ABS-CBN Foundation, Nueva Ecija basketball team advocate for Filipino youth
Credit to Author: THE MANILA TIMES| Date: Fri, 25 Oct 2019 06:06:52 +0000
ABS-CBN Foundation, Inc. (AFI) partners with Nueva Ecija Men’s Basketball team, Bespren, to fund the Eco Youth Development programs of the late ABS-CBN Foundation Chairman Gina Lopez.
The basketball team turned over an initial P1,000,000 for AFI’s youth development programs nationwide. On top of that, 100 percent of the proceeds from the ticket sales of their National Basketball League games will also be donated to the foundation.
Nueva Ecija Bespren consists of its own homegrown players with ages ranging from 18 to 29 years old. Renan Morales, Nueva Ecija Bespren team owner said that the team was formed to promote sports and to divert the youth from vices and other unnecessary activities.
“Filipinos love basketball. A lot of them especially in Nueva Ecija love the sport. I want to help them because this is their dream as aspiring athletes. I can see their passion, their heart, and their determination to pursue their dreams,” said Morales.
The team name “Bespren,” was derived from one of the most commendable characteristics of the people from Nueva Ecija. They are known to be accommodating as they will give their best to make you feel welcome and accepted — like a real best friend.
“If you from Nueva Ecija ka, you are a Bespren,” Morales added.
Basketball is a game that values teamwork, hard work, and determination. It is more than just a sport. It is a platform that can give hope and encouragement especially to the Filipino youth.
Paul Vincent Mercado, Chief Marketing Officer of ABS-CBN Foundation, emphasizes the significance of this partnership. “ABS-CBN Foundation is happy to find a partner who shares the same values with us especially in making sure that the youth is given the right support and opportunities for growth and development. We in AFI also believe that the youth plays an integral role in making sure that the programs and projects we started will be sustained and passed on to the next generation,” Mercado says.
Nueva Ecija Bespren held their try-outs for all aspiring players in preparation for their upcoming National Basketball League competition on November 16 at the San Juan Arena in San Juan City.