Calm After the Storm: The 13th AUBC Concludes with Dignity and Unity.

Calm After the Storm: The 13th AUBC Concludes with Dignity and Unity.  
By: Graham C. Lim

 
What began as a promising finale to the 13th Asian University Basketball Championship (AUBC) ended unexpectedly, with tensions briefly flaring between Mapua University—the 2018 AUBC champion—and Ningbo University from China, the 2019 titleholder. With just under six minutes remaining, the final game was suspended. 
 
While the disruption was regrettable, the grace and sportsmanship shown by Ningbo University in conceding the match allowed the tournament to conclude with dignity. In lieu of spectacle, the championship title was awarded to Mapua University, while Ningbo University received the runner-up trophy in a respectful, subdued ceremony held at the Manila Prince Hotel. From adversity rose a renewed commitment to unity and understanding through sport. 
 
Swift intervention from the Technological University of the Philippines (TUP)-Manila security personnel, alongside the Basketball Association of the Philippines (BAP) game officials and marshals, ensured the situation was brought under control within minutes. The injured player from Ningbo University received prompt care from on-site medical staff, including TUP nurse Ms. Joana Veto, and was transferred to MADOCS Hospital, accompanied by delegates from both Ningbo University and the Federation of School Sports Association of the Philippines (FESSAP). 
 
Heartfelt thanks go to TUP President Engr. Reynaldo Ramos for graciously hosting the championship, and to his dedicated staff led by Athletic Director Allan Soria. Special recognition also goes to the AUBC Tournament Committee: Allan Soria, Cecille Sarmiento, Johny Tam, Romulo Raytos, Fernando Gayanilo, legal adviser Atty. Maria Luz Arzaga Mendoza, and members of the BAP National Referees Group. 
 
The championship was made possible with generous support from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), LT Group Inc., Philippine Airlines (PAL), BESTANK Manufacturing Corporation, ASICS Tiger apparel, KELME Sportswear, Healthy Options, Seascape Village, LIME Resort & Hotel, Burlington Socks, PADDOCK’s Casual Jeans, OMNI Electrical & Lighting, Megaworld Property, and HENN Athletic Club. 
 
FESSAP President Edwin C. Fabro and BAP President Robert Milton Calo who represent the CEO Graham C. Lim of the Asian University Basketball Federation (AUBF), extended their gratitude to all those who helped realize the 13th AUBC as a celebration of international friendship, especially among China, Indonesia, and the Philippines. 
 
The unwavering support of FESSAP’s Board and Patrons—including David Ong (PAL Director), Board Chairman Alvin Tai Lian, Vice Chairman Atty. Baldomero Estenzo, and Vice President Felix Tiukinhoy of Cebu—strengthened the foundation of this championship. 
 
Special thanks also go to Businesswoman-Humanitarian Mary G. Ng, President of the Philippine Inter-School Sport Association and Head of Delegation to the 32nd World University Games, and her deputy Frank Lao, Businessman-Philanthropist, for their leadership and advocacy. 
 
The participating teams—Universitas Islam Indonesia, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, Philippine Normal University, Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), Ningbo University (China), and Mapua University—embodied the spirit of sportsmanship throughout. 
 
A heartfelt note of appreciation is extended to Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, for opening the 13th AUBC with a gracious video message that reaffirmed his unwavering support for youth and collegiate sports development. Honored guests included Paulo Ferreira of Portugal; Farahiza Binti Razali, representing the secretariat of the ASEAN University Sports Council (AUSC); Jimmy Dy, Director of the Asian University Basketball Federation (AUBF); Manila Councilor Jefferson Lau; Arthur Lee of Spurway Company; Christian Tan of Healthy Options; and Rico Hernandez, who represented Senator Go during the opening ceremony.
 
Looking ahead, the 14th Asian University Basketball Championship is scheduled for 2026, with the final venue to be drawn on November 22, 2025. Possible host cities include Taipei, Nan’an, and Bangkok, each with its own promise of sporting excellence and cultural exchange.

---

Mapua University- the 13th AUBC Champion

Trophies provided by PAGCOR, Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Airlines

13th AUBC -Ningbo University -runner-up trophy