For the South Pacific Pilot Whales Swim Team (SPPW), the holidays took on deeper meaning this year. Celebrating its first Christmas as a team, SPPW chose to give back through “Love in a Box: A Christmas of Purpose,” a heartfelt outreach that blended sport, family, and service.
Set in the cool highlands of Maharlika, Baganihan in Marilog District, the initiative brought holiday cheer to 38 Matigsalug day care students. Swimmers, known as the Pilots, came with their parents, turning the activity into a warm, family-centered celebration.
Each child received a thoughtfully prepared gift box filled with essentials and Christmas treats, while selected families were given solar lights to help households without electricity.
The day unfolded like a true Christmas party—shared meals, cupcakes, ice cream, games, and laughter filled the community.
SPPW members also became ninong and ninang for a day, introducing young athletes to the value of compassion and social responsibility beyond competition.
Deeply moved, teachers and parents shared that it was the first Christmas celebration of its kind in their community.
For SPPW, the experience reinforced a simple truth: the most meaningful victories happen outside the pool.
With plans to make Love in a Box a yearly tradition, SPPW continues to live out its commitment to family, unity, and values-driven leadership proving that while medals shine, giving back leaves the brightest mark.
