Early on this year I tried to get out from the city to see what world experiences I needed to capture for myself. One thing for sure and two things for certain, connecting with the world is an incredible feeling that we as humans shall not take for granted. My experiences of traveling, seeing different environments, and different people shaped your perspectives, and even world views at times. As you mature you understand the importance of “BALANCE”, and how to escape the self-isolation of your world. Being in the realm of sports, I’ve had the unique pleasure to travel all around different continents (North America, Europe, and Asia). Every new country that I’ve visited reminds me how big our world is. The Philippines is a special place for myself because it replicates a culture similar to the one I grew up in. Throughout my trip I’ve created lasting memories that I’ll share with the world as well as my audience. From the Philippines unique food culture, sneakers, art, basketball, and fashion.
BASKETBALL NEVER STOPS
Location: Ronac Art Centre
Nike Hypercourt (Manila)
Manila has become publicly acknowledged for it’s unique basketball culture. Anyone that knows about Filipino culture knows their appreciation for food, family, and basketball. The historical Nike Hypercourt in BGC opened its doors to the basketball community in early 2017. Hypercourt is embedded in the Filipino basketball culture as it served several hoopers in Manila, Nike did a great job implementing something of great significance for the community. With the emergence of the PBA (Philippines Basketball Association) several basketball fans have flooded the courts of manila in hopes of starting a new hobby. Unfortunately, the news is out the Hypercourt is set to close at the end of 2019. Due to the city’s redevelopment plans the landowners will reclaim its property. In commemoration of the court Nike Manila hosted a 3x3 tournament as a grand closing of their iconic court. Special guests from Team Nike and the Gold Medal Men’s Seas Games team were all in attendance. Rumors are out that new courts are being designed in the south of Manila and will be open in late 2020.
NIKE MANILA 3x3
“Since Hyper Court launched 2 years ago at the BGC, it has cemented its position as a thriving hub for Filipino ballers.”
2.Ronac Art Centre (Manila)
The Greenhills district in Manila is known for its rich art culture, shopping and fine cuisine. We had the pleasure of visiting the Ronac Art Centre, which is a four story facility with a private art lounge, basketball court, apparel store, and restaurant. Iconic legends such as @djbigboycheng helped garner traction through the Ronac Art Centre, with the addition of his Secret Fresh brand and Rif Manila store. The architectural structure of Ronac is one of a kind, curating a lifestyle for modern day Filipinos. Owner Bigboy Cheng and assistant John Roy have done a phenomenal job cultivating their brands ( F&F art lounge, Secret Fresh Gallery, RiF Manila) and engaging with the Manila community. Over the years I’ve found my deep appreciation for Art; It’s a unique representation of what our world looks like. Local artist throughout Manila get the chance to showcase their art at Ronac’s Live shows and events. So many dope artist around Manila get to benefit of the likeness of their work as well as show the world their beautiful work of art.
Ronac Art Centre Owner @johnroy68 with @revibeto Founders (@justizokeke, @joshprehab), & @twingq
3. Sea Games 2019
Manila was home to the 2019 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games). The Sea games is a multi-sports event that was held in the Philippines in hopes of building there unique sports culture. With over 5,000 participating athletes the Philippines won an astonishing 387 medals, including 149 Gold medals. Nike Athlete and Toronto native Matthew Wright shared a special moment with his family as he accepted the gold medal shortly after defeating Thailand. For the Women’s they claimed it’s first ever-gold medal at the 2019 Sea games. Both Women and Men’s Basketball squads captured gold medals, a very iconic moment for Pilipinas Basketball. With the Men’s capturing their gold medal at the Sea Games, will they use this momentum to punch their ticket to the 2020 Tokyo Games? The last time we seen team Pilipinas in the Olympics was 2016 in Rio. Some may say that playing in front of your hometown is the ultimate advantage, but History was made at the 30th SEA games.
“I thought basketball in North America was big, until I seen everyone wearing basketball jerseys”
GOLDEN MOMENT
2019 Sea Games Champions
Thanks: @nikebasketball,@rif.manila, @2019seagamesphiliphines,
Figures: @djbigboycheng, @johnroy68,
Photography by: @kyoshinn
Produced by: @tgq.inc