Batang PBA set for Doha tournament
PBA opens its much delayed 46th season this Friday. INQUIRER FILE
The first global edition of the Batang PBA is set to take place in Doha, Qatar, in late January or early February 2026.
A total of 48 teams across four age groups will compete in the four-day tournament at ACS International Doha School.
Tournament organizer Richard Del Rosario, who also serves as Barangay Ginebra deputy coach, said teams from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are joining, giving the event added international flavor.
Games will be held in the U12, U14, U16 and U19 divisions, following the same format as the regular Batang PBA meet. All matches will be played on a weekend.
A formal press conference is scheduled for Dec. 15 in Bahrain, where the PBA delegation will be based for the Philippine Cup doubleheader between Rain or Shine and Magnolia on Dec. 15, and Rain or Shine and Barangay Ginebra on Dec. 17.
Del Rosario is organizing the global Batang PBA in partnership with Mikee and Sara Calungcaguin.
PBA commissioner Willie Marcial praised the initiative, which comes as the league marks its 50th anniversary season.
“Nagawa natin yung plano natin na mag-global. Naglaro tayo sa Dubai, sa Bahrain at ngayon, itong Batang PBA,” he said. “Ang hindi na lang natin nagagawa yung women’s basketball.”
