MANILA - Japanese television network TV Asahi is producing a basketball-themed anime set in the Philippines, according to a report from the Nikkei Asian Review.

A collaboration project with Quezon City-based animation and gaming studio Synergy88, "Barangay 143" will tell the story of high school basketball players living in Manila.

The report further noted that TV Asahi, the company behind popular shows like "Doraemon" and "Slam Dunk," is working with unnamed Japanese anime directors for the character designs, while Synergy88 is penning the script and handling productions.

The target release date is next year, although it remains unclear whether it will be shown in the Philippines.

TV Asahi believes, the report added, that working with overseas partners in shows that reflect local cultures will help in promoting Japanese anime to an even wider audience.

It singled out the Philippines as an example, where basketball is considered to be the most famous sport.