TACLOBAN CITY — The San Juanico de Tacloban Sepak Takraw Club kicked off a four-day grassroots Sepak Takraw tournament titled “Bagong Sibol” at Robinsons North Tacloban, aiming to cultivate youth talent, foster discipline, and introduce fresh dynamics to the fast-paced sport.
The tournament, which began on April 23, gathers teams from across Eastern Visayas (Region 8), competing in four age and gender-based categories, according to Club President Francisco Albesa Jr.
Participants compete in two formats:
The Regu, the traditional three-player team match
The Quad, a highly anticipated format featuring four players per team, which will be showcased on Saturday, April 26, the final day of the tournament.
“I joined this event so I could learn something from the sport and for the experience itself,” said Yuan Bryceley Castillote, 12, a member of The Scaniards from Tacloban City, competing in the Under-17 boys’ category.
The event is overseen by nationally and internationally certified referees, coaches, and organizers, ensuring a professional and competitive environment.
Since 2009, the club has been active in promoting Sepak Takraw across the Philippines, organizing tournaments as far as Baguio and Davao City.
“Bagong Sibol”—meaning “new growth”—not only refers to the rising interest in Sepak Takraw in the region but also highlights the emergence of young athletes eager to make their mark in this uniquely Southeast Asian sport.
(JUSTIN ANDRIAN F. POTOLIN, LNU STUDENT INTERN)
