Bulacan Vice Governor Alex Castro officially launched the third season of the Makata Cup basketball league, which features 69 teams from 23 cities and municipalities, with hopes of expanding the event across the province. The season began on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Bulacan Capitol Gymnasium in Malolos City, with Castro expressing his commitment to making this season the biggest and most exciting yet.

Expansion and Growth of the Makata Cup

The Makata Cup, initially a small inter-barangay event, has grown into a regional competition with teams from across Bulacan. This year’s tournament includes three age divisions: below 25, 26 to 39, and 40 and above. According to Castro, the league has outgrown its origins in Balagtas and now includes participants from 23 cities and municipalities, reflecting a broader community engagement.

Castro emphasized that the third season would take place in multiple locations, moving beyond the Capitol Gymnasium to covered courts in various cities and municipalities. This change aims to increase accessibility and participation, ensuring that more communities can host and attend the games.

Castro also highlighted the financial incentives for the champions, noting that significant cash prizes are being offered, supported by Governor Daniel Fernando. The vice governor, who took over the league’s management in season 2, was present for the opening ceremony and participated in the ceremonial ball toss alongside San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, the guest of honor, and Baliwag Vice Mayor Ferdie Estrella.

Origins and Evolution of the Makata Cup

The Makata Cup was first established in 2023 as an inter-barangay event in the town of Balagtas, under the leadership of then Mayor Eladio Gonzales Jr., who is considered the league’s founder. The event was initially designed to promote local talent and community bonding through sports.

According to Castro, the league’s growth has been significant, with more teams and more cities participating each year. The transition from an inter-barangay event to a larger inter-town competition demonstrates the increasing popularity of the Makata Cup, which now serves as a platform for athletes of different age groups to showcase their skills.

Castro expressed his pride in the league’s development and acknowledged the contributions of its founder. ‘The Makata Cup has become a symbol of unity and competition in our province,’ he said during the opening ceremony. ‘We are committed to ensuring that this season is not only bigger but also more inclusive and accessible to all communities.’

Competition and Future Prospects

The third season of the Makata Cup features teams from Marilao and San Jose Del Monte, which will attempt to retain their titles in different divisions. These two cities have been strong contenders in previous seasons, and their participation is expected to raise the level of competition.

With the expansion of the event to multiple locations, the Makata Cup is anticipated to attract more spectators and participants. Officials from the Bulacan provincial government are optimistic about the league’s potential to become a major sporting event in the region, possibly leading to future collaborations with local businesses and sponsors.

Castro has indicated that the success of the third season will determine whether the league continues to grow in the coming years. ‘If this season is successful, we may explore the possibility of expanding the Makata Cup to other provinces in the future,’ he said.

The Makata Cup’s third season is set to run through April 2026, with regular matches scheduled in different cities and municipalities. The final showdown will take place in May, with the champion to be crowned in a special event.