Joshua Munzon, Alvin Pasaol, Troy Rike, and Santi Santillan have yet to play their first game as the rechristened Manila Chooks TM, but they have already won something — the hearts of Manileños.
“The mere fact that we are being represented is an honor for every ‘Batang Maynila,’” Mayor Isko Moreno said on Monday afternoon after the players, alongside new head coach Aldin Ayo, were introduced to him inside City Hall.
“By using Manila, you’re bringing honor to us. Doon pa lang, nanalo na kami.”
The Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas team for FIBA tournaments will be carrying the country’s capital for the first time in the Doha Masters of the 2020 FIBA 3×3 World Tour from November 20 to 21, 2020.
They head there having conquered all challengers in the recently-concluded 2020 Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3×3 President’s Cup powered by TM.
With their confidence as high as ever, Chooks 3×3 felt it was the right time to have Manila printed on the front of their jerseys.
“This time, we believed the Philippines should carry Manila, the capital, in international competition,” said Bounty Agro Ventures, Inc. president and 3×3 patron Ronald Mascariñas.
“We’re confident we’ve gathered the best players that will represent the ideals of every Manileño.”
The brand new name and brand new coach grant PH no. 1 Munzon, no. 2 Pasaol, no. 5 Rike, and no. 6 Santillan a big boost while they continue gearing up for the 2020 FIBA 3×3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
In return, ‘Yorme’ is hoping Manila Chooks TM can keep making the Philippines proud.
“Maraming-maraming salamat sa inyo. Of course, winning the competition will be better, but we are already grateful you are representing the City of Manila in an international setting,” reiterated Moreno.
“Congratulations in advance.”
