Several people were injured after a friendly basketball match in Barangay Agdao, San Carlos City, Pangasinan ended up in a brawl among players and supporters.
The incident, captured on CCTV, showed players initially enjoying the game before chaos ensued.
According to witnesses, a player from one team was punched by members of another team, which resulted in a brawl involving not only players but also some supporters who joined the fray.
"Edgar," the victim, sustained multiple injuries.
Despite attempts by teammates of the victim to intervene, they were reportedly overwhelmed by the sheer number of attackers.
"Hinarang ko ‘yung sumasagi na isa na may bola, bigla ko tinaas ang kamay ko, bigla niya akong siniko, sabay bagsak ang ulo ko, bigla na lang akong sinuntok," Edgar said.
"Yung dito niya, hinampas ng upuan. Marami raw sila na nambugbog, tapos mata niya at dito niya maraming sugat," Edgar's mother said.
Edgar admitted there was tension during the game, but he did not expect it to escalate into violence.
Edgar plans to file charges but is also willing to settle amicably.
"Magsasampa daw ng kaso ang anak ko, kaya lang hindi sila nakikipag-areglo. Once na makipag-areglo sila, sila ang mag-uusap ng anak, ko kasi siya ang nabugbog, nasa likod lang nila ako," Edgar's mother said.
According to the barangay, the victim and the assailants are set to meet each other.
"Wala akong pinapaboran, gusto ko both sides makapag-ayos sila para naman kasi iisang barangay lang sila. Gusto ko pakinggan ko ang bawat hinanakit nila para makapag-ayos sila," Ana Marie Arguel, the Barangay Captain, said.
She said it is important to uphold sportsmanship and discipline in all community activities.
