Cebu Classic looking for sponsors in MPBL return

CEBU, Philippines — The management of Cebu Classic is looking for potential sponsors in a bid to strengthen their highly anticipated return in the 2025 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) season set to kick off on March 8 at the Capital Arena in Ilagan, Isabela.

Team owner Voltaire Morales Ora, who bought the Cebu franchise in MBPL from the International Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (IPI), said any form of assistance they could get, be it from the private or public sector, will surely be a big boost to Cebu’s comeback from a five-year hiatus in the regional cage league founded by boxing icon Manny Pacquiao.

“We need the support of local companies or individuals. It is very essential to bolster our goal of breathing life back to Cebu basketball,” said Ora. “Having said that, I’m enjoining everyone to help us bring Cebu’s banner in the MPBL through a concerted effort.”

Ora said they already had initial talks with Wilson Villanueva of EGS and Ian Callet of CSAS, who expressed their intent of backstopping Cebu’s MPBL campaign in their own capacity.

“Having some benefactors will get us towards our desired results and provide us a clear path to success,” Ora continued. “Hopefully we can draw a positive response from the Cebuano community on this aspect.”

Ora said interested parties may contact 09684485864 or send e-mail to [email protected].

Meanwhile, Ora said they are now in the final stage of completing their lineup as well as designating a head coach whom they feel is best suited for the job.

Already a shoo-in for Cebu Classic’s roster are former PBA players Greg Slaughter, Paolo Hubalde and Rashawn McCarthy and MPBL veterans Darrell Manliguez and Dennis Santos.

Ora said they will set up a formal launching of the team once everything is already in place.