The Davao City Mayor’s Office through the City Muslim Affairs Office, has started the Ramadan Basketball League 2026, a vibrant celebration of brotherhood and sportsmanship, from April 6 to 12, 2026.
From its humble beginnings with six teams, this year’s league brings together 11 teams representing Deedat, Sama, Maguindanaon, Madrasah Comprehensive Development and Promotion Unit, Maranao, Tausug, Iranun, Balik Islam, Kagan, Rimlani Tambuang and Sirawan.
Deputy Mayor Gabriel Nakan, Chairperson of the Davao City Muslim Affairs Committee, said that the basketball league reflects the city’s dedication to youth programs that encourage them to focus on sports in order to develop excellent character and discipline.
“Kani gyud is reminder to everyone nga daghan ta og mga programa na pwede mabuhat. Gina encourage nato ang tanan nga mag focus sa sports ug religion. Ang atoang future generations sa youth gina pa iwas nato sila sa drugs. We promote sports and not drugs kay ang drugs maka daot sa kinabuhi. Ang sports will inspire you to become a good person, a disciplined person and to have a good future in life (This is a reminder to everyone that we have many programs that we can do. We encourage everyone to focus on sports and religion. We are encouraging our future generations, the youth, to stay away from drugs. We promote sports and not drugs because drugs can ruin lives. Sports will inspire you to become a good person, a disciplined person, and to have a good future in life),” he said.
Nakan explained that the games were scheduled after Ramadan to allow participants to focus on Ibadah during the holy month while ensuring that the league remains inclusive.
As the game commences, John Paul Escobal, Madayaw Sports Commissioner, also said during his speech that he looks forward to a safe and inspiring tournament that strengthens bonds across communities.
“I hope ma inspire mo. Continue to do what you’re doing. I wish everybody good luck throughout the tournament. Play hard, play right and carry your team properly (I hope you will be inspired. Continue to do what you’re doing. I wish everybody good luck throughout the tournament. Play hard, play right and carry your team properly),” he added.
The participants will vie for a grand prize of Php 60,000, with Php 40,000 for the first runner-up and Php 30,000 for the second runner-up. CIO
Written by: K. Malasado
Edited by: A. Nawal
Photo by: J. Faelnar