Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao emphasized the importance of sustaining support for national athletes and sports development, especially following the Philippines’ successful campaign in the Paris Olympics.
The former senator expressed his optimism about Milka Romero, a young and dynamic sports leader, continuing the legacy of her father, Mikee Romero.
Milka is poised to build on the progress achieved in recent years, during which the 1Pacman party-list played a pivotal role in inspiring, motivating, and providing financial aid to athletes and individuals in need.
As a former co-captain of Ateneo’s football team in the UAAP, Milka’s background as an athlete makes her an ideal successor to her father’s advocacy. She is ready to take on the role and use her experience as a successful entrepreneur to give back to the sports community.
“Kailangan talaga nating tutukan ang laban para sa pag-unlad ng sports. Kitang-kita natin ngayon na ang magagaling nating mga atleta ang umaani ng karangalan para sa bayan,” said Pacquiao during a meeting in General Santos City.
Mikee Romero, Milka’s father, has been a staunch supporter of Philippine sports for years.
Known as the godfather of amateur basketball since 2007, Mikee also headed the cycling and shooting associations.
His passion for sports was evident when he rewarded weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz with ₱3 million for clinching the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medal during the Tokyo Games. Silver medalist Nesthy Petecio and bronze winner Eumir Marcial also benefited from his generosity.
Now, Milka is ready to carry the torch. She understands the importance of consistent support for athletes and aims to enhance grassroots sports programs, providing young, aspiring national athletes with opportunities to develop their potential.
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“Our biggest advocacy is sports. We have grassroots programs where we want to support children in their journey na maging isang atleta. We have already created laws and projects such as the National Academy for Sports, and tinutuloy din natin yung mga programs natin,” said Romero, who also co-owns Capital Solar Energy in the Premier Volleyball League.
Milka is not alone in her advocacy. Joining her in promoting sports development, poverty alleviation, and other causes are former boxer-turned-political leader Bobby Pacquiao and youth advocate Sheila May “Shey” Sakaluran Mohammad.
“Sobrang excited po ako na ngayon, I’m in a position to help other athletes, our children, and the youth. Gusto kong maipromote ang direction ng discipline and teamwork through sports. Ito po ay mga values na pwede gamitin hindi lang sa pag-compete but also sa buhay, yung mga natutunan natin bilang isang atleta,” she added.
The elder Romero, Mikee, has also left an indelible mark through his legislative contributions. He authored several key bills, including the Eddie Garcia Law and the Poverty Alleviation Act.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, 1Pacman extended assistance to over 30,000 Filipinos, providing laptops, internet access, and educational scholarships.
Following in her father’s footsteps, Milka has already made a difference in communities. She has brought joy and hope to hundreds of aspiring athletes and underprivileged children in Cebu, Olongapo, Bulacan, and other provinces by organizing volleyball clinics and other outreach programs.
Milka Romero’s dedication and passion signal a bright future for Philippine sports, with continued support for both grassroots programs and national athletes striving for excellence.
