The youth of Brgy. Sto. Rosario-Silangan, Pateros are more inspired and excited to play sports and chase their basketball dreams after ABS-CBN current affairs programs “Rated K,” “Matanglawin,” and “Sports U” renovated their covered court.

ABS-CBN anchors Korina Sanchez-Roxas, Kuya Kim Atienza, at Dyan Castillejo led the unveiling and turnover of the court, bringing with them the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League champion San Juan Knights, the Philippines’ national 3x3 team, and Kapamilya artist Young JV to play with the community’s very own hardcourt heroes.

Gabriel Diesma, a member of the “Batang Silangan” basketball team, said they can now enjoy playing more because the court is safe to use unlike before. “We can prevent injuries. The floor is now even and no longer slippery.”

His teammate Dwayne Magallanes added that people from other barangays also like to play in their court nowadays. Apart from repairing the facility, ABS-CBN also partnered with Mural PH to paint on the walls in the area, making the place more attractive for both players and spectators.

ABS-CBN News ecosystem head Ces Drilon said they decided to do this project to serve the Filipinos beyond the traditional way of delivering news or entertainment.

“We have to go beyond the TV screen to give our audience richer experiences and to leave a lasting imprint in communities. We hope the renovated basketball court can inspire them to be more active and well-rounded. It also is a center where the community congregates,” Ces said.

During the turnover of the court, “Rated K,” “Matanglawin,” and “Sports U” each had special gimmicks and gifts for the residents. Korina also gave away new slippers to children, Kuya Kim brought his exotic pets, while Dyan led a session of Zumba.

According to the anchors, nothing beats being able to personally see and serve the people who have been watching and supporting their shows.

“It always feels like I am fulfilling my purpose on earth when I am an instrument for help, compassion, change for the better. I believe this is each one’s life purpose: to help others,” Korina said.

Kim added that while he talks about animals and science on his program, it is still different to be able to actually show it to children in person.

“You can see the joy and wonder in both children and adults when they are able to see, touch, and learn something about these exotic animals,” he said.

Dyan, a former athlete, is also happy to see for herself how young Filipinos are getting into sports.

“I can say that our youth today is really into sports. We just need to provide them with proper amenities so that we can encourage them to hone their skills in their chosen sports,” she shared.

Before the basketball makeover in Pateros, Korina, Kim, and Dyan have joined forces already in telling the stories of admirable and exceptional children for the “Ayos Ka Kid” campaign.

Ces said their programs will do more projects together that will bring joy and inspiration not only to children but the entir family.

Watch “Sports U” every Thursday after “Bandila,” “Matanglawin” every Sunday at 9:45 am, and “Rated K” every Sunday at 6 pm on ABS-CBN. Watch online on iWant or skyondemand.com.ph. For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit abscbnpr.com.