PBA legends unite for a cause

Having inspired many to pursue their hoop dreams, six PBA legends continue to do the same even after retirement.

But this time, Alvin Patrimonio, Benjie Paras, Jojo Lastimosa, Ronnie Magsanoc, Jerrry Codiñera and Johnny Abarrientos turn inspiration into something more tangible.

Tapped by Alaxan FR to spearhead “The Galing Mo” campaign, these former pro greats came together to support community-led construction of basketball courts in chosen barangays around the country.

“There’s a social value into it,” said Magsanoc. “It’s just a basketball court for some, but it has a long-term effect on the communities we visited.”

With volunteer residents also pitching in, the program had already built five concrete basketball courts in Iloilo, Bacolod, Dumaguete, Butuan and Sarangani. Projects are also lined up in Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Tacloban and Zamboanga.

“It’s a chance for the legends to bless the chosen community,” Patrimonio, a four-time PBA MVP, said in a press conference Tuesday.

“It’s one way of giving back to the basketball community,” added Codiñera.

In their community visits, the six stars said the reception had been overwhelming.

“Most of the places we’ve been to haven’t been reached by PBA out-of-town games,” said Abarrientos. “So we really had a warm welcome.”

Lastimosa said what makes the project even more special was the fact that their own hoop dreams also began in the barangay courts.

“We all had humble beginnings,” said Lastimosa.

“We really hope we can inspire more players and communities,” said Paras.