The Filipinos clash with defending champion Malaysia at 12:30 p.m. while Thailand battles Singapore at 3 p.m. to kick off the week-long event organized by the Basketball Association of the Philippines and the provincial and city governments of Quezon and Lucena City and supported by Burlington Socks, Healthy Options, Absolute Distilled Water, Molten, the official ball, FedEx, Lifan, ACCEL and the Philippine Sports Commission.
"We’re very happy that after almost two months of preparations, the tournament will finally take off today. This is a great privilege for all of us here in Quezon. Rest assured that we will do everything to ensure its success," said Quezon Governor Willie Enverga, who had personally oversaw the preparation for the event.
A brief but meaningful opening ceremony will usher in the games beginning at 10 a.m., with Philippine Olympic Committee Chairman Robert Aventajado serving as guest of honor and keynote speaker.
Also expected to grace the opening ceremony are Governor Enverga and Mayor Ramon Talaga and BAP officials Quinteliano "Tiny" Literal, president; EVP Christian Tan, Graham Lim, secretary-general and Tony Fabico, treasurer.
After a dismal fourth-place finish two years ago, the 18-under squad coached by Johny Tam is aiming for no less than the championship in the four-team field, which also include Singapore and Thailand.