Team Manila-Philippines reclaimed the 2026 PONY International World Series 18-Under Girls Softball championship with an emphatic 8-1 victory over Texas Pride Elite Team in the title game at McAllen Softball Complex in Texas.
Representing the Asia-Pacific region, the Filipino squad capped an impressive tournament run by defeating the host region’s champion to regain the prestigious international crown before a packed crowd.
The victory marked another milestone for the Big City Softbelles, who previously captured back-to-back PONY World Series titles in 2023 and 2024 in McAllen. The team was also recognized as a Major Awardee during the 2023 Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards (PSA).
This year’s tournament featured top youth softball teams from across the United States, including host Texas, as well as international entries from Mexico, Guatemala, the Bahamas and Puerto Rico.
‘We are very proud of the team’s accomplishments, which is why we continue to support the advancement of these world-class youth athletes who come from poor families in the provinces with the promise of free college education from reputable universities in Manila,’ Team Manila Softball president and Manila Councilor Rafael ‘Che’ Borromeo said.
Borromeo said the team’s latest success has also drawn the attention of US collegiate programs.
Up for US recruitment
According to Borromeo, Texas AandM University and Texas Lutheran University have expressed interest in recruiting star pitcher Edralyn Borrico of Smokey Mountain, Tondo, who led the Philippines in the championship game. Other players reportedly being considered include Mary Antoinette Sicapore, Angelica Jean Latriz, Claire Olarte and Rhea Manalo.
Team Manila-Philippines is backed by Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso, International Container Terminal Services Inc., San Miguel Corporation and the Philippine Sports Commission.
The program has enjoyed sustained international success over the past decade. Team Manila was named the PSA Athletes of the Year in 2012 after winning the country’s first softball world championship at the Girls Big League Softball World Series in Kalamazoo, Michigan. It also earned PSA recognition in 2017 and 2018 after winning consecutive PONY World Series championships in Hemet, California.