Troops from the Philippines and the United States traded their combat boots for sneakers to join local residents in a friendly basketball tournament intended to bolster bilateral ties and community relations.

The event, dubbed “Ligang Bayanihan,” took place on a newly painted court in San Vicente, featuring murals by artist Kiefsix that depicted the “ironclad alliance” between the two nations.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines reported Sunday that the teams were intentionally mixed, pairing American and Filipino service members with residents of Sta. Ana to foster teamwork and camaraderie.

Cagayan Governor’s Chief of Staff Pipes Buena Jr., representing Governor Edgar B. Aglipay, led the ceremonial jump ball and commended the military forces for their direct engagement with the community.

Buena characterized the activity as part of a provincial mandate to maintain peace and public safety through civic cooperation.

Beyond the competition, the event served as a platform for an information drive regarding the West Philippine Sea. Organizers said the awareness campaign aimed to educate grassroots communities on regional maritime issues and sovereignty.

Also, the province called for collective action to safeguard Philippine territory and empower local youth through constructive engagement.