First and foremost, we're Cebuanos

It has been some time since I have seen a jam-packed Capitol Social Hall, but yesterday it was.

Athletes and officials participating in the Gov. Gwen Garcia Unity Volleyball (GUV) Cup packed the social hall for the general assembly that also included the drawing of lots for the game schedules and the turn over of equipment for training.

Gov. Gwen did not only look radiant, but pleasantly surprised when she walked into the social hall yesterday to speak to the players.

To my recollection, this is the biggest-ever volleyball tournament that has been put together not just in Cebu, but also probably the country. More than being a grand event, I believe that this should also be used as a catalyst for unity among the Cebuanos and for sports development.

This early, many are already talking for the next edition of the tournament and also probably a men's event in the future.

The next time, other sports events could also be included, but then no amount of work that the government and private sector would put in can make such things happen without the cooperation of the people.

It was a beautiful sight to see those town officials, players, and supporters flock to the Capitol for the general assembly. I wish that events like the GUV Cup can happen more often, but there are limitations in terms of resources that we must also deal with.

If all the towns and cities participating can come up with something on their own little way after this tournament, then I would say that is when the GUV Cup will start reaping its dividends.

Just as the governor said, let us transcend all barriers and unite for Cebu. I am heeding that call without any political color and not just for sports, but most importantly as a Cebuano.

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My duties as part of the organizing committee of the GUV Cup made me miss my scheduled tee off yesterday for my second round of the 70th Anniversary Tournament of Club Filipino Incorporada de Cebu in Danao City.

After a photofinish in the opening round owing to arriving just in the nick of time when my flight teed off, I was hoping to make up for lost ground yesterday, but I lost all ground instead.

One thing I did notice about the course in Danao is that it seems to have come to full bloom for this 70th anniversary celebration of the club.

I wish Maestro Peter Chiongbian, the man who built the course, were still around to see this all happen. But I'm sure he is up there happily looking down upon us who have enjoyed playing the course that will be his legacy.

To the officers of Club Filipino, most specially president Renato V. Osmeña, it has been a job well done - congratulations!

Club Filipino may have lost its old golf course, but the good old times have never really faded away, they just moved to a new venue up north.

See you at tomorrow's awarding ceremony.

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MILESTONE: A belated happy birthday to my good friend Simonette Serra-Guanzon, who turned a year older yesterday.

Bon voyage to my dear cousin, Joyce Lebumfacil-Manigsaca and her husband Alex and kids Ania and Alecka, who will be heading back to New Zealand today. We will be missing you again!

Bon voyage also to my high school classmate, Dr. Rhea Taok-Kong, who is heading back to Canada today with her family.