RP is 'epicenter' of pool - Billiards Digest

Billiards Digest, the world-renowned billiards magazine, has cited the Philippines as the emerging “epicenter of international pool" and named billiards patron Yen Makabenta its “Man of the Year" for major contributions made to the sport in 2006. A press statement said the awards were among several handed down by the magazine in its 11th Annual Awards, which are the main feature of its February edition. “With nearly three generations of great Pinoy players in good stroke all at once, and the strength of an egalitarian promoter and government agency behind them, it looks like the Philippines will be the epicenter of international pool for the foreseeable future," said the magazine. Makabenta, chairman of the Billiards and Snooker Congress of the Philippines, was honored for his leadership in bringing the 2006 World Pool Championship to Manila and establishing the highly successful national program of exposing new Filipino players on the world stage, staging pool events and winning honors for the country. BD also cited the Philippine crowd watching the WPC at the PICC as “the Classiest Crowd of the Year" for its impressive show of support for Ralf Souquet during the awards ceremonies, when the German nearly broke into tears. The magazine noted: “The Filipino crowd…began chanting ‘Souquet! Souquet!’, and applauding until he lifted his head and waved. It was a genuine exchange of respect and gratitude that no one will soon forget." - GMANews.TV