The Games and Amusements Board (GAB), led by GAB Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera, welcomed representatives of Powerline Events Management and the Japan B.LEAGUE.
During a courtesy call, they discussed preparations for the B.LEAGUE Manila Games 2026, the first-ever overseas games of Japan’s premier professional basketball league.
During the meeting, organizers presented updates on the landmark event, which will bring Japan B.LEAGUE (Japan Professional Basketball League)clubs Levanga Hokkaido and Gunma Crane Thunders to the SM Mall of Asia Arena on September 9 and 10, 2026, for the league’s first-ever overseas games.
The meeting highlighted the growing popularity of the Japan B.LEAGUE among Filipino fans, fueled by the increasing number of Filipino players competing in Japan.
Both parties expressed optimism that the Manila Games would further strengthen basketball exchanges between the two countries and open opportunities for future international sporting events in the Philippines.
As a country develops economically, the interest in sports also grows.”
“The observation really is that as a country develops economically, the interest in sports also grows. If foreign players will be coming in, it will be of great interest to the locals,” Rivera noted.
“Our principal interest is to help develop Philippine sports.”
“They will see firsthand how (basketball games are) played in Japan. And so, in case you need help from the Games and Amusements Board, we’re always ready. Our principal interest is to help develop Philippine sports,” he added.
The event marks the B.LEAGUE’s 10th anniversary.
It also coincides with the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan.
