PNRL’s Development Manager in the Philippines.

The Philippine National Rugby League announced the appointment of Timothy Buipe as the Rugby League Development Officer in the Philippines.

Buipe, 27 years of age, was originally from Papua New Guinea (PNG).  He moved to the Philippines to study at Adamson University in 2013 and has since opened a computer shop with his girlfriend in Pasay City.

Buipe has been playing center for rugby league teams in PNG since his high school days. He’s organized the first Rugby League tryout & training last September at Luneta Park grandstand area with nine union boys in attendance. Trainings are now held on a regular basis on Thursday afternoons from 1pm to 5pm, and on Sunday mornings from 8am-12noon at the same Luneta site.

“Most of the boys here are happy and are looking forward to playing their first Rugby league game with the team coming from Hong Kong in November.” said Timothy enthusiastically. “We’re moving towards getting recognition with a Philippine team,” he added.

Fast forwarding this to a couple of weeks ahead, from its humble beginnings, Tim has been able to assemble the Manila Storm’s “First 17”, a full Rugby League squad to play its inaugural game against a Hong Kong resident team. On November 7 at Southern Plains Alabang, with gates opening at 12noon and game scheduled to commence at 2pm.

The Manila Storm “First 17”, are a motley crew of local Filipino; Rugby Union and Gridiron players, complemented by Basketball, Football, Martial Arts, Sepak Takraw, Tennis and Track and Field athletes.

“Even though it will be their first Rugby League game and it’s an international club match. The boys are ready to play with their heart and with pride for their wonderful country, the Philippines.” says Tim Buipe.