: Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Iloilo City Government is planning to revive the Iloilo Basketball League.

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas and Executive Assistant for Sports Development Rudiver Jungco are currently mulling the league’s comeback, but it will be a long process.

“We’ve already talked to two of the persons that are part of the IBL association years ago, and it’s a good start, but this will take long,” Jungco said.

Jungco said that aside from the excitement and pride of having a league, the plan has a higher purpose.

“Ilonggos who dream of entering the PBA or other professional leagues sometimes don’t make the cut. The return of IBL will ensure them of a new home and will prioritize local talents,” he added.

During the late 1990s to early 2000s, companies such as Negros Navigation, Toyota, and Lopez Group of Companies supported the IBL by fielding their respective teams.