FPJ Panday Bayanihan joins hands with UP Cebu to empower student-athletes

UP Cebu Fighting Maroons

CEBU CITY, Philippines — In a significant move towards fostering holistic development and community engagement, FPJ Panday Bayanihan has announced its partnership with UP Cebu’s Varsity Program. This collaborative endeavor aims to empower student-athletes by instilling core values such as teamwork, resilience, and hard work, enabling them to excel academically and in sports.

The support from FPJ Panday Bayanihan underscores its dedication to nurturing future leaders and changemakers of society. Through this, the organization reaffirms its faith in the potential of young individuals who not only exhibit excellence in sports but also aspire to make a positive impact in their local communities.

Inspired by the iconic “Ang Panday” character created by Fernando Poe Jr., FPJ Panday Bayanihan symbolizes heroism and a commitment to unity, support, and community. This partnership reflects the organization’s commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and empowering young Filipinos to unlock their full potential. Under the leadership of its President, Brian Poe Llamanzares, the foundation continues to ignite the spirit of Bayanihan, leading a movement where Filipinos unite, shoulder to shoulder, to provide assistance, hope, and support.

Drawing from his experience being a member of the Ateneo Fencing Team, Poe Llamanzares shared his perspective on the collaboration, stating, “We at FPJ Panday Bayanihan are proud to support UP Cebu’s varsity program. We believe that sports can be a good way to develop the youth of our nation. Being an athlete teaches you discipline, good health, and focus. It keeps kids in school and gives them new opportunities.”

Through this collaborative effort, FPJ Panday Bayanihan and UP Cebu embody the values of heroism and unity, empowering the next generation of student-athletes to realize their full potential both within and beyond the sports arena. By championing these values, they are actively shaping a brighter future for Filipino youth.

The UP Cebu Varsity Program serves as a beacon of opportunity for student-athletes, equipping them with the necessary resources and guidance for excellence. Playing a crucial role in supporting this varsity program, the UP Cebu Educational and Research Foundation, Inc. (UP CERFI) recognizes the potential of these student-athletes and the importance of holistic development. With support from UPC Chancellor Leo B. Malagar, the foundation extends its support through various fundraising initiatives. 

“We’re excited and thankful to partner with FPJ Panday Bayanihan. It’s a collaboration rooted in UP Cebu’s deep commitment to holistic education that nurtures not only academic prowess but also physical resilience and community spirit among our students. Thank you to everyone for making this a reality for UP Cebu,” said UPC Chancellor Leo Malagar.

This partnership comes at a pivotal moment as the Fighting Maroons gear up for the upcoming Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) competition. This event provides a platform for these young talents to showcase their exceptional skills and sportsmanship while proudly representing their institution.

A notable early achievement includes the UP Cebu Basketball Team’s remarkable feat as the First Runner-up in the recently concluded Regional Games of the State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) held in Dumaguete City. This early success has ignited enthusiasm and serves as a testament to the potential and promise of these dedicated student-athletes.

The collaboration between FPJ Panday Bayanihan and UP Cebu shines as a beacon of hope and empowerment for young athletes striving to reach for their dreams. As these budding talents prepare to make their mark on the local sports scene, this partnership promises to be a driving force behind their journey toward success.