The East Asia Super League (EASL) is bringing world-class basketball action to Cebu City with a special charity game featuring the Meralco Bolts against the Macau Black Bears. This exciting matchup will take place on November 15, 2025, at the historic Cebu Coliseum, with tip-off scheduled for 6:00 PM.
Teams and Players Ready for Action
The Meralco Bolts enter the game with strong momentum, holding a 2-1 win-loss record in the current EASL season. Their roster showcases a blend of local talent and international reinforcements that promises an electrifying performance.
Leading the Bolts are local stars Chris Newsome, Chris Banchero, and Raymond Almazan. They will be supported by their formidable imports, including former NBA player Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Iranian guard Vahedi Mohammadsina, and Cuban big man Ismael Romero.
The Macau Black Bears will be making their season debut in this charity matchup. Their squad features several notable players ready to make an impact, including Phoenix Shackelford, Lao Chong Pong, Omari Peek-Green, Torrence Watson, and Damian Chong Qui.
Basketball for a Cause
This event carries special significance beyond the court, as it serves as a fundraising initiative for victims of Typhoon Tino, which recently devastated parts of Cebu. Organizers emphasized that the game represents basketball with a purpose.
During a press conference held on November 14, 2025, Meralco Bolts Team Manager Paolo Trillo expressed his enthusiasm for playing in Cebu while highlighting the charitable aspect of the event.
"It's no secret that the Cebuanos are some of the best fans in the world, most avid basketball fans. So there's a lot of excitement to be playing over here," Trillo stated. "But what made it more exciting for us is the basketball for a cause here in Cebu."
Trillo also revealed that the Meralco organization has already raised P500,000 to donate to victims of both the recent earthquake and typhoon that affected the region. This amount will be supplemented by additional proceeds generated through the EASL's efforts.
Community Support and Excitement
The press conference demonstrated strong local government support, with attendance from Cebu City Councilor Jose Abellanosa and Cebu City Sports Commission Chairman Dr. Rhoel Dejaño. Also present was EASL Senior Vice President and Head of Operations Dominic Tang, underscoring the league's commitment to the charitable event.
The Bolts come into this game fresh from an 85-76 victory over the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots on November 8 in Ilagan, Isabela. As the Philippine Basketball Association's representative in the EASL, they carry the hopes of local basketball fans seeking international success.
This charity game not only promises thrilling basketball entertainment for Cebuano sports enthusiasts but also provides meaningful support for communities recovering from recent natural disasters that have impacted the region.
