MANILA, Philippines — Eugene Torre, Efren “Bata” Reyes, Olivia “Bong” Coo and Alvin Patrimonio.
Hardly known by the present social media generation, these sports heroes have banded together to form a movement honoring the PH greats of the past and serve as inspiration for aspiring athletes and the youth.
Also included in the “Taas Noo” movement launched on Araw ng Kagitingan last Wednesday are world-acclaimed bowler Paeng Nepomuceno, trackster Elma Muros-Posadas and sports broadcaster Chino Trinidad, the main proponent of the movement.
“Their greatness should always be remembered,” said Trinidad. “We are a country yearning for heroes.”
Trinidad said the achievements of the Filipino sports icons would be retold in the “Pagpupugay Sa Resorts World” on June 12 where their exploits along with 14 other sports greats will be recalled.
Considered shoo-ins the honor roll are football’s Paulino Alcantara, swimmer Teofilo Yldefonso, boxer Anthony Villanueva, golfer Ben Arda, sprinter Lydia De Vega, Felicisimo Ampon (tennis), Lita Dela Rosa (bowling) and Caloy Loyzaga (basketball), Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco (boxing).
There will be an exhibit showcasing the feats and memorabilia of these athletes at Resorts World Manila from June 1 to 15.