PBA stars, Olympian cheering for Milka

Some of the country’s big names in sports are rallying behind the bid of 1Pacman, including top basketball players Jayson Castro of TNT Tropang Giga and Scottie Thompson of Barangay Ginebra.

“They’re into sports. We all know that in the Philippines, sports badly needs support, not just basketball, not just Gilas but all kinds of sports that need support for them to improve further,” said Thompson, referring to the solid track record of 1Pacman’s first nominee Milka Romero, who owns volleyball team Capital1.

The Barangay Ginebra guard, like 1Pacman, has advocated helping the youth especially in the less privileged areas just like what Filipino-Ivorian fencer Maxine Esteban did in getting the support of Romero in helping athletes from Olongapo who took part in last year’s Batang Pinoy.

“Athletes who get support from them are truly blessed since their intentions are clear and that is to help the athletes,” Thompson, a one-time Philippine Basketball Association Most Valuable Player said.

For Castro’s part, helping and supporting young athletes is an advocacy very close to his heart. For one, he was once on the receiving end of those help and guidance, particularly from incumbent 1Pacman representative Mikee Romero.

“Right from the start, Boss Mikee was there and his program for youth sports was very good. He was one of those who helped me during my Philippine Basketball League days so I am just giving it back to them because they were the very first to extend a helping hand to me,” Castro, the star playmaker of TNT, said.

Through 1Pacman, Castro is hopeful that the support for Philippine sports would reach even the far-flung barrios of the provinces.

“There are lots of less privileged athletes who are not given the opportunity to show off their skills. I am glad that 1Pacman is there to do just that,” Castro added.

Although it is Mikee’s daughter, Milka, now leading the charge for 1Pacman, Castro is confident that they will continue to be a boost to Philippine sports particularly in grassroot and the further empowerment of women in sports.

“Before, women sports was not that popular but not anymore. Nowadays, we have PVL (Premier Volleyball League), (other) volleyball leagues, football and other sports being participated in by women are being given chances to display their talents,” Castro added.

Esteban took part in the Paris Olympics under a different flag but 1Pacman was still there to provide assistance to her bid.