Like rock stars, four-time PBA Most Valuable Player Alvin Patrimonio and many-time all-defensive member Marc Pingris got a warm welcome as they graced the STI Las Pinas sportsfest in Alabang last week.
The two Purefoods legends, who were mobbed by students, faculty members and staff, received the Hand of Excellence Award.
Patrimonio and Pingris were feted for being exemplary ambassadors of the game.
Patrimonio and Pingris were welcomed by STI Las Pinas officials headed by senior school administrator Donna Ancheta, academic head Grace Gutierrez, student affairs head Bernadette Rejano and the other program chiefs of the institution.
Also gracing the event was well-known courtside reporter Mara Aquino, who was sent by her mother network, ESPN5, to cover the event as part of a segment in the PBA games.
Recognized as two of the best power forwards ever to play in the old Purefoods franchise, Patrimonio and Pingris also took time out to join AB Communications in their segment “Breakfast Forum @STI LP” where they answered relevant questions.
They also judged the cheerdance competition.
A touching scene also happened when a senior high school student, Paul Dailan, approached Pingris and brought with him a replica of his Gilas Pilipinas and San Mig Coffee jerseys. Dailan couldn’t help but be emotional after finally meeting his idol.
