Las Vegas—When the father fights, family members rally behind him.
No wonder, several Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League team owners and managers have flown in to this hot, entertainment city to root for league founder Manny Pacquiao in his quest for the World Boxing Association “super” welterweight crown of Keith Thurman on Saturday, July 20 (Sunday, July 21) at MGM Grand Garden Arena here.
Among them are Anita Kaw of Zamboanga Family’s Brand Sardines Exequiel Robles of Pasig-Sta. Lucia Realtors, Lavin Castro of Pasay Voyagers, Toby Tiangco of Navotas Clutch, Christian Singson of Nueva Ecija MiGuard and Nomar Isla of Bicol Volcanoes.
Robles was accompanied by Buddy Encarnado, former PBA Executive of the Year.
Pacquiao allocated three tickets each for the league’s 31 teams. Majority of the counterpart LGU officials, however, are unavailable due to the State of the Nation Address of President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday.
Also in this glitzy city are MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes, who briefed the senator on league developments; auditor Andrea Suanding-Torres, lawyers Tomas Falgui and Bong Gacal and MPBL/Senate staffers Dave Homo and Miraflor Mantalaba.
Tasked to oversee the league back home is Zaldy Realubit, Chief of Operations. He will be assisted by assistant commissioner Satar Macantal and team coordinator Emer Oreta.
