Gerick Jhon Flores, an 11-year-old Grade 6 student from Maglaoi Elementary School in Currimao, Ilocos Norte, is set to represent the Philippines in an international baseball competition in Japan.

Despite his small size, Flores has proven he’s a force to be reckoned with.

Out of 270 athletes who tried out nationwide, Flores earned a spot as one of the 17 players selected for the Under-12 Philippine Baseball Team.

The competition will take place in Matsuyama, Japan, from November 23 to 30, 2024.

Flores said he is proud to represent his hometown on the global stage.

"Mayat nga agbali ka maysa nga Philippine Team tapno maipakita nga kaya tayo a taga probinsya," he said.

Flores's love for baseball began at an early age, playing in the fields as early as Grade 1.

By Grade 4, he was already part of the Currimao baseball team and has competed twice in the Palarong Pambansa.

Now, he's training intensively to bring honor to the country.

Despite his size, Flores's dreams are big, and he's determined to shine on the world stage.