SM Seaside Arena to host back-to-back major sports events next month

CEBU, Philippines — Cebuano sports fans are in for a treat as two major events, just a week apart from each other, will take place at the newly opened SM Seaside Cebu Arena next month.

First, the East Asia Super League will make history as the first professional sports league to host a game at the 16,000-seat venue when it stages the opening games of the EASL 2026-27 Season on October 3.

The opening day double-header features the EASL debut of the Abra Solid North Weavers from the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL).

Abra will have its baptism of fire on the international stage against the Hong Kong Eastern.

In the other matchup, the Macau Hou Chon will collide against the Taipei Fubon Braves.

Bigtime volleyball comes after basketball.

On October 10, the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) and Spikers’ Turf will hold the grand opening of their landmark 10th season at the cavernous arena, which officially opened to the public just last month.

The Cebu celebration will feature a blockbuster triple-header, highlighted by two PVL matches.

Choco Mucho, led by Cebuana star Sisi Rondina, and Capital1 will open the volleyball festivities at 1 p.m., followed by the featured Creamline-Akari clash at 6 p.m.

Sports Vision’s decision to bring the season-opening games to Cebu highlights the province’s deep volleyball roots and its continuing contribution to the development of the sport.

Cebu has long been a hotbed of volleyball talent, producing established stars, promising young players and a steady stream of athletes who have made their mark in both the PVL and Spikers’ Turf. — (FREEMAN)