Newly Renovated Basketball Court in Pasig City Unveiled in Joint Project with FIBA and SBP
Pasig City, Philippines – On Tuesday, Sept. 5, the local government of Pasig City unveiled the newly renovated basketball court in Barangay Sta. Cruz. This project is a joint effort between the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP), and the Pasig City government.
The event was attended by Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagkilis, SBP President Al Panlilio, as well as other FIBA and SBP officials, barangay officials, and city officials. The Embassy of Greece was also represented by Ambassador Ioannis Pediotis.
The SBP described the project as a “personal project” between Panlilio and Zagkilis, aiming to give back to the sport of basketball and inspire young players in the community.
The renovations on the basketball court included improvements and painting of the flooring and bleachers, installation of LED lights, and the replacement of the scoreboard, acrylic backboard, and rim.
Despite not being able to personally attend the games, Mayor Vico Sotto expressed his gratitude for Pasig City’s inclusion in FIBA’s roster of activities. He said, “We might not be able to watch live, but we are still happy here in Pasig City since we are part of the events for the FIBA World Cup.” Sotto also thanked the artists who contributed their time and talent in beautifying the court, particularly the colorful flooring.
The city government of Pasig continues to renovate dilapidated courts in the area with the help of private donors. This initiative aims to provide proper and safe places for the youth to play various sports. Sotto stated, “We continue to promote sports in the City of Pasig.”
Furthermore, Sotto congratulated FIBA and SBP for their “successful World Cup win in the Philippines so far.”
The unveiling ceremony drew a crowd of spectators from the barangay, local basketball teams, and enthusiasts. They were eager to see the upgraded court and witness an exhibition game that followed the ceremony.
To officially inaugurate the court, a ceremonial ball toss was conducted between local basketball players. In line with Mayor Vico Sotto’s tradition of performing ceremonial free throw shots when opening new basketball courts in the city, he successfully scored a free back throw shot, which received a resounding cheer from the attendees.
The newly renovated basketball court in Barangay Sta. Cruz is another testament to Pasig City’s commitment to promoting sports among its community and providing proper facilities for the youth to engage in various activities.
