STI Las Piñas fetes Patrimonio, Pingris during annual sportsfest
ALVIN PATRIMONIO and Marc Pingris, two of the best power forwards ever to play in the old Purefoods franchise, were feted by STI Las Piñas during the annual sportsfest held recently at its gymnasium in Alabang, Zapote.
Mr. Patrimonio, one of only three four-time Most Valuable Player Awardees in the PBA, and Mr. Pingris, a manytime all-defensive team member, were given the Hand of Excellence Award crafted by B&G Lifecasting.
Now the team manager of the Magnolia Hotshots, the new team being carried by the old Purefoods franchise, Mr. Patrimonio was feted as he continuously served as a great ambassador of the game, having been involved in many community activities.
Mr. Pingris, on the other hand, served as a role model for the working class and his hard work in every game made him the epitome of those average players who rose to prominence using hustle and defense.
Both key members of the Magnolia Hotshots were given rock star treatment by students, faculty members and staff who were celebrating the annual sportsfest. They were mobbed by fans who were seeking autographs and photo opportunities.
Messrs. Patrimonio and Pingris were welcomed by STI Las Piñas 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 is wellknown 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, Messrs. Patrimonio and Pingris also took time out to join AB Communications in their segment “Breakfast Forum @STI LP” where they answered relevant questions.
They judged the cheerdance competition right before STI Las Piñas feted them with the Hand of Excellence award. —