MANILA, Philippines – Pool masters Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante are expecting a rough sailing in the upcoming 23rd Japan Open where they will be meeting a tough line of competitors.

“It will be a very tough match against the top Asian players (Chinese-Taipei, China, Korea and Vietnam). Not to be outdone are players from Europe and America,” said the 55-year-old Reyes, who was honored in the recent PSA Awards together with Bustmante and billiards champ Ronnie Alcano.

Bustamante agreed with his long-time buddy.

“We are expecting tough matches but we will try our best for flag and country,” said the Tarlac City pride Bustamante.

The Japan Open kicks off on March 20 and will run until March 21 in Tokyo.

Other Filipinos joining the competition are previous Japan Open winners Ramil “Bebeng” Gallego (2009) and Dennis “Robocop” Orcullo (2008); 2010 Kyoto 9-ball Open ruler Mark Aristotle Mendoza; 2008 Kyoto 9-ball Open titlist Dondon Razalan; Roel Esquillo and Elmer Haya.

The competition, sanctioned by the Asian Pocket Billiards Union (APBU), offers 2 million yen (P835,127) to the champion. [via: Marlon Bernardino | abs-cbnnews.com]