Farm Fresh-Letran returned to the Bren Z. Guiao Convention Center on Saturday morning.
But it was not for a basketball game.
The Squires, or Milkers in the Pilipinas Super League, gave back to the Kapampangans affected by Super Typhoon Egay by distributing 1,750 packs of relief goods to help in the recovery of barangays San Pedro and Sto. Nino.
“Our sports teams not only aim for victory on the field, but they also embody a fundamental value: helping in times of need,” said Frank Lao, owner of Farm Fresh and Strong Group, which supports the Letran juniors basketball program.
“It’s about instilling in our young athletes the importance of being compassionate and making a positive impact beyond the game. Together, we cultivate a spirit of unity and service that goes hand in hand with our pursuit of excellence.”
“At Letran, we believe that true greatness is not solely measured by victories on the court or field, but by the compassion and charity we extend to those in need. Charity stands as a cornerstone of our varsity teams, reminding our student-athletes that their role transcends sports,” said Fr. Vic Calvo, OP, Colegio de San Juan de Letran athletic director.
“Through their dedication to service, they exemplify the Arriba spirit of Letran, where character, integrity, and community intertwine to create a legacy that extends far beyond the arena.”
Farm Fresh-Letran was scheduled to compete against Pampanga-Pradera Theme Park in the best-of-three national finals of the PSL last July 29. However, the series opener was postponed and later canceled due to Pampanga being declared a state of calamity following the damage caused by ‘Egay’.
Consequently, the Milkers and the Delta were declared co-champions of the under-18 tournament.
Nevertheless, this did not deter Farm Fresh-Letran from returning to Pampanga.
Student-athletes Timo Cruz, Basti Reyes, Jovel Baliling, Dwyane Paguio, Ricardo Sumagang, Jolo Navarro, Justine Hugo, Boe Gelin, Kurt Gabinete, Alvin Villanueva, Clintone Pico, and Krstc Da Silva, along with assistant coach Bong Solian, personally distributed the goods to the families gathered inside Bren Z. Guiao.
Pampanga Governor Dennis ‘Delta’ Pineda expressed gratitude for the support provided by the Milkers to his constituents.
“We are immensely thankful to the Lao Family and the Letran Squires for their unwavering support and contribution to the relief efforts for the victims of Typhoon Egay in Pampanga. Your generosity and solidarity have brought hope and comfort to those affected by the disaster,” said Gov. Pineda.
“Together, we stand strong in facing the challenges, and your kindness serves as a beacon of light during these trying times.”
