Filipino basketball fans are getting a closer look at Japan’s professional basketball scene as the B.LEAGUE Manila Games 2026 brings two of Japan’s top clubs to Manila for a two-game preseason series at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on September 9 and 10.
The historic series features Levanga Hokkaido and Gunma Crane Thunders and marks the first time B.LEAGUE games are being hosted outside Japan.
For TOYOTA, which is supporting the Manila games, the event is a natural meeting point for two countries with a shared passion for basketball. Beyond bringing Japanese professional basketball to Filipino fans, the games offer an opportunity for Japanese and Filipino communities to connect through the sport.
“Basketball has a special way of bringing people together, and we are proud to support an event that allows Filipino fans to experience B.LEAGUE basketball here in Manila,” said Elijah Marical, First Vice President for Vehicle Sales Operation of Toyota Motor Philippines.
“This series is more than two games. It is a celebration of the passion that Japan and the Philippines share for the sport, the friendship between our two countries, and the memorable experiences that basketball can create for fans and families.”
The Manila games come at a significant time for both B.LEAGUE and Japan-Philippines relations. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the B.LEAGUE, as well as the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Philippines.
The connection is also evident on the court, with two Filipino players representing the visiting clubs. Dwight Ramos will suit up for Levanga Hokkaido, while AJ Edu will play for Gunma Crane Thunders. Their appearance gives Filipino fans a chance to see two of the country’s basketball talents competing in Japan’s professional league on home soil.
The experience extends beyond the games themselves. TOYOTA will host the TOYOTA Challenge Zone, an interactive area where fans can test their basketball skills through a series of quick and engaging challenges, with exciting prizes also up for grabs.
By supporting the B.LEAGUE Manila Games 2026, TOYOTA is helping bring international sporting experiences closer to Filipino audiences while creating another avenue for people from Japan and the Philippines to connect.
The B.LEAGUE Manila Games 2026 will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on September 9 and 10, with both games scheduled to tip off at 7:00 p.m.
For updates on Toyota Motor Philippines’ products, services and promotions, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook, Instagram and X, and join the ToyotaPH community on Viber.
Related stories:
Toyota Launches All-New Land Cruiser FJ in the Philippines, Bringing Legendary Capability in a More Compact SUV
Toyota Philippines Offers Up to PHP 75,000 Discounts in July Drive Deals Promo
Toyota Doubles Down on the Hilux Legacy with New Diesel Lineup and First-Ever 4×4 Electric Variant
