THE Pagadian Explorers are back after a decade-long absence in the local basketball scene by joining the Mindanao leg of the 2021 Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas VisMin Super Cup.
The Explorers were one-time finalists in the National Basketball Conference before competing in Liga Pilipinas during the late 2000s. Both leagues are now defunct.
Team owner and incumbent Pagadian City Mayor Sammy Co made sure to revive the team for the country’s first-ever professional basketball league based in the south.
“Before, we already had a team. I don’t know what happened because I was out of politics for six years,” Co said. “Right now, I have another first term and I made sure to revive a team.”
Headlining the team is 6-foot-6 Mark Benitez, who previously played for Rizal-Xentro Mall in the 2019-21 Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Lakan Cup.
Joining him are Arellano Unversity transferees Rich Guinitiran and CJ Pamaran—both of whom secured special guest licenses from the Games and Amusements Board—and Keanu Caballero, formerly of Taguig City in the National Basketball League.
Completing the squad are Orvelle Saludsod, John Edros Quimado, Arman Demigaya, Kenneth Singedas, Elizalde Sunogan, Kenth Baldeo, Kem Jhon Diva, Von Dechos, Ruben Caballero, Jehzreel Acaylar, Jeric Serrano, Rex Quilo, Christian Manalo, Rey Bolotaolo, Godfred Helido and Jan Villaver.
Serving as head coach is Harold Sta. Cruz while taking the team manager role is Dodong Pamaran.
Besides putting up a team, Co also made a bid to host the Grand Finals of the league set in August.
“I want the VisMin Super Cup to be the league to first play in our newly-constructed gym in Plaza Luz,” he said.