NIL Philippines has officially launched as a dedicated advertising and athlete-branding agency designed to empower Filipino athletes and elevate their commercial value beyond the playing arena. The program provides branding development, sponsorship pathways, educational support, and financial literacy to athletes from grassroots to elite levels.

Founded by Letran Knights head coach Allen Ricardo, the initiative aims to connect rising and established players with brands, media partners, and organizations that recognize athletic talent and personal influence. Ricardo emphasized that the goal extends beyond performance statistics, highlighting personal stories, character, and impact as pillars of the project.

Athlete development meets long-term commercial vision

Ricardo has long advocated for holistic athlete growth through coaching, mentorship, and exposure programs. His success from leading Letran’s juniors to back-to-back titles to revitalizing the seniors program underscores his commitment to shaping talent on and off the court. The new agency strengthens his ongoing work with grassroots programs like the Milcu Sports Got Skills Basketball Clinic, which develops young players and connects them with scouting and sponsorship opportunities.

Inspired by the growing Name, Image, and Likeness movement in the United States, NIL Philippines intends to create local pathways that ensure Filipino athletes can cultivate sustainable platforms and unlock long-term value. Through strategic partnerships, media integration, and athlete education, the agency sets the foundation for a future where sports performance and commercial empowerment go hand in hand.

A movement for the modern Filipino athlete

As sports landscapes continue to evolve globally, NIL Philippines seeks to redefine how Filipino athletes are seen and supported, placing emphasis on professional growth, life skills, and access to industry networks. With its launch, the agency positions itself at the forefront of a rising movement advocating for athlete empowerment in the country.