The Kingdom of Bahrain League (KBL) marked a major milestone in Filipino basketball as it successfully staged its inaugural Commissioner’s Cup on 22 January at the Busaiteen Club, celebrating the league’s first season while honoring Commissioner Ruby Twinkle Quizon for her pivotal role in founding and leading the organization.
Conceived as a platform committed to fairness, inclusivity, and excellence, KBL was established in response to the need for a more transparent and well-organized Filipino basketball league in Bahrain. This vision was carefully developed into a concrete blueprint that ultimately led to the league’s official tip-off, made possible through the collaboration and generous support of sponsors and partner organizations.
The program formally opened with an invocation led by Pastor Ignacio Reyes, Head Pastor of Jesus Is Alive Community Bahrain, followed by a Muslim prayer, setting a solemn yet uplifting tone that reflected unity and mutual respect among the participants.
The celebration was further highlighted by the presence of Labor Attaché Dr. Orville A. Ballitoc, Head of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) Bahrain, who led the ceremonial toss together with Commissioner Quizon and other league officers symbolizing unity, sportsmanship, and the official launch of KBL’s inaugural season.
In his message, Dr. Ballitoc commended the organizers and participants, emphasizing the essential function of sports leagues in enhancing both physical health and mental wellness. He underscored that structured group activities contribute to building camaraderie, unity, and a healthy lifestyle among overseas Filipino workers.
Dr. Ballitoc further reaffirmed the mission of the Migrant Workers Office (MWO), the overseas arm of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), which is dedicated to safeguarding the rights and welfare of OFWs in Bahrain through labor assistance, legal support, and ongoing community outreach initiatives.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining active membership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), urging overseas Filipino workers to regularly update and renew their membership to remain eligible for benefits and assistance. Dr. Ballitoc highlighted the significance of the OWWA e-Card, noting that scheduled releases have been arranged and announced to ensure that qualified members can receive their cards in an organized and timely manner. He further assured the Filipino community that the MWO, OWWA, and the Philippine Embassy Manama continue to work closely together and remain fully committed to serving and safeguarding the welfare of overseas Filipino workers. According to Dr. Ballitoc, these government offices stand ready to provide guidance, protection, and support to OFWs, reaffirming the government’s dedication to addressing their concerns and needs while they are working abroad.
One of the highlights of the Commissioner’s Cup was the announcement of the Best Muse Award. Maryanne “Sally” Pangilinan, one of the event’s judges and a noted entrepreneur, proclaimed Shery Mercado of the Radicals Team as this year’s Best Muse after she garnered the highest number of votes on social media and impressed the panel with her poise, confidence, and strong stage presence.
The Best Muse competition was evaluated by panel of judges composed of Rosalie Wood Nochefranca, Lorenze Recaña Barcelos, and Eden Mangundayao.
The Commissioner’s Cup featured eight participating teams: Drink Team, Dkars Legends, Hopsay Bahrain, Nemesis, Radicals, Scorpion, Tigbas Warrior, and WellmEd. Following the formal program, the opening game between Radicals and Tigbas Warrior thrilled spectators, with Radicals securing a 101–92 victory.
Jordan Bungay of the Radicals was named Player of the Game, while Jason Dalisay of Tigbas Warrior earned the Defensive Player of the Game award for his outstanding performance.
The successful staging of the Commissioner’s Cup was made possible through the collective efforts of the KBL Committee Officials, led by Commissioner Quizon and President Conrad Algabre. The league’s leadership also includes Vice President Rogie C. Sabay II, Nhelle Algabre, RJ Caranguian, Romeo Ofare, Wayne Borela, Chris Peria, John Abadir, and Rex Villanueva, whose dedication and teamwork ensured the smooth execution of the event.
In an interview, Commissioner Quizon expressed her excitement for the season, saying, “As Commissioner, I’m thrilled to kick off an epic KBL season! Teams are ramping up, rivalries are brewing, and we’re set for slam-dunk excitement!”
The program was hosted by Exequiel Riguis, who served as emcee and ensured the smooth flow of the event. Atarah’s Eatery and Go2Silog served as the official food vendors.
Through its inaugural season, the Kingdom of Bahrain League aims to promote not only competitive basketball but also community-building and Filipino unity abroad, laying a strong foundation for future seasons and sustained growth.Filipino basketball league in Bahrain launches first Commissioner’s Cup
