BACOLOD City – The Gilas Pilipinas Legends held off Pinoy basketball icons, 93-90, in the “Legends Rise: MassKara Gugma All-Star Exhibition Game” that highlighted the opening weekend of the MassKaralympics 2025 at the USLS Coliseum here.
Former Gilas sharpshooter Jeffrei Chan made a triumphant return before his fellow Bacolodnons, joining a powerhouse lineup that featured Marc Pingris, Dondon Hontiveros, Gary David, Arwind Santos, Ranidel De Ocampo, Cyrus Baguio, Willie Miller, Ryan Reyes, and Asi Taulava.
The Gilas Legends survived a late rally from their counterparts to secure the three-point victory, giving local fans a showcase of both nostalgia and high-level basketball during the city’s signature festival.
Festival director Rodney Ascalon said the participation of Chan and other Gilas greats elevated the MassKaralympics to another level.
“It’s not just about competition; it’s about celebrating community, unity, and the enduring Bacolodnon spirit of resilience and joy,” Ascalon said.
The all-star game is among the 28 sporting events scheduled in this year’s MassKaralympics, one of the centerpiece programs of the MassKara Festival.
Other events include the 1st Mayor Greg Gasataya MassKara Volleyball Cup, the 4th MassKara Tchoukball Tournament, the 1st MassKara Pickleball Tournament, the 1st MassKara 3×3 Basketball Tournament, the BMX and Skateboard Competitions, and the City of Smiles International Marathon.
Venues across Bacolod such as the USLS Coliseum, Montalbo Gym, Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club, Bacolod Skate Park, and the Provincial Capitol Lagoon are hosting the weeklong festivities.
With Bacolod’s local athletes competing alongside national icons, the MassKaralympics 2025 has further cemented its status as one of the most anticipated highlights of the MassKara Festival./PN
