CEBU CITY, Philippines — The first-ever Cebu City Inter-Collegiate Invitational Basketball Tournament, held from August 20 to 25 at the Cebu City Sports Institute in Barangay Sawang Calero, ended on a high note, according to tournament commissioner and local sports advocate Rocky Alcoseba.

Alcoseba highlighted the strong public engagement as a major factor in the event's success. Backed by the Cebu City government, the competition not only featured thrilling matchups among premier collegiate teams but also incorporated a unique environmental campaign championed by Mayor Nestor Archival.

A notable initiative required spectators to bring plastic bottles as their entry fee, which contributed to the collection of over 700 kilograms of single-use plastics during the six-day tournament. Alcoseba remarked, "It is heartening to see our community embrace Mayor Archival’s environmental efforts through sports. Collecting such a substantial amount in just under a week demonstrates the commitment of Cebuanos. The mayor is delighted that our event supports his advocacy."

Highlighting the competitive landscape, the tournament featured esteemed teams including the Adamson Soaring Falcons, who clinched the championship, the St. Benilde Blazers as runners-up, the Perpetual Altas, alongside local teams the USJ-R Jaguars and USC Warriors.

Encouraged by the event’s positive reception, Alcoseba is already looking forward to hosting an expanded edition. "The turnout exceeded expectations, and the enthusiastic crowd confirms the strong basketball culture here. The last similar tournament dated back to 2013, and despite unfavorable weather, the support was remarkable," he commented.

Plans include upgrading the event’s facilities and exploring partnerships for venues like the Cebu Coliseum and SM Seaside Arena to accommodate larger audiences.

Discussing future schedules, Alcoseba revealed ongoing consultations with Mayor Archival regarding the possibility of holding a follow-up tournament either during the Christmas season or aligned with the Sinulog festivities in January. "We aim to organize either a Christmas league or a Sinulog Cup, but will select only one to ensure thorough preparation," he explained.

Efforts to involve Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) teams were challenged by scheduling conflicts, as the PBA season runs from October to February. However, discussions are advancing with international teams, including one from Australia’s National Basketball League and another from the East Asia Super League.

Alcoseba also emphasized the importance of competitive balance, considering invitations to strong local squads such as the Cebu Greats, CM Farm, Quezon City Huskers, and RKF Iloilo to face the visiting foreign teams. "Collaborations with reputable local teams will provide quality competition; these ideas are being actively explored in coordination with basketball personalities like Dondon Hontiveros," he added.

The tournament marks a significant milestone in Cebu City's sporting calendar, blending athletic competition with environmental responsibility and community involvement, with ambitious plans to elevate its scale and impact in the years to come.