Ricci Rivero to give back to UP Ikot drivers through ‘Buckets of Hope’ program

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons’ superstar Ricci Rivero will be holding a monetary help drive to the UP Ikot Drivers Association through his “RR25 Buckets of Hope” program.

Rivero explained that he will donate 250 pesos for every point he will score in the UAAP men’s seniors basketball games that will benefit the UP Ikot drivers.

“Marami po kasi sa kanila, may pamilya na sinusuportahan, at sa pagpasada po kumukuha ng pangkabuhayan,” said the UP Fighting Maroons’ main gunner.

Rivero shared that this will also be his gift to the UP community as he is set for his final playing year with the Fighting Maroons.

Charlie Dy, Rivero’s agent from Virtual Playground, also supports his client’s program and promised to match the 250-pesos amount for every point that he scores.

“Noong nawala po ang face-to-face classes at public transport, sobra pong laking kawalan noon para sa kanila. Kaya po naisip ko po na i-offer sa kanila ‘yung final year ko po, para mas makatulong po ako kahit papaano,” Rivero added.

Rivero is hoping to deliver a championship to the UP community before he exits since leaving the De La Salle University Green Archers several years ago.

Together with Rivero in their campaign for a title are co-stars CJ Cansino, Ilonggo Gerry Abadiano, former Gilas Pilipinas standout Carl Tamayo, former NU star Terrence Fortea, and overseas recruit Zavier Lucero.

Aside from the fortified player roster, the Fighting Maroons will also be playing under the new system of head coach Goldwin Monteverde, the architect behind National University Bullpups’ multi-championship dynasty.