Ilocos Norte proves “sports hub” status at 1st NBTC Regional Finals hosting

Published on: January 22, 2024By: Allyssa Charisse G. Magno

The province of Ilocos Norte strengthens its bid as a premier “sports hub” of the North through the successful hosting of the first National Basketball Training Center (NBTC)-North Luzon Regional Championship (NLRC) from January 19 to 21, with Northern Manila District’s Yengskivel Sportswear emerging victorious.

The success of the event in Ilocos Norte emphasizes the province's  commitment to promoting sports excellence and providing a competitive stage for young athletes to showcase their talents. 

The NBTC-NLRC featured intense and exciting basketball matches that captivated fans and basketball enthusiasts alike. Teams from various provinces in North Luzon competed fiercely for the chance to represent the region in the upcoming NBTC national championship in Metro Manila.

Yengskivel Sportswear, representing the CAMANAVA area, showcased exceptional skills, strategic plays, and steadfast determination throughout the tournament. Their outstanding performance culminated in a thrilling championship game, where they emerged victorious, and crowned as the new “King of the North.”

Aside from CAMANAVA’s Yengskivel Sportswear, the teams from the Philippine College of Science and Technology-Calasiao, Pampanga Lanterns, and Bulacan’s 1 San Rafael each earned a ticket to participate in the Smart-NBTC National Finals at the Mall of Asia Arena this coming March.

With around 400 players, coaches, and technical staffs billeted at the newly constructed Ilocos Norte Sports Institute and Research Athlete’s Dormitory. The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, in collaboration with the NBTC, spared no effort in ensuring that the tournament adhered to the highest standards of safety, fairness, and professionalism. 

As the host province, Ilocos Norte, under the leadership of Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc expresses its gratitude to all participating teams, coaches, sponsors, and supporters who contributed to the success of the NBTC-NLRC. The event's success sets the stage for future collaborations and opportunities to showcase the province’s capability in hosting sporting events on a national level.

This year, Ilocos Norte will host the 2024 Region I Athletic Association Meet. The Provincial Government, headed by Gov. Marcos Manotoc, also successfully  presented its bid to host the Palarong Pambansa in 2025.