THEY may have been in different places at different times and on different platforms, but on Sunday, September 21, a number of Filipino athletes chose to step out of their comfort zones and show that courage isn’t confined to the court.
At a time when silence often feels safer, these players reminded fans that influence carries weight — that wearing the jersey means more than just winning games.
CHOT REYES
Former Gilas coach and TNT mentor Chot Reyes wasn’t just marveling at EDSA’s history — he walked it with his family. He shared a video of their march, blending in with the sea of white and black, proof that even seasoned tacticians know when to take a stand off the hardwood.
JC INTAL
With his wife, host Bianca Gonzalez, JC Intal joined the crowd at EDSA Shrine. Once known as “The Rocket” for his slashing drives, Intal now channeled that energy into something far beyond basketball: showing up when it mattered.
JUAMI TIONGSON
San Miguel’s steady guard traded the bright lights of the PBA for the streets of Manila, where he walked shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow protestors. For Tiongson, leadership wasn’t just about running an offense — it was about taking part in one.
GAB BANAL
MPBL star Gab Banal brought both presence and creativity to the People Power Monument. Known for his cerebral style of play, Banal proved that same sharpness has a place in activism, too, as he stood with the rallyists along EDSA.
DOUG KRAMER
For former PBA big man Doug Kramer, the message was loud when it came from his family. With his wife Chesca and kids, they posed in white, holding a sign that read, “Don’t steal our future.” In a time of uncertainty, it was a reminder that change isn’t only for the present — it’s for the generations to come.
CLINT ESCAMIS
The Mapua MVP might be used to making headlines on the court, but on Sunday, he chose his social media as the stage. Multiple posts, a shirt in white, and a refusal to stay quiet showed that even rising stars know their voices matter.
From different leagues and different lives, these athletes found a common ground: the conviction that their platforms were meant for more than highlights and stat lines.
And they weren’t alone. Online, fans also saw posts of solidarity from Bella Belen, Des Cheng, Alyssa Valdez, Jheck Dionela, Kiefer Ravena, Kim Fajardo, Isa Molde, Faith Nisperos, and many more.
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