12 April 2026 – The Calgary Inter-club Basketball Association (CIBA) officially launched its Semi-pro League on 12 April 2026 at the East Gym of the Heritage Christian Academy in Calgary, bringing together eight (teams from across Calgary in a celebration of sport, community, and Filipino pride.)
Consul General Emma Sarne attended the opening ceremony and encouraged players to compete with discipline, sportsmanship, and heart. “As a basketball fan and proud supporter of Gilas Pilipinas, may you always give your best on court,” she said.
CIBA League Commissioner Coach Alejandro ‘Andy’ De Guzman highlighted the league’s mission to develop basketball talent within the Filipino-Canadian community. A former PBA player and FEU Tamaraw, he noted that the league follows a structured drafting system to ensure balanced and competitive play among participating teams, and expressed hope of seeing Filipino-Calgarian athletes progress to higher levels, including potential representation in basketball leagues in the Philippines and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).
In a forward-looking initiative, Consul General Sarne introduced the possibility of creating a “Consul General’s Cup,” a regional tournament that would bring together champion teams from Filipino basketball leagues across Alberta, with possible expansion to Saskatchewan. The initiative aims to elevate competition and strengthen ties within the Filipino basketball community, especially with the youth teams. League organizers welcomed the proposal and expressed support for its development. Consul General Sarne encouraged stakeholders to collaborate with the Consulate in turning the vision into reality.
The league’s opening day continued with its first game held at Shoot 360 Calgary, signaling the start of the season.
The CIBA Semi-Pro League reflects the community’s continued commitment to fostering athletic excellence, unity, and cultural pride through basketball. END
