Davao City's bowling community celebrated a night of champions as architect Jesrael Rule secured his second Bowler of the Year award. The honor was presented during the Davao Tenpin Bowlers Association (DATBA) Christmas party on the evening of Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the Rancho Palos Verdes Golf & Sports Club in Davao Riverfront Corporate City.
A Season of Dominance and Resilience
The 39-year-old athlete ruled the lanes throughout 2025, successfully defending his MCBA CDO Open title for a second straight year (2024–2025). His consistent performance was evident in other major tournaments, where he placed fourth in both the classified and open divisions of the KBA CDO Open in February, and fourth in the open division of the Araw ng Dabaw Open in March.
Rule spectacularly capped his season on December 13, achieving a perfect streak of 10 consecutive strikes during a Saturday tournament, a clear demonstration of his peak form and technical skill.
A Humble Champion's Journey
In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Rule reflected on a career built on perseverance. "I never thought I’d get this award," he admitted. "In my rookie years, I struggled while others excelled. I used to bowl 24 sets and still didn’t make the finals. But I kept going."
He traced his breakthrough to his first national title at the 13th Kadayawan Open in 2018. The past year presented its own hurdles, including a shoulder injury that forced a three-month hiatus. "When I returned in August, I expected nothing, worried about defending my MCBA Open title in Cagayan de Oro," Rule shared. "But I found my rhythm and managed to win again, defeating teammate Crystal Chavez." This latest award marks his third Bowler of the Year honor, adding to four national titles collected over a decade with DATBA.
Recognizing New Talent and Leadership
The association also spotlighted its future stars. Rookie of the Year was awarded to Romulo Ablas, who joined DATBA in December 2024 and swiftly claimed multiple championships in local and national contests. Chad Romano Tancontian, a national champion in the KBA Open February rookies division, was named Youth of the Year.
A new board of directors was formally installed during the event. Architect Rameses Tancontian was re-elected as DATBA President, with the oath of office administered by Davao City Administrator Atty. Francis Mark H. Layog. The sworn-in board members include:
- Art Galendez
- Emeliza Yap Salvador
- James Young
- Crystal Chavez
- Jesrael Rule
- Edmund Cambaliza
- Paul Palacio
- Ian Ancheta
- Ulysses Caturan
- Joshua Disuacido
DATBA's official coaches and officers for 2025 were also recognized for their service.
Celebrating Community and Legacy
In his inspirational remarks, Atty. Layog praised the association's spirit. "This would not be possible without your dedication and sense of community," he stated. "Bowling is more than a sport—it teaches discipline, sets an example for our children, and strengthens bonds across generations."
Now in its 21st year, DATBA remains a foundational pillar for tenpin bowling in Davao, committed to nurturing champions and fostering the next wave of sporting talent for the region.
