We have witnessed the strong words of self-proclaimed motivational speaker Rendon Labador against Coach Chot Reyes following Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the FIBA World Cup last month. Labador expressed his intense disappointment with the team’s loss and urged Coach Chot to resign from his position, accompanied by hurtful words. This sparked a heated reaction from Gilas supporters and those who love Coach Chot.
However, life is full of twists and turns, and everything changed during the Asian Games championship. Gilas Pilipinas secured a gold medal in this colorful competition, a triumph that opened the door for forgiveness and change.
In a formal apology, Rendon Labador faced Coach Chot Reyes and his family. Labador regretted the hurtful words he had uttered in the past weeks. He expressed gratitude and recognition for Coach Chot’s dedication and courage as the former coach of Gilas.
Part of Labador’s message was: “This is my formal apology to Coach Chot Reyes whom we criticized and spoke hurtful words about. I admit I was really harsh in my words, so I am asking for your forgiveness and your family’s. I admire what you did in stepping down from your position and your bravery in facing the criticisms thrown at you. I salute you, Coach Chot Reyes!”
In his apology, Labador conveyed unity and love for the nation. He praised Coach Chot Reyes’ dedication and sacrifices as the leader of Gilas Pilipinas in the past and acknowledged his role in elevating the team’s performance in the Asian Games.
Currently, Coach Tim Cone has succeeded Coach Chot Reyes as the coach of Gilas Pilipinas. He brought honor and joy to our country in the Asian Games. Gilas’ victory is not only the team’s success but the success of the entire Philippines.
At this moment, we want to pay tribute to Rendon Labador’s open-hearted apology to Coach Chot Reyes and the supporters of Gilas Pilipinas. It conveys the important lesson of forgiveness and unity, strengthening our country in the face of challenges in sports and life. Gilas continues to inspire and instill hope in us Filipinos.