The Filipino-Chinese Veterans Basketball Association (FCVBA) is set to rekindle its championship drive as it heads to Tangerang, Indonesia next week for the 34th ASEAN Seniors Basketball Tournament, aiming to defend its hard-earned crown in the 70-and-above division.
After reclaiming the title last year with an unbeaten run capped by a commanding 62-40 win over Thailand’s Hatyai squad, the FCVBA’s seasoned warriors are determined to keep their grip on regional supremacy.
A cast of tested champions
Leading this year’s campaign is Danny Ching, a standout from numerous Fil-Chinese leagues during his heyday, alongside former University of the East stalwart Julio Cruz. The veteran core also includes Andrew Ongteco, James Chua, Alfonso Kaw, Edward Tio, Roberto Poblete, and Secinando Santos — all known for their basketball IQ, grit, and unrelenting competitive spirit.
The team is slated to depart on Monday, bringing with them not just skill but decades of friendship and shared battles that have forged their championship pedigree.
For years, the FCVBA has been a fixture of excellence in the ASEAN Seniors circuit, once ruling almost every age group — from 45-and-above to 65-and-above — and earning the “untouchables” moniker among their rivals. While they now focus solely on the 70-and-above bracket, their hunger to win remains unchanged.
Powered by enduring support
The squad’s campaign continues to be bolstered by longtime backers, Rain or Shine co-team owner Terry Que and Ironcon Builders’ Jimi Lim, whose support has helped the team stay competitive on the international stage.
As the FCVBA veterans lace up once more, they carry not just their own legacy, but the pride of the Filipino-Chinese basketball community — proving that the fire of competition never fades with age.