The storied rivalry between Yco and Ysmael Steel was what mainly stoked the fires of cage fandom in the Philippines in the mid-60s. Long before the well-renowned Crispa- Toyota duel, it was Yco and Ysmael at centerstage.
Philippine Basketball: A Historical Perspective (Part 2 – The Early 60s)
The 60s saw the Philippines slowly lose control of Asian cage supremacy. With the venerable Caloy Loyzaga exiting the playing court, and the other Asian nations slowly learning the rudiments of the game, Philippine cage supremacy in Asia slowly diminished.
Believing In Belfast
My trip to Ireland was inspiring as well as humbling. I learned much from my gracious hosts. And I hope that the world can learn from its conflicts, and that I may share the lessons in Southern Mindanao. By recognizing our shared humanity and embracing our differences, we can create a future where peace flourishes.
Philippine Basketball: A Historical Perspective (Part 1 – The Early Years)
In the best-ever finish by an Asian country in the international basketball arena, the Philippines captured the bronze medal in the 2nd FIBA World Championship held in Brazil in 1954. Led by our dynamic duo of Mumar and Caloy Loyzaga, the Philippines surprised the heftier American and European teams with a dazzling display of speed and skill in basketball.
Sagada Na Naman!!!
Sagada was altogether a different adventure. The family had always been partial to water, being scuba fanatics and all. But for once, my wife, Wit, thought of a totally different adventure. And as is always the case, she wins any argument hands down.
A Salute to Vietnam
Thailand had the homecourt advantage. Vietnam’s superstar and tournament top scorer Nguyen Xuan Son suffered a nasty broken leg just before half time. Thailand scored a questionable goal to take the lead, 2-1. It looked like the stars were aligning to favor Thailand. But no, the football gods just would not have it that way. And in the end, Vietnam’s winning goal would simply trickle in oh-so-slowly to a defenseless goal. What a roller-coaster ride this game was!
Color My World 