SBP Zone 7 intensified its grassroots basketball development efforts through a series of high-level engagements in Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
The courtesy visits and coordination meetings aim to reinforce partnerships with local government units and key stakeholders.
According to a press release, SBP Zone Director Tony Agustin led a courtesy visit to Dumaguete City Assistant City Administrator and appointed SBP Zone 7 Negros Oriental Provincial Director Dr. Dinno Depositario, followed by a coordination meeting with appointed provincial coordinators.
The discussions focused on aligning local initiatives with SBP’s national mandates, particularly in organizing grassroots development leagues, community tournaments, and sustainable basketball programs across the province.
In a parallel effort to expand its regional footprint, Agustin also paid a courtesy on Siquijor Vice Governor Dindo Tumala. The meeting centered on the implementation of SBP’s core programs and directives at the provincial level, with both parties expressing support for strengthened collaboration in grassroots sports development.
To further institutionalize standards in the game, SBP Zone 7 conducted a coordination meeting with technical officiating groups in Siquijor. The initiative aims to establish a unified and accredited pool of technical officials equipped with the knowledge and experience aligned with SBP and FIBA rules.
Meanwhile, grassroots basketball development efforts continue to expand across the region, with Negros Oriental and Dumaguete City set to host the upcoming SBP Grassroots Program Camp on April 17–19, at Foundation University’s North Campus Gymnasium.
Dumaguete City has been identified as the host for this leg following the successful implementation of the program in Negros Occidental in June 2024. Building on that experience, SBP Zone 7 sees it as both timely and strategic to extend the same opportunity to Negros Oriental. Bringing the camp to Dumaguete will broaden access to high-level training, strengthen the local basketball ecosystem, and inspire young athletes through structured, competitive, and values-driven development. The initiative also supports the city’s continued efforts to promote youth engagement, sports excellence, and community development.
The camp will feature Guest Mentor and Instructor Coach Norman Black, who will lead the training sessions and share his expertise with participating athletes and coaches. He will be joined by Larry Fonacier, Coach Dean Castaño, Hazel Yambot, and Pat Aquino.
Further details will be released once logistical arrangements are finalized. These engagements mark a significant step in SBP Zone 7’s continuing mission to build structured, inclusive, and sustainable basketball programs, ensuring that talent development and opportunities reach communities at the grassroots level.*
