The Story of the Filipino: Efren “Bata” Reyes

After winning bronze at the 30th Southeast Asian Games, what’s in store for the 65-year old Filipino pool legend Efren “Bata” Reyes?
The Story of the Filipino talks to the “Magician” as he shares his plans after the SEA Games.

[@micayyy178]

Petition to have an English subtitle for this. International fans need to see and understand more of Efren. 💛

[@amorimin1418]

Yes pls CNN 🙏 English Subtitle pls🥺

[@mous3y490]

anyone translate this for you yet? guess it’ll be good practice for me if you haven’t gotten a translation yet. be warned, translation from filipino to english isn’t a word for word translation :p

[@TheSunIsMyDestroyer]

0:08 You need to be playing already as a kid. And you should always be pursuing to play. Before, I used to win a lot, they too might also win next. The secret to playing is that it's important you don't ever think you are already good. Even when you're great, you need to keep practicing, learn all the shots. 0:49 When I was just 5 years old, my father took me to Manila (Capital of the Philippines). There the two of us, we were there, we literally slept at a pool hall but it took 3 years, of course, I couldn't really reach the table. Well, when I could finally reach it, I started playing here and there. In fact, when I got there, I was stepping on something (implying he's using something to elevate himself to be able to reach the table and play) and the billiard games begin. My dad, instead of the billiard hall, was busy at the barber shop. 1:12 (Playfully) It's beautiful, a barber, can cut hair. 1:18 Well, in the morning, before I go to school, I would train, there was no one around. I'm the only one playing, it's early in the morning so. It would only be 5 am and my school starts at 7 am, so for 30 minutes only and it's over. Later after school, when the night comes, sleeping time, no one would be around again, it would then be my turn to play. I'm the only one there and I would play. After that, I would also sleep there too, on top of the table. The name of the pool hall, there in Santa Cruz Avenue (Manila, Philippines), is "Lucky 13." That's where I honed my skills, that's where I hustled. They thought no one there could play. A lot of people come there but they're full of losses, they don't know my shots, whether it's good or not. 2:03 I was only 8 years old when I started playing billiards. The reason why I played is because I had nowhere else to go and I didn't know how to play anything else except for billiards, and also, I noticed that the people who were playing there, when they win, they get handed money. Well then, I needed to play as well so if I win, I will also get handed money. 2:25 Grade 1, I was also 8 years old, at the same time I would play. I became good at billiards at 12 years old. I was really, really good, I would hustle already, I was battling already, everywhere, I would visit different places. When I went to high school, first year high school, in the beginning, I would head to school at 6 am, class starts at 7 am, I get out at 3 pm. When 3 pm comes, the managers would already be waiting outside. We'd leave as soon as I get out of school, to different places. It would take us till morning and they would just instead take me back to school at 6 am because it starts at 7. Although at school, that's where I'd sleep. 3:10 They don't really know I sleep in school. They don't really know I go to different places because I don't really go home anymore. In the afternoon, they would already pick me up, at that point, sleeping is out of the question. We'd be away for the whole day going to different places. 3:28 It took a while, it took a while. 1999, I became world champion. (Jokingly) The school would then start calling me, they want me to come back and attend class. No more, I'm old now! 3:42 You would think, even before, I earned 90 pesos ($1.63). In the beginning, when we won, my percentage, 90 pesos. That was the biggest one back in the day. But now, as time went on, the bets started increasing, that's when it started. 4:07 The name of this, this is where I always go, here in Saint Martin. This is where I always play pool, when I'm here in Pampanga (his home province). My friends are all here, here's my buddy, he's the owner, he's my buddy Ruben. Every morning, I would be here, this is where I would play. 4:33 We've known each other since the 1990's. Well after we got to know each other, we ended up treating each other almost as brothers, like true friends. Like Efren, he doesn't even introduce himself as "I'm him", that he's Efren Bata, that's how he is, very humble, that's how he is. Not arrogant, no. 4:59 That's why I liked it, I had nothing else to play and that's where I am, plus I'm already earning money there, through billiards. You know I don't even use any money, I just played and played. People would come greet me because people would recognize my gameplay. Even when I would go to a different country, a person from that country would take me there because they saw how I shoot. Well, I didn't even know there were tournaments there, I just knew we were there to hustle. We would go to different places, I really didn't know about any tournaments. Only when I got there did I realize there were many tournaments. 5:38 The first tournament, here in the Philippines, 1983. First professional pocket billiard tournament. That's it. It doesn't even have a prize money yet. There were some who saw how I played. They brought me to America. There, 1985, I started there. There were many, good players I saw, they were all good. When I went there, I mostly won but I still didn't earn anything. 6:03 That's what you should really ask me. What happened to everything I earned... Nothing! (Interviewer asks, what happened?) They said we still lost. (Laughingly) They said we still lost because of the expenses. Then, we would come home, and then we would come back. I told the manager, "Boss, why would we go back? We already won but we still lost. What happens if we actually lose this time, then we're truly screwed." 6:32 "No we would earn money now", the manager said. There would be commercial, we'd finally split 50/50 in the contracts. I didn't even understand what that meant, I wasn't that good at English yet. He said, when they start speaking English, we wouldn't understand each other. When I earned money, it was directly someone from America. Crazy how when I wasn't playing billiards, that's when I earned good money. Oh and after that, he got arrested. (Laughs) He went to jail, and then I came back and then someone else picked us up, who is my boss now, boss Puyat (Puyat sports). Then that's where it started. I hope I was able to help. I came to the USA when I was 10, I'm definitely rusty but I can still understand and speak most of it, though their accents and how fast they speak make it a little hard for me. I'm very sleepy now so I'm out, if anyone would like to continue where I left off, it would be a big help. If not, I'll try to remember to come back here to finish the rest. Have a nice day.

[@mous3y490]

@@TheSunIsMyDestroyer this guy right here is the true hero.

[@AjiRahman]

@@TheSunIsMyDestroyer that's a big help, thank you, I'm happy to wait for the rest of it 😀

[@erictamang2460]

I am not a fan of billiards but I am a fan of this humble legend. Truly, he's our pride and a gem in Philippine sports.

[@saitosangha2711]

@Yza Purely ate. tangkilikin natin tayo mga tao ang mga larong SPORTS katulad nito - BASKETBALL at larong BILLIARDS. CHESS BOARD. VOLLEYBALL. FOOTBALL. at larong BASEBALL at mga larong VIDEO GAMES at marami pang iba, ate. alam mo ba pang tangkilikin natin ang mga ganyan SPORTS katulad yan dyan tayo matutung maging mabuting tao sa kapwa at dyan tayo matutung maging malasakit sa mga buhay ng mga hayop | ate. alam mo ba masarap maglaro ng SPORTS sa buhay natin tayo mga tao tayo lahat kasi malalayo ka sa masamang barkada, mas masarap pa maglaro ng SPORTS kaysa masamang barkada

[@nihatsavmaz6677]

From Turkey i say: this man is a legend. I live in the other side of the world. Even for me he is a super star. I love him...

[@gran761]

Hinde lng siya basta humble.. Siya po ang the goat number 1 pool player sa buong mundo.. Na update na ang website nung last 2008, na si Efren Reyes ang goat.. Fans, expert, and mga pro past opponent players ni Efren ang nag pili kay Efren na maging goat..lahat ng website napuntahan kona si Efren yung number 1 goat,. May mga website na number 2 si Efren pero inactive at hinde na updated matagal narin ang website

[@musicbeats9408]

@@gran761 15 mins

[@zanethind]

You should play and be a fan of the sport

[@MattGaming164]

Who's with me that Efren is the GOAT of pool

[@hadeangt3071]

Wdym who is with you? It was decided decades ago by pool fans and pool pro players that he is the greatest

[@pingo8010]

Late ka na hahhaha

[@InnohubGroup]

@@hadeangt3071 😂😂😂😂😂

[@daviddopazo3745]

Seems they didn't understand the Roger Federer reference, but yeah, the goat

[@dream0reaper]

anyare sau?

[@1.3mviews50]

I hope he is still healthy, I love him , he is great humble down to earth person, love from Thailand 🇹🇭

[@jackspicer455]

Whos that man from your thumbnail?

[@daniloarevalo9289]

Majic

[@ibashcommunists6847]

Grabe. Class act talaga itong taong ito.

[@bilogskii2216]

He is! He recently won a medal in the sea games and become the oldest medalist in there.

[@user-kq2zr6ik3f]

Love from India🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@rozbj17]

He is really talented. No one teach him how to play billiards. No books, no mentor, just by experience and his own understanding of the game. Amazing

[@beamaze4977]

Correct 🙏🙏🙏

[@beamaze4977]

Swerte ng matuturoan niya 🤗🤗

[@mattpascual5061]

And he is the GOAT

[@yujiro5677]

Well books can't really help you how to be good on pool lol

[@joulupukki1607]

That might be the reason he became a goat. He needed to think outside the box and he made his own way to see this game. Thats why he the magician!!

[@yukies.9506]

Who came here because The Magician himself still competes in the SEA Games 2022 and still winning medals at the age of 67? He is the oldest athlete to compete in the SEA Games 2022. Truly and definitely the living legend! Mabuhay ka, Sir Efren! 👏👏👏 Please continue playing billiards and compete if that's your passion. Hopefully, next is in the Olympics! Proud to be a Filipino! 🖒

[@jesillehechanova4822]

Hopefully we'll see him at Paris 2024!!💖💖💖💖

[@ricardoamoy9314]

Efren reyes

[@lordcedrick2210]

NAKAKATUWA NA NAKAKAIYAK ANG KWENTO NI KUYA EFREN!!PERO KAHIT HINDI KA NAKAPAG-ARAL IDOL!!SOBRANG PROUD ANG BUONG PILIPINAS SAYO!!

[@maribethp1641]

Buong mundo hanga sa galing nia.. the "Magician"

[@KaLyeGP]

Buong Mundo kilala sya Kaya kahangahanga tlg ma ipag mamalaki ng pilipino

[@VinciSid]

Dapat patayuan ng Monument si Sir Efren "Bata" Reyes THE MAGICIAN. As a recognition sa kanyang Skills at contribution sa sambayanang pilipino bilang isang GOAT sa larangan ng Pool. Nakuha nia ang respeto ng mga Bihasang manlalaro ng pool sa bawat sulok ng mundo. So I think he deserve it, even though na alam natin na napaka humble ni Sir Efren at hindi big deal sa kanya kung meron man o wala.. But just out of respect to his skills, being the Greatest of all time, The entertainment he gives whenever he plays the game and the Honor he brings to the Philippines.. Just my opinion.

[@kpv8975]

👍👍👍

[@alexandercalub7780]

Kahit magaling kna huwag mu isipin na magaling kna praktis ka parin. Efren Bata reyes.

[@manolocasas8591]

Bat siya magaling na siya

[@thuanho455]

@@manolocasas8591 q

[@abdullahusman757]

Good

[@Justin-po5lu]

ikaw marunong kaba mag billiard?

[@Justin-po5lu]

@I A ah ok marunong ka billard????

[@barongarcia1589]

Ilang beses dinuga ng mga manager tsaka promoter si sir.Efren pero ayos lang sa kanya. Wala e mahal nya lang talaga ung billiards. Salute Legend

[@Bestmaster555]

nkakaawa pag wla tlga alm ang pinoy nilalamangan ng may alam..atleast sya ang pnakamagaling ng player sa larangan sa villiard.Godbless po .. proud pinoy ..at proud ako sa inyo.long live sir efren

[@masnokexplorer7180]

Ginulangan siya.Di na sila naawa May karma din ang mga yon.Humble talaga Si idol Efren

[@Gfroxtvmix]

Tama ka par dala nya ang bandira natin d nya inisip ang pira kondi anv karangaln nating mga pilipino

[@quarkshark9388]

oo, yung isang tournament sa US na nanalo siya tinakbo yung karamihan ng price money nung management. ang kwento ni Django yung mga ibang nakalaban ni Efren binibigyan na siya ng abogado para kasuhan yung management ng tournament pero sabi ni Efren hayaan na lang daw. nabigay naman kay Efren yung prize money, kaso installment nga lang.

[@jcctbrrra1169]

Guys? mayaman padin ba sya? Super lupet idol!

[@edf4205]

I dont understand what he said But efren reyes is my favorite pool player, he is lagend From Indonesia country

[@sonnymylovesosweat]

You can’t understand what’s he saying because you’re still a baby, look at your picture, a baby can’t understand definitely.

[@animulovers3881]

"Even though you're Good,stop thinking you're Good,"in other words don't stop learning. Thats what the Magician said here... he is true Legend

[@leticiachiok8057]

Words of wisdom from the Legendary Efren 'Bata' Reyes. A true symbol of Pinoy Pride! 👏🇵🇭🏆

[@davedebbiegeronimolalaguna1809]

It's so sad to see your childhood hero grow old! You're still the goat of billiards.

[@jerwinmata7353]

Ilove you Lolo efrin Sana humaba pa buhay mo

[@rochellebonabon4214]

very true 😥😢

[@Kaledrone]

Who cares, this is billiards, he can keep playing until he dies

[@cobrar5538]

The GOAT, nag iisang tao na kilala ko na walang bashers🤣🤣🤣🤣 long life idol

[@ajdeguzman2994]

When efren said "Maraming gumagaling sa ibang bansa pero may gumagaling din dito, mas maraming magaling dito", you know how big his trust to the new generation of pool athletes. Kaya padayon!!

[@wenggomez3401]

Efren studied and mastered fluck shots made by novice players. He then apply it during tournaments, which to us are magical shots. But whenever he was asked how he did it. He will just answer he got lucky. 😊

[@lucarit4107]

@Yza Purely Its very rampant in PH. Even Manny P. if not for Freddie Roach, he will not be paid fairly.

[@lifeisgood2542]

@Yza Purely hopefully covid kicked the backside of those who cheated him as karma

[@hahagago5454]

@Yza Purely that's the sad part :( scam sponsor evil people

[@denzelpardillo1181]

I mean there's a truth to what he said, fluke shots are still lucky shots even when being done by professionals.

[@MrHodophiler]

I will never forget this man in my entire life.

[@rd1012]

This man is THE GOD of Billiards! Despite that, he has boundless humility in his skill.

[@AG-in7zl]

Isang kayamanan ng pinoy si idol efren❤️🇵🇭

[@pariskatanaferrer1537]

i hope our athletes like tatay efren will be properly compensated. protect tatay efren at all cost. he will always be one of the philippine’s treasure and pride. i pray that he will stay healthy and live longer. ❤️

[@edwinso3627]

I DON'T HAVE ANYTHING TO DO SO I MADE THIS AS A SMALL TRIBUTE TO EFREN. I HOPE SOMEBODY CAN MAKE A BETTER ONE SOON. EFREN SOMETIMES JUMPS FROM ONE TOPIC TO THE NEXT AND SOMETIMES I DON'T GET THE CONTEXT OF WHAT HE IS SAYING SINCE I CAN'T HEAR WHAT THE INTERVIEWER IS ASKING HIM. SORRY, I DON'T KNOW HOW TO MAKE A REAL CAPTION AND BESIDES, THIS VIDEO IS NOT MINE. 00:10 It is important that you start playing pool at an early age and be serious about it. The secret is not to think that you are good. Just keep on practicing and learn all the shots. 00:50 My father brought me to Manila (from the province) when I was 5 years old. We lived in a billiard hall. After 3 years, I was tall enough to play pool so I started playing. (At 1:16 with his classic smile - he was saying something about his father staying at a barbershop. The context isn't clear, sorry.) My guess is that he's saying that his father slept in a barbershop while he (Efren) slept in the pool hall. I play pool at 5am when there's nobody around for 30 minutes. Then off to school at 7am. At night when the hall is closed for the day, that's the time for me to play again. And when I get tired, I sleep on top of the pool table. The name of the pool joint was Lucky 13 in Avenida. That is where (L 13) I started hustling. The hustlers from other places came and tried to make a quick buck but they were mistaken. 2:03 I started playing at the age of 8. I had nowhere to go to play (to play kid stuff like a normal kid). And then I noticed the grown-ups earning money from playing pool and so I decided to get into the action. When I was in first grade I started playing and I got good at it at the age of 12 and started going around places to hustle. When I was in 7th grade (first year hi school in the old system), classes end at 3pm and the managers (sharks) used to hang around outside the campus waiting for me to take me to go hustling until the next morning. Then they'll just drop me back to school then I sleep in class. They didn't know I was sleeping (the class) and they did not know I was hustling since I don't go home anymore (family?). 3:33 - I became a world champ in 1999. The school wanted me to go back to school. No chance, I was already old (laughing). In the old days, the biggest percentage I got from hustling was 90 pesos (less than 1.80 USD today). But later on when the betting increased, then that was the time that I earned big. 4:12 The name of this place is Saint Martin. This is where I play when I'm here in the province of Pampanga. This is where all my friends are. This dude right here is the owner. His name is Ruben. 4:36 Ruben- Efren and I became friends in the '90s. We are like brothers. Efren never acts like who he truly is. He is a very humble guy. 5:02 I didn't use my own money (to bet). People from other countries noticed my playing and that's how I was able to play abroad. I didn't know that they hold tournaments abroad, I thought all we were going to do there was to hustle. The first tournament in the Philippines was in 1983 and there was no Prize. Then someone saw my game and brought me to the US in 1985. And there I saw a lot of good players. 5:58 When I went there I didn't lose a game, and the question is I didn't get any money. The guy who brought me there said we didn't win any money (laughs). He said the winnings didn't even cover for the expenses. Then we went home and was about to go back to the US again and so I asked: "Boss why should we go back?" You will only lose money on expenses again. (sorry, it's confusing. I don't know if the guy he's talking about is an American or a Filipino) The guy said, this time we will earn and we will share 50/50 and that was in the contract which I didn't understand because it was in English. (Then I think he said something about getting arrested, but I'm not sure. It's hard to make out the words). 7:30 Eating a banana offering it to share with the people around. (common among most Filipinos to offer to share whatever they are eating to the people around) Ruben- at 8am when he (Efren) wakes up he will have somebody take him here and then he will have his coffee here, grab a bite and spend the whole day playing chess and pool. (toothless yet able to whistle lol..) Ruben- He's the silent type. He won't talk unless someone talks to him first. People think that he's a snub but he's really just the silent type. 8:19 That's my brother over there. He looks like me. The biggest event I took part in was IPT. which I won 500k USD. I told myself if I ever win a million US I'd stop playing. Imagine in the old days the prizes were only 10k then taxes will be deducted. You can't take it all with you. 9:09 Before the world pool 1999, billiards was not that popular here. WP 99 was televised all over the world. Back then, people in Asia didn't play pool. Only snooker or carom. Now they also play billiards and pool. (sorry I'm confused again. I don't know the difference between billiards and pool). Even in Saudi Arabia, they used to play snooker, now they play billiards---pool. 9:43 Amang Parica used to be my rival here back when tournaments were not yet common. He was the champ. For the rest of us -- not yet. Django- I consider Efren as my best friend, a father, because he is easy to get along with. We started playing together in 1992. We used to play against each other here in the Philippines. And then we met in the US. We didn't part ways since then. Almost 27 years now. Strickland is no longer in his prime. A lot of young guys have taken over. But he is still very good. Mike Siegel was really good (among the Americans), but he stopped and so the younger ones took over. Right now it's (I can't make out the name he mentioned, but he's referring to the guy in the picture). In Europe too and in Russia also. The young ones abroad are as good as the young ones here. But we have more good players in our country. 11:54 I look at their shots (other players - novices) and I imitate them. Then in the games, if ever a certain position arises that need a certain shot that I learned from a novice's fluke shot, then I use that shot. 12:06 The good players when they do magic/trick shots they arrange the balls. Me, I do them in tournaments. That's tough. But I only copied those shots from the novices (referring to the flukes novices make that he perfects and use in serious games). 12:33 Django - He's got a lot of shots that other players can't do. I'm puzzled myself how those shots are made. That's why he's called the Magician. The Americans themselves were the ones that told him that those are impossible shots. But he's the only one that knows how to do them. 13:00 It's a big thing (tournaments). In the old days, all we can do was hustle everywhere we could. Now we are earning a bit and so there is hope (economically). 13:16 The things I was able to buy with my winnings is of course house and lot. My wife is in charge of the purchases then I give some to the siblings too. In our family, there are 9 houses and lots. That is where all the money went. Every winnings go to those purchases that's why until now we still don't have money (smiles). Of course, I'd also want to have some for myself but then it will still be spent for the family. For me, all I want is to play here and there. I feel sleepy when I don't play. Every earnings I give to the family. I'm not even into jaunting. Wherever there's a game, I'm there (laughs). 14:32 - Ruben - Efren doesn't like playing chess against somebody who isn't his equal. 15:03 The Filipinos are expecting me to get Gold and they are thinking that I got the upper hand but my opponent is the world champion (laughs). But it's okay to get Bronze though it's sad. Gold is what the Filipinos are expecting. Carom is for old people and not a lot of young ones like playing it. Whatever country we play against in carom in the Sea Games we can beat except Vietnam. That is really their game. But here our game is really this, pool. It would be good if Pool is included in the Olympics. The Philippines never got an Olympic Gold. Maybe if Pool is included then we might get gold. It would be nice if there's a tournament every 2 or 4 years here. Our team won from 1991-95. 17:15 Someone asked me who I think would be the next "me" (he did not answer directly). I said I wish there would be good players around so we'd have more players to play with. If nobody gets good enough then we (the top guns) won't have anybody to play with. 17:35 The young ones came. They won't let us play. We are old they say. It's tough when you are not at your peak anymore. I want my hands to play as before. But if the shots are no longer there then that's the toughest of all. A lot of people are still supporting me and Django and the other players. We still got a lot of followers and they are important to us. The government is also supporting us and we have sponsors too. My message to the young people, finish their studies before going into billiards because it's not guaranteed that they'll get good at it. When I'm abroad, when people are talking to me, I don't understand what they are saying. If they talk to me about something I don't know anything. But if you are educated, you would know what to say. They should be in good condition and never use anything that could harm their bodies. What I'm proud of is that I'm able to make my countrymen happy. They are expecting me to make them happy and of course, I do my best to fulfill their expectations. I don't have anything else to advise the young players. They are already good while me and Django, we can't play like we used to play anymore. But we were the ones who picked the players for the Sea games. The game scores are the only thing we can be proud of in our country. Your talent, you have to make sure to sustain it.

[@elie3537]

thank you brother

[@essahubana2448]

edwin so l g. G. C. Dthhc bf ff kp Pl L Ll Lol L

[@paulhendra02]

Thanks Edwin it really made a difference! Between this guy and Pacquiao the Philippines is jumping! Delighted to read your words

[@ayahkaio7139]

thx bro... what a humble person

[@Qwasieee_P]

He said the manager (shark/scammer) got caught and jailed around 6:50. Serves him right!

[@nai5372]

0:25 Efren: The secret in playing, Don't think you're already great, even if you're already a great player you must still practice and know all kinds of shots.

[@marktacliadtv7785]

Ung laging “kami” ang sinasabi nya, hindi “ako”. Very humble! Salute sayo living legend!!!

[@penumbra6874]

The thing I can admire to Mr. Reyes was his humbleness and he use probably filipino language on this interview unlike to other interviews who uses English as medium

[@lifeisgood2542]

and to think he didnt "sell" himself and hold a different passport unlike some other sportsman

[@nocap4874]

One of the most humble Legend who ever lived

[@ASA358]

What a humble guy, he wants more to excel in billiards to make the game popular, very unselfish. True trademark of champion.

[@j-dxmp2352]

for me, he is a legend in my heart. sana may gumawa ng billiard anime tapos inspired si efren bata because of the tricks 🤧😭

[@geymseksion]

Siya ang final boss kamo. Tapos bata ang bida.

[@lifewithmongo95]

@@geymseksion parang mas maganda kung ang mentor ng bida is si efren reyes tas yung sa final boss, ang mentor nung karibal niya is naging karibal noon ni efren hahahaha

[@svenshrempf]

@@lifewithmongo95 Earl 'The Pearl' Strickland

[@reymartbara2206]

@@lifewithmongo95 Tas backstory nang panahon pa nila

[@lifewithmongo95]

@@reymartbara2206 Parang ganun

[@05dal]

Just watching this now and I realized just how old he really is. We better wrap this man in a bubble and preserve him forever. Our pool GOAT.

[@edwardholyk7046]

I don’t understand what he’s saying but had to listen his speech countless times. I’m Team The G.O.A.T #EfrensBataReyes today, tomorrow and forever.

[@dennisyenv9]

I didn't know what he said at all, but I spent 20 mins here and I think it's worth of it. Because he is EFREN REYES.

[@TheSunIsMyDestroyer]

0:08 You need to be playing already as a kid. And you should always be pursuing to play. Before, I used to win a lot, they too might also win next. The secret to playing is that it's important you don't ever think you are already good. Even when you're great, you need to keep practicing, learn all the shots. 0:49 When I was just 5 years old, my father took me to Manila (Capital of the Philippines). There the two of us, we were there, we literally slept at a pool hall but it took 3 years, of course, I couldn't really reach the table. Well, when I could finally reach it, I started playing here and there. In fact, when I got there, I was stepping on something (implying he's using something to elevate himself to be able to reach the table and play) and the billiard games begin. My dad, instead of the billiard hall, was busy at the barber shop. 1:12 (Playfully) It's beautiful, a barber, can cut hair. 1:18 Well, in the morning, before I go to school, I would train, there was no one around. I'm the only one playing, it's early in the morning so. It would only be 5 am and my school starts at 7 am, so for 30 minutes only and it's over. Later after school, when the night comes, sleeping time, no one would be around again, it would then be my turn to play. I'm the only one there and I would play. After that, I would also sleep there too, on top of the table. The name of the pool hall, there in Santa Cruz Avenue (Manila, Philippines), is "Lucky 13." That's where I honed my skills, that's where I hustled. They thought no one there could play. A lot of people come there but they're full of losses, they don't know my shots, whether it's good or not. 2:03 I was only 8 years old when I started playing billiards. The reason why I played is because I had nowhere else to go and I didn't know how to play anything else except for billiards, and also, I noticed that the people who were playing there, when they win, they get handed money. Well then, I needed to play as well so if I win, I will also get handed money. 2:25 Grade 1, I was also 8 years old, at the same time I would play. I became good at billiards at 12 years old. I was really, really good, I would hustle already, I was battling already, everywhere, I would visit different places. When I went to high school, first year high school, in the beginning, I would head to school at 6 am, class starts at 7 am, I get out at 3 pm. When 3 pm comes, the managers would already be waiting outside. We'd leave as soon as I get out of school, to different places. It would take us till morning and they would just instead take me back to school at 6 am because it starts at 7. Although at school, that's where I'd sleep. 3:10 They don't really know I sleep in school. They don't really know I go to different places because I don't really go home anymore. In the afternoon, they would already pick me up, at that point, sleeping is out of the question. We'd be away for the whole day going to different places. 3:28 It took a while, it took a while. 1999, I became world champion. (Jokingly) The school would then start calling me, they want me to come back and attend class. No more, I'm old now! 3:42 You would think, even before, I earned 90 pesos ($1.63). In the beginning, when we won, my percentage, 90 pesos. That was the biggest one back in the day. But now, as time went on, the bets started increasing, that's when it started. 4:07 The name of this, this is where I always go, here in Saint Martin. This is where I always play pool, when I'm here in Pampanga (his home province). My friends are all here, here's my buddy, he's the owner, he's my buddy Ruben. Every morning, I would be here, this is where I would play. 4:33 We've known each other since the 1990's. Well after we got to know each other, we ended up treating each other almost as brothers, like true friends. Like Efren, he doesn't even introduce himself as "I'm him", that he's Efren Bata, that's how he is, very humble, that's how he is. Not arrogant, no. 4:59 That's why I liked it, I had nothing else to play and that's where I am, plus I'm already earning money there, through billiards. You know I don't even use any money, I just played and played. People would come greet me because people would recognize my gameplay. Even when I would go to a different country, a person from that country would take me there because they saw how I shoot. Well, I didn't even know there were tournaments there, I just knew we were there to hustle. We would go to different places, I really didn't know about any tournaments. Only when I got there did I realize there were many tournaments. 5:38 The first tournament, here in the Philippines, 1983. First professional pocket billiard tournament. That's it. It doesn't even have a prize money yet. There were some who saw how I played. They brought me to America. There, 1985, I started there. There were many, good players I saw, they were all good. When I went there, I mostly won but I still didn't earn anything. 6:03 That's what you should really ask me. What happened to everything I earned... Nothing! (Interviewer asks, what happened?) They said we still lost. (Laughingly) They said we still lost because of the expenses. Then, we would come home, and then we would come back. I told the manager, "Boss, why would we go back? We already won but we still lost. What happens if we actually lose this time, then we're truly screwed." 6:32 "No we would earn money now", the manager said. There would be commercial, we'd finally split 50/50 in the contracts. I didn't even understand what that meant, I wasn't that good at English yet. He said, when they start speaking English, we wouldn't understand each other. When I earned money, it was directly someone from America. Crazy how when I wasn't playing billiards, that's when I earned good money. Oh and after that, he got arrested. (Laughs) He went to jail, and then I came back and then someone else picked us up, who is my boss now, boss Puyat (Puyat sports). Then that's where it started. I hope I was able to help. I came to the USA when I was 10, I'm definitely rusty but I can still understand and speak most of it, though their accents and how fast they speak make it a little hard for me. I'm very sleepy now so I'm out, if anyone would like to continue where I left off, it would be a big help. If not, I'll try to remember to come back here to finish the rest. Have a nice day.

[@AG-in7zl]

Simple ng buhay mo idol pero napaka productive ng bawat araw mo sa simpleng laro lang parang ikaw na pinakamasaya sa buong mundo salamat kay lord at nag exist ka sa mundo meron kaming nasaksihang ikaw na napakatinding tao❤️

[@ace3han]

Translated “The secret to playing is not to consider yourself good. Even if you are good you still have to practice and still have to learn all the shots”

[@hannaming936]

Isa po akong Pilipino Pero sana ay may ENGLISH SUB para mas makilala siya ng taga ibang bansa At malaman na napaka-humble ni sir Efren

[@westlifelover4242]

Sya Yung taong tumatawa kahit Ang malas-malas na ng tira😆. Love you LEGEND

[@eyammariposa5651]

Tapos pag naipasok nya kaht mahirap yong tawa nya kala mo tsamba hahaha pro yon pla talagang taktika nya hahaha

[@jcctbrrra1169]

Guys? mayaman padin ba sya? Super lupet idol!

[@westlifelover4242]

@@jcctbrrra1169 sabi pa nga nya ok Lang daw maubos Pera nya Basta natulongan nya maangat kamag-anak nya

[@shiacarsencasaldo4462]

tapos mapapakamot sa ulo😅😅 but seriously he's down to earth kahit kilala na siya

[@lifeisgood2542]

alangan naman iiyak pa sya. minsan matatawa ka nalang sa buhay and keep moving on

[@auraarzadun9127]

The living legend of the pool. It was very humbled experience to see him in action when I was 10 years old

[@Abdul-lq7ey]

The legend with no haters ❤️❤️❤️ im from pakistan and his name is really well known cheer up Philippines you have a gem to be treasured

[@ajgwapo8658]

My hearts melt. Sobrang humble talaga ni efren

[@redlee5104]

Dati Wala pa masyado social media..Kung ngayon naganap Ang kasikatan ni sir idol Efren siguro million Ang kinita..salute sayo idol Efren..proud buong pilipino sayo..long live legend...

[@renebernil7186]

So true…noon yong manager ang kumikita,ikaw nag pagka hirap at sila ang yumanan….

[@kimortega7667]

Ang kumikita yung gumagamit ng mga clips niya for the views

[@josephgacusana3146]

D Bale sir kahit ginugulangan ka Ng mga nagdala sayo sa America dati. Tinitingala ka Naman ngaun sa larangan Ng bilyar. Stay healthy Sana mahaba pa buhay mu. Thank you sa much sa Pagtaas mo Ng bandila Ng pilipinas para makilala sa buong mundo 😔☺️

[@blackwidow9072]

Yung nagyayabang sya pero masaya kang nakikinig 😊 Yung yabang na proud sya sa sarili nya at hindi mahangin. Such a humble person tlaga si sir Efren. Making the Philippines proud forever. We love this man ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@noyskie1986]

Eto lang ang super sikat na walang haters. Kahit buong mundo na nakakakilala sa kanya.

[@rikopratama4084]

please subtitles, l,m a big fan of efren reyes from indonesia🇨🇿 🇮🇩

[@rojsbernadas8499]

The whole point of d story is dat, efren live a very simple life dispite of his success and being d GOAT of billard.He was 7 when he strted to play,before going to school,he spent at least 30mins playing alone. He was sleeping literally on the pool table evry night cuz hes playing alone if no one is aroundt ill midnyt. When he was in high school, aftr his class , his MANAGER or FINANCER will fetch him and go to dffrent cities to compet the den MONEY BALL (gamble) in his school uniform. The tournmnt would end till 5am and he will go straight to his class wth the same uniform hahaha. But one good thing bout efren is dat, he still encourage young filipino players to finish school because its too important dan playing pool. He said that he never looked himself as the best he is still learning and observing other players and make it better evryday. JANGO BUSTAMANTE, is a good friend of efren said dat no other players can do what efren is doin' on the table. Efren is a good humble man . I would prefer a selfie with him over ANGELINA JOLIE or Brad lolz. His the GOAT ... hats off bata

[@ungas024]

There's a guy named Edwin So (Top Comment) who have translated most of the interview, check him out.

[@jmgonzaga101]

Ang taas ng respeto ko sayo Bap. Nanatili kang simple at mapagkumbaba. Di gaya dun sa kilala ko, naghahangad pa nga ng pinakamataas na posisyon sa Pilipinas. Salute Bapang Efren ✊🏻❤️‍🔥

[@pankajsartape6554]

I didn't understand what he talking but trust me I feel very humble so interesting listening him too much. True legend ever on the earth of pool!!

[@sheenadelacruz8584]

He his indeed a humble person❤❤❤

[@kiralight473]

he already know to play and compete by the age of 12. ☺😘😗 GOAT

[@mushy18100]

One of my life’s bucket lists is to meet this guy in person at the billiard’s hall.

[@jessajeanvelmonte1738]

samee

[@colynmarie5322]

yes I agree….gusto ko nga puntahan sa Pampanga….di ko lang alam saan banda nakatira si idol

[@chugotera9716]

We, the Filipino people will always be thankful to the honor that you've brought to our country. You raised the standard of being a great Pool player. Our heart and soul, will always remember the legacy that you had made. You already cemented your name being the Greates Of All Time. Efren '' Bata'' Reyes the name that I will always remember.

[@Specify21]

Hope this have an English caption, so others could understand what Efren is talking about and to know more of his story.

[@runradicalrun]

The greatest player to ever play pool. Not just a legend but a very humble human being. God bless you Sir Efren! GOAT!!!

[@timbacolod3275]

You cant imagine considered As The Greatest pool Player Ever played The Game the Legend Eating Banana on the streets so humble..

[@arielcortez0427]

Yes even on money game eating banana as snacks

[@kene.3974]

I respected this man so much, so humble as always idol

[@romanquizon4195]

EFREN AND PACQUIAO ARE THE REAL GOATS. BOXING AND BILLIARDS

[@tingbrassington4672]

And Efren Reyes remains humble.

[@silvereyeism]

pacquiao in boxing?? still debatable,, but efren reyes in pool,, is true G.O.A.T

[@gabskie1891]

@@silvereyeism pac is tHe goat cuz his achivement is almost impossible to replacate. the only things pulling pac in some people mind is that he has few loses

[@grimz6670]

Grabe wala paring pera. This guy is a legend yet he’s living a humble and a casual life 😔

[@mikeserrano734]

He is the most down to earth, no ego Humble GOAT of all sports. Efren is to be emulated. Humility is the key!

[@bedrichhavelka7552]

He is the best player of all time... I love him!!!

[@ruviemiranda6780]

Diko man po naabutan yung era ni sir efren, But knowing all his achievements and he still remained this humble , wow! Hes really great and deserve to be respected. I hope he had received the support and attention he deserved during his time. 😊😊😊

[@liezlantonio8955]

Napaka humble at simpleng tao nya lang.. nung bata pa ko pinapanood sya saken ng lolo ko sabi nya "panoorin mo kasi magician yan" kahit ako na walang alam sa pool napahanga sa knya.. sana mabuhay pa kayo ng matagal sir efren..

[@Archietabzzz]

Soon hoping Efren have a Meet and Greet to his Fans. He is Humble and Greatest of all time

[@lulutamayo5951]

I'm proud of u, never mo iniwan ang flag mo unlike the other professional players.

[@juliolanuevo1985]

Katulad nong chess player🤣🤣🤣 flag ng US dala dala nya🤣🤣🤣

[@enigmaenigma1722]

Di kasi inaappreciate ng gobyerno ang sports kaya ibang flag dala nya at mas better yun kasi di masasayang talent nya

[@kumabrostambayan6436]

@@juliolanuevo1985 iba po yung sitwasyon ng chess player na sinasabi nyo po. Kaya nangibang bansa yun kasi kulang ng suporta ang Gobyerno natin pag dating sa sports. Kahit yan sila Efren bata Reyes at Manny Pacquiao walang suporta na binigay ng Gobyerno sa kanila noong papausbong palang mga career nila, kung meron mang binigay, incentives na yon nung talagang sikat na sila at nagbigay na ng karangalan sa bansa. Sa kaso ni Wesley, wala na ngang suporta ang gobyerno, hindi pa binibigyan ng incentives noong ng kampyon sa Russia. Kaya di mo siya masisisi kung mangibang bansa sya and besides, hindi nya makakamit ang kung ano man ang narating nya ngayun kung nandito lang sya sa atin. Kaya be happy nalang po sa achievements ng kapwa nating Pilipinom

[@markroble6021]

@@juliolanuevo1985 panu d iwan no Wesley ayaw suportahan puro gilas Lang

[@nicholsjamesdomingo251]

And proud to be Kampampangan Ma'am 🙂

[@mikofind]

Lets appreciate this legend while he alive 💯🇵🇭

[@robinhutsinaga1300]

The good father, the good person, and good smile. Yah we love efren reyes. The humble man

[@lilibethcerenche7821]

The legendary no other than the magician Efren bata Reyes we salute you idol king of billlards❤🙏🇵🇭

[@jerrycasey1053]

Someone Please dub this, I, and I am sure many others, would be so grateful.

[@edwinso3627]

I DON'T HAVE ANYTHING TO DO SO I MADE THIS AS A SMALL TRIBUTE TO EFREN. I HOPE SOMEBODY CAN MAKE A BETTER ONE SOON. EFREN SOMETIMES JUMPS FROM ONE TOPIC TO THE NEXT AND SOMETIMES I DON'T GET THE CONTEXT OF WHAT HE IS SAYING SINCE I CAN'T HEAR WHAT THE INTERVIEWER IS ASKING HIM. SORRY, I DON'T KNOW HOW TO MAKE A REAL CAPTION AND BESIDES, THIS VIDEO IS NOT MINE. 00:10 It is important that you start playing pool at an early age and be serious about it. The secret is not to think that you are good. Just keep on practicing and learn all the shots. 00:50 My father brought me to Manila (from the province) when I was 5 years old. We lived in a billiard hall. After 3 years, I was tall enough to play pool so I started playing. (At 1:16 with his classic smile - he was saying something about his father staying at a barbershop. The context isn't clear, sorry.) My guess is that he's saying that his father slept in a barbershop while he (Efren) slept in the pool hall. I play pool at 5am when there's nobody around for 30 minutes. Then off to school at 7am. At night when the hall is closed for the day, that's the time for me to play again. And when I get tired, I sleep on top of the pool table. The name of the pool joint was Lucky 13 in Avenida. That is where (L 13) I started hustling. The hustlers from other places came and tried to make a quick buck but they were mistaken. 2:03 I started playing at the age of 8. I had nowhere to go to play (to play kid stuff like a normal kid). And then I noticed the grown-ups earning money from playing pool and so I decided to get into the action. When I was in first grade I started playing and I got good at it at the age of 12 and started going around places to hustle. When I was in 7th grade (first year hi school in the old system), classes end at 3pm and the managers (sharks) used to hang around outside the campus waiting for me to take me to go hustling until the next morning. Then they'll just drop me back to school then I sleep in class. They didn't know I was sleeping (the class) and they did not know I was hustling since I don't go home anymore (family?). 3:33 - I became a world champ in 1999. The school wanted me to go back to school. No chance, I was already old (laughing). In the old days, the biggest percentage I got from hustling was 90 pesos (less than 1.80 USD today). But later on when the betting increased, then that was the time that I earned big. 4:12 The name of this place is Saint Martin. This is where I play when I'm here in the province of Pampanga. This is where all my friends are. This dude right here is the owner. His name is Ruben. 4:36 Ruben- Efren and I became friends in the '90s. We are like brothers. Efren never acts like who he truly is. He is a very humble guy. 5:02 I didn't use my own money (to bet). People from other countries noticed my playing and that's how I was able to play abroad. I didn't know that they hold tournaments abroad, I thought all we were going to do there was to hustle. The first tournament in the Philippines was in 1983 and there was no Prize. Then someone saw my game and brought me to the US in 1985. And there I saw a lot of good players. 5:58 When I went there I didn't lose a game, and the question is I didn't get any money. The guy who brought me there said we didn't win any money (laughs). He said the winnings didn't even cover for the expenses. Then we went home and was about to go back to the US again and so I asked: "Boss why should we go back?" You will only lose money on expenses again. (sorry, it's confusing. I don't know if the guy he's talking about is an American or a Filipino) The guy said, this time we will earn and we will share 50/50 and that was in the contract which I didn't understand because it was in English. (Then I think he said something about getting arrested, but I'm not sure. It's hard to make out the words). 7:30 Eating a banana offering it to share with the people around. (common among most Filipinos to offer to share whatever they are eating to the people around) Ruben- at 8am when he (Efren) wakes up he will have somebody take him here and then he will have his coffee here, grab a bite and spend the whole day playing chess and pool. (toothless yet able to whistle lol..) Ruben- He's the silent type. He won't talk unless someone talks to him first. People think that he's a snub but he's really just the silent type. 8:19 That's my brother over there. He looks like me. The biggest event I took part in was IPT. which I won 500k USD. I told myself if I ever win a million US I'd stop playing. Imagine in the old days the prizes were only 10k then taxes will be deducted. You can't take it all with you. 9:09 Before the world pool 1999, billiards was not that popular here. WP 99 was televised all over the world. Back then, people in Asia didn't play pool. Only snooker or carom. Now they also play billiards and pool. (sorry I'm confused again. I don't know the difference between billiards and pool). Even in Saudi Arabia, they used to play snooker, now they play billiards---pool. 9:43 Amang Parica used to be my rival here back when tournaments were not yet common. He was the champ. For the rest of us -- not yet. Django- I consider Efren as my best friend, a father, because he is easy to get along with. We started playing together in 1992. We used to play against each other here in the Philippines. And then we met in the US. We didn't part ways since then. Almost 27 years now. Strickland is no longer in his prime. A lot of young guys have taken over. But he is still very good. Mike Siegel was really good (among the Americans), but he stopped and so the younger ones took over. Right now it's (I can't make out the name he mentioned, but he's referring to the guy in the picture). In Europe too and in Russia also. The young ones abroad are as good as the young ones here. But we have more good players in our country. 11:54 I look at their shots (other players - novices) and I imitate them. Then in the games, if ever a certain position arises that need a certain shot that I learned from a novice's fluke shot, then I use that shot. 12:06 The good players when they do magic/trick shots they arrange the balls. Me, I do them in tournaments. That's tough. But I only copied those shots from the novices (referring to the flukes novices make that he perfects and use in serious games). 12:33 Django - He's got a lot of shots that other players can't do. I'm puzzled myself how those shots are made. That's why he's called the Magician. The Americans themselves were the ones that told him that those are impossible shots. But he's the only one that knows how to do them. 13:00 It's a big thing (tournaments). In the old days, all we can do was hustle everywhere we could. Now we are earning a bit and so there is hope (economically). 13:16 The things I was able to buy with my winnings is of course house and lot. My wife is in charge of the purchases then I give some to the siblings too. In our family, there are 9 houses and lots. That is where all the money went. Every winnings go to those purchases that's why until now we still don't have money (smiles). Of course, I'd also want to have some for myself but then it will still be spent for the family. For me, all I want is to play here and there. I feel sleepy when I don't play. Every earnings I give to the family. I'm not even into jaunting. Wherever there's a game, I'm there (laughs). 14:32 - Ruben - Efren doesn't like playing chess against somebody who isn't his equal. 15:03 The Filipinos are expecting me to get Gold and they are thinking that I got the upper hand but my opponent is the world champion (laughs). But it's okay to get Bronze though it's sad. Gold is what the Filipinos are expecting. Carom is for old people and not a lot of young ones like playing it. Whatever country we play against in carom in the Sea Games, we can beat except Vietnam. That is really their game. But here our game is really this, pool. It would be good if pool is included in the Olympics. The Philippines never won (in any event) an Olympic Gold. Maybe if Pool is included then we might get gold. It would be nice if there's a tournament every 2 or 4 years here. Our team won from 1991-95. 17:15 Someone asked me who I think would be the next "me" (he did not answer directly). I said I wish there would be good players around so we'd have more players to play with. If nobody gets good enough then we (the top guns) won't have anybody to play with. 17:35 The young ones came. They won't let us play. We are old they say. It's tough when you are not at your peak anymore. I want my hands to play as before. But if the shots are no longer there then that's the toughest of all. A lot of people are still supporting me and Django and the other players. We still got a lot of followers and they are important to us. The government is also supporting us and we have sponsors too. My message to the young people, finish their studies before going into billiards because it's not guaranteed that they'll get good at it. When I'm abroad, when people are talking to me, I don't understand what they are saying. If they talk to me about something I don't know anything. But if you are educated, you would know what to say. They should be in good condition and never use anything that could harm their bodies. What I'm proud of is that I'm able to make my countrymen happy. They are expecting me to make them happy and of course, I do my best to fulfill their expectations. I don't have anything else to advise the young players. They are already good while me and Django can't play like we used to play anymore. But we were the ones who picked the players for the Sea games. The game scores are the only thing we can be proud of in our country. Your talent, you have to make sure to sustain it.

[@jerrycasey1053]

@@edwinso3627 Edwin, thank you so much. This was even better than I dared hope. Thank you thank you thank you.

[@edwinso3627]

@@jerrycasey1053 You're welcome. BTW, I would like to add that nowhere in the interview did Efren spoke ill of anybody. Even in the story about the guy who brought him to the US who did not give him anything, he simply laughed after narrating the story without a hint of malice. And also the narrative about other players arranging the balls to make a magic/trick shots. That was in the context of him being called The Magician. He was only explaining why people call him that. So there's not a hint of arrogance there.

[@arriostomanalo9523]

@@edwinso3627 your translation of Efren's narrative for Jerry Casey and the rest of pool fans around the world is superb and on point. Congratulations! Btw that American who has replaced the likes of Strickland and Johnny Archer at the top of US pool World is Shane Van Boening, deaf mute but can read lips and speak (tho in a deaf mute way). He's won the prestigious US Open 3 times in a row ( I stand corrected here if I'm wrong). He's traveled here in our country to hone his game as well as other world rated pool players like Mika Immonen because Filipinos are known to have steel nerves and gutsy play molded by years of money games. Efren and Django are no longer as active in international tournaments today although they go to US from time to time to participate in Derby City. Their bread and butter today is still money games against the emerging young stars which you can view in KZbin. Efren still weaves his magic while hustling all comers, but he's right his touch isn't as good as before. He's also right that we have so many young stars who are ready to step up like Roland Garcia, Anton Raga aside from the already established stars like Biado, Orcollo, Lee Van Corteza, Jeffrey Ignacio, Johann Chua, Jeff De Luna, Ronnie Alcano and many more who are known internationally. In fact I will unabashedly say that we have a galaxy of pool players who can compete in the highest level of pool play but can't go abroad for lack of sponsor. Indeed if only 9Ball or 10Ball pool is an Olympic event, here we have the best chance of landing that elusive gold. Anyway, interviewing Efren is one of my wishes..bucket list even. Like how he rates Amang Parica, who incidentally was the first pool player selected by San Miguel to endorse it's beer, among those he has played with. Is it true that he doesn't take a bath when playing in a tournament to shoo away bad luck. Why is he not wearing his dentures during games. All these in good fun plus many more... Thank you for having a parley with you through Efren's cue wand.

[@abiaglopez5922]

i will translate to english i summarize it he say even you are great player in a pool you must always practice and practice more

[@shitori_1410]

Sana lagyan niyo ng English subtitle para sa mga foreign viewers na taga hanga rin ni idol Efren....

[@agentsixtynine]

Nakakalungkot yung mga unang years bilang PRO ni Tatay Efren, na hindi siya nabayaran sa laban niya overseas. Dahil sa medyo hindi siya nakakaindndi ng Kontrata. In short PINAGKAKITAAN SIYA. Pero Humble parin sobra. grabe. The Goat

[@ianquebada2697]

We love you Sir Efren. Truly a humble champion.May God continue to bless you as you support other Filipino players.

[@DARNWISH]

efren the greatest pool player of all time..no one can break his record when it comes to billard..

[@jantal_onthego]

The most humble player I know, hats off to you - IDOL 💪

[@kuyadong6791]

You should put subtitles for your international viewers. There is no one who doesn't know about Efren and this documentation is a perfect reference yet they won't be able to understand this language.

[@justinnamuco9096]

Puro English 'tong CNN Philippines di makapaglagay ng subtitles

[@ajespenidaofficial3596]

Isang patunay na hindi dapat ikinakahiya ang pagiging pinoy at hindi dapat minamaliit ang pilipino♥️😇

[@rwkrauss6054]

A very warm and friendly man. A great pleasure to watch on the pool table. Would love to hear his story in english.

[@icecreameveryday]

He's the best! An adorable legendary master of pool that's so humble and down to earth 👏 He deserves all the recognitions, titles, awards and love from people. I guess that's what a true champion is ❤️💯

[@lulzsec3047]

Uu nga luvs 😉

[@ronaldtann5818]

Just to show that you can be GREAT, Adored by millions but still down to earth and Humble at the same time.

[@beedatrottv8708]

Respect to this man! He put our country to the world map in pool. Thanks sir Efren.

[@fsggames2022]

THE SAITAMA of Billiards, EFREN BATA REYES. Everyone else has a CLASS

[@MsBean00]

Isa sa pinakamagaling na atleta sa mundo, pero yung humility nya, grabe. Napaka simple, napaka gaan. Sarap pakinggan nya magkuwento. 🥺

[@ridwangunawan5327]

Make a subtitle and you gonna help a lot of people know this amazing man...

[@adiralcides4332]

A humildade vence tudo Efren Foi e sempre será o melhor do mundo 🙌

[@chrollolucilfer8618]

Please bless him with more years in his life. Since Efren has already retired from playing(at least, overseas), the next generation of Filipino pool players will be compared to the high standards he set in. That is a very big shoe to fill in.

[@Red_Days]

This is a documentary of a humble good man,., but why there's people disliking this 🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬

[@brandoncomilang923]

Imagine if Efren had a footage of him playing pool at age 8

[@kurtiligan7887]

Kaya nga .... Kaso sa panahon nya dipa uso makabagong tiknolohiya ....

[@brandoncomilang923]

Ipininta nlang sana sya hahhaha

[@pumbaa1303]

We are all very lucky to witness this amazing human being play the sport of pool in our lifetime. His knowledge and skill is unmatched. He sees things in the billiard table that only "he" can see. He is a game changer and an icon of the sport. The only flaw he has is the desire to be the best, he does not have the killer instinct like MJ had in NBA and Brady of NFL. Not to belittle of what he had achieved, but if he only had the that, he would have won more world championships in my opinion. Nonetheless, he is still the humble legend and the GOAT.

[@jomariedeita1883]

"ang daming gumaling na bata, ayaw na kami isali, matanda na daw kami" ansakit naman non wag ganon

[@brianmayabella5992]

Takot lng.. kalaban mo si Efren, lalaban ka pa? Normal reaction lng yun. Efren's fun is the ecstacy in a tournament. Competitive nature and willing to learn from enemies move

[@virgilsantiago5611]

Love of the game of billiard that makes him the “GOAT”.

[@h1murashi]

The man is 67 years old (65 at the time of the video), but he knows the current players of the world, and EMULATES them, tries their shots, learns and improves them. And this is the man considered as the GOAT of pool. You can't teach that. That is something you either have, or you don't.

[@fit7942]

You'll be forever in Filipino History Mr. Efren "Bata" Reyes! Get good Gerry! 💖💖

[@erisrecio9752]

A true humble person will always achieve his goals.

[@frankdanrioluceno428]

That smile. A smile of a living legend. A smile that proves purity.

[@regienegazon]

all my respect to this man who has brought a teemendous pride to all Filipinos. Your victory is our Filipino. It makes me so proud to be a Filipino. Mabuhay po kayo. 💕

[@garyprincillo1294]

Grabe milyonaryo kana sana idol mukang niloko ka ng manager mo kasi sobrang bait mo. Godbless you at sa manager mo sana makusensya sya.

[@bostondefranco6997]

MILYONARYO NA SI EFREN KAYA LANG ANG HUSTLER LAGING HUSTLER AT HINDI MO MALALAMAN KUNG MAYAMAN KASI MGA ORIGINAL NA HUSTLER AT BAKIT KO SASABIHIN SA IYO NA KAYA KO TALUNIN KUNG WALANG PUSTA... GANYAN SILANG LAHAT... LAHAT KAMI...

[@koy2536]

500,000 dollars, ilang milyon yun dito tol. pero mahilig kasi sa sugal si Efren pero marami naman siya naipundar tsaka may sponsor naman siya

[@jamesacera7550]

Such a simple and humble legend! Salute to you Sir Efren. Proud of you. God bless you and your whole family.

[@Mr.Music09]

What I am most like about him, is his humbleness. He is so down to earth and very kind. 'di mo kakikitaan ng yabang eh. Truly a pride and a gem of the Philippines.

[@mikjagger3136]

mabuti lang na nahuli at nakulong yung taong nangloko sayo sir. kahit hindi ka nagtanim nang sama ng loob at inisip na gumanti, lahat naman ng biyaya napunta sayo sa huli kasi isa kang mabuting tao. hindi mo nakalimutan ang pinanggalingan mo at pamilya mo. saludo kami para sa iyo Idol.

[@danielimperial6507]

nakaka inis yung mga tao na yung magagaling na pilipino ginagawang gatasan!

[@lifeisgood2542]

makarma sana yung mga yun. inexploit si efren

[@hyperlaps3]

he's so down to earth that's why everyone loves him. still GOAT

[@goodguywilson3870]

Si sir Efren ang isa sa pinaka malaking pangalan sa buong mundo na parang ang daling lapitan at makakwentuhan habang nakatambay lang kayo sa 1 kanto. Very humble and relatable. Yung quote na “You either die a hero, or you live long enough to see yourself become a villain” doesn’t apply to this man. He is a national treasure.

[@jhare18]

Extremely humble beginnings and a humble person. The PHILIPPINES 🇵🇭 LIVING LEGEND.

[@greekfreek4657]

0:30 - 0:35 even you are a good player, you need to practice very hard and learn or explore all the angles .

[@rakgoakayawai1849]

Subtitles please. I'm soo interested in what he is saying. I LOVE EFREN THE MAGICIAN.

[@user-qg7mm1vp9f]

There was English subtitle documentary in Efren Reyes

[@user-qg7mm1vp9f]

Bilijar 9 channel

[@SPOOKSTR]

This needs to translated. When Efren speaks the entire Pool world wants to listen. Respect from Australia.

[@domfelipe3910]

A national treasure. You will always be in our hearts.. Mabuhay ka "Bata"!!!