James Yap is all set to enter the political arena.
On Tuesday, the two-time PBA Most Valuable Player officially filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) to run for councilor in the first district of San Juan.
The 39-year-old is originally from Escalante, Negros Occidental but has actually been a resident of the said city for several years now.
His filing came just days after Rain or Shine got eliminated by ex-team Magnolia in the 2021 PBA Philippine Cup quarterfinals.
Yap, a 17-year vet in Asia’s first pro league, is running under the ticket of incumbent Mayor Francis Zamora, himself a former basketball player.
Zamora said that long-time hoops star has “enthusiasm to serve” and his life story could serve as an inspiration — most especially to the youth.
“A lot of people idolize him, especially the youth. He came from humble beginnings. He himself is a success story,” said Zamora of Yap.
“‘Yung ganoong life story is a source of inspiration. That I feel is his biggest strength,” the La Salle product furthered.
Zamora said that Yap could serve as a huge influence in their anti-drug movement, as well as their programs for the young ones.
“He can be a big influence in our anti-drug programs and advocacies for the younger generation,” the 44-year-old offered.
Other former cagers on Zamora’s ticket are Paul Artadi and Don Allado, who are also running for councilor in the first and second districts, respectively.
Artadi and Allado were also Yap’s teammates in Purefoods.
