January 20, 2026
In Barangay Maria Paz, Tanauan City, the sound of bouncing basketballs and cheerful laughter filled the community sports court as young people gathered with excitement and hope. What was once an ordinary space was transformed into a place of opportunity, discipline, and inspiration through the Ball Beyond Limits Project, an initiative designed to empower the youth through sports and positive engagement.
Led by Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman Jobelle Liwanag, the project set out with a clear purpose: to encourage physical activity, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide young individuals with a constructive environment where they could grow not only as athletes but also as responsible members of the community. The rehabilitation and improvement of the sports court, paired with the provision of essential sports equipment, created a renewed space where passion and potential could thrive.
At the heart of the initiative was a free basketball training program conducted by Coach Jhon Carlo Balba. Beyond teaching fundamental skills and techniques, the training focused on building self-confidence, discipline, teamwork, and a positive mindset among the participants. Each session became a lesson not just in sports but also in perseverance, respect, and personal growth.
The project was made possible through the generous support of OPEC Batangan and M Lhuillier, headed by Charity Baet, together with area managers and OPEC officers. Their contributions included basketballs, basketball rings, volleyballs, volleyball nets, and paint materials used to enhance and revitalize the community sports court, ensuring that the youth had access to a safe and well-equipped venue for recreation and development.
More than a sports program, Ball Beyond Limits became a meaningful platform for positive change. It offered the youth an alternative to unhealthy habits, encouraging them to spend their time productively while strengthening their sense of sportsmanship, competitiveness, and camaraderie. Through teamwork and shared goals, bonds were formed, confidence was nurtured, and dreams were ignited.
By bringing the community together and placing the youth at the center of its mission, the Ball Beyond Limits Project continues to inspire discipline, unity, and hope. Through the simple act of playing a game, it reminds everyone that when given the right support and opportunities, young people can rise beyond limits and build a brighter future for themselves and their community.