RKF-Iloilo Aims for Another Crown in 2026 Cebu City Charter Cup Open
The 2025 Cebu City Sinulog Cup champion, RKF-Iloilo, is making a highly anticipated return to the court, ready to vie for another championship in the upcoming 2026 Cebu City Charter Cup Open. This exciting basketball tournament is scheduled to take place from February 20 to 24 at the Cebu City Sports Institute Gym, located in Barangay Sawang Calero, promising five days of intense competition and thrilling action for fans.
Tournament Details and Participating Teams
Tournament organizer Rocky Alcoseba has confirmed that the event will feature six elite teams, including RKF-Iloilo and other top local squads. Owned by Ryan Keith Fio, RKF-Iloilo boasts a star-studded lineup with several MPBL players, enhanced by the addition of local talents Emman Calo and Reinhard Jumamoy. The team has a strong track record, having won the 2025 Sinulog Cup by defeating Welec Trucking Services and reaching the finals of the 2025 Cebu City Mayor's Cup.
RKF-Iloilo will kick off their campaign against Tigers Ship Builders, a formidable opponent led by Jaybee Mantilla, Paul Desiderio, Shaquille Imperial, Janrey Pasaol, and Kirby Mongcopa from Far Eastern University. Other competing teams include:
- Kuya Eric Team, featuring players like Mac Tallo, JR Quiñahan, Reeve Ugsang, Jancork Cabahug, and Ted Saga
- Mighty Warriors, with Shane Menina, Gab Cometa, and Gileant Delator
- KESB Construction
- Service Heroes
Format and Prize Structure
The six teams are divided into two groups, with each team playing three elimination games against opponents from the opposite group. This round-robin format ensures a fair and competitive path to the championship. The prize money is substantial, with the champion team set to win ₱200,000, the runner-up receiving ₱100,000, and the third and fourth placers taking home ₱50,000 and ₱20,000, respectively.
Event Significance and Accessibility
This tournament marks the third semi-commercial basketball event under the leadership of Mayor Nestor Archival, highlighting the city's commitment to promoting sports and community engagement. In a move to encourage fan participation, admission to all games is completely free, allowing basketball enthusiasts to witness the action live and support their favorite teams without any cost barriers.
