Patriots to wear special jerseys

THE AIRASIA Philippine Patriots will be donning special jerseys in their upcoming home games to commemorate the country’s celebration of “Araw ng Kagitingan” yesterday.

The Patriots of owners Tony Boy Cojuanco and Mikee Romero unveiled their new threads yesterday, which featured the word “Kagitingan” across their white jersey.

They will be wearing those uniforms in their home games against the Indonesia Warriors, Saigon Heat and Westports Malaysia Dragons at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

“It’s our own way of honoring Filipino fighters who helped bring democracy and freedom in the Philippines during the World War II era,” said Romero, president and CEO of Harbour Centre, in his press statement.

However, when the Patriots play against their bitter rivals San Miguel Beermen on Saturday, they will still use their traditional black and red uniform since the Beermen will be hosting what is expected to be a grudge showdown.

The Patriots, who clinched the first semis berth after outlasting the Bangkok Cobras, 84-78, in Bangkok last week, are sporting a league-leading 13-2 (win-loss) record.

This is not the first time that an ABL team will be wearing a special uniform. On Feb. 1, the JobStreet.com Singapore Slingers donned pink jersey in their 81-67 victory over the San Miguel Beermen at the Singapore Indoor Stadium as part of the World Cancer Awareness Day celebrations./Correspondent Jonas Panerio