The University of Santo Tomas punched its ticket to the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball Final Four after outlasting National University, 80–71, on Sunday, November 23, at the Mall of Asia Arena.Needing a win to avoid complications in the standings, the Growling Tigers delivered when it mattered most. UST drained four timely three-pointers in the fourth quarter to break away from the Bulldogs and secure the No. 3 seed heading into the playoffs. The victory improved UST’s record to 8–5, marking the program’s return to postseason contention.Gelo Crisostomo led the España squad with 13 points and five rebounds, while Mark Llemit and Amiel Acido chipped in 11 markers each. Collins Akowe added a steady double-double performance of 11 points and 11 rebounds to anchor the Tigers on both ends.UST is set to wrap up the elimination round against Far Eastern University on Wednesday, though the result will no longer affect their Final Four placement.For NU, Omar John posted 12 points and 11 boards, but the Bulldogs closed the eliminations with an 11–3 record and will regroup as they enter the next phase of the tournament.With momentum on their side, the Growling Tigers move into the semifinals eager to continue their postseason resurgence.

The UAAP community is raising its voice this November 29 at the Mall of Asia Arena as the league encourages everyone to wear white in a united stand for accountability, transparency, and integrity in government.Throughout the season, pep squads have used their halftime stages to call for accountability amid the flood control scandal—and this year’s Cheerdance Competition continues that fight.With the theme “Passion for Victory, Passion for Integrity! No to Corruption! ” UAAP aims to inspire the youth, athletes, and the broader public to champion honesty and good governance both on and off the court.Fans, students, and alumni are invited to join the white-out and amplify the message: sports and society thrive only with integrity at their core.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the importance of grassroots sports development, youth participation, and cultural pride during the Philippine Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (PEKAF) Mindanao Qualifying Tournament held at the University of Mindanao in Davao City on November 22. As Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Sports and Youth, Go underscored the role of athletic events in cultivating values, discipline, and opportunities for young athletes.Go advised participants to “get into sports and stay away from illegal drugs to keep us healthy and fit,” reflecting his advocacy for sports as a pillar of nation-building.He highlighted the National Academy of Sports (NAS), established through Republic Act No. 11470, as a dual-track system for quality education and athletic training. Go is pushing for Senate Bill No. 171 to expand NAS campuses nationwide, ensuring accessibility and balanced development of talent across all regions.Go also filed SBN 413 (Philippine National Games bill) to institutionalize a unified nationwide grassroots competition and SBN 678 (National Tertiary Games Act) to formalize a collegiate multi-sport tournament—creating a clear pipeline from school leagues to national competition.Go recognized Senate Majority Leader Migz Zubiri, PEKAF President, and local leadership for nurturing sports communities. The tournament gathered 500 Arnisadors from Mindanao, celebrating a discipline rooted in Filipino heritage.Go’s Malasakit Team distributed tokens, and he reminded all, “Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong o karangalan na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa at sa bansa ay gawin na natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito.”Go concluded, “Patuloy na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat, kabilang na sa ating mga atleta, dahil bisyo ko na ang magserbisyo at ako po ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo po ‘yan sa Diyos.”

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio said his perspective on sports development shifted after witnessing the overwhelming turnout in emerging sports during the recent Batang Pinoy games. Events like archery, futsal, taekwondo, and swimming drew hundreds—if not thousands—of young athletes, surpassing participation numbers in traditional crowd favorites such as basketball and volleyball.“To be honest, nagulat ako sa dami ng participants,” Gregorio said. “Take futsal, for example—there were hundreds of players from nearly every LGU. We also had 500 to 600 in archery, and it helped that we brought in Korean coach Ryu Ju-seng, known for developing Olympic medalists, for our national team.”With the surge of interest, Gregorio believes the PSC should champion emerging sports such as netball, floorball, and handball, but he is particularly excited about futsal—especially as the Philippines is currently hosting the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup.Gregorio revealed that with the newly-refurbished PhilSports Arena serving as the World Cup venue, the PSC is considering transforming it into a dedicated futsal arena.“A lot of our arenas default to basketball after events of other sports,” he said. “But we already have more than enough basketball venues like MOA Arena, Ynares, Araneta, FilOil, and the upcoming UAAP Akari arena. Maybe it’s time we dedicate an arena for futsal. If we do, we could excite FIFA into helping us craft a seven-year development plan for football.”He cited the PSC’s successful seven-year roadmap with the FIVB, which led to the Philippines hosting the Men’s Volleyball World Championship this year and the Women’s World Championship in 2029. Gregorio believes a similar long-term partnership with the Philippines Football Federation (PFF) and FIFA is well within reach.Beyond athlete development, Gregorio stressed that hosting world-level sports events should be viewed as an investment—not a cost.“I’m betting on sports and tourism,” said Gregorio, "Sports can help the economy if we attach it to tourism. It’s a powerful way to promote our country.”In January, the Philippines will stage its first-ever WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open, which will feature tennis star Alex Eala. The PSC is currently refurbishing the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center to host the event, but Gregorio foresees that the growing interest in tennis will soon require a larger venue.“In two years, we’ll likely need a bigger venue if we want to host a WTA 250,” he added.With rising participation, world-class hosting opportunities, and a renewed vision, Gregorio believes the Philippines is entering a pivotal moment in its sports development journey.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio underscored the importance of sports development in the country, stressing that sports should be viewed as a long-term investment—not a waste of funds.In a media interview by Scoreline.ph, Gregorio highlighted the PSC’s ongoing push to improve sports facilities nationwide, starting with the renovation of the Rizal Memorial Tennis Courts, which is expected to begin in the coming days.“Sports is an investment,” said Gregorio. “It’s never a waste of money. When a child succeeds because of sports, when a community unites because of sports, that is something invaluable.”Preparations for WTA Event in ManilaThe PSC is gearing up to host a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament in January 2026, marking a major milestone for Philippine tennis. Gregorio said bleacher expansion is underway to increase spectator capacity.“We hope to accommodate at least 2,000 people in January,” he shared. “If we want to bid for bigger WTA events in the future, we may need to move to a larger venue like New Clark City. The BCDA has given us ample land there for future sports development.”Alex Eala Expected to JoinFilipina tennis star Alex Eala is set to headline the event, barring any scheduling conflict with the Australian Open.“The only chance she won’t be able to play is if there’s a conflict with the Australian Open semifinals or finals,” Gregorio said. “But if she succeeds in Australia, we’ll all be very happy. And if she becomes available after the early rounds, then she will join us.”Gregorio emphasized that hosting a WTA event is not only a showcase of world-class tennis but also an opportunity to highlight Filipino talent.“One day, we hope to see more Alex Ealas. I’m sure she also wants to be the reason tennis will grow bigger in the Philippines. And that is very exciting.”WTA in PH for the Next Three YearsThe PSC aims to host a WTA tournament annually for the next three years, making international tennis a recurring highlight in the Philippine sports calendar.“We’re committed,” Gregorio said. “This is just the beginning.”

Filipina Muay Thai standout Islay Erika Bomogao is set to make her fourth appearance under ONE Championship as she faces Thailand’s Ploychompoo in ONE Friday Fights 134 this Friday night, November 21, at the historic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok.The bout is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. (PHT).Bomogao, known for her relentless pace and sharp striking, aims to deliver another strong performance as she continues to raise the Philippine flag in the global Muay Thai circuit. Her matchup against a hometown favorite is expected to be one of the event’s most compelling contests.Filipino fight fans can anticipate a high-energy encounter as Bomogao tests her skills in the heartland of Muay Thai, aiming to further cement her growing presence on the international stage.

Another Filipino standout is set to compete against Gilas Pilipinas, this time wearing the colors of Guam. Filipino-American guard Isaiah Africano, who went undrafted in the recent PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, has earned a spot on Guam’s men’s national basketball team for the upcoming FIBA World Cup Asian Qualifiers.Africano’s inclusion was confirmed through a social media announcement from his agent, Rey Punongbayan of Punongbayan Ponceja Sports Management, who praised his player’s perseverance and drive. “My player Isaiah Africano, who went undrafted in the last PBA Draft, threw his anger by making it into the Guam National Basketball Team that will battle Gilas Pilipinas. Proved them all wrong, Isaiah! ” Punongbayan wrote.The 6-foot-2 guard joins San Miguel Beermen veteran Jericho Cruz, forming a duo of Filipino-blooded players on Guam’s roster. Africano appears on the official lineup alongside Mark Johnson, Tomas Calvo, Jon Galloway, Daren Hechanova, and Tai Wesley as the 81st-ranked nation prepares to challenge Gilas Pilipinas later this month.Africano’s journey has been anything but easy. The Hawaii-born Fil-Am guard, whose mother hails from Sto. Domingo, from Ilocos Norte and whose father is Colombian, was in Manila two months ago in pursuit of his PBA dream. After going undrafted and missing out on roster spots as a rookie free agent, he faced uncertainty about his path.That changed when Guam head coach EJ Calvo saw value in the high-energy guard, particularly his defense, hustle, and competitiveness. Calvo moved quickly to secure Africano for the national squad, giving the 28-year-old his first major international opportunity.Africano said that being at this level was already a blessing, reflecting on his basketball journey that began in Pearl City, Hawaii, and continued through Division III basketball at Pacific University in Oregon, adding that he wants to look back knowing he did everything he could and to maximize the talent God has given him.Africano describes himself as a defensive-minded, high-energy player, qualities that Guam hopes will strengthen its backcourt rotation alongside Cruz.Guam will face Gilas Pilipinas on November 28 at the University of Guam Calvo Field House, creating an intriguing subplot as two players with Filipino roots suit up for the opposing side.For Africano, it may be the closest he gets to facing PBA-level talent after narrowly missing his chance to join the league earlier this year.Yet despite the turns in his career, Africano remains motivated by the support of his family. “My parents always told me I could do anything as long as I put my heart into it,” he shared with Scoreline.ph during the PBA Draft Combine. “I have always gravitated toward team basketball. This is another opportunity to prove what I can do.”With talent, energy, and a renewed opportunity, Isaiah Africano enters the Asian Qualifiers ready to make his mark, representing Guam on the international stage against the very nation of his heritage.

The Philippines takes its second crack at giving the home crowd a winning result in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup tonight when it battles Morocco at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City. The Filipina5 and the Atlas Lionesses are in the same boat, coming off identical 0-6 losses in their opening assignments against Poland and Argentina, respectively. And the protagonists both view their 8:30 p.m. matchup as a good opportunity to get on the board in Group A. The hosts brace for a tough duel against Morocco, the reigning Women’s Futsal Africa Cup of Nations titlist that’s sitting 42 places higher in the world rankings at 31st. “Bilog po ang bola,” said co-skipper Inday Tolentin ahead of the Filipina 5’s mission against the Moroccans in the inaugural global meet backed by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Football Federation (PFF).“Gagawin po namin ang lahat para maipanalo ‘yung laban at lalaban kami para sa team, para sa bayan, and para sa mga taong naniniwala sa amin,” she added. Coach Rafa Merino expressed confidence his charges would come out of the debut game against No. 14 Poland wiser and more inspired, especially with Filipino supporters rallying them on. “We’re in the World Cup, so every team will be difficult. Probably the other team has more experience than we do, but what makes us different is the energy that we have. We bring a lot of good vibes to the table and energy,” the Spaniard said through an interpreter.World No. 6 Argentina and Poland tangle in the first fixture at 6 p.m. with a solo lead at six points. In other results, reigning Asian champion and fifth-ranked Japan clobbered No. 21 New Zealand, 6-0, in Group C, while No. 2 Spain and No. 8 Colombia outclassed No. 4 Thailand, 5-2, and No. 74 Canada, 2-0, respectively, in Group B.

Karl Eldrew Yulo showed resilience and heart as he delivered the Philippines’ first medal at the 2025 Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships, bouncing back with a bronze in the floor exercise on Sunday at Newport World Resorts.Just a day after narrowly missing the podium in the all-around final, the 17-year-old Filipino star returned with renewed focus. Despite nursing a painful right ankle injury, Yulo powered through his routine and posted 13.733 points, securing a well-earned spot on the podium.Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) President Cynthia Carrion lauded Yulo’s performance but hopes he can move with less discomfort heading into Monday’s apparatus finals.“I hope by tomorrow his foot will be better. When you do the vault, you jump high, and you have to stick the landing,” Carrion said.Yulo’s bronze was the product of both calm execution and competitive composure. Performing second among the finalists, he established an early benchmark that held strong as the field progressed. The tension peaked when all-around champion Arsenii Dukhno took the final turn. Yulo watched anxiously, holding on to third place—and breathed relief as Dukhno finished with 13.633 points, just short of overtaking the Filipino.The medal marks a significant breakthrough for Yulo, who continues carving his path on the world stage while carrying the legacy of Filipino excellence in gymnastics.With two more apparatus finals ahead, Yulo remains hungry—and determined—to close the Junior Worlds on an even stronger note.

Karl Jahrel Eldrew Yulo has qualified for four final events after a standout performance in the men’s artistic gymnastics team and qualification round of the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championship on Thursday night at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City.The 17-year-old Yulo advanced to three apparatus finals and made the cut for the men’s individual all-around final.Yulo finished sixth overall in the horizontal bar, scoring 13.700 points. He followed up with an impressive 14.233 points in the floor exercise, placing second overall. The 2024 Junior Asian MAG Vault Champion also qualified for the vault finals after finishing fifth with 14.200 points in the qualifications.Eldrew likewise advanced to the men’s individual all-around final, tallying a total score of 78.332 for 15th place overall, with the top 24 gymnasts qualifying.The men’s individual all-around finals are set for Saturday, Nov. 22, while the men’s apparatus finals are slated for Nov. 23 and 24.

Eldrew Yulo — younger brother of double Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo — takes center stage as the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships officially open Thursday at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom inside Newport World Resorts, Pasay City.Fresh from months of intensive training in Japan under esteemed coach Munehiro Kugimiya, Eldrew banners the host nation’s campaign alongside women’s division representative Elizabeth Antone.“He’s been working so hard to win medals,” said Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president Cynthia Carrion during the tournament’s opening press conference.Yulo begins his campaign at 6 p.m. in the men’s artistic gymnastics (MAG) qualifications and team rankings, marking the start of the five-day competition running from November 20–24. The women’s qualifications follow on Friday, while the MAG and WAG all-around finals take place on Saturday. Apparatus finals for both divisions are scheduled for Sunday and Monday.A silver medalist in vault at the Asian Junior Championships last July in Jecheon, South Korea, Yulo is seen as the country’s strongest medal hopeful. Carrion expressed optimism that the teen standout could contend for gold in the floor exercise, parallel bars, rings, and vault.“He assured me he can do it. I feel he can give us one medal, or maybe even two,” Carrion said. “I’m happy with two medals.”As the Junior Gymfest gets underway, Carrion appealed to Filipino fans to rally behind the athletes—especially in a sport that has delivered the Philippines its historic second and third Olympic gold medals.“Cheer for our athletes, cheer for everybody, and let’s show the world that gymnastics is a very important sport,” she said.A total of 75 nations are competing for junior gymnastics glory, making this the largest and most prestigious edition of the event ever held—right here on Philippine soil.

Islay Erika Bomogao continues her meteoric rise in ONE Championship, delivering another electrifying performance as she scored a second-round knockout victory over Thailand’s Ploychompoo PU Phabai at ONE Friday Fights 134 in Bangkok.Fighting once again under the bright lights of the historic Lumpinee Stadium, the 23-year-old Filipina showed no signs of slowing down. From the opening bell, Bomogao pushed the pace, peppering her opponent with sharp combinations and unrelenting pressure that had the Thai debutante on the defensive.By the second round, Bomogao’s barrage proved too much. A clean, decisive flurry sent Ploychompoo crashing down, prompting the referee to wave off the fight — sealing Bomogao’s fourth straight victory in ONE Championship.This latest triumph also marks her second consecutive knockout, following her emphatic first-round finish over Nerea Rubio last June.With the win, Bomogao improves to 4-0 in ONE’s Muay Thai ranks, with two of those victories coming by stoppage — a testament to her growing power, precision, and evolution as a world-class striker.Still perfect. Still rising. And still carrying the Filipino fighting spirit every time she steps into the ring.

Undefeated professional boxers Eumir Marcial and Weljon Mindoro, together with Olympic medalists Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas, will spearhead the Philippines’ 13-man boxing delegation for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand next month.The lineup was formally announced by the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) during a press conference in Pasig City on Wednesday.ABAP Secretary General Marcus Manalo shared, “We have a total of 13 boxers—seven men and six women—which is the maximum number we can field for the SEA Games, so we are sending a full lineup.”Marcial and Mindoro: Powering the Men's TeamFour-time SEA Games champion Eumir Marcial returns to his Olympic weight class at 80kg, while pro standout Weljon Mindoro will compete in the 75kg division. Marcial brings in a spotless 7-0 pro record, while Mindoro holds a 15-0-1 slate.Marcial acknowledged the expectations on him: “Kapag bayan ang nangangailangan ng laban, lalo na sa SEA Games, priority ko talaga yan… Medyo pressure kasi fans expect gold, but amateur boxing requires a different preparation.”Mindoro, making his SEA Games debut, expressed gratitude: “Nagpapasalamat ako sa opportunity… Isa akong napili. Mag-aadjust ako sa amateur techniques para dito.”POC President Abraham Tolentino is confident both pros can deliver podium finishes: “Definitely, God willing, it will be a podium for the two. Pipilitin natin na ginto yan.”Notable Absence: Carlo PaalamOlympic silver medalist Carlo Paalam will not compete after withdrawing from a box-off due to illness and insufficient preparation. Manalo explained: “He caught a bad flu and couldn’t train for weeks… He respected the selection process and timeline, and begged off.”Women’s Division Led by OlympiansPetecio (60kg) and Villegas (50kg) team up with Olympian Hergie Bacyadan (70kg). Completing the roster are Ofelia Magno (48kg), Claudine Veloso (54kg), and Riza Pasuit (57kg).Limited Weight Classes Due to Host RestrictionsThe Philippines can only participate in 13 of 17 weight classes due to host restrictions. “We’re limited to seven of nine weight classes in men’s boxing and six of eight in women’s,” Manalo noted.He added that the inclusion of pro fighters reflects ABAP’s evolving approach: “It’s a good opportunity to show that pro boxers can also be part of the national team… Our objective is always to send the best lineup possible.”Poised for a Strong ShowingMost of the team is already in Thailand for training camp and will stay there until the Games. The Philippines aims to surpass its 2023 SEA Games medal tally of 4 golds, 5 silvers, and 1 bronze.

The Philippine men’s national football team kept its 2027 AFC Asian Cup hopes alive with a 2–0 victory over the Maldives on Tuesday but missed the chance to control its own fate heading into the decisive final match of the qualifying round.Despite goals from Jefferson Tabinas and Sandro Reyes in the first half at the National Football Stadium in Malé, the Azkals could not extend their lead—a missed opportunity that proved costly in the group standings.While the Philippines improved to 13 points, it slipped to second place in Group A, level with Tajikistan but behind on goal difference after the Central Asians routed Timor-Leste, 5–0, in Darwin, Australia.With Tajikistan taking the top spot, the two nations will now face off in March 2026 for the group’s lone ticket to the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. The crucial showdown will be held on Tajikistan’s home turf, meaning the Philippines will need nothing less than a win to qualify for only the second time in history, the first being in 2019.Tabinas opened the scoring in the 24th minute, rising for a header off a set piece to record his third goal of the third-round qualifiers and fifth in his international career.Reyes doubled the advantage in the 37th minute, receiving a short cross from Jarvey Gayoso inside the box before executing a cutback and curling the ball into the far corner. It was Reyes’ fifth goal for the national team.Despite controlling much of the match, the Azkals were unable to add more goals—a factor that ultimately kept them from holding the outright lead in the group.Now, all roads lead to March 2026, when the Philippines must deliver its biggest performance yet to return to Asia’s grandest stage.

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) reiterates its unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the proper stewardship of public resources. As a recipient of support from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the PFF strictly observes all government regulations, auditing procedures, and internal controls to ensure that every peso is properly allocated, disbursed, and documented in accordance with law and sound financial standards.All PFF programs and expenditures are subject to rigorous internal and external review, including oversight by the PSC. To further strengthen transparency, PFF also engaged a respected independent auditing firm to verify receipts and disbursements.PFF welcomes fair and factual scrutiny. However, unfounded and malicious accusations circulated online are reckless and irresponsible. Such claims not only tarnish the reputation of the PFF and its officers but also undermine the PSC and the entire football community whose passion and trust sustain the sport’s growth.PFF acknowledges with gratitude the continued financial, logistical, and policy support of the PSC. This partnership underscores a shared goal: to raise the standard of Philippine football and futsal and bring honor to the country.Baseless allegations demean the dedication of athletes, coaches, and staff who work tirelessly to advance the sport. PFF reserves the right to pursue appropriate legal remedies under Philippine law and applicable PFF regulations to protect the integrity of the institution and its stakeholders.Philippine Football Federation (PFF)House of Football, Pasig CityNovember 11, 2025

Spike and Serve Philippines Inc. celebrated another milestone with its heartfelt Beneficiary Dinner, an evening that brought together supporters, partners, and beneficiaries to share stories of impact, gratitude, and hope.Spike and Serve Founder and Director Nicole Tiamzon described this year’s edition as the organization’s “most meaningful” yet.“This is our first time holding an event where so many beneficiaries shared their testimonies—some even performed. It was important for our guests to see and hear the impact of Spike and Serve firsthand,” she said.Among those who joined to share their support and experiences were Petro Gazz Angels team manager Cha Cruz-Behag, Nxled Chameleons’ Dzi Gervacio, and Galeries Tower Highriser's Ivy Perez, partners and ambassadors of SSPI, who highlighted how the organization empowers communities and inspires change.The evening also featured inspiring stories from beneficiaries, including Coach Pedro Aquino Jr. of Volleybukids, who shared his humble beginnings teaching children in Sitio Paliparan, Morong, Bataan. He recounted using makeshift equipment such as rubber balls, basketballs, fishnets as nets, and even a used duyan (cradle) to introduce volleyball to the community. Coach Aquino’s dedication has produced remarkable results, including John Cris A. Galicia, now a standout player for the NCAA Men’s Volleyball Team of Mapua University.Although the program ran longer than usual, the extended time allowed guests to fully appreciate the depth of the organization’s work and the lives touched by its initiatives.“Mas meaningful talaga ngayon. Mas narinig natin yung tunay na epekto ni Spike and Serve sa mga communities,” Coach added.When asked what she hopes guests take away, her message was clear and heartfelt.“I want them to feel that everything they donate, everything they give—it all goes to the right place. Hindi madali magbigay ng suporta, kaya gusto namin maramdaman nila na may pinupuntahan talaga.”She also expressed gratitude to the community that has supported Spike and Serve since its founding in 2017: “We are very thankful to all supporters and donors who have been with us since day one.”Those interested in donating or getting involved can connect with the organization:Facebook: Spike and Serve Philippines IncorporatedInstagram: @spikeandserveph“You can message us if you want to support a specific community, our operations, or any of our initiatives. We also share volunteer links for those who want to help us on the ground,” Coach said.Coach closed the evening with an inspiring message:“Sa lahat ng beneficiaries, patuloy lang kayo—wag kayong hihinto mangarap. Hindi kami magsasawang tumulong sa inyo. And to all supporters, thank you so much. Everything you give reaches our beneficiaries and creates a ripple effect for the next generation.”Spike and Serve’s Beneficiary Dinner was more than an event—it was a celebration of hope, community, and a shared mission to help others rise.

The Meralco Bolts are on a roll in the EASL Home and Away Season 3, notching their second straight win with a 92-74 victory over the debuting Macau Black Bears at the newly refurbished Cebu Coliseum last Saturday night.Imports Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Ismael Romero spearheaded the second-quarter breakaway for the Bolts before the rest of the team joined in to secure the 18-point winning margin. Romero delivered a massive double-double with 25 points and 28 rebounds, while Hollis-Jefferson finished with a game-high 34 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists, thrilling the Cebuano crowd with three thunderous dunks.It was Meralco’s second straight home win in a week, evening their Group B record at 2-2 behind the Taoyuan Pilots (2-1) and the Ryukyu Golden Kings (1-1). The Bolts had earlier defeated the Pilots, 82-72, at the Capital Arena in Ilagan, Isabela.Chris Banchero led the locals with 12 points, three rebounds, and three assists, while Asian import Sina Vahedi added 10 points, three rebounds, and four assists.For Macau, Damian Chongqui had 25 points, with Omari Peek-Green and Jalon Demarco Miller adding 14 apiece in the Black Bears’ season debut.Proceeds from the EASL game will be donated to Typhoon Tino victims in Cebu, with Meralco also raising P500,000 for the cause.EASL senior vice president Dominic Tang announced the league’s relief commitment, underscoring basketball’s power to unite and uplift communities in times of need.The scoresMeralco (92)—Hollis-Jefferson 34, Romero 25, Banchero 12, Vahedi 10, Newsome 7, Quinto 2, Hodge 2, Caram 0, Kouame 0.Macau (74)—Chongqui 25, Peek-Green 14, Miller 14, Ye 13, Shackelford 8, Guo 0, Liu 0, Cao 0, Lao 0.Quarter scores: 25-24, 48-38, 65-52, and 92-74.

International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) President Morinari Watanabe led the Press Conference and Media Welcome Reception on Tuesday, formally ushering in the country’s hosting of the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships at Newport World Resorts in Pasay City.The event gathered local and international media as Watanabe highlighted the Philippines’ growing presence in the global gymnastics community and expressed confidence in the successful staging of the prestigious competition.Set to officially open on Thursday, November 20, the Junior World Championships will feature the world’s top young gymnasts, all eager to showcase their skill, talent, and potential on the international stage.With more than 75 countries participating, the Philippines is poised to play a central role as the tournament unfolds in Manila for the very first time.

Cignal star Erika Santos has been named the Premier Volleyball League Press Corps Player of the Week for November 10–16. This is her second time earning the honor at this conference.The 5-foot-9 opposite hitter delivered a commanding performance in Cignal’s stunning sweep of the previously unbeaten ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, 25-12, 26-24, 25-23, last November 13 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.Santos fired a game-high 19 points built on 13 attacks, three blocks, and three aces, powering Cignal to a crucial second-round win while handing the Thunderbelles their first loss of the Reinforced Conference. Her explosive outing also solidified Cignal’s momentum, improving their record to 4-3 and creating a three-way tie for fifth to seventh—enough to seal a spot in the quarterfinals.Cignal now turns its focus to a marquee showdown against the Creamline Cool Smashers on Tuesday, November 18, at 6:30 PM at the Ynares Center in Montalban.

The Alas Pilipinas girls’ under-16 squad has soared to world No. 25 in the latest FIVB Girls’ U17 rankings after clinching a berth in next year’s world championship in Santiago, Chile.The young nationals made a remarkable leap of 17 spots, from world No. 42, after finishing fifth in the 2nd Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Asian Women’s U16 Volleyball Championship in Amman, Jordan. Even more impressive, the program began at world No. 57, making their rise one of the most significant in Philippine youth volleyball history.“Awesome leap from 57 to 25! We didn’t realize that our small wins in the Asian Qualifying were that instrumental in raising our country’s standing to a higher rank,” said head coach Edwin Leyva. “It just shows that the level of play here in the Philippines has improved and is slowly catching up with our top Asian counterparts.”Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara hailed the feat as “big,” emphasizing how the federation’s grassroots program, strengthened over the past four years, continues to bear fruit.“We are now reaping the fruits of the grassroots program that the PNVF has started four years ago,” Suzara said.Since its establishment in post-pandemic 2021, the PNVF has steered Philippine volleyball to significant growth: breakthroughs by Alas Pilipinas Men and Women at the Asian and world levels, the country hosting world-level events, and Suzara’s rise to AVC president and FIVB executive vice president.With their new ranking, the U16 team is now the highest-ranked Philippine volleyball squad worldwide, surpassing the Alas Women (46th) and Alas Men (80th).Leyva, however, was quick to remind the team that the journey continues.“Being in the top 25 is already a milestone. Why stop dreaming? Let’s train hard, play harder!” he said. “We have the momentum and we are highly motivated. First, win a set or two, then work up from there. It’s up to us to keep the fire burning.”The Philippine U16 team secured 14 ranking points after a gutsy 25-23, 25-20, 19-25, 25-22 victory over Thailand—clinching the final Asian ticket to the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship.China qualified automatically as defending world champion, while Asian representatives also include newly crowned AVC U16 champion South Korea, silver medalist Chinese Taipei, and fourth-placer Japan. Against all odds, the Philippines now stands proudly among Asia’s elite.The world championship in Santiago is set for August 5 to 16.