Q/A: Pepe De Silva on Philippine baseball
Little-leaguer shares his thoughts on the game
Pepe De Silva (right) poses with Cebu Dolphins left-handed pitcher Joseph Orillana in 2007.
Q: I see that your whole family is with you. How did your family get into baseball?
A: My lolo (grandfather) and dad used to watch all the time before when the ticket used to cost five pesos to get in the stadium. They recalled how good it was and when they heard about the games, they had to come and watch. This is why I learned of the sport, from my dad and lolo. I would always see them play baseball at the fort and this inspired me to play.
Q: How did you get started with baseball?
A: I wanted to try something new, and this was what I chose to do at Ateneo.
Q: You've been here several weeks in a row. What do you think of the games so far?
A: Very good games! It's rare to see good level of games or play. This is my first time to watch here at Rizal [Memorial Baseball Stadium].
Q: Why?
A: I hardly have much time, I play ILLAM (International Little League of Manila) on Saturdays and Tot on Sundays, and sometimes I have private training with coach at Loyola Gym.
Q: What will keep you coming back to the game?
A: I'm always happy to watch a good game... I will hopefully be able to play in the Nationals next year of Little League and I want to play like these players in this [league].
Q: How long have you been playing baseball?
A: Five years including this year (I'm 13 years old now).
Q:How long before we see you playing in Baseball Philippines?
A: I want to play in Baseball Philippines.
Q: Why did you choose to have a jersey of Joseph Orillana?
A: He is a good pitcher. Most of the time you see pitchers just throw fastballs and other types of balls, not like Joseph. He uses, umm, he throws the ball in nice locations. Like he's pinpoint in his location, not overpowering but just location. He is smart.
Q: Do you now like the Cebu Dolphins?
A: No, just Joseph.
Q: Any advice to other kids your age who want to try a sport?
A: Don't be afraid to try new things. It's not the game winning moments that's important but the time you spend with your teammates. Enjoy yourself and have fun playing.