Despite not being able to achieve his mother’s dream for him to become a table tennis champion, Tzu Chi devoted supporter, Brother Jack Gaisano of Tzu Chi Cebu found a meaningful way to fulfill her desire by bringing joy to thousands of students aspiring to become athletes through a philanthropic gesture. A sport he himself enjoys and believed that Filipinos can excel in, Brother Jack bestowed 40 sets of table tennis equipment to several schools in the province of Bohol. Tzu Chi Bohol facilitated the distribution of these equipment benefiting the municipalities of Inabanga, Sagbayan, Getafe, Tubigon, and Loboc.
The donated sets of table tennis equipment aims to promote sports and physical activity among the youth in these communities, providing them with the resources to develop their athletic skills and enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle.
At the Lawis Elementary School, teachers and pupils were excited and grateful for the new set of table tennis equipment. “This donation is a great help to our students because our school aims to win in the upcoming ping pong (Table Tennis) competition. Engaging into this activity provides a healthy alternative to excessive mobile phone use, directing the youths focus towards sports.” Teacher and Tzu Chi training volunteer Ms. Regine Escabusa expressed her thoughts and gratitude.
Joel Garcia, Ph.D., the Principal of Getafe Central Elementary School, highlighted the benefits of the donation for their pupils, “Recognizing that sports is one of the prioritized activities in our department for promoting good mental health, I see this as an opportunity for our students. Engaging in sports not only nurtures their physical well-being but also fosters mental development, particularly through activities like table tennis, which is a highlight of our sports competition. On behalf of the Getafe Central Elementary School, I express my sincere gratitude for this wonderful opportunity.”
The new table tennis equipment distributed to the schools is expected to play an immense role in the local sports programs, school competitions, and community events around the province of Bohol. The donated sport equipment not only enhances athletic skills but also provides an avenue for recreation and social interaction, diverting attention away from sedentary habits like mobile phone and computer gaming.
Though Brother Jack’s table tennis aspirations may not have been realized, his altruism created opportunities for young aspiring athletes to pursue their own dreams and desires, while reflecting a beautiful tribute in the memory of his mother.
