Alaska gives 70 days of ‘Lakas at Talas’ to foster kids

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As we greet a new year, new challenges have inevitably arisen given the current state of the world. With these problems that we face during these uncertain times, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk sought to uplift vulnerable communities and share the spirit of giving. Last Christmas, Alaska invited members of its Facebook community, MOMs of Alaska (MOMAs), to make the holidays a little brighter for the children from the company’s partner orphanages, Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. and House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. Over a hundred members of the Alaska MOMAs community came together to create special Christmas cards, with creative designs and personalized messages dedicated to each of the children.

Social Worker Jessa Mae Masalon of House of Refuge Foundation, Inc. receives Christmas cards made by Alaska MOMA members and 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” from Alaska Milk Corporation representative Miriam Maramba, Associate Manager for Marketing Services

Alaska collected the Christmas cards and held a turnover with the partner institutions, donating 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” in the form of Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk products that can give the children the added nutrition to help with their brain and body development while they are growing. Gift packs with toys and educational materials were also included in the turnover, which the children welcomed with smiles and loud cheers.

Mailyn Balairos, Center Head of Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation, Inc. (CCMFI), a church-based Christian organization that aims to provide children with educational assistance, shelter, medical aid, skills training and nourish their souls with the word of God, shared her appreciation to the moms who took their time to create Christmas cards for the children under their care. “On behalf of CCMFI and the children, I wanted to convey my deepest gratitude to the moms of Alaska and to Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk for this unforgettable event for the children,” Mailyn shared.

Riza Lepasana, OIC and Directress of House of Refuge Foundation Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting orphaned and abandoned children in Metro Manila, also expressed her gratitude for the initiative. “On behalf of House of Refuge, I sincerely thank the moms who made an effort to make this Christmas feel special for our kids, and to thank Alaska for sharing their blessings of ‘Lakas at Talas’ with our children,” Riza said.

Center Head Mailyn Balairos joined by the staff Christian Compassion Ministries receive Christmas cards and 70 days’ worth of “Lakas at Talas” from Alaska

Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk also thanks its partner orphanages for assisting and providing homes to children in need and giving them the “alaga” or care that they deserve. In these challenging times, Alaska reaches out to the children of House of Refuge and Christian Compassion Ministries Foundation and hopes to continue their mission of providing affordable quality nutrition to Filipino children and families everywhere.

For more information on Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk and its initiatives, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www.facebook.com/alaskamilkph.

Moms overcome "nutri-problems" for their kids by giving them “Lakas at Talas”

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Nutrition has always been a pressing issue, especially now when families are becoming more vulnerable to health and economic problems. During these trying times, the resiliency shown by moms has inspired Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink team in conducting a survey to better understand their nutrition needs and issues encountered by their families during the pandemic.

The survey was conducted among members of the MOMs of Alaska (MOMAs) Facebook community, a group for moms who are dedicated in providing their children proper nutrition. And while providing nutrition remains one of their priorities, the survey has found that it has taken a back seat to more urgent concerns like supporting the family’s finances, budgeting limited earnings for food, health and safety necessities, juggling family responsibilities, and the like.

The survey received responses from nearly 300 moms from different walks of life such as housewives, call center agents, online sellers, teachers, vendors and many more. Majority of the respondents shared that budgeting concerns regarding groceries, health essentials and bills have made it harder to provide nutrition for their families. Half of the respondents have struggled with losing their jobs and a fifth of them struggle with balancing their family responsibilities.

In these trying times, Jenevev, a street food vendor and mother of two described her priorities. “Kahit na sa panahon ng pandemya, dapat hindi kaligtaan ang kalusugan ng pamilya. Kaya sinisigurado ko po na palaging wasto ang sustansyang nakukuha ng mga anak ko” (“Even during the pandemic, we shouldn’t neglect our family’s health. That’s why I make sure that my children receive the nutrition they need”), Jenevev shared.

She isn't the only one from the MOMAs community that feels this way. In these exceptional circumstances, Jonalene, a housewife and mother of two struggles to provide sufficient nutrition for her children due to lack of financial capability.

“Kahit mahirap i-budget ang PHP 100 a day, sinusubukan ko pa din bigyan ang mga anak ko ng masusustansyang pagkain tulad ng gulay. Simpleng ginisang gulay ay ayos na” (“Even though it’s difficult to budget PHP 100 a day, I still try to find ways to give my children healthy food like vegetables. A simple stir-fried vegetable dish is enough”), says Jonalene.

Most of the respondents agree with this sentiment. Out of the 94% of respondents who consider providing proper nutrition for their families a top priority, 66.3% don’t have the means to afford the nutritional meals they aspire for. On top of these problems, the pandemic continues to change the lifestyles and consumer habits of families everywhere. 81.3% of respondents prioritize pandemic essentials like face masks and alcohol in their spending over other products, making it even harder for moms to allocate time and budget for nutrition.

Regardless of these challenges, moms want their children to be healthy and grow properly, understanding how vital it is to take care of their health in today's world. As moms, they always want what’s best for their kids, giving their all to nurture and nourish them, and providing them with the proper guidance to live a healthy life. As a result, moms are finding ways to put their children's health and development first.

Moms from the MOMAs community try their best to create a healthy environment at home. More than half of the respondents (68.2%) have made it a habit to prepare nutritious meals within their budget, while others (66.3%) have started doing family exercises together. And luckily, more moms (79.8%) have found a way to solve their nutri-problems by buying affordable nutritional drinks like milk to help give their children the added nutrition they need on top of healthy meals.

Arlene, an online working mom of two from the MOMAs community, shared, “Bilang ina, lagi kong inuuna ang wastong nutrisyon para sa aking mga anak, kaya parte ng araw-araw naming pamumuhay ang pagbibigay ng masustansyang pagkain at pagpapainom ng mga bitamina na may iba’t-ibang benipisyo para sa nutrisyon. Kaya naman malaking tulong ang affordable na gatas tulad ng Alaska na may maraming nutrients at benefits para sa kalusugan ng mga anak ko” (“As a mom, I always prioritize providing proper nutrition to my children, so part of what I do for them is giving healthy food and vitamins with many nutritional benefits. This is why affordable milk like Alaska is a big help to me, as it is filled with nutrients and health benefits for my kids”).

Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink has been continuously nourishing Filipino families, and with the findings from this survey and the determination shown by moms all over the country to provide what’s best for their children, the brand aims to bring nutrition even closer to every Filipino.

The survey has made it clear that children’s health and nutrition is a concern that has become more pronounced with the pandemic. In line with its mission to make quality nutrition more affordable, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink wants to continue providing “Alagang Alaska” and nourishing every Filipino family to help them through these trying times.

To assist moms in providing nutrition to their families, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink is launching its most affordable pack to date, with “Lakas at Talas” benefits to help with body and brain development. The Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink “Super Sulit Pack” is available at 300g for PHP 70 and contains protein, calcium, and vitamin D for “lakas” which helps with healthy body development, and choline and iodine for “talas” which helps with brain development and growth. Paired with a healthy and well-balanced morning meal, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink provides nourishment in a delicious drink that kids can enjoy during breakfast.

With the launch of the ‘Super Sulit Pack’, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink shows its commitment to providing affordable yet quality nutrition to Filipino families. For just the price of PHP 70, Alaska continues to nourish our children through a tasty and nutritious drink in the morning.

Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink is available in Shopee, Lazada, leading supermarkets and grocery stores nationwide, and is even more affordable with the 300g “Super Sulit Pack” for only Php 70 SRP. For more information on Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www.facebook.com/alaskamilkph.

Moms bond over family nutrition in #AlagangAlaska Nutri-Talks Forum

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“Mother knows best” is more than just a saying. From your best friends to your favorite food, to your hobbies and even your favorite celebrities – your mom knows them all. They may not be the most in touch with current trends or technology, but when it comes to their children, mothers have proven time and again that they surely know best.

Top row, from left: Celebrity Mom Rica Peralejo, Nutritionist and Dietitian Reginna Emiliene Lat, RND and Event Host and Radio DJ Mama Emma; Bottom row, from left: Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink Brand Manager Mark Henry Camacho and Assistant Brand Manager Patricia Domingo

This is true for nutrition as well. Because of the pandemic, moms had to wear different hats these past few months – educator, cook, and even amateur nutritionist. And while providing proper nutrition remains a top priority for them, it has become more of a struggle for many moms recently, which is why Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink launched its “Super Sulit Pack” to help make nutrition more affordable amidst the pandemic.

Top row, from left: Celebrity Mom Rica Peralejo and Nutritionist and Dietitian Reginna Emiliene Lat, RND; Bottom row: Event Host and Radio DJ Mama Emma

During the virtual launch event for Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink “Super Sulit Pack,” celebrity mom Rica Peralejo shared her concerns and personal experiences in providing nourishment to her children.

“The pandemic has made it harder to plan meals for the family. It's difficult because your movements are limited and you can't go out freely to buy groceries personally and think of nutritious food pairings that your kids will like,” Rica said.

“It takes a whole lot of creativity to actually make nutritious foods appetizing to kids,” she answered when asked about how she changed her children's eating habits. “It's all about variety at the end of the day. Children want to taste and experience different things, which is challenging for moms. Before, we could go out and eat at places that offer a variety of nutritious foods, but now you have to do it yourself at home...You have to consider things like plating, the set-up of your dining area, just so it would be a different kind of experience from day-to-day.”

Rica also shared her experience in encouraging her children to drink milk. “Actually, milk is one of the easiest things to give to our kids…Sometimes it’s overwhelming for moms to think about what nutrients we can add to our children’s diets, so thankfully we already have milk drinks with the additional nutrients that our kids need. Milk is honestly a godsend for me and for moms because of its affordability, nutrition value, and of course, its kid-approved taste,” she said.

Nutritionist and dietitian, Reginna Emiliene Lat, RND, also joined the virtual launch event to share her experiences in providing nutritional advice to low-income families, which became even more challenging during the pandemic.

“Families are experiencing job loss during the pandemic, with some not having sufficient income to provide proper nutrition for their children,” she mentioned. “But despite these challenges, moms are not ones to compromise on health and are devoted to ensuring that their children get the nutrition they need.”

“So with a few tweaks to their diet like adding fruits and vegetables to their food to ensure balance and variety to their meals, and including nutritional supplements and nutrient-dense drinks, they can make sure that their family can get the nutrients they need while staying within their budget,” Reginna said.

While children are still in their early stages of development, proper nutrition is essential in keeping them healthy and building the foundation for their future. Which is why Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink remains committed to nourishing Filipino families and helping children grow with “Lakas at Talas.”

Containing protein, calcium, vitamin C and vitamin D for “Lakas” (strength) which helps with body development, and choline, iron and iodine for “Talas” (sharpness) which helps with brain development, Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink is a delicious drink that kids can enjoy every morning, paired with a healthy and balanced breakfast.

Moms and media attendees share a toast of Alaska Fortified Milk to show their commitment to affordable nutrition

“We know that Filipino moms are faced with the challenge of providing nutrition for their families within their limited budget. They have a lot of things to consider and prioritize, and they make these decisions every day. True to Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink’s mission and purpose of bringing affordable nutrition to Filipinos, we are here to answer to every Filipino mom’s need with our most affordable milk pack yet – the 300g ‘Super Sulit Pack’ for only PHP 70 – to help give their children the added nutrients they need and foster the ‘alaga’ they deserve,” said Mark Henry Camacho, Brand Manager of Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink.

Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink 300g “Super Sulit Pack” is now available until December 2021 in Shopee, Lazada, leading supermarkets, grocery stores nationwide. 

For more information on Alaska Fortified Powdered Milk Drink, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www.facebook.com/alaskamilkph.

ALASKA IRONKIDS: SA PORMA, GALAW, AT PUSO – WALANG TATALO!

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IronKids is a three-in-one sport which combines, swimming, cycling, and running, which tests one’s physical and mental will. But how do you add in the fun?

While teaching children the values of hard work, determination, team work, sportsmanship, and discipline, Alaska IronKids is, first and foremost, an avenue for kids to make the most of their time and energy engaged in sports instead of whiling their time away playing video games or browsing the internet. It also allows them to mingle and make new friends while having fun.

With the excitement built up from Swim.Bike.Run in Davao City last March and Swim.Run at the Ateneo de Manila Grade School grounds the following month, both kids and parents have so much to look forward to the second half of 2018.

On Saturday, June 02, more than 350 young athletes from all over the country are expected to conquer Subic Bay in the Alaska IronKids Swim.Run at the WOW Recreation and Activity Center in Subic Bay.

Mr. Fred Uytengsu, SEI President and Alaska Milk Corporation Chairman of the Board, shared that while they enjoy the race by ‘playing’ the sport, Alaska IronKids promotes creative ways to instill sportsmanship and discipline to young athletes.

"More than encouraging healthier, active lifestyles, Alaska IronKids offers children and teens the opportunity to build confidence and learn the values of discipline, hard work, and perseverance, while making new friends and having fun!” said Uytengsu.

Clifford Pusing who is running in his last Alaska IronKids race this weekend, dreams of leveling up his game by joining the Ironman next year with the help of Coach Ani de Leon-Brown and his father Mike. Through the years, his dedication for Alaska IronKids has remained the same, win or lose.

Clifford Pusing finishing 1st in the boys 13-14 category of Alaska IronKids 2018 in Davao

“I chose to join Alaska IronKids because they gave me a chance to develop my skills and sportsmanship. Winning is everything but when I lose, I learned to accept my defeat with dignity,” he stated.

Wacky Baniqued finishing 1st in the boys 13-14 category of Alaska IronKids 2017 in Cebu

Wacky Baniqued, who has been lording it over in the event since age seven, meanwhile, wrapped up his Alaska IronKids career last year in Cebu City in top spot.

“I am thankful to the organizer of Alaska IronKids. It has been so much fun experience for me. I am part of the Philippine Triathlon Team now because IronKids introduced me to the exciting world of triathlon,” Baniqued, a proud product of Alaska IronKids, expressed.

He also now serves as Alaska IronKids volunteer marshall as his way of giving back to the program. Baniqued was present during the Swim.Run at Ateneo Grade School and is expected to support the program anew in Alaska IronKids Swim.Run Subic on June 2.

Coach Ani de Leon-Brown (leftmost) and the podium finishers capping off the Alaska IronKids 2018 in Davao with a milk toast

“Alaska IronKids aims to give excitement to children and encourage a love for the outdoors and healthier lifestyles. In addition, it provides the perfect venue for families to bond and for parents to demonstrate in ‘real-time’ that being healthy can also be fun,” Uytengsu said.

A study conducted by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) showed that obesity has become one of the prevalent nutritional problems of Filipino children, affecting about 5 out of 100 kids. This growing health issue has prompted Alaska to reinforce its thrust in promoting proper nutrition by drinking milk and nourishing healthy lifestyle through sports and outdoor activities for the youth.

“A balanced diet and training, along with Alaska Chocolate Powdered Milk Drink, helps your child’s body to function at its optimum and recover quickly after training and race day. It has energizing nutrients namely magnesium, calcium, and potassium that keep young athletes' bodies in winning form. Para sa porma, galaw, at puso – walang tatalo!” says Ms. Blen Fernando, Marketing Director of Alaska Milk Corporation.

Happening back-to-back with IronKids is the first full distance triathlon event to be held in the country. With this year’s theme “Ironman sa Sariling Bayan”, IRONMAN PHILIPPINES PRESENTED BY ALASKA will be held on June 3, Sunday in Subic with August Benedicto as the Philippines’ lone representative. As of May 18, the total number of participants have been listed at 1,553 – 1,272 for the full distance with 281 for the 70.3. Daniel dela Cruz will be designing the medals.

After the action-filled weekend in Subic Bay, action shifts to Cebu City for the Alaska IronKids Swim. Bike. Run slated on August 4.

Help your child reach his full potential by participating in ALASKA IRONKIDS PHILIPPINES. For more information, visit www.IronKidsphil.com and www.playPH.com, and follow @AlaskaMilkPhilippines and @playPH in Facebook for live updates.

Strength in numbers at the Alaska IronKids Aquathlon

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Alaska Ironkids showed strength and determination at the 1st leg of the Alaska IronKids Aquathlon held in Makati City. 230 veteran and first-time IronKids participated in the highly-anticipated aquathlon for kids. In photo are Alaska IronKids veteran Juan Francisco “Wacky” Baniqued taking 1st place in the boys 13-14 years old boys category, followed by Clifford Pusing in second, and Richard Anson Navo in third. They are joined by Andy Aguila, Chairman Aquatics Committee and Edna Beduy, Sports & Athletics Manager of Alaska. The next leg of the Alaska IronKids Aquathlon is slated this coming June at Subic.

Alaska IronKids Aquathlon makes resounding splash

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Two hundred thirty (230) young athletes made a splash at the 1st leg of the Alaska IronKids Aquathlon held in Makati City. The fun yet challenging swim and run course tested participants’ mettle to complete the course and try to qualify for a podium win. In the end, Alaska IronKids veteran Juan Francisco “Wacky” Baniqued bested the boys 13-14 years old boys category with Clifford Pusing placing second and Richard Anson Navo taking third. Franz Emmanuel Joves stood out in the 13-14 years old girls category followed by Angelina Powell and Kristana Erica Derrada in third. The next leg of the Alaska IronKids Aquathlon is slated this coming June at Subic.

The role of Moms play in molding young athletes

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Parents help mold a young athlete, combining home, school, sports and leisure time can be difficult and they help focus young minds and provide the correct balance between activities.

Balance, agility and coordination skills are learned with emphasis on the fun, enjoyment and social aspect of the sport.

Basketball has always been considered the unofficial national sport of the Philippines. Just count the number of basketball courts – makeshift or otherwise – in any given city or barangay and you can surmise how popular the game is among Filipinos. It is no wonder that more and more kids are picking up the sport at younger age.

To help nourish these young athletes’ love and skill for the game, Alaska has again launched the Jr. NBA Philippines 2017.

A partnership between Alaska Milk and NBA Philippines, the Jr. NBA Program aims to cultivate young athletes’ potential through a series of school and open basketball clinics, Regional Selection Camps, a National Training Program and the NBA experience trip. It also seeks to help these young talents form the habit of getting the right nourishment by drinking milk and through leading a healthy and active lifestyle. 

According to the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), obesity has become one of the most pressing nutritional issues of Filipino children today with about five in 100 Filipino kids who are overweight. Alaska Milk emphasizes the need for children to start leading healthier, energetic and nutritionally-balanced lifestyles through programs like the Jr. NBA Philippines to entice kids to put down their gadgets and pick up a sport instead.

Photo: Vince Custodio Facebook 

And as moms, you can help your budding basketball player reach his or her star athlete potential.

Here’s how you can support your young champ from the sidelines. 

Demonstrate SPORTSMANSHIP. 

Not every game your champ will be in will be as clean as a whistle. Kids will be kids. So, don’t be surprised if they play rough sometimes. Teach your son or daughter to be the “bigger” athlete by taking the high road. If for instance, your kid’s team loses a game or an important point, teach him to refocus instead of losing steam. Train him to reassess what he could have done better and how he can apply it next time.

Learn the game further with your kid. Brush up on some Basketball 101 by going online, watching games or just asking other basketball fans. Before you know it, you both can comment on the directions of the point guard, critique the flow of the movement in the paint, and observe how the team executes zone defense and triangle offense like the best of them.

Emphasize the value of TEAMWORK. 

 Do you remember when you were a kid and you didn’t want to follow rules or just wanted to be let alone? Well chances are, your child will also have a spell and will refuse to go to practice. Be understanding, yet firm. Tell him that he is a crucial part of the team and that he should feel privileged to be part of it. Help him realize the importance of commitment and teamwork.

Cultivate a positive ATTITUDE.

One of the mistakes most parents commit is that they pressure their child to perform well and win the game. Don’t overburden your child by focusing on the outcome of their game. Emphasize to them that what is most important is that they are enjoying every minute of what they are doing. Allow them to discover the highlight of the sport and to fall in love with every aspect of the game because once they’re hooked, their dedication, passion and performance will follow.

Give time and space. Big name athletes didn’t excel in their sport overnight. They practiced, practiced and practiced. If you want your child to reach his potential, don’t be afraid to give him the time and space to practice. Let him dribble away during his spare time, watch and rewind recorded NBA games, or even bring his basketball with him wherever he goes.

Highlight the importance of RESPECT.

In professional sports, athletes are often pitted against each other. While your budding star athlete is still young, make him realize that his only real competition himself. Show him to benchmark against his own personal bests and not see or tag other athletes as “the enemy.”

You also need to become a good example. Leave the coaching to the coaches. Let’s face it, it’s hard to shake off the game even when you get home. Stop yourself from over analyzing each move point by point or from criticizing your kid’s play. Your job as parent is to be their quiet strength and their pillar of support – even when they lost the deciding point. Be an encourager and not their worst critic.

Remember, the most powerful yet simple thing a mother can do for a young athlete is to provide unconditional love and support. Nourish your child in and out of the court. Ensure that your child gets the proper food and nutrition while undergoing training. This helps them perform better by powering up their bodies to function at its optimum and has the “fuel” needed to recover after training day. Drink Alaska Chocolate Powdered Milk Drink. It has energizing nutrients namely, magnesium, calcium and potassium that keep young athletes' bodies in winning form.

And as always, be their number one fan by telling your kid you love them before or after every game, whether they win or lose.

With your love, support, and the proper training and nourishment, your son and daughter has the potential to make it to the big leagues. Help them reach their dreams.

Jr. NBA presented by Alaska - Nurturing Young Talents Through Sports

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Jr. NBA Philippines 2017 presented by Alaska returns to the Philippines. On its 10th year, the Jr. NBA is set to tip off on January 21, Saturday, at the Don Bosco Makati.

Alaska’s partnership with NBA Philippines is in line with Alaska’s commitment to promoting sports and outdoor play in the Philippines. 

Beyond being a sports clinic, the Jr. NBA is an avenue for children to showcase their talents, improve their skills and be trained under Jr. NBA coaches. Side by side with Alaska, the program aims to promote basketball participation, sportsmanship, teamwork and active lifestyle among children.

Jr NBA Philippines 2017 presented by Alaska tips off program with open clinics for Filipino youth

“The Jr. NBA Program is a great fit with Alaska’s mission to nurture young talents and to promote healthy and active lifestyle through sports and outdoor play,” says Wilfred Uytengsu, Alaska Milk Corporation President & CEO.

Based on the 8th National Nutrition Survey in 2013 by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI), obesity is one of the most prevalent nutritional problems of Filipino children with about 5 out of 100 Filipino children are overweight.

Given the growing issues on health, Alaska believes that there is a need to reinforce its thrust in leading a healthy lifestyle not just by drinking milk but by living actively through sports and other outdoor activities. Alaska seeks to engage the Filipino consumers, especially the youth, through its sports development programs to help nourish children to become champions.

Jr NBA participants work on their agility during the clinic

“With Alaska as our partner, the Jr. NBA program has reached hundreds of schools and communities nationwide and benefited thousands of children, parents, and coaches through grassroots activities like basketball training camps and school clinics, NBA Cares outreach projects, television programs and online initiatives,” says NBA Philippines Managing Director Carlo Singson.

This year, thousands of students, parents, and coaches are expected to benefit through the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA activities. The program is composed of four stages: the school and open clinics, the Regional Selection Camps, a National Training Camp and the NBA experience trip.

The schools and open clinics will be held nationwide from January through March. Clinics will be held in Bacolod, Batangas, Cagayan De Oro, Cavite, Cebu, Metro Manila and Subic. Select players from these clinics will get the chance to showcase their talents during the Regional Selection Camps, which will be held in Cagayan de Oro City on February 11-12, Lucena City on February 25-26, Cebu City on March 11-12, and Makati City on April 1-2.

Jr NBA Philippines 2016 All-Stars with Norris Cole and WNBA Legend Taj McWilliams-Franklin

From the Regional Selection Camps, the top 37 boys and 37 girls will advance to the National Training Camp in Manila. The National Training Camp will have (names of NBA/WNBA talents) in attendance to help train the pool.

In the end of the National Training Camp, eight Jr. NBA and 8 Jr. WNBA aspirants will be selected to comprise this year’s All Stars. They will travel with fellow Jr. NBA All-Stars from Southeast Asia for a unique, overseas NBA experience later in the year.

The Jr. NBA Program is the international youth development program of the NBA. It aims to promote basketball participation, sportsmanship, teamwork and active lifestyle among children. It emphasizes fundamental skills development and the formation of STAR values – Sportsmanship, Teamwork, Positive Attitude, and Respect.

The program is free and open to children ages 5 to 14 years old. It provides children the opportunity to showcase their talent, improve their skills and be trained under Jr. NBA coaches, and participate in friendly matches with high school varsity teams from abroad.

With the success of the Jr. NBA program in the Philippines, Alaska’s mother company FrieslandCampina, extended its partnership to cover 4 countries in Asia – Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. In 2014, Alaska launched the Jr. WNBA program to widen the reach of the sport to girls all over the country.

Interested participants and coaches may register online through www.jrnbaphilippines.com. 

For live updates, follow Alaska PlayPh on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

To learn more about the Alaska Milk Corporation, visit www.alaskamilk.com and www.playph.com.

Four Iloilo boys, two girls off to Manila in April for Jr. NBA/Jr WNBA National Training Camp; 293 boys, 6 girls join Iloilo Regional Selection Camp

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Iloilo City – Six Iloilo students, four boys and two girls, topped the Regional Selection Camp of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Philippines 2015 presented by Alaska at the Ateneo de Iloilo on March 8.

Vince Andrew Jayme, 14, of Huasiong College of Iloilo; Jann Paolo Villariza and Lucky Charm Ramos, both 13, of Sun Yat Sen High School and Ian Dominic Espinosa, 12, of Ateneo de Iloilo are the Jr. NBA representatives of Western Visayas, while Jenedith Ruth Valle, 13, of Barrio Obrero National High School and Shan Sumagaysay, 13, of the Colegio Sagrado Corazon de Jesus of Iloilo are the region’s Jr. WNBA hopefuls in the National Training Camp in Manila this April.

The six young players were among 293 participants who trooped to the Ateneo de Iloilo on Saturday for the two-day camp. The Top 40 Performers of the first day which consisted of vitals tests, skills challenges and basketball drills were asked to return Sunday for more intense drills, team exercises and scrimmages which would help the coaching staff select the most skilled basketball players who also exemplified the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA core values of Sportsmanship, Teamwork, a positive Attitude and Respect.

At the end of Day 2, the six young players emerged as the top picks of the region. The Jr. NBA evaluation committee was composed of Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA head coach Chris Sumner and Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA coaches composed of PBA Legends Topex Robinson and Rodney Santos, Alaska Power Camp coaches John Ramirez and Junjun Alas, and Perlas Pilipinas national players Ish Tiu and Melissa Jacob.

“One good thing about this batch from Iloilo is that the players have the skill and talent, and yet they have a yearning to learn more and to excel even further. That spirit of competitiveness is what they will bring to Manila and put them on good footing with the other National Training Camp finalists who are also top players from other regions,” said Coach Ish Tiu.

The next Regional Selection Camp will be held in Baguio City at St. Louis University on March 14 and 15. Three more regional selection camps follow in Bacolod City at St. John Institute on March 21 and 22, Davao City at the University of the Immaculate Conception on March 28 and 29 and Manila at the PICC Forum on April 11 and 12. 

Qualified boys and girls who wish to join the selection camps may still register at www.jrnba.asia/philippines. The program is completely free at all stages.

Ten Jr. NBA and five Jr. WNBA All-Stars will be selected at the National Training Camp and will embark on a unique, overseas NBA experience together with fellow Jr. NBA All-Stars from Southeast Asia. The Coach of the Year presented by Alaska will also be announced at the National Training Camp that will be attended by NBA talents.

Full program terms and conditions can be found in the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA event website.Fans can also follow Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jrnbaphilippines.

For all things NBA, fans may visit www.nba.com, and follow the NBA on Facebook (www.facebook.com/philsnba) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/nba_philippines).

198 join Regional Selection Camp, 3 boys and 1 girl from Puerto Princesa are first qualifiers for Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA National Training Camp April 24-26

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Three boys aged 13 and an 11-year old girl emerged as the first qualifiers for the National Training Camp of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Philippines 2015 presented by Alaska in Palawan Sunday, February 22.

 The three boys and one girl who will represent Palawan in the National Training Camp of Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Philippines 2015 presented by Alaska in April. L-R: John Patraic Tinbancaya, Gerald Dagot, Mary Nicole Carlos and Jazeel Jared Trinidad.

The four standouts were chosen from a field of 198 participants in the first Regional Selection Camp of the NBA league’s international youth basketball program which was held at the Seminario de San Jose in Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa February 21 and 22.

On the first day, boys and girls aged 10 to 14 underwent vitals tests, basketball drills and skills tests, aptitude and endurance challenges and learned the Jr. NBA core values of Sportsmanship, Teamwork, a positive Attitude and Respect. The top performers of Day 1 returned on Day 2 for more basketball drills and exercises and were given the chance to display their basketball savvy via scrimmages.

At the end of Day 2, Jan Patraic Tinbancaya from Palawan State University, Jazeel Jared Trinidad and Gerald Dagot from Palawan National High School and Mary Nicole Carlos from Palawan State University were chosen as the four players who would represent the region at the National Training Camp, the high point of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program.

Action was fast and furious in the Jr. WNBA competition.

The young players impressed Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Camp Director Chris Sumner who said: “We had a nice turnout and the the three boys that we got were very talented. They were very versatile and athletic and I’m excited to see them grow. I think they have a good chance to compete for the All-Stars. As for the young lady, she is is awesome. She would cut to the offense, and cut to the defense. I’m excited about what she can do in Manila.”

Competition was intense in the scrimmages of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Regional Selection Camp in Puerto Princesa.

The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Regional Selection Camps will be held next in Biñan, Laguna this weekend (February 28-March 1), then Iloilo (March 7-8), Baguio (March 14-15), Bacolod (March 21-22), Davao (March 28-29) and lastly, Manila (April 11-12). The Selection camps are run by Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Coach and Camp Director Sumner assisted by Alaska Power Camp Director Jeffrey Cariaso and other Alaska coaches led by PBA legend Topex Robinson.

The chosen players in Palawan and the other selection camps will join the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA National Training Camp that will be held in Manila from April 24-26. The NBA’s international developmental basketball program first came to Palawan in 2012 and returned in 2014. A local Palaweño, Paul Harley Dagunan of San Miguel National High School was chosen as a Jr. NBA All-Star in 2012 and is now playing collegiate basketball in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA National Training Camp will culminate with the selection of 10 Jr. NBA and five Jr. WNBA All-Stars who will embark on a unique, overseas NBA experience together with fellow Jr. NBA All-Stars from Southeast Asia. The Coach of the Year presented by Alaska will also be announced at the National Training Camp which will be attended by NBA talents.

The program is free and open to boys and girls between 10 and 14 years old.

Registration is now ongoing through the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA event website www.jrnba.asia/philippines, where full program terms and conditions can be found. Fans can follow Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/jrnbaphilippines.

For all things NBA, visit www.nba.com and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/philsnba) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/nba_philippines).

Last Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Open Clinic Feb. 17 in Novaliches

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Regional Selection Camps next in Puerto Princesa, Binan, Iloilo, Baguio, Bacolod, Davao and Manila 

Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Philippines 2015 presented by Alaska holds its last open clinic of the 2015 season on Tuesday, February 17, 2015 at Casa Milan Clubhouse, Casa Milan, Novaliches, Quezon City at 10 a.m. to 12 noon and at 2-4 p.m.

The school and open clinics are the first phase of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program designed to familiarize participants with NBA drills, conditioning exercises, skills stations and the all-important Jr. NBA core values of Sportsmanship, Teamwork, a positive Attitude and Respect (S.T.A.R.). 

The Regional Selection Camps -- where outstanding young players in various regions will be chosen for inclusion in the National Training Camp -- is Phase Two of the program and will begin on February 21-22 at Seminario de San Jose in Puerto Princesa. The National Training Camp is the high point of the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program where ten Jr. NBA and five Jr. WNBA standouts will be named as the 2015 Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA All-Stars and a Coach of the Year will be chosen.

Other selection camps will be held on February 28-March 1 in Biñan, Laguna at Alonte Sports Arena; Iloilo City on March 7-8 at Ateneo de Iloilo; Baguio on March 14-15 at St. Louis University; Bacolod on March 21-22 at St. John’s Institute; Davao on March 28-29 and Manila on April 11-12 at the PICC Forum. Fifty boys and 24 girls will be chosen to participate in the 8th annual Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA National Training Camp in Manila (the third phase of the program) from April 24-26. 

The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program is free for boys and girls across all stages – from the school and open clinics, through the Regional Selection Camps, the National Training Camp and the NBA Experience.

Registration is now ongoing through the Jr. NBA/Jr. 

WNBA event website www.jrnba.asia/philippines, where full program terms and conditions can be found. Fans can follow Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jrnbaphilippines. 

For all things NBA, visit www.nba.com and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/philsnba) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/nba_philippines).

Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Philippines 2015 presented by Alaska program will tip-off in Manila this January

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The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Philippines 2015 presented by Alaska program will tip-off in Manila with a coaches clinic on January 24 followed by an open clinic on January 25. A second coaches clinic and open clinic will be held in Bacolod on January 31 and February 1 respectively. 

Returning for the eighth consecutive year, this year’s program will reach more than 700 schools and communities nationwide.

Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA is the league’s international youth development program that promotes basketball participation, sportsmanship and teamwork, and an active lifestyle among boys and girls. The 2015 Philippine schedule includes school clinics as well as coaching seminars in the lead up to Regional Selection Camps where standout participants will be selected to participate in the National Training Camp in April. The National Training Camp will culminate with the selection of 10 Jr. NBA and 5 Jr. WNBA All-Stars, providing the select campers with a unique NBA experience which they will share with fellow Jr. NBA All-Stars from across Southeast Asia later in the year.

Jr. NBA was introduced in the Philippines in 2007 to 16 public and private schools in Metro Manila. In 2008, the program expanded to more than 200 schools and reached approximately 20,000 students, parents, and coaches across the country. In 2013, the program reached over 500 schools and communities and 70,000 students, parents, and coaches across the country.

Among its noted All-Stars alumni are Kiefer Ravena of the Ateneo Blue Eagles (2007), Carlo Escalambre of the San Sebastian Staglets and Mark Jayven Tallo of the De La Salle Green Archers (2009), Henry Asilum of the UP Fighting Maroons and Kib Montalbo of the De La Salle Green Archers (2010), Dawn Ochea of Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu and Kobe Paras of La Salle Greenhills (2011), Aljun Jay Melecio of De La Salle Zobel Baby Archers (2012) and Ricci Rivero of La Salle Greenhills (2013).

The program remains free and open to players between 10 and 14 years old. Registration is now ongoing through the official Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA website www.jrnba.asia/philippines. Fans can follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jrnbaphilippines and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/nba_philippines. 

 For all things NBA, visit www.nba.com.

The complete Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Philippines 2015 schedule will be released at a later date.