THE 1st Civil Relations Group, Civil Military Operations Command under the operational control of Northern Luzon Command in partnership with the members of the United States Forces and locals of Sitio Camachile, Brgy. Nabuclod, Floridablanca, Pampanga with the support from 7th Civil Military Operations Battalion, 540th Air Base Group, Air Installation and Base Development Command, Floridablanca Municipal Police Station, Pampanga Police Provincial Office and Pampanga Municipal Office successfully conducted the friendly basketball game dubbed Ligang Bayanihan on March 21, 2026.
This activity marks the finale of Ligang Bayanihan organized by the members of the AFP and US Forces following the series of Basketball tournament conducted in Sta. Ana Cagayan and Cabangan, Zambales. The Ligang Bayanihan is a sports-based security engagement which serves as a testament of the solid alliance between the US and the Philippines, emphasizing common ideals and cooperative security and friendship initiatives.
With players from the uniformed services, US Forces, and locals of Pampanga, the game featured four teams named after PH-US military drills highlighting the celebration of friendship, teamwork, and shared purpose as they enjoyed the friendly match in the court that truly inspires the community.
Also, one of the highlights of the activity was the dance performance of the Aeta Community bringing the story to life through movement and music.
Floridablanca, Pampanga Municipal Mayor Honorable Micheal L. Galang led the symbolic jump-ball and delivered his message stating that maintaining peace, averting violence, and guaranteeing public safety are all part of the government’s common mandate, and activities like this should be supported not just by the individuals in service but by the entire Filipino people.
The event also included an Information Education Campaign about the West Philippine Sea through an Audio-Visual Presentation in order to raise awareness of maritime rights and sovereignty. Further, Col. Enrique G. Rafael, PA, Commander of 1CRG, CMOC AFP led the presentation of the objectives of the annual bilateral exercise Balikatan to give the community better understanding about Balikatan Exercises.
The distribution of merchandise such as bags and T-shirts provided by the US counterparts was also facilitated during the activity that brought excitement and smile to the faces of the people in the community.
The winning team for the friendly game was awarded trophy by the honorable guest together with the officials of the PH-US Armed Forces.
The success of the Ligang Bayanihan series demonstrates the AFP and US Forces’ dedication to organizing activities that will not only define the BALIKATAN as standing shoulder to shoulder during times of conflict but also highlight the ideals of freedom, democracy, and innovation, underscoring the US and Philippines’ long-standing alliance towards peace and progress. (UnliNews Online)
