Catholic priests go up against ex-PBA stars in charity match

Alvin Patrimonio and Vergel Meneses will lead a strong field of ex-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) superstars when they play another exhibition game – this time against Catholic priests. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said the match, to be played for charity, is scheduled on September 9 at 6p.m. at the Astrodome in Pasay City. Patrimonio and Meneses, who were among the PBA Legends that played against former National Basketball Association (NBA) stars last month, will be joined by Johnny Abarrientos, Jerry Codiñera, Bobby Jose, Fernando "Nandy" Garcia, Rodney Santos, Vergel Meneses, Mark Victoria, Renzy Bajar and Eric Gascon. The "Padres" team is composed of priests Jerome Secillano, Steve Zabala, Aitoy Opiano, Ronald Macale, Marty Marcelo, Mark Munda, Armand Ichabod, Betbet Rabonza, Joey Sepe, Roger Solis and Japs Apun. "Organized by the Manila archdiocese's Biblical Apostolate, the game aims to gather funds for the programs and projects of the Sta. Clara Demontefalco Parish in Pasay City," the CBCP said. Fr. Tony Navarette, archdiocesan Biblical Apostolate director, said proceeds will also go to printing 100,000 copies of the Bible, to be distributed to the parish’s indigent families. "There are exciting prizes to be won like five units of mobile phones and basketball shoes for ringside and lower box holders," said Navarette. Tickets are sold at P250, P150 and P100. – JVP/LBG, GMANews.TV