The Transformative Power of Baseball: A New Hope for Children in Manila
Emotore, a growth supplement brand based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has expressed its commitment to changing children's futures by sponsoring the "Smokey Mountain Baseball Project 2026" for the second consecutive year. This event took place from May 29 to 31 in Manila, Philippines, and aims to teach baseball to children living in the Smokey Mountain slums, helping them secure scholarships for higher education.
The Smokey Mountain Baseball Project (SMBP) is designed to not only teach the sport but also create educational opportunities for children who may otherwise lack access to such resources. Through baseball, the project aims to broaden their horizons and give them a shot at a brighter future.
This year, the project welcomed various notable guests, including Kuniyasu Kudo, a member of Japan's Professional Baseball Hall of Fame and former Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks manager. Others in attendance included former players from other major teams, such as Takayuki Kajitani and Tomomi Takahashi, as well as travel YouTuber “Manpei” of EXIT JACK. These guests engaged with the children through baseball clinics and interactive events, guiding them not only in skills but also in the importance of dreaming big and pursuing those dreams.
Over 80 participants, including employees from Emotore and volunteers, traveled to Manila to create invaluable memories with the children. The various activities conducted strengthened the bond between mentors and mentees, instilling hope and encouraging resilience.
Emotore’s Commitment to Support Children's Growth
Emotore operates under the mission to enhance children's vitality and increase their smiles, thereby contributing to a loving society. The company has developed and marketed the growth supplement "DR.SENOBIRU" and has engaged in numerous philanthropic activities, including sponsoring professional sports teams and various sports organizations. Emotore's partnership with SMBP resonates deeply with their core values, as they strive to support children like those participating in the project, witnessing firsthand the impact of collective efforts.
As part of their contributions, Emotore also provided original shoe bags to the participating children, fostering a sense of belonging and joy.
Insights from the NB Academy
Shogo Shibata, the representative director of the NB Academy, shared his insights, reflecting on a personal journey through adversity. Stricken with a severe illness in his middle school years, he faced the challenge of potentially losing his sight and being told to quit baseball. However, the goal of using baseball to carve out a better life kept his spirits alive. His belief in the power of dreams in overcoming obstacles led him to be involved in the project since 2022, continuing the legacy started by JCI Tokyo.
Shibata envisions that the children participating in the SMBP will one day grace an international stage like the Asia High School Baseball Championship, therefore inspiring them to chase even greater dreams. However, he highlighted that ongoing support for travel expenses and living costs is crucial for these children to transcend their circumstances and pursue opportunities in baseball.
Looking Forward
Moving forward, Emotore pledges continued support for children in Japan and abroad who aspire to turn their dreams into reality. Sports possess the power to foster growth and pave the way for a brighter future. Under its brand concept of supporting aspiring athletes, Emotore is dedicated to creating environments where as many children as possible can pursue their goals.
About SENOBIRU
Emotore’s supplement brand, SENOBIRU, embodies the slogan "Growing Stronger by Reaching Higher." This brand focuses on the growth and wellness of children, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition through its high-arginine product, "DR.SENOBIRU." In addition, it operates a YouTube channel called "To be Stronger," which supports junior athletes, and runs the