PBA players get lesson on good grooming, social media and mental health

AS players evolved to become celebrities and public properties through the years, the PBA on Friday held its first ever orientation program in almost a decade.

The league lined up a select number of panelists who talked about a wide variety of topics, ranging from good grooming, social media, to mental health.

All active players of the 12 member teams were required to attend the three-hour event held at the Meralco main theat r e.

Commissioner Willie Marcial revived the program first organized during the time of Noli Eala and continued when Sonny Barrios took over.

"Nag-evolve na kasi ang landscape ng PBA," admitted Marcial. "Malaking bagay kasi kilala na sila (players), tapos ginagawa silang role model ng mga kabataan. So kailangan ingatan mo na rin paano ka kikilos sa mata ng tao."

FWD Head of Marketing Roch Vanderberghe talked about investment, while Chesca Bugia-Tenorio, wife of Ginebra star LA Tenorio, tackled financial literacy.

TV5's Maggie Cortez discussed social media and the impact PBA players have with their presence online.

"Makakatulong sila (players) sa liga kasi marami silang followers sa social media," said Marcial. "Malaking advantage kapag natutunan din nila i-promote yung liga sa social media."

In-charge of discussing proper grooming were Regi Cruz and Juan Banal, while veteran sports broadcaster Sev Sarmenta deliberated on how players should handle media and TV int er vi ew s.

A few players also talked on stage such as Meralco assistant coach Ronnie Magsanoc, who recounted his playing days in the league as well as San Miguel's Chris Ross and Alaska assistant coach Tony Dela Cruz, who both dwelled on mental health.

Following the success and interests shown by the players, Marcial is contemplating on whether the activity will now be done on a yearly basis. (RG)