As if the Zamboanga Valientes needed any more motivation entering the inaugural Chooks To Go Pilipinas 3×3 President’s Cup, they got one in the most heartbreaking fashion possible.
A despicable terrorist act rocked Zamboanga’s neighboring Island of Jolo, Sulu – claiming the lives of 22 people as of writing time.
Being the only team from Mindanao, the Valientes vow to honor the victims by playing for them in the first-ever 3×3 league in the country.
“We’re dedicating this to the victims of the Jolo bombing, we’re praying na sa na magkaron na ng kapayapaan,” said Valientes team owner Rolando Navarro, Jr.
The bombings also put a dent on the blossoming relationship between Christians and Muslims in the region, although Navarro hopes that it isn’t the case.
Navarro puts his team as an example that unity between Christians and Muslims is very possible.
His two best players in Jonathan Pareno and Das Esa are in different religions, but they know the value of respect – making their relationship a good one.
“Isa yung Zamboanga Valientes na nagpapakita na Christians and Muslims can unite.
“Dito si Jonathan Pareno and Das Esa — Muslim si Esa, Christian si Pareno, pero we’re one. Diyan mo nakikita na talagang nagkakaisa kami as Christian and Muslims,” he added.
Navarro is just thankful to get this kind of platform, a chance to rally Mindanao under one cause and showcase the talents from the region as much as possible.
“Ito yung biggest 3×3 e, nagpapasalamat kami kay sir Ronald Mascarinas and coach Eric Altamirano for this opportunity,” said Navarro.
“It’s an honor lalo na we’re the only team from Mindanao, sa mga fans ng Zamboanga Valientes, we’re back.”
