MANILA, Philippines—The country tries to boost its badminton buildup by hosting the seven-nation ASEAN School Sports Council championship on June 22-29 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Eight young Filipino shuttlers each in the boys’ and girls’ divisions will face their counterparts from Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand and Brunei in the event hosted by ASSC president and Philippine Sports Commission chair Butch Ramirez.

“We are honored to once again stage in the country the championships participated in by the best student-athletes in Southeast Asia,” said Ramirez. “At the same time, we will be renewing ties with our ASEAN brothers and reinforce oneness in the region.”

Making up the boys’ team are Joeffer Escueta, Patrick Magnaye, Peter Magnaye, Kenneth Monterubio, John Ner, Lance Bautista, Greg Paz and Jerold Valle.

Playing in the girls’ division are Gelita Castillo, Abigail Garcia, Danica Bolos, Camille Yang, Nicole Magno, Jessalam Sampura, Rochelle Andres and Jamie Valle.

The ASSC sports competition for student-athletes 18 years and below usually serves as the initial selection process in forming the training pool of their respective countries.