Filipino hoopers in UAE to hold Kalayaan Dubai Cup in celebration of PH Indepence Day

Filipino basketball players and fans from across the United Arab Emirates are set to come together for the Kalayaan Dubai Cup 2026 on June 12, coinciding with the celebration of Philippine Independence Day.

According to a press release, the tournament will be held at the DSF Al Rigga Basketball Court in Dubai and is expected to draw Filipino teams from different parts of the UAE. Guest teams from the Philippines are also scheduled to participate.

A total of AED 20,000 or around P330,000 in cash prizes will be at stake during the competition organized by T3T Sport Management and Phil Pro Consultancies.

Organizers described the event as an opportunity to bring Filipinos together through a shared passion for basketball while celebrating national pride and community ties abroad.

The event has the support of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and members of the Filipino community in the UAE.

—Carby Basina/JKC, GMA News