Team Philippines was one of 8 teams participating in this year’s PONY (Protecting Of Nations Youth) World Series. The tournament was held July 19-22, 2024, in Vacaville, California. Over 3,000 fans, players, and parents were in attendance to showcase the top talents of kids playing baseball in a 9-and-under league.

Tanauan, Batangas proudly represented the Asian countries as they won many games in their home country to qualify. It was an amazing 4 days of baseball beginning with Skills Challenge, Opening Ceremony, Wiffle Ball games, as the kids were making lifetime experiences with the other teams.

Team Philippines opened up the tournament against North Carolina (East Coast team) and battled to the very end in a close matchup, but eventually losing 6-3. The next day they were unable to get to the Winners bracket, ending their Championship pursuits. However, the experience itself was beneficial for the team. Coach Teddy Landicho said “It was really a fun week for the kids, they gained so much learning experiences. Although we lost, there was no negativity, and it humbled them. Now they know even if you are champions back in your country, it doesn’t mean you are the best in the world,” the coach said after the tournament.

In the Philippines, baseball is not as popular as it is here in the States, meaning the repetition, competition, and number of games they play are often limited. But the love for the game and pursuit to improve was evident. Fans, friends and family in the Bay Area came to watch the event. Tanauenos USA had a board member and family support the games as well as the Skills Challenge. Tanauenous USA sponsored the team lunch from Hawaiian BBQ and gave gifts after the game. 

“We came to watch and root for team Philippines,” a fan said. “We are a baseball family, yes, we are from America, but we’re rooting for Team Philippines,” they added. 

Manager of the Philippines team was grateful to meet some of the locals in the Bay Area and thanked Tanauenos USA for the lunch. “We really needed the rice,” he laughed. “The kids had energy after lunch, we felt the love and support,” he added. Congratulations for your participation in the Vacaville PONY World Series and we wish you and team continued success.