Kings' Berre makes huge impact on basketball in Panglao

Sydney Kings’ Francesco Berre has made a huge impact on two basketball programs in Panglao during a recent trip back to the Philippines.

During his time back in the Philippines, where he spent two years, including working alongside Brian Goorjian and Billy Tomlinson for one at the Bay Area Dragons, Berre, the Kings head strength and conditioning coach, donated equipment and gear to the local community of Bohol - which is a place that holds a special place in his heart.

“I lived on this beautiful island [Pangalo] for almost two years during the COVID pandemic, as travel restrictions left me stranded there,” said Berre, who thanked everyone who donated and supported his recent fundraising initiative. 

“During that time, I had the chance to connect deeply with the local basketball community — a community that is incredibly passionate about the game. 

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“Basketball is everywhere in Panglao - people wear jerseys daily, and outdoor courts are packed as early as 6am and again in the evening, once it cools down. 

“Many kids play barefoot or in flip-flops, and even when it rains, the games don’t stop. 

“The love for basketball here is on another level — everyone plays, and almost everyone follows the NBA.
“But despite this passion, the local communities lack access to proper facilities, resources, and coaching — things that are much more accessible in places like Europe, Australia, or the US.

“Still, the determination and heart these kids and coaches show are truly special. 

“Every time I return to Panglao, I want to give back.

“I try to connect with local basketball programs, share my experience from the professional leagues, and spend time talking to coaches and kids, offering encouragement, sharing knowledge, and reminding them that their dreams are valid, no matter the obstacles. 

“This time, I wanted to bring them something tangible;  Sydney Kings gear. 

“Most of them had probably never heard of the NBL or the Kings before, but now they wear the jersey with pride, knowing they’re connected to a professional team from across the world. 

“In provinces like Panglao — as in much of the Philippines outside Manila — there’s very limited access to professional basketball. 

“The PBA [Philippines Basketball Association], the country’s only pro league, plays solely in Manila, and the majority of its players come from that region, and they are usually more fortunate kids coming from a college in the Luzon area. 

“Kids in the provinces often don't get the same chances to develop because of limited resources and exposure."

This donation is a way to bridge that gap — to remind them they matter, they’re seen, and their dreams are worth chasing. 

The first of the donations to the community took place in Das.ag Basketball Community, where Berre organised Kings jerseys and shirts for the young athletes, along with six basketballs and 15,000 Philippine peso to improve their training.

This was followed by 30 Kings shirts and six basketballs being donated to the MCIS Basketball Camps to elevate their programs.

“The response [to the donations] was incredibly heartwarming,” said Berre, who credited Rio Jose Arbutante, Dominise Micutuan, Horrace Morata and AJ Nisnisan Junior for their assistance in helping these programs.

“You could see the excitement and joy in the kids' faces the moment they received the gear.

“Coaches and parents were equally grateful, and they all expressed how much it meant to have someone from the outside acknowledge their hard work and passion.  

“The whole community showed so much appreciation. 

“They welcomed me with open arms and showed their gratitude not just in words but in smiles, hugs, and high fives. 

“The kids were proud to wear the Sydney Kings gear, and it gave them a new sense of belonging, like they were part of something bigger. 

“It created a real connection between the local basketball scene in Panglao and the professional basketball world."

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Berre hopes these acts will allow the children to chase their hoops dreams.

“While a jersey or basketball might seem like a small gesture, in places like Panglao, it can have a truly life-changing impact,” said Berre, who is entering his second season with the Kings in NBL26.

“Because it’s not just about the gear — it’s about what it represents: hope, recognition, and opportunity. 

“Thanks to the incredible support from friends on social media — including some of my close contacts also from the Sydney Kings — I was able to double my original contribution. 

“Their generosity allowed us to add more gears and purchase 12 new basketballs for the kids. 

“To put things into perspective, the MICS basketball program is training 30 to 40 kids with only three old basketballs. 

“So, something as simple as new equipment can make a massive difference in how these kids learn, play, and grow. 

“For the players, it’s a powerful reminder that someone believes in them and that their dreams matter. 

“It motivates them to train harder, stay focused, and continue chasing their goals — whether that’s playing in the PBA, college, the NBA, or simply becoming the best version of themselves. 

“For the coaches, many of whom work tirelessly without pay, it’s a huge morale boost. 

“It shows that their hard work is seen, valued, and supported. It gives them the energy and belief to keep pushing forward, even when resources are scarce. 

“In short, these donations spark motivation, pride and connection, and sometimes, that’s exactly what it takes to change a life.”