SBP Zone 7 Crowns BTTHS, DCNHS as Champions of U16 Pambansang Tatluhan Zone Finals in Dumaguete City

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) Zone 7 once again strengthened its grassroots basketball mission as the SBP U16 Pambansang Tatluhan Zone 7 Finals concluded with two days of high-energy, fast-paced 3×3 action on May 9-10, 2026 at Robinsons Dumaguete. The tournament brought together the region’s top young athletes in a celebration of talent, teamwork, and competitive spirit.

Emerging as the Boys Division Champion was Bacolod Tay Tung High School – Acster Marketing Team B, composed of Francis Luis Gabriel Alcoran, Robert Ziel Baring, Kent Paulo Gallega, and Acster Ken Panisales. Earning the Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors was Baring after his impressive display of leadership and composure under pressure.

Finishing as 1st Runner-Up was Bacolod Tay Tung High School – Acster Marketing Team C, while KBA Grind – Dumaguete City secured 2nd Runner-Up honors. Rounding out the podium as 3rd Runner-Up was Saint Augustine Academy Bayawan School, proving once again that strong grassroots programs continue to thrive across the region.

In the Girls Division, the championship belonged to Lady Warriors – Valkyries of Dumaguete City National High School, represented by Alexandra Dumogho, Akisha Pauline Lozano, J Hulien Maglangit, and Jannelle Saguran. Their relentless defense and disciplined execution carried them through the tournament, with Maglangit named MVP for her outstanding performance and consistency throughout the competition.

Placing 1st Runner-Up was Silay City (Negros Occidental), followed by Pride – Dumaguete City as 2nd Runner-Up, and Tanjay City taking the 3rd Runner-Up spot after a strong tournament run.

The tournament’s opening program was led by Dr. Dinno Depositario, Assistant City Administrator and SBP Zone 7 Provincial Director for Negros Oriental, who delivered the welcome remarks and set the tone for a weekend built on sportsmanship, excellence, and community pride. The opening message, on the other hand, was delivered by Assistant Zone Director for Talent Identification and Player Development Dexter Dy, speaking on behalf of SBP Zone 7 Director Tony Agustin. Dy emphasized the federation’s continued commitment to expanding access to basketball opportunities for young athletes across the region.

With their championship victories, Bacolod Tay Tung High School – Acster Marketing Team B and Lady Warriors – Valkyries will now proudly represent Zone 7 in the SBP Pambansang Tatluhan National Finals in Metro Manila this June. The winning teams’ participation is an all-expense-paid trip sponsored by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas, Inc., giving these young athletes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete on the national stage and carry their communities’ pride with them.

Beyond the results and the medals, the event served as a powerful reminder of how basketball continues to unite communities and inspire the next generation.

Meanwhile, Agustin expressed his deep gratitude to Dumaguete City for its role in ensuring the tournament’s success, describing the host city as a consistent partner in the development of grassroots sports. He also voiced his appreciation to the hardworking and dedicated city officials and personnel, recognizing their efforts as a true reflection of genuine public service.

Moreover, Agustin acknowledged the leadership of Mayor Manuel “Chiquiting” Sagarbarria, crediting the mayor’s invaluable support as instrumental in creating opportunities for youth through sports. He also conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the mayor for his strong leadership and sincere commitment to youth development, emphasizing that Mayor Sagarbarria’s passion for uplifting the community has helped shape Dumaguete City into a place where young athletes are empowered to dream bigger and compete with pride.

Agustin likewise recognized Dumaguete City Administrator Atty. Neil Ray “Bimbo” M. Lagahit for his behind-the-scenes leadership and coordination, emphasizing how essential it was in making the event smooth and successful. Special recognition was also given to Depositario, who not only welcomed teams during the opening program but also played a key role in ensuring that planning and execution were carried out with excellence.

The Zone Director also extended his gratitude to the Sports Development Department of Dumaguete City and other city departments who worked tirelessly throughout the tournament. He emphasized that the city’s commitment to sports development continues to position it as one of the strongest grassroots hubs in the Negros Island Region.

Furthermore, Agustin praised the tireless efforts of the SBP Zone 7 Core Team, acknowledging their passion-driven service to the program. Agustin likewise recognized the Dumaguete and Negros Oriental tournament team, commending their strong coordination and ability to deliver beyond expectations.

Apart from the City Government of Dumaguete, the success of the tournament was also made possible through the invaluable support of SBP Zone 7 partners and sponsors, including Robinsons Dumaguete, Foundation University, Toby’s Sports, Manhattan Suites Inn, FILOIL Energy Company, Belciña Jewelry, Inc., Polaris Power Engineering, Burn Room Hyperzone, Tangente Law and Accounting Firm, Gatorade, Casa Rubin, Metro Dumaguete Water, Net Solutions, Shakey’s, Jollibee, Sibulan Ice Plant, and iConcepts Prints and Advertising.

“Your support goes beyond banners and branding; it directly fuels the dreams of our young athletes and strengthens the future of Philippine basketball,” Agustin said.

As the tournament concluded, SBP Zone 7 reaffirmed its commitment to expanding opportunities for youth athletes through programs like the Pambansang Tatluhan, which continues to bring basketball closer to communities and provide young players with a pathway to bigger stages.

From Dumaguete City, the journey now continues toward Metro Manila — where Zone 7’s champions will carry with them not just their skills, but the pride, passion, and dreams of an entire region.* (SBP Zone 7 Office)