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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Basketball devider Prosper keeps connection with Filipinos alive through charity and clinics

Prosper keeps connection with Filipinos alive through charity and clinics

Published Aug 28, 2025 10:07 pm

At A Glance

  • Lester Prosper has found success in Indonesia, but the former PBA import continues to return to the Philippines—not to look for a basketball job, but to give back.
Photo caption: Lester Prosper with Ireneo Bautista, Dale Evangelista of the Manila Sports Council, PVL player Joy Dacoron at the Barangay 847 Covered Court at Plaza Zamora in Pandacan, Manila last August 19, 2025. [photo credit: Brian Yalung]
Photo caption: Lester Prosper with Ireneo Bautista, Dale Evangelista of the Manila Sports Council, PVL player Joy Dacoron at the Barangay 847 Covered Court at Plaza Zamora in Pandacan, Manila last August 19, 2025. [photo credit: Brian Yalung]
Beyond the Game  
Prosper keeps connection with Filipinos alive through charity and clinics
By Brian Yalung
Lester Prosper has found success in Indonesia, but the former PBA import continues to return to the Philippines—not to look for a basketball job, but to give back.
From August 18 to 21, “Papi” was once again in Manila, holding a basketball clinic and outreach program in Pandacan. The visit was part of his ongoing efforts through the Lester Prosper Foundation Inc., with support from Dr. Ireneo Bautista.
The day’s activities included a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new court, mural painting, a feeding program, a basketball clinic, an exhibition game, and the turnover of basketballs and volleyballs to the local community.
Asked why he continues these efforts, the 36-year-old gave a simple but heartfelt reply.
“I used to be where they were,” Prosper said. “Also, I recently won a championship [in Indonesia], so I wanted to share my blessings.”
It was a gesture that spoke volumes. Prosper could have easily saved his earnings, but giving back has always been at the heart of who Papi is. The Filipino people remain among the most fortunate beneficiaries of his generosity.
More to come from Papi
This was not Prosper’s first outreach in the country, and from the way he spoke, it will certainly not be his last.
Several personalities joined him in the event. That included his former PBA coach Johnedel Cardel, Petro Gazz Angels middle blocker Joy Dacoron, veteran volleyball coach and Capital1 consultant Roger Gorayeb, Dale Evangelista of the Manila Sports Council and Paul Ycasas from the Philippine Sports Commission.
For Prosper, nothing was more rewarding than seeing children enjoy themselves in mini-games and activities. And as his regular but quiet visits to the Philippines show, this will not be the last time Papi connects with Filipino youth—and with the many friends he has made here.
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