BACOLOD CITY, Sept. 23 — Murcia’s young softball champions, winners of the 14-and-under division of the 2026 West Zone Softball PONY World Series in California, paid a courtesy call on Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson.
The team from Murcia Open Bible Christian Academy, Inc. (MOBCA) won the title in Hemet, California, at a tournament held July 28 to Aug. 2. MOBCA went undefeated in five games, beating HK California, 11-1, in the championship game.
At the Provincial Capitol, Lacson chatted with the players about their run to the title and assured them of the provincial government’s continued support.
He also reminded them that as student-athletes, their studies should remain their top priority.
Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, who also attended, echoed the promise of support. He said the Panaad sports facility will soon be ready to serve Negros Occidental athletes as a place where they can continue training.
Head coach Edna Mae Severino and accompanying coach Carlito T. Benjamin joined the players at the Capitol. Also present were Christina Gabaya, Sports Development Officer 2, and Robel Ramos, Sports Development Officer 1, both of the Negros Occidental Provincial Sports Office.
The Capitol visit followed an Aug. 27 courtesy call at the Department of Education – Negros Island Region (DepEd NIR), where the players presented their tournament banner to Regional Director Dr. Ramir B. Uytico and Assistant Regional Director Anthony H. Liobet. MOBCA chairman Rev. Dr. Exequiel F. Guanzon and school representative Vina M. Calsado accompanied the team on that visit.
