SBA founder Hadley Mariano is aiming to redefine the sport of billiards in the Philippines

The Philippines has long been a breeding ground for world-class billiards talent, producing legends such as Efren “Bata” Reyes, Django Bustamante, and Carlo Biado, among many others. Despite the international success of Filipino cue artists, billiards has remained largely a hobby or side pursuit in the country, with few opportunities for players to earn a stable income.

Traditionally, Filipino billiards players earn money only through tournament prize money, which depends on how far they advance. Travel costs, accommodation, and tournament buy-ins often fall on the players themselves, resulting in many competing at a net loss rather than profit.

Hadley Mariano, founder of the Sharks Billiards Association (SBA), is determined to change that. His vision is to make billiards a sustainable career in the Philippines—one that rewards skill, professionalism, and dedication.

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Through SBA, Mariano has established a professional 9-ball, team-based league that provides players with monthly salaries, shifting the focus from survival to performance.

“We have very few tournaments. I think tournaments for billiards are not the way to go. It’s a vicious cycle: players buy in, lose, and walk away empty-handed,” Mariano told The GAME.

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“So I think the league is a much more sustainable business model than a tournament. For one, the league lasts for a long time. Brand partners, media partners get exposure for a longer period. At the same time, our players receive salaries. This removes the negative pressure of ‘if I lose, I have nothing to eat.’ It replaces it with positive pressure: ‘If I lose, I will let my team down.’ That’s what we want to instill—loyalty to the brand, to the team, and to their city.”

The SBA’s efforts don’t stop at professional players. The organization is preparing to launch SBA Next, a minor league designed to identify and nurture the next generation of Filipino billiards talent. Aspiring players must be at least 18 years old, hold a professional license, and be registered with the Games and Amusements Board (GAB).

“We are trying not to be very stringent because billiards is already struggling for attention—basketball, volleyball, football dominate the spotlight. Everyone is welcome as long as they have a GAB permit and a professional license. They can approach one of our stable owners,” Mariano explained.

In addition, Mariano plans to launch Official SBA Pool Hubs, partnering with local pool halls across the Philippines to scout and recruit potential players for league teams, creating a nationwide talent pipeline.

With the establishment of stable salaries, structured leagues, and talent development programs, the SBA is positioning itself as a transformative force in Filipino billiards. Mariano’s vision is clear: to create a professional environment where players can focus on excellence, build careers, and bring renewed respect and visibility to the sport in the Philippines.

As Mariano concludes, the goal is not just about prize money—it’s about creating opportunities, fostering loyalty, and building a sustainable future for billiards in the country, where talent is nurtured, careers are secured, and the next generation of Filipino cue artists can thrive both locally and internationally.

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