Two-time PBA MVP James Yap enters politics

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

James Yap for three? Or James Yap as C?

Two-time Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Most Valuable Player Yap just filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) as councilor in the first district of San Juan where he has been a resident for several years now.

Also a multiple champion in the league with the Purefoods and San Mig Coffee franchises, Yap decided to enter politics a week after the Rain or Shine Elastopainters got eliminated in the Philippine Cup.

“‘Yung ganoong life story is a source of inspiration. That I feel is his biggest strength,” said Zamora.

The 17-year PBA star will be running under the slate of incumbent Mayor Francis Zamora, also a former basketball player.

“A lot of people idolize him, especially the youth. He came from humble beginnings. He himself is a success story,” added Zamora.

Zamora added that Yap will be a key contributor in their anti-drug campaigns as well as their advocacies for the youth.

Aside from Yap, former PBA players Paul Artadi and Don Allado will also run under Zamora’s ticket as councilors in the first and second districts, respectively.