KOCHI, JAPAN — The Philippine national team, known as the Blu Boys, made their arrival in Kochi, Japan on Saturday, June 24, ready to compete in the highly anticipated Asian Men’s Softball Asia Cup 2023, set to commence on Sunday, June 25.

The challenge that lies ahead for the Philippine men’s softball team is nothing short of formidable: dethroning the reigning champions, Japan, and clinching the Asian title.

In the previous eight editions of the Asia Cup, the Philippines, and Japan have clashed in the finals each time, resulting in a continuous reign of victory for the Japanese, who have claimed the Asian crown on all eight occasions.

Jean Henri Lhuillier, the President of the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (Asaphil), expressed his optimism and anticipation for the Blu Boys to finally put an end to Japan’s dominance this year.

“We are eagerly anticipating the performance of the Blu Boys at this year’s Men’s Softball Asia Cup,” Lhuillier stated. “They have undergone rigorous training to prepare for this moment, and we wholeheartedly support them as they strive to bring home that coveted gold medal.”

The national team, supported by Cebuana Lhuillier, comprises a talented roster featuring John Israel Antonio, Jerome Bacarisas, Leo Barredo, Denmark Bathan, Melvin De Castro, Lyonas De Leon, Juliuz Dela Cruz, Mark Janzen Gaspi, Francis Generoso, John Norwen Lucas, Efril Ian Mercado, Micheal Pagkaliwagan, Reagan Parco, Gerone Riparir, Justine John Rosales, and Kenneth Torres.

In addition to their pursuit of the Men’s Softball Asia Cup, the Philippines also aims to secure a spot in the Men’s Softball World Cup.

Thus far, three teams under Asaphil have already earned berths in the World Cup organized by the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) for this year. These teams include the Women’s Softball World Cup, the Co-Ed Slow Pitch Softball World Cup, and the Women’s Under-15 World Cup.