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Topic: Our Man in the Philippines

Billiard standout Bernie "Li'l Prince" Regalario hoping to get elusive title

by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---The quest for an elusive title continues for Bernie Regalario as he gets ready for the Indonesia International Open 2024 (9-ball competition) scheduled from January 16 to 25 in Jakarta, Indonesia.

"I hope to perform well in the Indonesia International Open 2024, "said Regalario, one of the top players of the star-studded Marboys Billiards Club under the guidance of JR Velasco and Marvin Paringit.

Joining Regalario in the Indonesia International Open 2024 are fellow Marboys Billiards Club stablemates Johann Chua, James Aranas, Anton Raga, Jeffrey Ignacio, Kyle Amoroto, Marvin Asis and Jefrey Roda.

The Indonesia International Open 2024 will award USD25,000 to the champion and USD12,000 to the runner-up. The third and fourth placers will get USD6,000 each.

It shall be recalled that Regalario, fondly called "Li'l Prince" in the pool world, settle for runner-up place with eventual champion and countryman Carlo Biado in the 2nd Chinese Taipei Open 9-Ball Pool Championship at the Hulk Billiards Hall in Taipei City last Friday January 12, 2024.

Biado defeated Regalario in the final, 13-7, in the 96-player field tourney .
The 40-year-old racked up six straight racks in the championship round to defeat the 19-year-old Regalario and bag home a prize money of $10,000 or more than P557,000. Regalario, on the other hand, pocketed $5,000 or more than P278,000.

On the road to the finals, Biado toppled world No. 1 Franciso Sachez Ruiz of Spain in the quarterfinals, 10-5, and Chang Yu-Lung of Chinese Taipei , 11-9, in the semifinals to arrange a titular showdown with Regalario, who brought down compatriot Michael Feliciano, 10-8, and Aloysius Yapp of Singapore, 11-10, respectively.

"It has always been our dream to see an All Filipino Finals (Carlo Biado and Bernie Regalario) after all the heartbreaks from recent tournaments where Filipinos ended up losing in the finals. This time around we are very fortunate to witness an All Filipino Finale so no more heartbreaks for sure. To God be the Glory," said Marboys Billiards Club top honcho JR Velasco.

-Marlon Bernardino-


A souvenir photo with the champion Carlo Biado and the runner-up place Bernie Regalario along with other participants and supporters during the 2nd Chinese Taipei Open 9-Ball Pool Championship at the Hulk Billiards Hall in Taipei City last Friday January 12, 2024.

Jeffrey Ignacio beats Hong Kong-born Filipino Robbie Capito for Indonesia International Open 2024 10-ball title

by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---Jeffrey Ignacio defeated Hong Kong-born Filipino Robbie Capito, 10-3, Thursday, January 25 to rule the Indonesia International Open 2024 in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Ignacio beat world number 1 Francisco Sanchez Ruiz of Spain, 10-6, in the semifinal while Capito topped Jonas Magpantay of the Philippines, 10-7, to arrange a title showdown in the 10-ball event.

Ignacio also trounced Dimitris Loukatos of Greece, 10-3, in the Round of 16 and countryman Jeffrey Aranas, 10-7, in the quarterfinals while Capito dismantled Gebby Adi Wibawa Putra of Indonesia, 10-6, and Wu Kun-Lin of Chinese-Taipei, 10-5, respectively.

Ignacio, one of the top players of the star-studded Marboys Billiards Club under the guidance of JR Velasco and Marvin Paringit won the top prize of $25,000 for his efforts.

Capito, on the other hand, pocketed the runner-up purse of $12,000.
Magpantay and Ruiz, meantime, didn't go home empty-handed and received $6,000 for reaching the semis.

“Our sacrifices have paid off. We are able to put the Philippines in the limelight again for this worthy achievement. I would like to thank my teammate (Marboys Billiards Club),"said Ignacio.

He also expressed gratitude to JR Velasco and Marvin Paringit in inspiring them to represent our country well in international competitions.

"Maraming salamat rin Boss (JR Velasco) sa walang sawang suporta mo samen mga players Boss ng dahil sayo at sa team Marboys bumalik ulit ang sigla ko mag bilyar thank you so much Boss," Ignacio sent this message to Velasco.

Marboys Billiards Club top honcho JR Velasco was impressed."Awesome Performance!" said Velasco.

-Marlon Bernardino-


In photo L-R; Alvin Anggito aka Cool Cat (Indonesian and first international player of Marboys), Bernie "Li'l Prince" Regalario, Jefrey "Deathstroke" Roda, Jeffrey "The Cobra" Ignacio, James Aranas "Dodong Diamond" , Johann "Bad Koi" Chua and Marvin "Shadow Assassin" Asis. (Photo credit to Marboys Billiards Club).

Filipino Bernie Regalario ready for US debut

by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---Filipino pool wizard Bernie Regalario is all geared up for his debut in the United States.

Widely acclaimed as the "Li'l Prince" in the world of pool, returns to demonstrate his skills in this epic showdown.

He will kick off his US debut in Premier Pool League with a match against 3 of the best in the world. First is 2 time World 9 Ball Champion Albin Ouschan of Austria, second is former World and US Open Champion Joshua Filler of Germany and lastly against World no. 1 Francisco Sanchez Ruiz of Spain on Day 1.

"I would like to thank Matchroom Pool Managing Director Ms. Emily Frazer for inviting me to participate in this prestigious event. I would also like to thank Sir JR Velasco and Sir Marvin Paringit for supporting my dream to compete in the US pool tournament," said the 19-year-old Regalario.
" I will do my very best for the flag and country," he added.

Marboys Billiards Club CEO/President JR Velasco who accompanied Regalario in the US pool tournament had something to say to his ward.

"From humble beginnings of learning the game at the tender age of 10, to beating the great Efren Reyes when he was 14 yrs old and now to his US debut in Premier League Pool, Filipino pool champ Bernie "Li'l Prince" Regalario has gone a long way in achieving his dreams to become a professional pool player and represent his country in the sport's biggest stage. We will always be proud of this young man more popularly known as Benok in the community and now earned the moniker of Li'L Prince of Philippine Pool.," said Velasco, who joined forces with Marvin Paringit to support Regalario US debut.

The Premier League Pool (9-ball) will be held between March 18-25 from US 1 Billiards, West Haven, Connecticut, United States. With 16 of the world’s elite players contesting the exciting league format in one of America’s premier pool halls for the first time in front of live spectators.

Premier League Pool has a total prize fund of $100,000 with the champion getting the lion share of $20,000, while the runner-up earned $12,500 while losing Semi-finalists pocketed $8,000.

Other invited pool masters are 2023 US Open runner-up Fedor Gorst of the USA, Five-time US Open winner Shane Van Boeningof the USA, 2023 US Open champion Ko Ping Chung of Chinese-Taipei, 2023 Hanoi Open Pool Champion Jayson Shaw of Great Britain and Two-time World Cup of Pool Champion Mario He of Austria.

Also joining are 2023 European Open Pool Champion David Alcaide of Spain, 2023 Spanish Open Pool Champion Dang Jin Hu of China, Vietnam’s number one player Nguyen Anh Tuan, Two-time Mosconi Cup MVP Skyler Woodward of the USA, 2023 World Pool Master Ko Pin Yi of Chinese-Taipei, 23-year-old Wiktor Zielinski of Poland and Highest ranked Filipino on World Nineball Tour Michael Feliciano.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Filipino pool wizard Bernie Regalario and Marboys Billiards Club CEO/President JR Velasco visit Statue of Liberty in New York City last weekend before heading to US 1 Billiards, West Haven, Connecticut, United States.

Filipino youth master Bernie Regalario upset World no.1 Francisco Sanchez Ruiz of Spain of Day 1 of the Premier League Pool

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---Filipino teenage sensation Bernie Regalario defeated World no.1 Francisco Sanchez Ruiz of Spain, 5-4, to registered biggest upset of Day 1 of the Premier League Pool (9-ball) at the US 1 Billiards, West Haven, Connecticut, United States on Tuesday.

The 19-year-old Regalario, one of the star-studded player of Marboys Billiards Club, earlier loss to 2 time World 9 Ball Champion Albin Ouschan of Austria, 2-5, but come back edging former World Champion and US Open Champion Joshua Filler of Germany, 5-3, on Monday before beating Ruiz.

Regalario, the reigning 2nd Chinese Taipei Open 9 ball pool championship runner-up, will meet 2023 US Open champion Ko Ping Chung of Chinese-Taipei, 23-year-old Wiktor Zielinski of Poland and Two-time World Cup of Pool Champion Mario He of Austria in Day 2 on Wednesday.

Regalario was accompanied in the US by Marboys Billiards Club CEO and president JR Velasco, who has been supporting the careers of young Filipino pool players. Velasco joined forces with Marvin Paringit in supporting Regalario's trip in the USA.

"I work so hard to get ready for this game and I am confident I can perform well, " said Regalario, newly-member of the national team.

The Premier League Pool has a total prize fund of $100,000 with the champion getting the lion's share of $20,000. The runner-up will pocket $12,500 while the losing semifinalists get $8,000 apiece.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Filipino teenage sensation Bernie Regalario and Marboys Billiards Club CEO and president JR Velasco

Ormoc City Regional Sports Academy student bags gold in Evraa 8 Balls Category

by Marlon Bernardino

Ormoc City---Athena Divine Ig-agao, a Grade 11 student of Ormoc City Regional Sports Academy, won the gold medal in the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Meet (Evraa) 2024 Billiard Tournament on Wednesday, May 8 held at Liga Building here. The tournament featured the 8 Balls Category for Secondary Girls.

Athena defeated Irish Jean Lutao of NS, 4-2, in Game 1, Moree Hobayan of ES, 4-1, in Game 2, Ormoc vs Samar , Glena Joy Golong of Samar, 5-2, in the Quarter-Final, Karen Juaquino of Maasin, 5-3, in the Semi-Final, and Princess Ann Cruda of Baybay, 6-1, in the Final.

"At first I felt the pressure but I thought to myself, I had to go out there and be confident so I can win the gold because it’s my second time to win gold in the Evraa meet.” said the 16-year-old Athena.

Despite her success in her second stint in the conclave among top high school students, Athena is keeping her feet on the ground.

Coaches and Trainers Marife T. Taneo, Reynaldo Grandea, Ramon Mistica, Eliseo Villaflores and Rogelio Noval Jr., were also recognized for their invaluable contribution in Athena's victory. With her impressive performance, Athena secured a spot to represent Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic (Evraa) in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2024 in Cebu City.
Leyte 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez is proud of Athena's achievement and congratulates her for her hard work, dedication, and determination.

Rep. Gomez also extended its congratulations to the other student-athletes and quarter-finalists Chrisel Liston (Secondary Girls) and Janjan Lahoylahoy (Secondary Boys) who represented their school in the tournament.
City Councilor Rey Evangelista also congratulated Athena's victory in the 8-ball competition.

Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez expressed her pride and congratulated Athena and the entire team for their exemplary performance in the competition. Mayor Torres-Gomez wishes Athena all the best as she prepares to compete in the Palarong Pambansa 2024 in July.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Athena Divine Ig-agao, a Grade 11 student of Ormoc City Regional Sports Academy shows her gold medal she won in the 8-ball competition. Also in photo Coach Ramon "Maestro Monching" Mistica.

Asia Supremacy: Team Philippines Eye Strong Showing Vs Team Chinese Taipei

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---Team Philippines is determined to put on a show when it faces Team Chinese Taipei in the 2024 CPBA 9-Ball Teams Invitational dubbed as Asia Supremacy to be held on May 27, 28 and 29 at the former Park City Banquet Plaza, New Taipei City, Taiwan.

Leading the Philippine charge are the best of the best, including the veterans led by Carlo Biado, Johann Chua, James Aranas, Jeffrey Ignacio and Bernie Regalario.

"We hope to do well in this event (Team Chinese Taipei in the 2024 CPBA 9-Ball Teams Invitational dubbed as Asia Supremacy)," said Biado.

Chinese Taipei will be fielding Ko Pin Yi, Ko Ping Chung, Chang Jung Lin, Chang Yu Lung and Wu Kun Lin.

Supporting Team Philippines will be JR Velasco and Marvin Paringit of Marboys Billiards.

“They’re all ready,” Velasco said.

“It’s hard but we will try our best,” added Paringit. “That’s our challenge.”
While Chinese Taipei Team will be supported by Marvin Wang and Jackie Ku of CPBA and Fullcan Sports.They will all be non playing team captains as well for their teams respectively.

The winning team gets $15,000 and the losing team will take home $7,500 in this 9-Ball Team Tournament, presented by Fullcan Sports and Marboys Billiards.

Fullcan Sports is a subsidiary of the CPBA Group, mainly responsible for hosting international billiards events and the assistance of players‘ tournaments itinerary and sports agent.

While Marboys Billiards on the other hand handles and manages the best nineball players from the Philippines. Currently they are the only team in the world nineball tour. They usually send 5-7 players regularly in major tournaments like the UK Open, World Championship among others.

Marboys Billiards cue artists are also scheduled to compete in World Pool Championship in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on June 3-8. There will be a China 9 ball tournament on June 28-July 5 in China. Then Bandung Indonesia on July 10-14. Then August for the European Open Championship and US Open.

-Marlon Bernardino-

PH pool players got problems securing Japanese visas

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---Some of the country's Filipino pool players cannot enter Japan through the regular procedures for entering the Japan Open, a traditional international billiards tournament. This was bared by Japanese Hideki Saito,a professional pool tournament promoter on Saturday who runs a billiard hall in the Philippines.

"The Japan Professional Pocket Billiards Association (JPBA) in Japan does not prepare documents that meet the requirements of Japan. Why? There is nothing I can do as a foreigner. Because all the problems are within Japan," said Saito through to his interpreter Roel Esquillo, a Filipino International Billiard Champion.

"A two-week short-term entertainment visa is fine for us. We come to Japan a few days before the Japan Open to get in shape, practice, and become champions," he added.
The Filipino pool players who is schedule to participate in the Japan Open to be held on September 14-16, 2024 in Tokyo, Japan are Antonio "Nickoy" Lining, Rodrigo "Edgie Marilao" Geronimo, Patrick Gonzales, Jayson Marabi, Romsel Aloro, John Paul Ortega, Rommel Santos and the lady pool players Denden Santos and Sofia Santos.

Esquillo, on the other hand said Japanese Masaki Okada, a regional director of JPBA who in charge promoting billiard in Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama and Chiba need to do action communicating the Japanese Immigration in Tokyo to secure a certificate of eligibility for the Filipino player and will sent to Japanese Embassy in Manila to secure an entertainment visa.

"Mr. Hideki Saito transferred 44,000 yen and 88,000 yen for each player to the JPBA Kanto Branch account and received an invitation letter," said Esquillo, who won numerous billiard tournaments in Japan.

" However, we need an entertainment visa. The organizer of Japan Open, Japanese Masaki Okada, needed to help us but he didnt action on this matter," said Esquillo.

"If this matter is not resolved, it will happen again in future tournaments like the All Japan Championships," he added.

Saito and Esquillo are scheduled to visit the Games and Amusements Board office in Makati on Monday.

It shall be recalled that Filipino Dennis Orcollo settled for second to eventual champion Japanese Tomoya Lima in the 2023 Japan Open.
Orcollo was down 7-2 but managed to stage a comeback; however, he came up short. The final score was 8-6 in favor of Lima.

Prior to this match, there were 15 Japanese and 15 Filipinos who had won the Japan Open. Lima became the 16th Japanese to win this Open, breaking the deadlock with the Philippines.-Marlon Bernardino-

Country's pool sharks feature in today's SBA Draft Pick Sunday

by Marlon Bernardino

The country's pool sharks are featured in the historic Draft Pick of the world's first professional billiards league, the Sharks Billiards Association (SBA), which is gets underway at the Quantum Skyview of Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City in Cubao Quezon City, today, Sunday, August 18 , 2024.

"Get ready to witness the excitement as we reveal the top players who will be joining the league", said event organizer Founder/COO Hadley Mariano.

According to young Mariano, the purpose of the said billiards league is to extend the discovery of male/female talents in the country and to give opportunities to seasoned billiard players in the country who are also supported by sportsman/businessman Ceferino "Perry" Mariano who is recognized as the God Father of Philippine Billiards.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Pictured are sports journalist/radio commentator Almario Marlon Bernardino Jr., Philippine Sports Expo President/CEO Michael Herrera and Sharks Billiard League Top Honcho Hadley Mariano -Marlon Bernardino-

Jericho Banares picked first, Rodrigo Geronimo taken second in pro billiard draft

by Marlon Bernardino

Quezon City---Jericho Banares, as expected, was drafted first in the inaugural Sharks Billiard Association (SBA) Player's Draft at the Quantum Skyview of Gateway Mall 2, Araneta City in Cubao Quezon City on Sunday, August 18, 2024.

Banares was picked first by the Quezon City Dragons.
" I felt very honoured to be included in the team." said Banares, who settled for silver in the 2008 Reno, Nevada World Junior Pool Championship after bowing to defending champion Ko Pin-yi of Chinese-Taipei in the finals.

Rodrigo Geronimo was selected second by Taguig Stallions, Oliver Villafuerte was drafted third overall by Negros Pillar, while Baseth Mapandi is the fourth overall draft pick, joining the Manila MSW Mavericks in the 4-team field that will hold their first-ever conference set on September 12 at the famous Sharks Billiard Hall in Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

"Its mission is to "give millions of Filipino billiard enthusiasts the opportunity to hone and showcase their skills, and promote the love of the game -- by ensuring integrity and fairness for professional billiards in the Philippines." said event organizer Founder/COO Hadley Mariano.

Other members of the Quezon City Dragons are Alexis Ferrer, Denmark Castronuevo, John Paul Ladao and John Rebong, Taguig Stallions will have a formidable line up that includes Demosthenes Pulpul, Bryant Saguiped, Marc Ejay Cunanan and Michael Quinay, Negros Pillar spearheaded by Albert Espinola, Jonald Galve, Jolo Aspuria and Mark Ryan Hidalgo, while Manila MSW Mavericks is composed of Jonas Magpantay, John Albert Refulle, Drahcir Mauricio and Tristan Deocareza.

Witnessing the historic event led by Games and Amusement Board (GAB) Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera Jr., Philippine Racing Commission (PHILRACOM) Chairman Aurelio "Reli" De Leon, GOAT Efren "Bata" Reyes, Francisco "Django" Bustamante, Dennis "Robocop" Orcollo, Jeffrey "The Bull" De Luna, Antonio "Nikoy" Lining, Warren "Warrior" Kiamco, Sportsman/Businessman Ceferino "Perry" Mariano and Mam Verna Mariano, among others.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Marlon “Marvelous Captain” Manalo to compete in in this year’s $450,000 total pot prize tournament of the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball

by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---International snooker/billiards champion Marlon “Marvelous Captain” Manalo of the Philippines will showcase his talent in the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball on December 5-14, 2024 at Ezdan Palace Hotel in Doha, Qatar.

He will make his return to the pool world after a long hiatus when he competes in this year’s $450,000 total pot prize tournament with the winner getting the lion share of $100,000

The affable cue artist and former chairman of Barangay Malamig in Mandaluyong City, who is also the former League of Barangays of the Philippines Press Relation Officer and ABC president, captivated the billiard circuit by clustering victories against noted pool sharks Yang Ching-shun of Taiwan and countrymen Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante in the knockout stage of the World Pool Championship in 2004.

“I hope to do well in the upcoming this year’s $450,000 total pot prize tournament of the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball in Doha, Qatar,” said the Jose Rizal University AB Economics graduate Manalo, a many-time winner in the US Pool Circuit and runner-up to Mr. Reyes in the 2004 World 8-Ball Championship in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

“I will pour all that I know in the cue sports,” added Mr. Manalo, who settled for a silver medal in the snooker event by placing second to Bjorn Haneveer of Belgium in the 2001 Akita, Japan World Games.

The following year, the 2000 Asian Snooker Champion and 2008 National Champion Manalo went all the way to the semifinals of the same event before bowing to eventual champion Wu Chia-ching (Wu Jia-qing).
Although he’s been away from big competition the past few years, Mr. Manalo kept himself in shape by practicing daily in his own pool hall in Talumpung, Mandaluyong and famous Star Billiards Center in Grace Village, Quezon City, hosted by long-time sports patron Sebastian “Baste” Chua.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Bata, Django to lead 500k total pot prizes 1st Mayor Stephen A. Palmares 9-Ball Invitational Billiard Tournament

by Marlon Bernardino

Billiard legends Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante are set to headline the 1st Mayor Stephen A. Palmares 9-Ball Invitational Billiard Tournament slated at the Arena Stadium in Passi City, loilo from December 6 to 8, 2024.

According to billiard promoter and tournament director Ramon "Maestro Monching" Mistica, Reyes and Bustamante have confirmed their participation in the 9-ball pool event which offers a total pot prizes of P500,000 with the winner getting the lion's share of P200,000.

“This is more exciting. This will be an action-packed 1st Mayor Stephen A Palmares 9-Ball National Open Billiard Tournament to be held on December 6 to 8, and we look forward to bringing more fun and excitement,” said Mistica, a pool instructor, was known to frequently play at the famous Star Billiard Center, and played against many of the most widely-known names of his generation including Efren “Bata” Reyes, Santos Sambajon, and “The Leader of the Filipino Invasion Jose "Amang" Parica., whom he beat in tournament in the mid 90's.

Reyes is considered as one of the most decorated billiard players in the country, with a US Open Pool championship, an Asian Games bronze medal and six Southeast Asian Games gold medals as among his achievements.
Reyes also won the 1999 WPA World Nine-Ball Championship in Cardiff, Wales and the 2004 WPA World Eight-Ball Championship in Fujairah, United Ara Emirates.

" I hope to do well in this event," said Reyes, who served as the captain of Team Asia in the Reyes Cup, when they beat Team Europe, recently held in Manila.

For his part, Bustamante also has an illustrious career with over 70 international titles, including an Asian Games gold medal in the doubles event in 2002, and a golden finish in the 2010 WPA World Nine-Ball Championship.

Also joining are double world champion (9 ball and 8 ball) Ronato "Ronnie" Alcano, world 10 ball champion Chezka Centeno, All Japan champion Johann Chua, up and coming AJ Manas and world renown famous blogger Jaybee Sucal.

Reyes, Bustamante, mayor Palmares, Games and Amusement Board (GAB) chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera together with Commissioner Atty.Manuel Plaza, Commissioner Angel Bautista Dr.Jesucito Garcia , Mr. Nopp Moriles and Mr. John Alexis Manalo have been invited to do the colorful opening ceremony.

Other notable masters participating are Warren Kiamco, Michael Feliciano, Russian Petiza, Jomel Sultan, Manolo Tanasas,Edwin Gamas and Dante Razalan.

The second to fourth placers will receive P100,000, P40,000 and P40,000, respectively, the 5th to 8th placers will earn P20,000 while the 9th to 16th placers will went home P5,000 each in this Games and Amusement Board (GAB) sanctioned tournament.

-Marlon Bernardino-

'Marvelous Captain' Manalo moves into $450,000 total pot prizes Qatar World Cup 10-Ball main draw

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---When it comes to World Class Billiard Competitions, Filipinos Rule!

Filipino cue master Marlon Manalo, nicknamed “ Marvelous Captain,” edged countryman Aihvan Manaloto in one of the qualifying tournaments to gain a seat in the main draw of the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball Championship which will start on December 9, 2024 at Ezdan Palace Hotel in Doha, Qatar.

Manalo, the affable cue artist and former chairman of Barangay Malamig in Mandaluyong City defeated Manaloto , 7-6, in the finals, Friday early in morning in the Philippines time (Thursday evening in Qatar).

“I hope to perform well in the Qatar World Cup 10 Ball Championship main draw,” said Manalo, who kept himself in shape by practicing daily in his own pool hall in Talumpung, Mandaluyong and famous Star Billiards Center in Grace Village, Quezon City, hosted by long-time sports patron Sebastian "Baste" Chua.

Earlier, Manalo took a bye in the first round then bested Mohamad Alyazeedi of Qatar, 7-0, Abdullah Alharthi of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 7-0, Mohamed Abdul Karim of Syria, 7-6, before beating Manaloto of the Philippines, 7-6.
Other cue masters who made it to the knock out stage are Konstantin Stepanov of Russia, Panagiotis Xypoliteas of Greece, Haider Ali of Qatar and Kyle Amoroto of the Philippines.

Fondly called " Marvelous Captain" Manalo captivated the billiard circuit by clustering victories against noted pool sharks Yang Ching-shun of Taiwan and countrymen Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante in the knockout stage of the World Pool Championship in 2004. The following year, the 2000 Asian Snooker Champion and 2008 National Champion Manalo went all the way to the semifinals of the same event before bowing to eventual champion Wu Chia-ching (Wu Jia-qing).

The money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball Championship offers a total pot prize of $450,000 with the winner getting the lion's share of $100,000 while the runner-up place will earn $40,000.

This is a World Pool Association (WPA) sanctioned tournament.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Inaugural season of Sharks Billiards Association (SBA) Finals schedule:
Taguig Stallions versus the Manila MSW Mavericks with the Chino Trinidad trophy on the line!

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---The Taguig Stallions and the Manila MSW Mavericks begin their upcoming championship week, scheduled for December 16-20, 2024 with the Chino Trinidad trophy on the line.

" In honor to Chino Trinidad, our inaugural season of Sharks Billiards Association (SBA) commissioner with the Chino Trinidad trophy on the line," said Hadley Mariano, chief executive officer and founder of Sharks Billiards Association (SBA), the first-ever professional league in the country, and perhaps in the world during a live press conference Saturday night was held at the Sharks Arena & Sports Bar in Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

"Fans can watch the intense pool action live for free at the Sharks Arena & Sports Bar in Tomas Morato, Quezon City," added Hadley, son of long-time billiard sports patron/businessman Perry Mariano.

.Taguig Stallions which is composed of Rodrigo "Edgie" Geronimo, Michael "K9" Quinay, Bryant "Bryant Urdaneta" Saguiped, Marc Ejay "Emong" Cunanan and Demosthenes "Plong-Plong" Pulpul.

The Manila MSW Mavericks, on the other hand will bannered by Baseth "Kingpin" Mocaibat, Jonas "Silent Killer" Magpantay, Drahcir "Tisoy" Mauricio, Tristan "Tining" Deocareza and John Albert "Dokloy" Refulle.

Two teams who failed to made it to the finals are Negros Occidental Pillars led by Oliver "Batman" Villafuerte, Albert "The Black Carabao" Espinola, Ryan Mark "The Black Eagle" Hidalgo, Jolo "The Thunder" Aspuria and Jonald "Balbon" Galve and the Quezon City Dragons of Jerico "Panday" Banares, Dean Mark "Run DMC" Castronuevo, John Limuel "Rambo" Rebong, Alexis "Damang" Ferrer and Romiel "Romayl Bacolod" Morta.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Marlon "Marvelous Captain" Manalo stays alive in the $450,000 total pot prize tournament of the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---WORLD 8-Ball 2004 runner-up Marlon "Marvelous Captain" Manalo of the Philippines stayed alive in the loser's bracket in the on-going money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball Championship being held at Ezdan Palace Hotel in Doha, Qatar.

Manalo, the affable cue artist and former chairman of Barangay Malamig in Mandaluyong City defeated Martin Daigle of Canada in the loser's brackets Wednesday night.

" I hope I can sustain the momentum," said the Jose Rizal University AB Economics graduate Manalo, a multiple-time winner in the US Pool Circuit and runner-up to Efren "Bata" Reyes in the 2004 World 8-Ball Championship in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

Other Filipino players who survived in the loser's brackets of this World Cup 10 Ball Championship, double elimination format are Jeffrey De Luna and Rogelio Sotero.

De Luna toppled André Pelletier of Canada, 9-2, while Sotero walloped Ibrahim Al Qaed of Bahrain, 9-5.

Meanwhile, Four Filipino players entered the top 64 from the winners' side in this World Pool Association (WPA) sanctioned tournament which offers $450,000 total pot prize with the winner getting the lion's share of $100,000.

They are Sean Mark Malayan, Kyle Amoroto, Leonardo Hipolito, and Aivhan Maluto.

Malayan beat Bashar Hussain Abdulmajeed of Qatar, 9-3, Amoroto nipped Stephen Ellis of Great Britain, 9-6, Hipolito dealt Marco Teutscher of the Netherlands, 9-2, and Maluto smashed Tserenbat Dashdondog of Mongolia, 9-4.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Billiards: De Luna, 3 other Pinoys in last 16 of Qatar World Cup 10-Ball

by Marlon Bernardino

Last 16 Matches - 6:00 PM Philippine Time (December 13, 2024, Friday)

Table 1: Ameer Ali vs Konstantin Stepanov
Table 3: Alex Kazakis vs Olivér Szolnoki
Table 4: Daniel Macioł vs Ruslan Chinahov
Table 6: Jeffrey De Luna vs Albin Ouschan
Table 7: Arnel Bautista vs José Alberto Delgado
Table 10: Chang Jung-Lin vs Mohammad Soufi
Table 13: Sean Mark Malayan vs Mario He
Table 16: Aivhan Maluto vs Luca Menn

Manila---Jeffrey De Luna and three other Filipino aces made it to the last 16 of the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball.

De Luna picked up an 11-10 win versus Bader Alawadhif of the United Arab Emirates to reach the Round-of-16 of the $450,000 tournament at Ezdan Palace Hotel in Doha, Qatar.

Joining him are fellow Pinoys Arnel Bautista, Sean Mark Malayan, and Aivhan Maluto in the World Pool Association sanctioned tournament which offers $100,000 to the champion.

Bautista defeated compatriot Leonardo Hipolito , 11-9, Malayan toppled Dominik Jastrząb of Poland, 11-5, while Maluto edged Fu Huan of Hongkong , 11-9.

However, Marlon Manalo’s Cinderella run ended after an 8-11 loss to Mario He of Austria.

After a long hiatus, he was able to make it through the qualifiers to reach the last 32 Thursday night, proving he still has what it takes to compete in the highest level.

"Fans can only hope to see more of the “Marvellous Captain” in future tournaments," said in an post of 77.biliards regarding the comeback of Manalo, the affable cue artist and former chairman of Barangay Malamig in Mandaluyong City, who is also the former League of Barangays of the Philippines Press Relation Officer and ABC president.

The Jose Rizal University AB Economics graduate Manalo, captivated the billiard circuit by clustering victories against noted pool sharks Yang Ching-shun of Taiwan and countrymen Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante in the knockout stage of the World Pool Championship in 2004.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Match Results of Last 32 Rounds (December 12, 2024, Thursday):

Alex Kazakis defeated Hsieh Chia Chen - 11-6
Nguyễn Hoang Minh Tai lost to Olivér Szolnoki - 8-11
Daniel Macioł defeated Ali Nasser Alobaidli - 11-6
Ruslan Chinahov defeated Roberto Bartol - 11-9
Bader Alawadhi lost to Jeffrey De Luna - 10-11
Albert Januarta lost to 🇦 Albin Ouschan - 9-11
Ameer Ali defeated Max Lechner - 11-6
Konstantin Stepanov defeated Konrad Juszczyszyn - 11-10
Arnel Bautista defeated Leonardo Hipolito - 11-9
José Alberto Delgado defeated Yuma Dörner - 11-6
Chang Jung-Lin defeated Thorsten Hohmann - 11-1
Mohammad Soufi defeated Naoyuki Oi - 11-7
Dominik Jastrząb lost to Sean Mark Malayan - 5-11
Marlon Manalo lost to Mario He - 8-11
Aivhan Maluto defeated Fu Huan - 11-9
Luca Menn defeated Denis Grabe - 11-10


Jeffrey De Luna


Marlon Manalo

Jeffrey De Luna reached the Qatar World Cup 10-Ball semis

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---Jeffrey De Luna of the Philippines advanced to the semifinals after he posted twin victories Friday, December 13, 2024 in the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball Championship at the Ezdan Palace Hotel in Doha, Qatar.

Fondly called the Bull in the billiard circuit, won over a pair on his way to the last four of the prestigious 10-ball competition, beating Albin Ouschan of Austria, 11-10, in the round-of-16 before prevailing over Ameer Ali of Iraq 11-10, in the quarterfinals.

Arnel Bautista and Aivhan Maluto failed to make it three Filipinos in the semis after they fell short of Mohammad Soufi of Syria, 11-1, and Mario He of Austria, 11-7, in the quarters. Bautista earlier pulled off an escape act, 11-16, over Jose Alberto Delgado of Spain while Maluto toppled Luca Menn of Germany, 11-8, in the Round-of-16.

De Luna will next compete against Poland's Daniel Maciol on Saturday, December 14.

The other semifinal match will feature Soufi taking on He.
He is also the tormentor of Marlon Manalo, 11-8, in the Round-of-32 and Sean Mark Malayan, 11-6, in the Round-of-16.

'Im happy with my performance, said De Luna.

The World Pool Association sanctioned a tournament which offers $450,000 total pot prize with the winner getting the lion share of $100,000 to the champion.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Jeffrey De Luna

Daniel Maciol rules 2024 Qatar 10-Ball World Cup title; Jeffrey De Luna settles for third

by Marlon Bernardino

Manila---Daniel Maciol of Poland showcased his versatility once again by downing Jeffrey De Luna of the Philippines, 11-2, in the semifinals and Mario He of Austria,13-4, in the finals and ruling the the money-rich Qatar World Cup 10 Ball Championship at the Ezdan Palace Hotel in Doha, Qatar last Saturday, December 14, 2024.

With a total pot prize of $450,000, Maciol will go home the champion's purse $100,000 for his victory—the largest prize purse ever for a 10-ball event.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in Macioł’s young career and builds on his earlier success this year, when he captured the title at the Polish Dynamic Billard 10-Ball Open in March according to 77.billiards.

On his way to the final four, Maciol defeated Ruslan Chinahov of Russia, 11-7, in the Round-of-16 and Alex Kazakis of Greece, 11-7, in the quarterfinals.

I’d like to take this opportunity to Thank the QBSF and WPA for inviting me in this prestigious event and to all our KABABAYANS who supported us since Day 1. You guys know who you are. Sleep and chill tonight and play again tomorrow for the Asian 10 Ball Championship. Probably my last event for this year. Special mention to Kabalen Restaurant - Doha for providing our daily meal. Pastor Lits your generosity is greatly appreciated, no words can describe it," posted by De Luna on his facebook account.

Meanwhile, Johann Chua of the Philippines defeated Aloysius Yapp of Singapore with an impressive score of 13-2 to claim the title of inaugural Marboys Open Champion last Saturday, December 14, 2024 at the Marboys Billiards Cafe in Parañaque City.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Daniel Maciol of Poland in his winning shot. Looking on is Mario He of Austria.

SHARKS BILLIARDS ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES EXCITING LINE-UP FOR EARLY 2025

by Marlon Bernardino

The Sharks Billiards Association (SBA), the world’s first professional billiards league, is thrilled to announce an action-packed schedule to kickstart the new year. From exclusive leagues to open tournaments and the much-anticipated Season 2, SBA is poised to continue elevating billiards as a global mainstream sport.

January: Sharks Executive League
When: Every Sunday, starting the last week of January
Format: 8 Teams (5 minimum, 7 maximum players per team).

The Sharks Executive League is designed for executives and professionals passionate about billiards. It’s a chance to compete, network, and enjoy the sport in a premium environment.

Matches will be held every Sunday, ensuring an engaging start to 2025.

March: SBA Philippine Open
When: 1st Week of March
Entry Fee: TBA
Prize Fund: TBA

The SBA Philippine Open is a premier tournament open to all billiards enthusiasts. This highly anticipated event serves as a scouting tournament, offering players the chance to showcase their skills and capture the attention of SBA teams.

March: SBA Draft Pick
When: Last Week of March

Following the excitement of the Philippine Open, the SBA Draft Pick will determine the new wave of professional players for Season 2. Teams will strategize to select the best talents, setting the stage for another thrilling season.

When: April

The much-awaited SBA Season 2 kicks off this April 2025, bringing back high-octane matches, incredible talent, and unforgettable moments. As the league’s popularity grows, fans can look forward to in-season promotions, special events, and more surprises throughout the season.

(Marlon Bernardino)

Sharks Billiards Association second season kicks off last week of January

by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA – The Sharks Billiard Association (SBA) second season at the state-of-the-art Sharks Arena & Sportsbar along Tomas Morato Avenue, Quezon City every Sunday, starting the last week of January.

This was announced by SBA founder and chief executive officer Hadley Mariano on Wednesday.

The Executive League, featuring eight teams (minimum of 5 and maximum of 7 players per team), is for executives and professionals.

Next is the Philippine Open set on the first week of March, a premier tournament for all billiards enthusiasts.

The event also serves as a scouting tournament, offering players the chance to display their skills to get the attention of teams.

After the Philippine Open is the Draft Pick where teams will select the best talents, setting the stage for another thrilling Season 2, which will open in April.

The Taguig Stallions took the Chino Trinidad Championship trophy after defeating the Manila MSW Mavericks, 3-2, in the best-of-5 title series last December.

-Marlon Bernardino-

IIEE champ in billiard, PICE repeat in bowling and GEP draws 1700 runners in PTC WED

by Marlon Bernardino

The Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines (IIEE), captures the inaugural billiard competition in the 3rd D’ Engineers Cup of the Philippine Technological Council’s World Engineering Day (PTC-WED) which is composed of Mhar Gervacio, Mikel Laciste and Sam Zantua. Laciste sinked in the 9 ball with a combination shot to seal the dart championship hosted by the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (PIChE).

In bowling, the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) made it back to back championship edging the 3 IIEE Teams that finished as runner ups in the tournament hosted by the Philippine Society of Sanitary Engineers (PSSE). PICE is composed of Julian Carbonel Jr., Rodel Tungala, Mon Miranda and Larry Tinio of Cavite chapter. The 1st runner up IIEE is composed of Andy Sta. Ana, Ramelle Martin, Ramel Francisco and Jun Bismonte of Metro East chapter. The 2nd runner up IIEE is composed of Pat Carabeo, Pat Tarronas, Joey Santiago and Nestor Sanchez jr. of State of Qatar Chapter. The 3rd runner up is composed of Phil Dallo, Joselito B. Reyes, Boyet Aquino and Mike Antonio.

In the fun run, the Geodetic Engineers of the Philippines (GEP) hosted 1700 runners that started and finished in SMX MOA. Ricky Organiza and Jessa Mae Roda topped the 10K run with 32:33 and 38:28 time run respectively. Noli Torre and Edna Magtubo paced the runners of 5Km with run time of 15:46 and 18:34. The 3KM were ruled by Mark Anthony Oximar and Maria Jonna Lina Abutas with time of 9:38 and 11:44. Jojie Daga-as won the 1.5Km with pet run.

In Basketball GenX, IIEE got back to their first game tormentor Institute of Electronic Engineers of the Philippines (IECEP) 105-78 and down PSME 76-60. IECEP beat Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers (PSME) 66-63 to advance with IIEE in the championship. In Millennial division, IIEE is unbeaten in the tournament with its twin win versus GEP and PSME 80-45. PSME beat IECEP 102-85 while Society of Aerospace Engineers of the Philippines (SAEP) down GEP 95-78 for another face off with IIEE in the championship to be held on March 29, 2025.

Meanwhile, the IIEE-PSME Quezon City Simba’s Tribe loss to defending champion Manila in the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) in the opening of the All-Filipino Conference. The team will try to bounce back on round 2 and 3 to be held on March 26, 2025 versus Cagayan and Cavite.

-Marlon Bernardino-


From far Left is PTC Pres Federico Monsada and Overall Chairman of PTC WED Romulo Agatep, Bowling hall of Famer Paeng Nepomuceno with the ball, sitting at the center in blue jersey are the billiard champion, Mhar Gervacio, Mikel Laciste and Sam Zantua with the lone lady Former Chapter President Leigh Lipata and in her back the 2021 IIEE National President Allan Alvarez with the rest of IIEE contingent who place 1st, 2nd and 3rd runner up in Bowling.