ILOILO CITY — The Warehouse basketball gym in Molo roared to life on June 6, 2026, as one of the country's most anticipated grassroots basketball tournaments officially tipped off. The Chairman's Cup Philippines Battle of the Champions, presented by Toyota Iloilo Inc. in cooperation with Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Zone 6, kicked off its five‑day competition featuring 10 teams from across the archipelago. The tournament runs until June 10, with elimination rounds scheduled through June 8.
Gilas Pilipinas mainstay and Meralco Bolts star Chris Newsome graced the opening ceremony as guest speaker, lending national‑level prestige to the grassroots event. SBP Vice President Robert L. Uy, SBP Executive Director Atty. Erika Dy, and former PBA player Yves Dignadice were also present. The tournament welcomes two new participants this year—Tacloban and Negros Oriental—expanding its reach and competitive field. Defending champions Cebu seek to repeat after defeating Capiz in last year's title showdown.
A National Stage for Grassroots Basketball
The Chairman's Cup has grown into a highly sought‑after platform for young hoopers from across the Philippines. This year's field includes two teams from Iloilo, alongside representatives from Aklan, Negros Occidental, Cagayan de Oro, Palawan, Tacloban, Negros Oriental, and Capiz. The tournament's expansion reflects the growing demand for competitive youth basketball beyond Metro Manila.
For Iloilo City, hosting the Chairman's Cup reinforces its standing as a regional sports hub. The city recently hosted the WVRAA Meet, where Ilonggo athletes brought home 259 gold medals, and the Iloilo Bike Festival's month‑long events. The tournament adds basketball to a growing portfolio of sporting events that draw athletes, coaches, and families to the city, filling hotels and restaurants along the Mandurriao corridor. SMART Sports serves as the official connectivity partner for the event.
A Pathway for Young Talent
The presence of a national team star like Newsome provides inspiration for the young athletes competing. His journey from grassroots basketball to Gilas Pilipinas demonstrates the possibilities that tournaments like the Chairman's Cup can unlock. The SBP's involvement ensures that the competition meets national standards for youth development.
The event is supported by Blue Chips Sportswear, Southwest Travel and Tours, and TEN122 Athletics. For the ten teams battling for the crown, the Chairman's Cup offers more than a trophy—it offers exposure, experience, and the chance to be seen by scouts and national program coaches. As the games unfold at the Warehouse gym, Iloilo City will be at the center of Philippine grassroots basketball through the weekend.
