Broadcast Comm 101: THE Interview (part 2)

Here's the conclusion of my two-part interview with broadcast great Sev Sarmenta.  Enjoy!

Fifty Peso Seats:  With Smart Gilas and the other national team programs, the Philippine Basketball League (PBL) seems to be struggling to find franchises and players.  What do you think of the PBL adopting the NBDL format, becoming the "farm" teams for the PBA players where raw but drafted players can hone their skills? (Question was asked before PBL-Liga Pilipinas merger)

Sev Sarmenta:  That will only work if the PBA teams still have money left to run farm teams.  The existence of the PBL helps the PBA because it prepares players for the pros, even if PBA teams don't necessarily have a PBL team.  A strong amateur league, or transition league between college and the PBA will still emerge given our passion for the game and the appeal of getting great exposure for middle sized companies.  Who would've known about Excel Roof, Harbor Center, Ascof-Lagundi and other names, if not for the PBL?


FPS:  The PBA has not had the best of viewership and gate attendance lately.  What do you think is the main cause?

SS:  The rise of the NBA, the surge of the UAAP, the internet, telenovelas and other social networks have affected interest in the pba.  Keep in mind the PBA's golden era with Toyota and Crispa happened when the pba was the only regular basketball program in town.  Same thing with it's second surge in the 80s and early 90s.  Then, the nba came on as a 24 hour program. 

          Keep in mind though that the PBA is still strong among the C and D audiences.  the PBA is their NBA or UAAP.  Just go to the Araneta (Coliseum) on Alaska-Ginebra, Purefoods-SMB days.  The PBA can still pack in the building.


FPS:  To celebrate From the Fifty Peso Seats' 100th post, 10 "top 10" lists were featured, including the, "Top 10 Sportscasters of All Time."  Who are some of the icons you want to put in that list, foreign or local?

SS:  Okay, let's do foreign first:
         1. Dick Stockton
         2. Dick Enberg
         3. Bob Costas

         Here at home:
         1. Willie Hernandez
         2. Dick Ildefonso
         3. Joe Cantada
         4. Pinggoy Pengson


FPS:  Another top 10 list (was) the,  "Best Sports Movies in History."  Which is your top pick?

SS:  Rocky.


FPS:   Everyone seems to be eager to find the next Manny Pacquiao, but every time a boxer shows promise and receives hype, they all end up losing; case in point boxers like Marvin Sonsona, Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista, A.J. Banal and Ciso Morales.  What do you think hinders all these talented youngsters from taking the proverbial next step, like Pacquiao or even Nonito Donaire?

SS:  There's only one Manny Pacquiao and let's enjoy him while he's around.  He's set the bar so high so that anybody who follows will pale in comparison. 

         Those next in line should just train hard, get good management, develop a strong fighting heart and perform well each time they're in the ring. Pacquiao has already opened the door for the rest.  He can't do the fighting for those next in line.


FPS:  Fellow broadcaster Ed Picson has been deeply involved with the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP).  How well has he been doing?

SS:  ABAP made such a great decision in making Ed their Executive Director.  He loves boxing, has great leadership and can speak many dialects, which helps when you're dealing with boxers and officials nationwide. 

          I think that together with the team of Mr. Manny Pangilinan, they have a vision on what needs to be done.  The prime target is an Olympic gold medal.  It won't be easy.  Money will be needed to keep the fighters ready and exposed in international competitions. 

          Right now, Ed's doing just great, bringing the boxers to wherever there's a chance to compete.


FPS:  If there were a sport you would like to see given more television exposure, which sport would it be?

SS:  Tennis would have to be it. Boxing and volleyball are doing okay, but tennis is a sport where Filipinos can excel.  We need a good looking tennis court though and a regular international tournament that will invite great foreign competition.


     Once again, it was my great honor to do this interview and publish it.  Here's hoping I get to do it again soon.