According to Ravena’s father, ex-pro Bong Ravena, his son broached the idea two weeks ago and immediately agreed to go for it.

“He told me about it two weeks ago. Sabi ko sa kanya, go for it,” the elder Ravena told the BusinessMirror on Wednesday. “I’m really proud of him.”

The game is set at 3 p.m. on January 6 at The Arena in San Juan City.

Besides Ravena, the Rookie of the Year of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), also playing in the exhibition match are his Ateneo teammates Kirk Long, Justin Chua, JP Erram and Nico Salva.

Ravena’s younger brother Thirdy who plays for the Blue Eaglets will also play, along with celebrities Marco Alcaraz, Joross Gamboa, Jon Hall, Xian Lim, Jhong Hilaro, Luis Alandy and Jayson Abalos.

Former King Blue Eagle Chris Tiu also made himself available.

Also committing themselves to the cause are De La Salle’s Joshua Webb and Joseph Marata, San Beda’s Baser Amer, Far Eastern University’s Ryan Roose Garcia and Terrence Romeo, Letran’s Kevin Alaska and Anton Altamirano and College of St. Benilde’s Rafael Melocoton.

The Azkals, who are also arranging a charity game for the Sendong victims, will make a special appearance in the game.

Ticket prizes will be released soon and organizers are talking to comedians Jimmy Santos and Jose Manalo to coach the two squads.

(Joel Orellana)