On Friday, October 25th, the Port Moresby Harlequins rugby team departed for Manila, launching their international tour with an eagerly awaited match against the Philippine Barbarians. This marks the beginning of a tour that will also lead the team to Kuala Lumpur. After weeks of intensive training, the Harlequins are ready to display their skills and determination in the upcoming matches. They faced the Philippine Barbarians, a skilled side associated with the Philippine Volcanoes National Team, on Saturday, October 26th at 2pm (Philippines time), in Muntinlupa City. Fans from both nations were excited for this showdown, hoping each team would bring its best game to the field, with the Harlequins aiming to leave a strong impression before continuing their tour to Malaysia. A few hours before the 2pm show down, the Port Moresby Harlequins shared an update on social media, posting photos of players warming up before their anticipated afternoon match. The team commented that after a five-hour flight from Port Moresby to Manila, stretching out in the local park was the perfect way to acclimate. The Harlequins' post reads: “Shaking off the jet lag and gearing up for our friendly 15s match against the Philippine Barbarians Philippine Rugby - Philippine Volcanoes National Team at Alabang Country Club in Muntinlupa City.” They also invited Papua New Guineans in the Philippines to support the team: “To all our wantoks in the Philippines—come by 2pm today, cheer us on and say hi!” Meanwhile, the Philippine Rugby - Philippine Volcanoes National Team had also welcomed the Harlequins in a social media post from Alabang Country Club, noting their excitement for the match. “The sun is finally out! Saturday is Rugby Day today!” the post states, adding, “See you later at the Alabang Country Club in Muntinlupa City as we welcome the Port Moresby Harlequins from Papua New Guinea for a thrilling XVs friendly match against the Philippine Barbarians, a team composed of men’s XVs players from various clubs across Metro Manila.” Their post further entices fans with a preview of the 15s season: “Get a taste of what’s to come in the 15s season with this exciting showdown! See you there!”