MANILA – Ceres Negros FC was extra motivated in defeating regional rival Kaya Futbol Club Iloilo in the 2019 Philippines Football League last Wednesday as they are dedicating the match to their beleaguered owner.
Veteran Stephan Schrock said in a post-match interview that they dedicated the all-important match to team owner Leo Rey Yanson, who was forced out of control of the family business.
“To our owner, who is more like a friend or like a father to us all, we dedicate the win to him,” Schrock said. “He’s having a difficult time and I hope we can make him smile for even just fifteen seconds.”
Yanson was recently ousted as president of Vallacar Transit Inc. (VTI), Bachelor Express Inc., Rural Transit Mindanao Inc., Sugbo Transit Express Inc. and Mindanao Star Business Transit Inc. He was replaced by elder brother Roy.
The firms are part of the Yanson Group of Bus Companies which altogether operates a fleet of at least 4,800 buses nationwide, and employs some 18,000 workers around the country.
Schrock admitted that Leo Rey’s ouster could be a huge blow for the team but they just want to focus on retaining their championship in the PFL and have another shot at AFC Cup next year.
“The uncertainty is a problem but we live in the present so today we had to win this game to give our owner a little smile and a little happiness back,” said the Philippine Azkals veteran./PN
