Before Coco Martin became known as “Batang Quiapo”, there was an original superstar that hogged the spotlight on that side of Manila.
Known to many for his jaw-dropping hangtime moves and gravity-defying slam dunks, Quiapo-raised Bong Alvarez was an icon that carried its flag in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) in the 80s and 90s.
But fame took a dark turn as the man dubbed “Mr. Excitement” veered into the shadows, battling demons of addiction and illegal substances at the turn of the century.
The cameras that once captured his glory shadowed his downfall, documenting his missteps and misadventures. Now, nearly two decades later, Bong is gearing up for a redemption tour, ready to lead a new generation of Manila ballers onto the PBA court.
In an exclusive interview with broadcaster Julius Babao on his vlog, Bong expressed his desire to make amends: “Yung kahihiyan na nadulot ko, sumikat ako sa PBA na Batang Quiapo hanggang sa naging kahiya-hiya. Gusto ko punuan yun at makatulong.”
“Gustong gusto ko makatulong sa sports sa Maynila. Wala na taga Quiapo sa PBA e,” he added.
But more than helping in sports, Bong said he wants to provide help to other sectors of the society. He said he is hoping to be given such an opportunity, believing it will complete his redemption.
“Nagpaplano ako magtayo ng foundation na para sa kabataan, sa single mother. Nararamdaman ko bibigay ng Diyos dahil mabuti naman hangarin ko,” he shared. “Yan ang plano ko talaga. Yan na lang kulang sa akin. Ito na yung final. Pa senior na tayo e,” added Bong.
