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Topic: Our Man in the Philippines

MANILA MSW MAVERICKS FIRE BACK-THE PH OPEN TURNS INTO A BATTLEGROUND

By Marlon Bernardino

The Manila MSW Mavericks refuse to let the Taguig Stallions dominate the headlines. In a bold counterplay, the Mavericks have announced that they, too, will be covering entry fees for select players in the SBA Philippine Open 2025, escalating the competition and ensuring that the fight for SBA Season 2 supremacy begins now.
The Mavericks, a team known for their resilience and unyielding spirit, are making a statement loud and clear: they are not backing down. This move not only levels the playing field but also fuels the growing intensity of the scouting tournament.

“Taguig talks big, but we’ll take the championship for Season 2,” a team representative from the Manila MSW Mavericks declared. “We’re here to win, and we’ll do whatever it takes to build the strongest roster possible.”

The SBA Philippine Open Just Became the Ultimate Proving Ground
With two powerhouse teams now actively recruiting top-tier talent, the SBA Philippine Open 2025 has transformed into a high-stakes battlefield. Every shot, every match, and every player performance could tip the scales in favor of a franchise looking to secure the best talent for the upcoming season.

And the stakes don’t stop there—Negros Pillars and QC Dragons have also entered the fray, making the tournament a crucial stage for athletes looking to make their mark. This isn’t just about proving individual skill anymore; it’s about making a statement before SBA Season 2 even begins.

Who Will Rise, and Who Will Fold Under Pressure?
The intensity surrounding the SBA Philippine Open 2025 is unlike anything seen before, setting the stage for a dramatic lead-up to SBA Season 2. With the Manila MSW Mavericks now doubling down on their efforts, the competition is fiercer than ever.

Will the Mavericks’ aggressive strategy give them the upper hand? Or will another team step up and change the game entirely? One thing is for certain—this is just the beginning.

-Marlon Bernardino -

ABALOS, REYES, MANALO TO GRACE BILLIARDFEST ON MAY 4

By Marlon Bernardino

No less than councilor Charisse Abalos will be the guest of honor when the Sangguniang Kabataan Hagdan Bato Libis Billiards Tournament 2025 gets underway on Sunday, May 4,2025 at the Magician Billiards Elite-Shaw in Mandaluyong City.

Coun.Abalos, daughter of Senatorial candidate Benhur Abalos Jr. will deliver the inspirational remarks in the opening of the 10 ball tournament, in celebration of Sports League 2025 and is open to all bonafide residents of Hagdan Bato Libis.

Coun. Abalos is also expected to make the ceremonial lag together with Hall of Famer and World Champion Efren "Bata" Reyes and International Billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo.

To register, contact SK Facebook or approach any SK official.
Reyes, professional pool player, widely regarded as the greatest of all time, with over 100 international titles and the only player to win world championships in two different pool disciplines while Manalo, a professional pool player and decorated champion, with titles including the Philippine National Championship, Texas Hold 'Em Billiards Championship, and multiple Southeast Asian Games gold medals.

- Marlon Bernardino -


Filipino and United States chess master Almario Marlon Quiroz Bernardino Jr. playing with GOAT World Champion Efren "Bata" Reyes. Looking on International Billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo

RAGA BEATS BAÑARES IN SBA PHILIPPINE OPEN, POCKETS ₱400,000 CASH PRIZE

by Marlon Bernardino

Anton “The Dragon” Raga was at his best when he won the ₱400,000 cash prize + Sharks Billiard Association (SBA) Philippine Open 2025 trophy in this race-to-13 championship match vs Jerico “Panday” Bañares.

Raga defeated Banares, 13-7, which was held from April 25-27, 2025 at the Sharks Arena and Sports Bar, Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

The championship match was a display of elite precision, grit, and nerves of steel as Raga edged out Bañares, who fought valiantly but fell short in the final racks.

"I would like to dedicate my victory to my family,my friends, my supporters and to God,' said Raga.

With the crowd on their feet and viewers watching via live PTV broadcast, the match stood as a testament to the rising standard of Philippine billiards.

“This isn’t just a tournament win — it’s a statement,” said SBA Commissioner and Founder Hadley Mariano. “The Philippine Open was designed to raise the bar and discover the next generation of champions, and tonight, we witnessed that vision come to life.”

'Your SBA Philippine Open 2025 Champion is Anton “The Dragon” Raga! The road was long, the games were tough, but the win was well-earned,' he added.

The qualification tournament held from April 21–24, 2025 at the CueHub Billiards Sports Bar & Lounge, Visayas Ave, Quezon City.

- Marlon Bernardino -

"Bata" Reyes impressed, lost 2 games in 1-day exhibition

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---Efren “Bata” Reyes, the legendary billiards player hailed as the best in the world, was impressed by the talents of Mandaleños pool players, having lost two matches and won 6 games in his one-day 10 ball exhibition, one of the highlight of the Sangguniang Kabataan Hagdan Bato Libis billiards tournament last Sunday, May 4, 2025 at the Magician Billiards Elite-Shaw in Mandaluyong City.

International billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo said, "He was impressed by our billiard players' enthusiasm and love for pool. He finds our youth players very strong."

Reyes bowed to John Kenneth Calla and Renz Quillano.
Calla and Quillano, both received P2,000 for their efforts from Marlon Manalo, a former liga ng barangay president and national PRO.

Meanwhile, James Ignacio won the 10 ball individual tournament, followed by the second placer Ethan Bauza, third placer Archie Noveno and fourth placer Jandee Manuel.

Earlier, Councilor Charisse Marie Abalos Vargas led the Ceremonial lag to usher the start of the 10 ball tournament on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at the Magician Billiards Elite-Shaw in Mandaluyong City.

Also gracing the billiardfest, a part of 2025 Sports League of Barangay Hagdan Bato Libis are Coun. Elton Yap, Coun. Junis Alim, Coun. Danny De Guzman, GOAT and Hall of Famer Efren "Bata" Reyes, International Billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo , Councilor Mariz Manalo , Barangay Malamig Chairman Cynthia Caluya and Barangay Hagdan Bato Libis SK Chairwoman Max Sulayao.

Reyes, in a media interview Monday, said he came to the city to grant an invitation for him to do a series of pool exhibition. But he grabbed the opportunity to also renew acquaintances with pool enthusiasts and old friends.

Reyes, known as the billiards GOAT has a career that spans decades. Starting at a young age, he quickly rose to prominence to be coined, “The Magician” for his amazing shot-making abilities.

Reyes has won over 100 professional tournaments, including prestigious events like the WPA World Nine-Ball Championship, the US Open Nine-Ball Championship, and the World Cup of Pool. He was the first Asian player to be inducted into the Billiard Congress of America’s Hall of Fame. Off the table, Reyes is celebrated for his humility and sportsmanship, making him a beloved figure in the pool community worldwide.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Manalo’s son Dylan secures victory

by Marlon Bernardino

International Billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo's son, Dylan secured victory.

Dylan defeated Marcus, Rez, Morris and Peter, respectively on Wednesday night at the VIP Billiard Club 10 ball tournament held at VIP Billiard Hall, 2F YCL Building, Roxas Blvd. corner Antipolo St., Pasay City.

Thus, Dylan, the pride of Barangay Malamig, Mandaluyong City pocketed the P10,000 top purse plus elegant trophy.

-Marlon Bernardino-

SBA Scouting Tour Kicks Off in Cagayan de Oro

by Marlon Bernardino

The Sharks Billiards Association (SBA) officially launched its nationwide scouting tour with a dynamic three-day visit to Cagayan de Oro from May 26 to 28, 2025 — the first stop in its search for exceptional talent to join SBA Season 2.

Led by SBA Founder Hadley Mariano, the tour aims to uncover promising players from regional communities while strengthening connections with local billiard halls and fans of the sport. The CDO leg brought the SBA team to key venues across the city and even extended to Iligan.

Day 1: Eastside Showcase

Upon arrival in the City of Golden Friendship, the SBA team began its local tour at J&D Billiard Hall along Baure Bayabas Diversion Road, followed by an evening stop at Tops Billiard Lounge in Grand Central. Both venues drew lively crowds, and several local players had the exciting opportunity to try out in front of the SBA team.

Day 2: Central Circuit + Iligan Expansion

The tour continued with visits to Snooks Sports Bar and Mckenn’s Billiards, two of the city’s most active pool hubs. In the evening, the team crossed into Iligan City for a visit to Iliganon Café & Restobar, where more aspiring talents showcased their skills. The expansion outside CDO reflects SBA’s commitment to reaching untapped talent across regions.

Day 3: Westside Wrap-Up

The final stop took the team to Dos Bandas Billiards along Daumar-Hayes Streets. The visit was capped with a wrap-up session to evaluate talent and finalize insights from the first leg of the tour.

“The energy in CDO is incredible. We’ve seen raw, exciting talent and felt the passion of the local billiards community,” shared SBA Founder Hadley Mariano.

“This is just the beginning, we’re excited to bring more regional players into the national spotlight.”

The SBA scouting tour will continue as we approach the start of the new season with cities like Cebu on the radar. Players nationwide are encouraged to register and take their shot at being discovered.

For updates and behind-the-scenes coverage, follow Sharks Billiards Association.

-Marlon Bernardino-

SBA Scouting Tour Lights Up CALABARZON in Action-Packed Second Leg

by Marlon Bernardino

CALABARZON, Philippines — The Sharks Billiards Association (SBA) brought the heat to the South as the second leg of its nationwide Scouting Tour kicked off in CALABARZON last June 10, 2025. With back-to-back stops at Etivac Billiard Hall (7:00 PM) and Otso Loco Billiards Café (11:00 PM), the region proved it’s more than ready to produce the next generation of billiards pros.

Dozens of aspiring cue artists showcased their skills in front of SBA scouts and fans alike, all hoping to secure a slot for the highly anticipated SBA Season 2 Draft Pick happening on June 29.

“The level of talent in CALABARZON was nothing short of impressive,” said Hadley Mariano, Founder of the Sharks Billiards Association. “Every stop on this tour reminds us that world-class players are out there — they just need the right platform to shine. And that’s exactly what SBA is here to provide.”

The SBA Scouting Tour continues to be a critical part of the league’s mission to professionalize billiards in the Philippines and discover untapped talent from every corner of the country.

Players who make the cut will have a shot at becoming part of SBA’s second season, competing on a national stage among the best of the best.

-Marlon Bernardino-

SBA SEASON 2 DRAFT UNVEILS RISING STARS AND STRATEGIC MOVES
AS TEAMS COMPLETE THEIR ROSTERS

by Marlon Bernardino

QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES — The Sharks Billiards Association (SBA) officially concluded its Season 2 Draft with high anticipation and fierce strategic plays from the league’s powerhouse franchises. Held live on June 29, 2025, the draft featured six rounds of intense selection as five teams built out their rosters for the upcoming season — with fresh faces, returning legends, and exciting wildcard talents joining the fray.

MAKATI TITANS DOMINATE EARLY ROUNDS

The newest addition to the SBA, the Makati Titans, entered the league with a statement, owning the top two picks and making them count:

● Round 1: Albert “The Black Carabao” Espinola
● Round 2: Mars Alcris “Totoy Daga” Cuizon
● Round 3: Joshua “Wawa” Casinillo
● Round 4: Rogelio “Bino Balingasag” Luntad
● Round 5: Michael “Dimples” Quinay
● Round 6: Allen Solsona

With a balanced draft focused on power, precision, and potential, the Titans are poised to make an explosive debut in SBA Season 2.

QUEZON CITY DRAGONS GO FOR EXPERIENCE AND DEPTH

The Quezon City Dragons made waves by selecting veteran Rodrigo “Edgie” Geronimo, the former captain of Taguig, as their Round 3 pick. The Dragons followed up with a mix of youth and regional standouts:

● Jhon L.A. “L.A.” Garde (Round 4)
● Tristan “Tining” Deocareza (Round 5)
● Baseth “The Kingpin” Mocaibat (Round 6)

MANILA MSW MAVERICKS AIM FOR CONSISTENCY AND LEADERSHIP

The Manila MSW Mavericks continued to build a disciplined and tactical line-up with key additions:

● Mark Jerick “Macky” Leyva (Round 3)
● Yves “Botchie” Cabrito (Round 4)
● Paul Kenneth “Kenneth” Arpilleda (Round 5)
● Dennis “The Transporter” Po (Round 6)

With seasoned players and high-IQ shooters, the Mavericks remain a serious threat in the title race.

TAGUIG STALLIONS ADD FIREPOWER TO THEIR CHAMPIONSHIP CORE

The defending champions Taguig Stallions reloaded with trusted names and dark horses:

● Rommel “Pisok” Santos (Round 4)
● Romeo “Totong Tugatog” Silvano (Round 5)
● Henrick “Rick” Doguiles (Round 6)

Already led by the deadly trio of Pulpul, Saguiped, and Cunanan, the Stallions are gearing up for a fierce title defense.

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL PILLARS BUILD A STRONGFOUNDATION FROM THE REGIONS

The Negros Occidental Pillars focused on under-the-radar power with standout picks from the provinces:

● John Drahcir “Tisoy” Mauricio (Round 4)
● Raymart “Lito Lapid” Camomot (Round 5)
● Dean Mark “Run DMC” Castronuevo (Round 6)

With deep roots in local halls and strong provincial followings, the Pillars aim to disrupt the league.

With all rosters now locked in, SBA Season 2 is officially set to ignite. The road to the championship begins soon, and fans across the Philippines can expect nothing less than world-class billiards action, heart-stopping drama, and the rise of new legends.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Carlo Biado crowned World Champion for a second time; pockets $250,000

By Marlon Bernardino

Carlo Biado etches his name in the history books of Filipino billiards, being the first Pinoy to win in the World 9 Ball Championships (World Pool) twice after beating Fedor Gorst of the USA, 15-13, in a gripping finale on Saturday, July 26, 2025 in Iconic Greenhalls in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

“I’m over the moon—I still can’t believe I’m a two-time World Champion. It means everything to me. I’m so proud to bring this trophy home to the Philippines.” said Biado, who also won the 2017 edition.

“This final is something I’ll remember forever. Fedor is one of the best in the world—when I was leading 9-2, I still couldn’t relax because he’s a monster on the table. But today, I stayed focused, stayed calm, and maybe had a little luck on my side too.” added Biado, the 2024 World Ten Ball Champion.

On the road to the finals, Biado bested countryman Bernie Regalario, 11-3, to arrange a titular showdown with Gorst, who brought down Kledio Kaçi of Albania, 11-6.

With the win, Biado pockets $250,000, the runner-up place Gorst earns $100,000 while the losing semi-finalist Regalario and Kaci got $50,000 each for their efforts.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Photo credit to the owner

'BATA' REYES YALIN 10-BALL OPEN CH’SHIP TO BE HELD IN MANDALUYONG CITY

by Marlon Bernardino

A whopping two million pesos prizes at stake for the top performers when the Efren ‘Bata Reyes Yalin 10-Ball Open Championship gets underway from August 27 to 30, 2025 to be held in Mandaluyong City.

According to the organizer of the tournament named after billiards legend The Magician Efren ‘Bata Reyes, the tournament is supported by international billiard and snooker champion and award-winning public servant Kap. Marlon " Marvelous" Manalo of Bgy. Maåmig of the said city.

The champion will pocket one million pesos while the remaining one million will be divided among the other winners.

“The tournament will be conducted in progressive with specific rules applied at each round,” according to a representative of the Yalin Efren Bata Reyes Cue Club.

The players meeting will be held on August 26 and the registration deadline is August 22 with an entry fee of P3,500.

The tournament will be held at the Lower Ground Floor, Worldwide Corporate Center. Shaw Blvd. Mandaluyong City.

For more details, contact #09650767678.

-Marlon Bernardino-


A file photo: Filipino and United States chess master Almario Marlon Bernardino Jr. plays the mind sports chess game with GOAT World Champion Efren "Bata" Reyes. Looking on is International Billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo.

Efren "Bata" Reyes Yalin 10-Ball Championship offers a total pot prizes of P2 million to the winners

By Marlon Bernardino

The Efren "Bata" Reyes Yalin 10-Ball Championships will be held from August 26-30, 2025 in Mandaluyong City.

The tournament is part of the celebration of Efren Reyes' 71st birthday and aims to discover the next generation of billiards champions according to International Billiard and Snooker Champion Kap. Marlon "Marvelous" Manalo.

It will feature a P2,000,000 prize pool with the champion getting the lion share of P1 million while the remaining will be divided among the other winners.

The Games and Amusement Board (GAB) sanctioned tournament will be conducted in progressive with specific rules applied at each round.

The players meeting will be held on August 26 at three (3) pm and the registration deadline is August 22 with an entry fee of P3,500.

The tournament will be held at the Lower Ground Floor , Worldwide Corporate Center, Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City.
For more details, contact #09650767678.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Signing the Memorandum of Agreement are Kap Marlon Manalo-CEO of Pacman's Cue Club (PCC) and Patrick Clavel-Tournament Director. Looking at Mr. Brandon Dominguez-Operation Manager of PCC, Ms. Cris Hansel-COO of PCC, Makati Pool Player's Association (MAPPA) Officers Mia Domingo, John Fernandez, Erickson del Villar, and Asst. Tournament Director Mario Aquino.

Ronel Sta Maria Nalaunan achieved a come-from-behind win at 2nd Ibalong International 9-Ball Tournament in Legaspi City, Albay; pockets P600,000

By Marlon Bernardino

Ronel Sta Maria Nalaunan staged an incredible comeback from 6-10 down to defeat Baseth Mocaibat in a thrilling 13-12 finish at 2nd Ibalong International 9-Ball Tournament held at Legaspi Expo Center in Legaspi City, Albay last September 4,2025.

Mocaibat built a commanding 10-6 lead at one stage, but Nalaunan clawed back to tie the match at 11-11 before eventually winning the title.

On the road to the finals, Nalaunan bested Michael Baoanan in the semi finals to arrange a titular showdown with Mocaibat, who brought down Santino Arevalo.

With the victory, Nalaunan takes home P600,000 top prize, while Mocaibat settles for the P250,000 runner-up purse.

"Congratulations Ronel Nalaunan.

We are proud to announce the Champion of our 2nd Ibalong Festival International 9Ball Billiard Tournament.

Your talent, dedication, and spirit truly embodied the essence of the celebration.

Thank you for being a part of this memorable event—you made it shine! ," posted by Law M. Beltran in his Facebook account.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Photo credit to Law M. Beltran

Team Cebuana Lhuillier Finishes Strong in PCA Men’s Team Tennis Championship Finals

By Marlon Bernardino

Team Cebuana Lhuillier capped another impressive season with a finals finish at the 42nd PCA Men’s Team Tennis Championship, held on October 5, 2025, at the Philippine Columbian Association (PCA). The defending champions, who have long been recognized as one of the most consistent and dominant squads in Philippine tennis, once again showcased their trademark grit and sportsmanship in a tightly contested battle against PCA-JK Tyre.

In the championship tie, Cebuana Lhuillier fought valiantly across all five age-group matches. The team scored victories in the 60-and-over (8–4) and 50-and-over (8–4) categories, while narrowly conceding in the 65-and-over (5–7), 55-and-over (6–8), and 45-and-over (3–8) brackets. Despite the 2–3 overall result, Team Cebuana Lhuillier demonstrated depth, composure, and enduring competitiveness against another top-tier squad.

UTP President and Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier commended the team for its strong showing and enduring legacy: “I’m extremely proud of how our players continue to represent the Cebuana Lhuillier spirit — with determination, discipline, and heart. Our consistent success in the PCA Championship is a testament to the team’s hard work and love for the game. We look forward to coming back stronger next year as we continue to nurture tennis talent and elevate the sport across the country.”

With this runner-up finish, Cebuana Lhuillier further solidified its legacy as a powerhouse in Philippine team tennis — boasting an incredible record of 11 titles and five finals appearances throughout its storied history in the PCA Men’s Team Tennis Championship. The team’s consistent presence in the finals continues to reflect its commitment to excellence, camaraderie, and passion for the sport.

-Marlon Bernardino-

SBA Expands Scouting Tour to Discover New Talents for Season 2 Team Expansion

By Marlon Bernardino

Hot on the heels of announcing its Season 2 expansion, the Sharks Billiards Association (SBA) is hitting the road to discover the next wave of Filipino billiards talents. As SBA Season 2 shapes up to be bigger than ever, the scouting tours have ramped up, visiting select billiard halls nationwide in search of standout players who could join existing teams—or even help form brand-new franchises.

The scouting initiative stems from SBA’s plan to expand beyond the five teams that joined the recent draft. Each new team will open opportunities for more players to go pro, with six roster spots available per expansion team. The official announcement of new teams will be made during the SBA Season 2 Press Conference on October 30, 2025 at the Sharks Arena & Sports Bar.

Led by SBA Founder Hadley Mariano, the scouting tour brings the league closer to local communities, giving emerging players a chance to showcase their skills in front of league decision-makers.

“Every great player starts somewhere, and we want to be there when that journey begins,” said Mariano. “This scouting tour is about uncovering raw talent, giving them a platform, and showing that in the SBA, anyone with skill, discipline, and heart can compete at the highest level.”

The next tour stops are set for October 14 and 17 at Centro Bar and Billiards, Taft Avenue, and Pocket King’s, Batangas, respectively. More venues and schedules will be announced soon through SBA’s official social media pages. Fans and aspiring players are encouraged to stay tuned and be part of the search for the sport’s next big stars.

The SBA Scouting Tour builds up to Season 2, which officially kicks off on November 10, 2025. With louder crowds, sharper talents, and new faces joining the league, SBA continues to cement its place as the Philippines’ premier stage for professional billiards.

-Marlon Bernardino-


File photo. From left: Kyle Raymond Amoroto, Sharks Billiard Association (SBA) head Hadley Mariano , Anton Raga and Ronnie Alcano.