WITH the ongoing renovation of the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium set for target completion by the third quarter of 2026, the Philippine Amateur Baseball Association (PABA) seeks to host international baseball tournaments in the future.
That is on top of holding a national championship in the fourth quarter of the year, said PABA secretary general Michael Asuncion.
"PABA plans to host a National Baseball Championship in the fourth quarter of the year and is eyeing the hosting of the Baseball Federation of Asia (BFA) East Asia Cup," Asuncion said to The Manila Times.
"We're looking at the U12 Asian Championships, a Coaches' Training Seminar, and an Umpire's Seminar in cooperation with the Baseball Federation of Asia, and the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC)."
If the U12 Asian Championships is awarded to the Philippines, Asuncion said PABA is looking to hold it in November or December this year.
Looking to meet international standards, the Rizal Baseball Stadium renovation features the rehabilitation of the playing field, the installation of a modern scoreboard, and upgraded spectator seating.
PABA is working with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in this project, which is one of the baseball federation's top priorities that also include national team support and sustainable nationwide grassroots program.
"The renovation of the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium is a testament to the serious attention being given today by the Philippine Sports Commission to the sport of baseball where Filipinos have so much potential," said Asuncion.
"Such undertaking to transform and renovate the icon of baseball in the Philippines is a renewed commitment to the development of the sport. PABA is also excited to collaborate with Prisaa (Private Schools Athletic Association) in conducting provincial and regional tournaments."
After winning the Philippines' third straight and fourth overall Southeast Asian Games baseball championship last December in Thailand, Asuncion said that PABA is gearing up the national team for the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan this year.
"PABA is also preparing for the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan this year. Busy is how we see 2026 for baseball's institutional reforms. Let's walk the talk," said Asuncion.
