• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and Bago City Football Club emerged as the biggest winners in the Second District Rep. Alfredo Marañon III-backed CASAMA Cup 2026, taking home the championship titles and top cash prizes in the tournament’s Open and U18 divisions, respectively.
The PAF ruled the Open Division after edging Sagay City Football Club, 6-5, in a thrilling championship match at the Sagay National High School football field, Saturday.
For its victory, the Air Force received P50,000 in cash, while Sagay City FC settled for first runner-up and a P30,000 prize.
UNO-R finished second runner-up and received P20,000, while the Philippine Army placed third runner-up.
In the U18 Division, Bago City Football Club captured the championship and earned a P50,000 cash prize, completing a strong showing in the youth competition. Sagay City FC finished first runner-up with P30,000.
The week-long tournament, held from Aug. 30 to Sept. 6, brought together established and emerging football teams from Negros Occidental and other areas.
The CASAMA Cup was initiated by Rep. Marañon III in partnership with Sagay City Mayor Bebo Cueva and Vice Mayor Narwin Javelosa.
More than the cash prizes, the tournament provided players, particularly young athletes, with a competitive venue to sharpen their skills and gain valuable experience, said Marañon.
The competition also underscored the importance of sustaining grassroots sports programs that give young athletes opportunities to develop their talent while promoting teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship.
Organizers said the CASAMA Cup further strengthened Sagay City’s role as a venue for football development and community-based sports activities in Negros Occidental. | GPB
