From freight loader to weightlifting champion: John Ceniza eyes breakthrough in Olympic debut

In a dramatic and unforgettable finish, Carlo Baltonado delivered a golden moment for the Philippines at the 47th Southeast Asian Shooting Association (SEASA) Championship held in Photharam, Thailand.

Baltonado showcased nerves of steel in a tense 25-target shoot-off, narrowly edging his opponent by just one clay to secure the individual gold medal. His victory not only highlighted his remarkable precision and composure under pressure but also marked a proud milestone for Philippine shooting sports on the regional stage.

Teaming up with Cong. Richard Gomez, Jakey Ancheta, and Jed Rivilla, Baltonado also helped steer the Philippine Sporting Clays Team to a silver medal finish in the team category — a testament to the squad’s growing presence and consistency in international competition.

Guiding the team throughout the tournament was Olympic Skeet Bronze Medalist Anthony Terras, whose leadership and technical expertise played a key role in refining the group’s performance. Under his mentorship, the national team continues to build on its momentum and reaffirm its standing among Southeast Asia’s best.

The triumph in Thailand stands as another shining chapter in the Philippines’ shooting history — a victory defined by precision, discipline, and heart.

Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons came agonizingly close to extending their breakthrough campaign at the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge, but their Cinderella bid ended in heartbreak after a hard-fought 18-21, 24-22, 15-12 defeat to Switzerland’s Annique Niederhauser and Menia Bentele on Friday night at the Nuvali Sands Court by Ayala Land in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

The Alas Pilipinas aces looked on the verge of a stunning advance to the Round of 16, and possibly a deeper run, after forcing a thrilling extended second set. 

The Filipinas capitalized on the Swiss pair’s string of errors, seizing momentum and igniting hopes of a major upset in front of a roaring home crowd.

Alas Pilipinas stars Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons booked a breakthough win on Friday, October 17, in the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour 2025 Nuvali Challenge in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The Filipina duo swept the Slovenian pair, 21-19, 21-9, whom they also defeated in the Futures in Budapest only last month. 

AC Miner led the charge as the Zus Coffee Thunderbelles extended their winning streak with a commanding sweep of the Galeries Tower Highrisers, 25-22, 25-16, 25-16, in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday, October 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Miner earned Player of the Game honors after posting 10 points built on 7 attacks, 2 aces, and 1 block, showcasing her all-around efficiency and composure at the net. Her presence on both offense and defense set the tone early, helping ZUS Coffee establish control and maintain momentum throughout the match.

With the victory, ZUS Coffee improved to 2-0 in Pool B, solidifying its early position as one of the top contenders in the conference. Miner’s steady leadership and consistent play continue to be key factors in the Thunderbelles’ unbeaten start.

ZUS Coffee will next face the Creamline Cool Smashers on Thursday, October 23, at the FilOil EcoOil Arena.

Justine Jazareno stood tall as the defensive anchor for the Akari Chargers, steering her team to a five-set victory over the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, 25-11, 22-25, 29-27, 17-25, 15-7, in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Jazareno, known for her steady hands and exceptional court coverage, was named Player of the Game after registering 27 excellent digs and 9 excellent receptions, setting the tone for Akari’s strong defensive stand. Her consistent presence at the backline allowed the Chargers to maintain control in crucial moments, especially during the tight third and fifth sets.

The Chargers displayed resilience after dropping the fourth frame, tightening their floor defense and minimizing errors to dominate the decider. Jazareno’s leadership and composure played a crucial role in keeping her teammates calm and focused amid the pressure.

With this win, Akari not only opened its 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference campaign on a high note but also showcased the importance of solid defense, a department masterfully led by Jazareno, who continues to prove why she’s among the league’s premier liberos.