Bata Reyes impressed with upcoming young players during exhibition in Libis
By Marlon Bernardino
PhilBoxing.com
Mon, 05 May 2025
Manila -- Efren “Bata” Reyes, the legendary billiards player hailed as the best in the world, was impressed by the talents of Mandaluyong pool players, having lost two matches and won six games in his one-day 10-ball exhibition, a highlight of the Sangguniang Kabataan Hagdan Bato Libis billiards tournament last Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the Magician Billiards Elite-Shaw in Mandaluyong City.
International Billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo said, "He was impressed by our billiard players' enthusiasm and love for pool. He finds our youth players very strong."
Reyes bowed to John Kenneth Calla and Renz Quillano.
Calla and Quillano both received P2,000 for their efforts from Marlon Manalo, a former *liga ng barangay* president and national PRO.
Meanwhile, James Ignacio won the 10-ball individual tournament, followed by second-placer Ethan Bauza, third-placer Archie Noveno, and fourth-placer Jandee Manuel.
Earlier, Councilor Charisse Marie Abalos Vargas led the ceremonial lag to usher in the start of the 10-ball tournament on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the Magician Billiards Elite-Shaw in Mandaluyong City.
Also gracing the billiard fest, part of the 2025 Sports League of Barangay Hagdan Bato Libis, were Coun. Elton Yap, Coun. Junis Alim, Coun. Danny De Guzman, GOAT and Hall of Famer Efren "Bata" Reyes, International Billiard and Snooker Champion Marlon Manalo, Councilor Mariz Manalo, Barangay Malamig Chairman Cynthia Caluya, and Barangay Hagdan Bato Libis SK Chairwoman Max Sulayao.
Reyes, in a media interview Monday, said he came to the city to grant an invitation for him to do a series of pool exhibitions. But he grabbed the opportunity to also renew acquaintances with pool enthusiasts and old friends.
Reyes, known as the billiards GOAT, has a career that spans decades. Starting at a young age, he quickly rose to prominence and was coined “The Magician” for his amazing shot-making abilities.
Reyes has won over 100 professional tournaments, including prestigious events like the WPA World Nine-Ball Championship, the US Open Nine-Ball Championship, and the World Cup of Pool. He was the first Asian player to be inducted into the Billiard Congress of America’s Hall of Fame. Off the table, Reyes is celebrated for his humility and sportsmanship, making him a beloved figure in the pool community worldwide. -Marlon Bernardino-
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