Gin Kings are kings, again
By Jesus A. Garcia Jr.
INDISPUTABLY, one of our country’s intoxicating drinks named Ginebra San Miguel is considered as the ‘king of gins’ in the land, loved by the common Filipino masses because of its affordable price and quality and became a very popular drink. Many say it is a poor man’s alcoholic drink that most people can afford to buy. Because of its popularity and other features, La Tondeña Distillers Inc., the original producer of this drink, prompted it to participate in the Philippines’ brand of professional basketball games in 1979 called Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), an expansion team of the league.
Yes, after some off-and-on runs during their first few seasons, the team’s performance in the league perked up when two illustrious veteran point-guards Robert Jaworski and Francis Arnaiz joined the team in 1984 after the famed Toyota Tamaraws squad where the two belonged, was disbanded. Yes, from its birth up to this year, the quintet so adored by the crowd, already earned 14 PBA championship crown starting in 1987 spearheaded then by Jaworski and Arnaiz.
Last April 22, we saw on television how they won their newest tiara (14th) by subduing anew their arch-enemy Meralco Bolts in their sixth game, 104-93, or 4-2, in the best-of-seven championship series, similar to what they did in 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022, all under the mentorship of Tim Cone. Many say that Tim Cone’s Ginebra Gin Kings have truly mastered the plays, plans strategies and moves of the Norman Black coached Bolts, then and now. I agree, sans doubt. Indeed, Ginebra Gin is not only the king of the gins in the land, but also the Philippines’ king inside the hard court. Amen.
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I want to respond to the queries that bombarded me thru text messages and some in person during this political campaign period.
Firstly, when I accidentally met a man in a mall many weeks ago who I believe knows me as a former national cycling champion, asked me why I’m for Gov. Amado “Pogi” Espino, III in the coming May 9 polls. He asked perhaps on seeing the bull cap that I wore with a statement that says, “si Pogi ang governador ko.” He asked why and my reasons for supporting the current governor.
I just shrugged it off and plainly answered, “it’s my constitutional right,” and left the fellow.
Days passed and some queries shelled me anew through text messages from persons unlisted in my phone book but politely and curiously asked me the same question. I did not reply.
However, I realize I owe them a reply so I’m doing it here.
Yes, I’m proud to say that I support the good governor for many good reasons. I like him sans doubt and want to see him reelected again because I’ve seen his sincerity and determination to serve his constituents. He is assiduous in pointing out priorities, selfless and humble, a skilled and knowledgeable executive, understanding, thoughtful, caring, appreciative, and above all, he’s sports-minded (like me). He’s charming too, (the reason why he’s called “Pogi”). Yes, name other positive traits and he has it. That’s my observation about him. I think he’s the best, so far, that this province ever produced. (My apology to the former governors like his father Amado Espino, Jr., Oscar M. Orbos, Rafael Colet and the Agbayanis). Amen.
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QUOTE OF THE WEEK: He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He. DEUTERONOMY 32: 4
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