By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Murcia girls softball team received financial assistance from the local government unit (LGU) as it prepares to represent the Philippines in the 2026 PONY International West Zone Girls Softball World Series in California.

Murcia Mayor Gerry Rojas pledged the municipality’s full support to the squad during the team’s courtesy visit on July 16, turning over a total of P160,000 to help fund its participation in the international tournament scheduled from July 28 to August 2.

The LGU allocated P100,000 to cover the team’s travel and tournament expenses, while an additional P60,000 was provided for the players’ uniforms.

Rojas also offered words of encouragement to the team as it gears up for the international competition and led the players and coaching staff in a prayer, asking for their safety during their trip and success in representing both Murcia and the Philippines on the world stage.

The Murcia girls softball team will compete against international opposition in the prestigious PONY International West Zone Girls Softball World Series, carrying the Philippine flag in one of the world’s premier youth softball tournaments./ASC, WDJ