MANILA, PHILIPPINES — To help build the next generation of world-class Pinoys and bring more joy to the global stage, Jollibee has pledged to donate PHP 5 million worth of sports equipment to the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac.
The donation was made official during a Memorandum of Agreement signing event last September 18 at the Department of Education Complex in Pasig City. To celebrate the partnership, a ceremonial turnover event was held on October 07 at the NAS Tarlac campus, which was attended by executives from the Department of Education led by Secretary Sonny Angara, National Academy of Sports, Jollibee, local government officials, as well as Olympic double gold medalist Carlos Yulo.
“In honor of the historic feat of Team Philippines during the Paris Olympics, we are focusing our efforts on helping build the next generation of world-class Pinoys. This is why we are supporting institutions like NAS, whose aim is to develop homegrown Filipino sports talents. We’re proud and honored to partner with them in elevating Philippine sports and providing the needed training and resources to our young athletes who dream of making it big. As a world-class Filipino brand, Jollibee is committed to championing Pinoy pride and joy, whether it be in sports or in other fields,” said Ferns Yu, Jr., Jollibee Philippines President.
The ceremonial turnover kicked off with a performance from student-athletes of NAS that highlighted the different sports programs the academy offers. Carlos Yulo shared an inspirational speech addressed to aspiring national athletes, highlighting the importance of perseverance, heart, and a strong support system like NAS in helping them grow into champions who bear the Philippine flag with joy and pride.
“The journey may be difficult, but with hard work and the right support, there is nothing that can stop you from achieving your dreams and showing the world na kayang-kaya rin ng Pinoy (Filipinos are more than capable of doing it too),” said Carlos. “I’m thankful for institutions like NAS that give access to better training and facilities that build them up for success, and to Jollibee for championing Pinoy pride and for supporting the student-athletes. Sa susunod na mga taon, sigurado akong dadami pa ang mga Pilipinong atleta na magdadala ng karangalan sa bayan at makikilala sa buong mundo.” (“In the years to come, I’m sure there will be more Filipino athletes who will bring honor to the country and be recognized around the world.”)
Created by virtue of Republic Act 11470, the National Academy of Sports is an institution under the Department of Education that aims “to be at the forefront of global sports development and education, producing well-rounded student-athletes equipped with the ability and passion to become a source of national pride.”
To ensure holistic development for the students, the school implements an enhanced secondary education program integrated with a special curriculum on eight different sports, namely, aquatics, athletics, badminton, gymnastics, judo, table tennis, taekwondo, and weightlifting. With world-class facilities at par with international standards, highly qualified coaches, plus opportunities to compete internationally, student-athletes of NAS are provided with the tools they need to hone their craft and succeed.
“When we enter into new partnerships, we write better futures for our learners. This is only a small event but let us remember that this impacts generations of our learners. My wish is for our young athletes — the future Caloys, EJs, and Hidilyns — to succeed in their sports and to grace the podium with their heads held high for the country,” said DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara.
In her speech during the MOA signing last month, Josephine Joy Reyes, National Academy of Sports Executive Director, expressed her gratitude for the partnership. “The remarkable achievements of Filipino athletes like Carlos Yulo serve as shining examples of what we can accomplish with hard work and perseverance. Your support fuels that dream for many of our student-athletes.
“Jollibee indeed is not just a leading brand, but a true champion of the Filipino spirit. By investing in our school’s sports programs, you’re investing in the future Olympians, national champions, and leaders of tomorrow,” said Josephine.
As a brand that has always advocated for Pinoy pride and excellence, Jollibee aims to continuously champion world-class Filipino talent, helping them excel in local and international stages and bring more joy to the country.
