CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu 7th District Congresswoman Patricia “Patsy” Calderon has expressed optimism over youth sports development in her district following the successful staging of the inaugural Calderon Cup 21-Under Inter-town Basketball Tournament, which concluded on Saturday, May 9, in Dumanjug, southern Cebu.
Speaking during Game 2 of the best-of-three finals between Dumanjug and Malabuyoc, Calderon said she felt both pleased with and fulfilled by the outcome of the grassroots initiative she helped establish.
The Calderon Cup forms part of a broader sports development program in Cebu’s 7th District, which also includes an inter-municipal women’s volleyball tournament set to begin on May 22 in Badian.
READ: CALDERON CUP: Dumanjug beats Malabuyoc, wins inaugural title
‘Symbol of unity, sportsmanship’
“I am truly happy, satisfied, and excited with the overwhelming success of the very first Calderon Cup. From its successful launching up to the much-awaited Finals, the tournament has become a strong symbol of unity, camaraderie, sportsmanship, and community spirit among the towns of the 7th District,” Calderon said.
“The energy, passion, and support shown by our people prove that sports can truly bring communities together. I am deeply grateful to all our mayors, local officials, coaches, organizers, supporters, and most especially our athletes for making this endeavor meaningful and inspiring.”
Calderon also highlighted the long-term benefits of the tournament, particularly in player development and talent discovery.
“More importantly, we are already seeing the positive impact of this tournament through the improved basketball skills of our young players and the discovery of promising talents who may soon earn varsity scholarship opportunities,” she said.
Inspiring young athletes
“I am confident that the Calderon Cup will continue to grow and inspire more young athletes across the district. Daghang salamat sa inyong suporta ug pakighiusa. Padayon ta sa pagpalambo sa sports ug kabatan-onan sa atong distrito.”
(Thank you for your support and oneness. Let us continue to make sports and young people in our district grow.)
The tournament brought together all eight municipalities of Cebu’s 7th District—Dumanjug, Malabuyoc, Alegria, Moalboal, Ronda, Badian, Alcantara, and Ginatilan.