Previous Story
Supportive mom helps Jericho reach dreams
Jericho Cruz, seen here watching a collegiate league game in the Philippines, said listening to his mother Arlene’s advices and guidance help him achieve his dreams. (KC Cruz)
Arlene was his son’s first fan when the 22-year-old cager started playing for the then G-Rollers at the Garapan Basketball Court more than 10 years ago.
Fast forward to 2014, Cruz is set to make his debut in the 40th season of the Philippine Basketball Association—Asia’s first pay-for-play and the second oldest continuously existing league in the world next to the NBA—with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters.
Arlene said that she always remind her two sons—Jericho and the younger Jayjay—that they can achieve their dreams if they patiently work hard for it.
“Be it a small or big dream if you put your mind into it and you are determined to reach your goals, one day you can accomplish them. All you need is patience,” said the elder Cruz, who now lives and work in Houston, Texas.
Jayjay is already in high school in Houston and also played basketball before shifting to powerlifting.
“I’ve supported Jericho’s every step and decision that he made. As long as I know that it is the right decision, I’m behind him 100 percent. We’ve been like that ever since,” Arlene said.
Arlene added that she was extremely happy when her son told him that he was chosen ninth overall by Rain or Shine in last month’s PBA Rookie Draft.
“He told me, ‘Mom, before I used to dream of playing in the PBA. Now, I’m already here.’ That’s why I’m happy on what he has accomplished. Not everyone is given with that kind of talent,” Arlene said.
To be God fearing and respect to the elderly are also some of the values that she taught Jericho while he was growing up.
“It is important for a parent to support their kids’ dreams, not what we wanted. Parents should always be behind the scenes,” added Arlene, who last met Jericho when he was still playing for the Adamson University Falcons in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
“It was last year and we watched the UAAP opening where I also met his now wife, Mosh. I haven’t seen them after that, so I’m very excited to play with my grandchild,” she added. (Jon Perez)
