NEWS

Final Run, Endless Dreams: Two Sisters’ R1AA Story

Where dedication meets heart—two sisters leave a legacy while chasing new dreams.

In Barangay Sabuanan, Sta. Lucia, Ilocos Sur, the sound of a bouncing basketball is more than just a game—it is a rhythm of hope. On sun-warmed courts shaped by time and determination, four young athletes continue to chase a dream that began in the barrio.

Jemimah O. Gamer and Alondra C. Jacusalem, who proudly graduated last March 31, once stood side by side representing Region 1 in the Palarong Pambansa 2025 for Basketball 3x3. Alongside them is Raina May H. Gandol, a Grade 11 student, who found more than teammates in them—she found sisters.

Together, they wore the name of Teodoro Hernaez National High School with pride, guided by their dedicated coach, Sir Hiroshi David Quitevis, whose belief in their potential helped shape them not only as athletes but as young women of character.

Behind them is—Ma’am Carol Gacilos, their chaperon, who has become more than someone who simply accompanies them to tournaments. To the team, she is a mother, a mentor, and a big sister—someone who comforts them during tough losses, celebrates the victories, and reminds them of the values that matter beyond the game.

This year carries a special meaning for Jemimah and Alondra. The R1AA Meet will be their final run representing their school and SDO Ilocos Sur —a last chance to give their all on the court as Teodoro Hernaez NHS players. Whether they leave with a championship or simply with memories, they know they will take with them lessons in discipline, resilience, teamwork, and heart.

Yet, this is not the end of their journey. Entering college soon, both hope to continue their basketball dream as varsity players, inspired by the athletes they have long admired.

For Raina May, the journey is marked by both gratitude and longing. With Jemimah and Alondra moving on to the next chapter of their lives, she carries the memories of early practices, shared struggles, and quiet encouragements that shaped her into the player she is today.

They were not just teammates—they were sisters.

Before leaving, Jemimah and Alondra entrusted Raina with a promise—to continue their legacy, lead with heart, and ensure that the school’s name remains honored on the court. And she accepted that promise with courage.

Joining the team this season is Junny May A. Tadina, a Grade 9 student with quiet determination and a growing love for the game. Guided by Raina and inspired by the legacy of Jemimah and Alondra, she embraces her role wholeheartedly, becoming the new hope of the team.

Their practices remain simple, their resources limited—but their spirit is steadfast. Every pass, every play, every drop of sweat tells the story of their determination.

They play not just for victory, but for something deeper:

For their families who have always believed in them 

For their school that shaped them 

For their barrio that raised them 

And for each other, bound by a shared dream 

As they prepare for their final R1AA, Jemimah and Alondra carry dreams that reach far beyond their barrio.

“Hindi dito nagtatapos ang laban namin,” Jemimah shares. “Dadalhin namin ang lahat ng natutunan namin—disiplina, tiyaga, at puso—hanggang college. Pangarap naming maging varsity player balang araw.”

Alondra adds, “Gusto naming patunayan na kahit galing sa maliit na paaralan, kaya naming makipagsabayan. Inspirasyon namin ang mga babaeng manlalaro ng 3x3 na nagbigay ng karangalan sa bansa.”

Among Filipina 3x3 players who have brought pride to the country are Afril Bernardino, Clare Castro, Janine Pontejos, and Jack Animam—strong, fearless women who have shown that Filipinas can shine on the international stage. Jemimah and Alondra aspire to follow in their footsteps.

As they step onto the court representing SDO Ilocos Sur in the R1AA meet, these young women carry more than skill—they carry stories of sacrifice, resilience, and hope.

Because in every corner of the court, in every echo of their footsteps, one truth remains:

Success is not only for the privileged—but for those who persevere, endure, and dare to fight for their dreams.

Their story continues—and with this last run at R1AA, Jemimah and Alondra leave a legacy while stepping into the bright promise of college basketball.

via Lydia T. Liclican & R1AA Media Team