MANILA, Philippines - Public servants, including senators, congressmen and law enforcers, take centerstage as they show their sporting prowess in the third UNTV Cup which starts tomorrow at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.
A brainchild of multi-awarded broadcaster Daniel Razon, the basketball tournament provides public servants an opportunity to play an active part in helping the underprivileged members of society through sports.
From six teams, the event now has 11 branches of the government taking part in the noble project where each team will have to submit its chosen charitable institution as its beneficiary.
The champion in the event that will have PBA legend Atoy Co as one of the commissioners will have the privilege to donate P1.5 million to its beneficiary. The runner-up and third placer get P650,000 and P250,000, respectively.
Known as Mr. Public Service, Razon will give the inspirational message during the opening rites that will be graced by top UNTV and government officials as well as several celebrities.
The event, which will run till April next year, also aims to promote unity, camaraderie, and physical fitness among public servants, among them Senators Ralph Recto, JV Ejercito, Bam Aquino, Juan Edgardo Angara and Antonio Trillanes, Congressmen Ferdinand Hernandez and Neil Tupas III and Vice Mayor Francis Zamora.
Bannered by former amateur stalwart Eugene Tan, Jeffrey Quiambao and Rolando Pascual, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Cavaliers are determined to defend the crown they won over the Ollan Omiping-led Philippine National Police Responders.
The prize won by the Cavaliers last year went to the AFP Educational Benefit System Office.