Ueda, Ofilada lead Phl clouters As-Pac campaign

MANILA, Philippines - Ace Filipino-Japanese hurler Yoji Ueda and top hitter Paya Ofilada will spearhead the Philippines’ campaign in the Asia-Pacific Zone Bronco Pony Baseball tournament slated July 17-21 in South Korea.

The Filipino clouters are eyeing no less than the championship in the event, which stakes a berth in this year’s Bronco World Series set Aug. 4-11 in Monterey, California.

The 11-12 years old batters will be named the Philippine Habagat, a Tagalog word meaning southwest monsoon, according to head coach and team manager Mike Ochosa.

“This team is called Phl Habagat, which describes what the team is all about, strength and speed,” said Ochosa in yesterday’s PSA Forum at the Shakey’s UN Ave. in Manila.

The other members of the team are second baseman Gabby Angeles, shortstop Nico Batungbacal, pitchers Chris Clark and Basti Valmores, outfielder Manuel Guzman, catcher Ivan Hernandez, first base Geoff Magsadia, rightfield Jaz Monzones, centerfield Miguel Ochosa and third base Anton Rosas.

Ronnie Lugay and Kelly Culubong are the other members of the coaching staff.

The Habagat, whose Korea stint is sanctioned by Pony Baseball Phils., headed by Rodolfo “Boy” Tingzon Jr., is being supported by The Fields at Nuvali, Laguna, Cebu Pacific, Pagcor, Asia Brewery’s 100 Plus and Summit Mineral Water.                               

Ochosa, however, said they are still looking for more sponsors to finance their Korea trip.

“We hope to become the next Manny Pacquaio and Azkals of pony baseball but we would be needing all the support and help we could get,” said Ochosa.