Rain didn’t stop UFO parade

Mother Nature decided to hold her rains long enough for officials to proceed with the opening ceremony of the 6th United Filipino Organization Inter-Organization Basketball League yesterday at the Oleai Sports Complex track and field facility.

With the weather clearing up, the 12 teams that have their eyes set on the championship showed off their uniforms and were accompanied by team muses as they paraded in front of the many spectators, as well as the panel of judges who determined the winners of the uniform and muse contests.

Expected to give defending champion Visminda-Tambayan a run for their money this season are Cabalen-RP Construction/Transamerica, CNMI POWER-Mayor Juan B. Tudela, SIP-Flor A. Miranda, LIPS-Mobil, 287 Club-McDonald’s, MDX Amateur Radio Club-Armatech, Bayani-HBR International, SMF-Shell, Cavite-Country House, Bibak-Island Card, and NAMFREL-Region V/Sabungero.

After showing off their colors, all teams rested at their assigned areas for the national anthems and invocation, followed by opening remarks by UFO president Roland D. Pamintuan, who expressed his appreciation to all involved in the organizing and planning of the league, as well as all the participants.

“This is your league,” Pamintuan told all in attendance. “Even though Mother Nature was not cooperating early, I would like to thank the Lord for giving us fair weather. We are committed to make this league better every year for you to enjoy. Without you guys, this will not be a success.”

All in attendance were also provided with live entertainment with a touch of Polynesian flavor as the members of the Te Kanahau Nui Dance Group took center stage and drew applause with traditional numbers.

The UFO season officially got underway after 2004 most valuable player Leo Itaas raced halfway through the track and lit the Olympic torch.

Live entertainment was also provided by the Bayani Dance Troop and the Evolution Band. The opening ceremony was also graced with the presence of Mayor Tudela, Philippine Consul General Wilfredo Maximo, and members of the Northern Marianas College Nursing Department who provided free blood pressure and blood sugar checks.

Later in the afternoon, Bayani’s Princess Adela Gracia DLC Lifoifoi won Best Muse and Bayani and CNMI POWER were tied for Best Uniform. Best Muse runner-up was Sheila D. Ho of Cabalen and third place was Janice Dabau of 287 Club. Cabalen and 287 Club likewise finished second and third in the Best Uniform competition.

The league is sponsored by MARPAC, and co-sponsored by Coca Cola.

UFO also sponsored a Mass for all teams and sponsors at the San Antonio Church yesterday morning.

For more information about the 6th Annual UFO Basketball League, contact Pamintuan at 234-8391 or 287-7864.