Minglanilla apologizes after scuffle erupts

CEBU, Philippines — The Municipal Government of Minglanilla has issued a formal apology after a scuffle disrupted the town’s All-Star Basketball game against the visiting team, The Th3rd Floor.

In its statement, the local government of Minglanilla admitted the incident was “physical and uncalled for” and stressed that it does not reflect the values of the community.

“That moment is not who we are. Minglanilla is a town that loves its sport and its people, and we hope that lapse in judgment doesn’t tarnish our town,” the message read.

The game, held as part of the annual fiesta honoring the Immaculate Heart of Mary, culminated in a dramatic finish when actor Gerald Anderson sank the decisive buzzer-beater, sealing a 76–75 victory for The Th3rd Floor.

But the celebration was briefly overshadowed when a Minglanilla player clashed with actor Lance Carr, prompting fellow actor Marco Gallo to step in before teammates and officials intervened.

Acting Vice Mayor and Team Manager Romulos Laput, together with Assistant Manager Ed Zafra, immediately reprimanded the local player after the final buzzer.

The LGU emphasized that apologies were extended directly to The Th3rd Floor team, led by Anderson, to assure them that such behavior “has no place in this team.”

The statement went further, reminding the public of the values that should guide sportsmanship.

“Basketball is a contact sport; that’s part of what makes it exciting. But even in the most physical of games, it’s still the rules, and the respect between players, that keep things fair and safe,” the LGU said.

It added, “If there’s one thing we hope everyone takes away from last night, it’s this: no matter how talented you are, how you carry yourself on the court matters just as much. Skill wins games, but respect wins hearts, and in the long run, that’s what people remember.”

Officials also tied the message back to the fiesta’s religious significance.

“We hope this becomes a lesson, not a stain on our town. This game was part of our annual fiesta in honor of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and as her devotees, may it remind us all of kindness and humility, and make us promote unity and love for one another,” the statement continued.

The LGU concluded with a call for reconciliation. “May forgiveness reign and leave us holding on to the good memories rather than the misstep,” it said.

Clips of the scuffle have since circulated widely online, but the town hopes the incident will be remembered as a lesson in discipline and respect rather than a blemish on Minglanilla’s reputation. — (FREEMAN)