Former basketball player John Amores has clarified rumors linking him romantically to Vice President Sara Duterte. The speculation arose after Duterte sent him a letter offering words of encouragement following his suspension during the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 98 in 2022.
Amores addressed the issue during his appearance on the vlog “Pinoy Pawnstars” by Boss Toyo on January 11, where he brought two significant items for appraisal and sale: the jersey he wore during the infamous on-court brawl between Jose Rizal University (JRU) and College of Saint Benilde, and the framed, signed letter from VP Duterte.
Denying claims that Duterte gifted him a resort and a gas station, Amores stated, “They accused me of being her lover, saying she gave me a resort and a gas station. None of it is true. This [the letter] is what she gave me.”
Seeking ₱200,000 for the jersey and the framed letter, Amores ultimately agreed to sell them for ₱67,500 after consultation with an expert brought in by Boss Toyo. Before parting with the items, Amores signed both for added authenticity.
The former athlete revealed he plans to use the proceeds to fund a roasted chicken business, which he humorously named “Amores Mapapa-knockout.” Despite selling the jersey, Amores expressed his desire to repurchase it someday, citing its sentimental value.
