Rep. Erico Aristotle Aumentado has allocated P300,000 in cash prizes for an ongoing three-category basketball playoffs in Bohol’s Second District as part of efforts to curb drug use among residents in the district, particularly the youth.

Aumentado said that the series, dubbed Congressman Aris Aumentado Basketball Cup, is among his contributions to President Rodrigo Duterte’s intensified war against the abuse of prohibited drugs and other substances.

Basketball, or sports in general, he explained, “instills discipline, develops focus, and fosters camaraderie among teammates.” It also gives the players the opportunity to meet new friends and forge strong friendships with their counterparts from other towns, he added. 

Employees of the local government units (LGUs) and commercial players are also expected to see court action, aside from the youth who will be playing in their own category.

The games follow a round-robin format, or all teams get to play with all the other teams, with each LGU getting the opportunity to host the games.

For each of the three categories, prizes for the champion, second and third placers are P50,000, P30,000, and P20,000, respectively. 

According to Aumentado, the activity is also aimed at promoting physical fitness. (June S. Blanco)