DEFYING THE ODDS

The Atletang Ayala programme aims to provide Olympic hopefuls holistic support to achieve their fullest potential

- Franz Sorilla IV.

Having supported athletes in the past, the Ayala Group discovered the need for a sustainable programme to fill in the gaps in the local sports community. Exemplifying the conglomerate’s commitment to nation-building, the Ayala Center for Excellence in Sports (ACES) launched last March 2022 the Atletang Ayala programme, which seeks to assist the country’s emerging Olympic bets with healthcare services, access to state-of-the-art sports facilities and, most importantly, career opportunities. Through the programme, Ayala aims to be part of the tedious journey of Filipino athletes more strategically and with a lasting impact.

“It’s a way for us to support these athletes when they are just starting their sports career, as we believe that’s when they need assistance the most,” says Francisco Romero Milan, managing director and corporate resources group head. “What’s impressive about these athletes is their show of passion, energy and engagement.”

The first roster of Atletang Ayala includes Jasmine Alkhaldi, a two-time Olympic swimmer and Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) gold medallist; Andrea Robles, the first Filipino gold medallist at the Indoor Archery World Series; Prince Alejo, the youngest nationally-ranked karateka; Pia Bidaure, a world-ranked archer and SEAG medallist; Xandi Chua, nationally-ranked swimmer and SEAG silver medallist; Nat Perez, the Philippines’ top foil fencer; Abby Bidaure, world-ranked national archer; and Noel Jose, world-ranked fencer.