Team Manila–Philippines proved once again that its softball dynasty is far from over.
After missing out on the title last year, the Filipino squad returned to the top of the international stage by dominating Texas Pride Elite Team, 8-1, to capture the 2026 PONY International World Series 18-Under Girls Softball championship at the McAllen Softball Complex in Texas.
Representing the Asia-Pacific region, Team Manila completed a remarkable campaign by defeating the host region’s champion in front of a packed home crowd, reclaiming a title it had previously owned during its back-to-back championship runs in 2023 and 2024.
The latest triumph further cemented the program’s reputation as one of the world’s premier youth softball teams, extending a legacy that has brought international success to Philippine softball for more than a decade.
The road to the championship was no easy feat.
This year’s tournament featured elite youth teams from across the United States, including host Texas, along with international representatives from Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas.
Despite the tough field, the Filipinas rose above every challenge before delivering their most convincing performance when it mattered most in the championship game.
Beyond another trophy, the victory also highlighted the program’s mission of creating opportunities for young Filipino athletes.
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“We are very proud of the team’s accomplishments, which is why we continue to support the advancement of these world-class youth athletes who come from poor families in the provinces with the promise of free college education from reputable universities in Manila,” Team Manila Softball president and Manila Councilor Rafael “Che” Borromeo said.
Their championship run has already begun opening new doors.
Borromeo revealed that American universities have taken notice of several Team Manila standouts, with Texas A&M University and Texas Lutheran University expressing interest in star pitcher Edralyn Borrico of Smokey Mountain, Tondo, who spearheaded the championship victory.
Mary Antoinette Sicapore, Angelica Jean Latriz, Claire Olarte, and Rhea Manalo have also reportedly caught the attention of college recruiters following their performances in Texas.
The sustained success has become a hallmark of the Team Manila program.
The squad first earned national recognition after delivering the Philippines’ first softball world championship at the 2012 Girls Big League Softball World Series in Michigan, an achievement that earned the team PSA Athletes of the Year honors.
Since then, Team Manila has continued to build its legacy with multiple PONY World Series titles and repeated recognition from the Philippine Sportswriters Association.
Backed by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso, International Container Terminal Services Inc., San Miguel Corporation, and the Philippine Sports Commission, Team Manila has once again shown that Philippine softball remains a force on the global stage—and that its pipeline of world-class talent continues to grow.
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