KIDAPAWAN CITY — Basketballs bounced and volleyballs soared through packed gymnasiums across Cotabato province as athletes from Muslim, Christian and Indigenous communities competed in tournaments designed to achieve something far larger than victory on the scoreboard: strengthening peace in one of the country’s most historically divided regions.
The Office of Cotabato Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza organized the sports competitions, bringing together high school and college students from the province’s 17 municipalities and 40 barangays right here in Kidapawan City, the provincial capital. Among the participants were individuals identified with former Moro rebel organizations, their presence on the same teams reflecting the changing realities of a region still navigating reconciliation.
Provincial officials said the tournaments were intended not only to promote cultural and religious understanding but also to steer young people toward constructive pursuits. “We want our youth to pursue sports for leisure and fame rather than become victims of narcotics,” officials said.
Brig. Gen. Allan Manibog of Police Regional Office 12, along with commanders of the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division and 6th Infantry Division, pledged support for future interfaith sporting events. The 10th Infantry Division oversees Kidapawan City and nearby upland municipalities, including areas bordering Maguindanao del Sur.
Major General Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, framed such activities as effective tools for fostering solidarity among young people while discouraging involvement in destructive vices.
According to local reports, athletes representing Magpet, Mlang, Antipas and Carmen, along with participants from Kidapawan City, emerged as winners in the basketball and volleyball competitions held at the provincial capitol.
Building Peace Through Sports
This initiative is a powerful reminder that sports can transform communities. Whether it’s basketball, volleyball, or any team sport, having the right custom jerseys and uniforms brings teams together and builds camaraderie. For schools, barangays, and organizations looking to join future tournaments, personalized team uniforms can foster that same sense of unity and pride.
Now serving her second term, Taliño-Mendoza has become one of the region’s most visible advocates of anti-drug initiatives and peace efforts. She chairs the Regional Development Council in Region 12 and has played a key role in programs supporting peace agreements with both the MNLF and MILF.
The tournaments offered a different narrative for Mindanao: competition became cooperation, former adversaries became teammates, and the path toward lasting peace ran through the simple rituals of sport.
Get Your Team Gear Ready
If your barangay, school, or organization is planning to join peace-building sports events like these, custom-printed jerseys are a great way to show team spirit. At PH Shirt, we offer high-quality team uniforms perfect for basketball, volleyball, and other sports leagues. Show your community pride with designs that represent your barangay or school!