Makati city: Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI) and the MVP Sports Foundation Inc. (MVPSF) have teamed up to cultivate more Filipino athletes capable of competing on the international stage. The agreement was solidified through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by AFI president Tony Lambino, senior director for development programs Emil de Quiros, MVPSF president Al Panlilio, as well as Ayala Corp. chair Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala and MVPSF chair Manny V. Pangilinan. The signing took place in Makati City, witnessed by Philippine Sports Commission Chair Patrick Gregorio.
According to Philippines News Agency, the MOU aligns the efforts of AFI's sports development arm, Atletang Ayala, with those of MVPSF to nurture athletes who can excel globally. The partnership has already resulted in the establishment of the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge, initiated by world No. 7 and Asian Games gold medalist EJ Obiena, scheduled to occur at Ayala Triangle in Makati City on September 20 and 21.
Under the agreement, both foundations commit to supporting elite athletes, enhancing grassroots training and development, and collaborating on advocacy initiatives with government agencies focused on national sports development. The partnership aims to provide comprehensive support to Filipino athletes through their respective programs and work together to create sustainable pathways for athlete discovery and development.
Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala emphasized the opportunity to transform the dreams of potential world champions into reality. He highlighted the collaboration as a bridge for athletes who currently face limited opportunities.
The partnership also includes engaging government partners to explore sports development opportunities and utilizing sports as a tool for developing future leaders who can make a positive social impact. Manny V. Pangilinan remarked on the parallels between sports and life, noting that the virtues needed in sports, such as hard work, discipline, focus, and resilience, are equally essential in life.
