The FCIC Secondary Basketball Boys 3×3 team delivered an inspiring and hard-fought performance during the PALASKI sa Baybay City 2025 Division Athletic Meet, securing their place as EVRAA qualifiers after a series of intense matches held from November 29 to December 3, 2025. Representing FCIC were student-athletes Franz Anthony Rebuyas, Rain Salubre, Jaime Valenzona, and James Jeriel Gumapac, coached by Jenny Vabe Dayon with assistance from Ken Alexis Lor both a faculty member.
On Day 1 (November 30) at Hipusngo Gym, Brgy. Hipusngo, Baybay City, Leyte, FCIC opened their campaign against Baybay City Senior High School. Despite a strong performance, the team narrowly fell short after the opponent sank two consecutive 2-point shots in the final seconds, resulting in a close defeat.
The team bounced back on Day 2 (December 1), also held at Hipusngo Gym, where FCIC faced the VSU Bisons. With improved coordination and more aggressive playmaking, the athletes secured a decisive victory, keeping their hopes of advancing in the bracket alive. By Day 3 (December 2), FCIC was determined to push through the standings. Due to their earlier loss, they needed to win a series of knockout games to advance. In a remarkable display of perseverance—competing with only three players as one member suffered from fever—the FCIC team defeated Mailhi National High School, Baybay City National High School, and once again, Baybay City Senior High School, sweeping all matches at the Baybay City National High School venue.
The championship match saw FCIC testing their final strength against Plaridel National High School. With Plaridel holding a twice-to-beat advantage, FCIC had to win two consecutive games. They clinched the first match, took a brief 5-minute reset, and returned to the court with undiminished determination. In a thrilling finish, FCIC emerged victorious in the decisive final match—earning them the coveted title of EVRAA Qualifiers.
This achievement highlights FCIC’s continuing commitment to nurturing student-athletes who embody grit, sportsmanship, and excellence. As the team prepares for their EVRAA journey, the FCIC community celebrates their success and looks forward to supporting them in the regional arena. With this victory, FCIC reinforces its mission of empowering learners not only in academics but also in athletics—cultivating well-rounded students ready to excel at wider competitions.
by Jenny Vabe Dayon
