The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Tuesday launched its inaugural MMDA Cup 2024 at San Juan City’s Filoil EcoOil Centre.
The opening ceremony was spearheaded by MMDA Acting Chairman Don Artes, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora, Metro Manila mayors, and tournament director Pido Jarencio.
The MMDA Cup 2024 aims to help and encourage government employees to actively participate in sports for a healthier and more active lifestyle.
Players from the 17 Metro Manila local government units and national government agencies will show off their sporting skills through basketball and volleyball.
Artes said the MMDA Cup is a celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie among LGUs and government agencies, serving as a platform for fostering unity and cooperation within communities.
Abalos also highlighted the importance of teamwork, not only in the game but most especially in serving the public.
Meanwhile, Zamora expressed his gratitude to Artes for the initiative of bringing the local governments together through the MMDA Cup.
In attendance at the opening ceremony were Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco, Pasay City Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, and Manila City Mayor Maria Sheilah Pangan-Lacuna.
The sports tournament started with a parade of basketball and volleyball teams. Here, muses from participating agencies strutted around the venue while showcasing elegance and style, with Parañaque City government’s Nicole Grencio awarded as Best Muse.
Professional basketball players and UAAP Champion Ricci Rivero, DLSU’s JC Macalalang, and 4-peat UAAP Champion from National University volleyball player Joshua Retamar also gave their messages of support for the sports tournament and encouragement to the players.
The MMDA Cup 2024 is in partnership with PhilHealth Insurance Corporation, Joyride Philippines, and San Miguel Corporation. The games are also sponsored by International Solid Waste Integrated Management Specialist, Inc., Cleanfuel Group of Companies, SM Supermalls, Cherry, Maynilad, Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund Inc., and Manila Electric Company.