The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has thrown its full support behind President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for a healthier, more active citizenry by officially opening its track and field facilities to the public—free of charge.This initiative follows the President’s remarks during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28, where he raised concern over the increasing weight among Filipinos aged 20 and above. Marcos urged the public to engage in physical activities and called on local government units (LGUs) to revitalize public spaces such as parks and plazas to encourage outdoor movement.“Let’s promote the organization of games, sports leagues, fun runs, fun walks, as well as aerobics and Zumba sessions,” said Marcos. He also announced plans to implement “car-free Sundays” in more cities, expanding on similar programs already in place in parts of Metro Manila.

There was a time when Letran and winning were almost synonymous. The Knights made their mark in NCAA lore with dynastic brilliance, clinching championships in Seasons 95, 97, and 98, and becoming one of the most storied programs in the league.Yet recent seasons have been unkind. Across Seasons 99 and 100, Letran mustered only 10 wins from 36 elimination games, missing the Final Four in both. Now, under second-year head coach Allen Ricardo, the Knights are out to reclaim their mantle. With a blend of seasoned core players and fresh recruits, they believe they have the pieces to mount a serious title challenge.Leading the returnees are Jimboy Estrada, Kevin Santos, and Deo Cuajao, players who embody experience, grit, and institutional pride. Their leadership will be crucial in steadying the ship and setting tone in pivotal moments.The infusion of new blood is equally intriguing. Rookie guard Jonathan Manalili arrives with high expectations, while transfers Mark Denver Omega and Jun Roque bring additional depth and versatility to bolster the rotation. Also joining the fray are Peter Rosillo, Luiz Tapenio, and a group of role players including John Alejandro, Jovel Baliling, Aaro Buensalida, Lorge Gammad, Alex Gazzingan, Nat Montecillo, Edvil Mundas, Joss Poli, Syrex Silorio, and Elijah Yusi.If integration runs smoothly, the blend of maturity and fresh legs could give Letran a sharper, more adaptive roster than season’s past.

De La Salle University (DLSU) got back on track with a four-set victory over the University of the Philippines (UP), winning 25-22, 24-26, 25-18, 25-17 in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, March 2, at the Mall of Asia Arena.“There’s no weak team in the UAAP today. Every game you play is a challenge,” said La Salle assistant coach Noel Orcullo in Filipino. “Every team plays a high level so you cannot say that the opponent is weak, that's why you need to overcome whatever it is that your opponent is going to throw at you.”Angel Canino led the way for the Lady Spikers with 24 points, scoring 20 off attacks and adding four blocks. Shevana Laput provided strong support with 21 points from 15 kills, three blocks, and three aces. Lilay del Castillo also contributed with 11 points, including four blocks and two aces.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is looking to “harmonize” the Palarong Pambansa and Batang Pinoy programs to build a more unified and sustainable youth sports system in the country.PSC Chairperson Patrick “Pato” Gregorio said the agency is working closely with the Department of Education (DepEd) and other stakeholders to create a clearer pathway for young Filipino athletes—from grassroots to elite levels—following the country’s strong performance in the Asian Youth Games (AYG) held in Bahrain.“Hindi po siya iu-unify, liwanagin ko lang po, hindi siya iu-unify. Isi-streamline po natin, iha-harmonize po natin para 'yung age group malawak,” said Gregorio during the presentation of the AYG medalists last week.Gregorio emphasized the importance of aligning the PSC’s programs with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and national sports associations, noting that youth tournaments like the AYG and Youth Olympic Games (YOG) serve as vital stepping stones toward major international competitions.“We have to support the initiatives of the POC, lalo na napakaimportante nitong Asian Youth Games, Youth Olympic Games,” he added.The Batang Pinoy recently concluded in General Santos City, just days after the AYG. Notably, athletes like MMA’s Charlie and Travis Ratcliff flew directly from Bahrain to compete in the local meet—showing the growing connection between national and grassroots programs.Currently, both Palarong Pambansa and Batang Pinoy cater to young athletes but run on separate calendars. The Palaro includes elementary and secondary divisions, while Batang Pinoy welcomes athletes aged 17 and under—resulting in some overlap.Gregorio believes harmonizing both programs will create a more efficient structure that better identifies and supports emerging talent early on.“I was there during the Youth Olympic Games in Argentina. Na-realize ko, pwede tayong manalo rito ah,” said Gregorio. “Kaya ako, very happy ako na ang POC at ang NSAs, tinututukan na natin 'to. Kasi 'yung nananalo sa AYG at Youth Olympic Games, 'yan din ang nagiging champions sa Olympics at Asian Games.”He added that the PSC’s approach will no longer be merely “reactionary” but will focus on long-term development and consistent support for the youth sports pipeline.The Philippines recently capped off a historic 12th-place finish in the Asian Youth Games, bagging seven golds, seven silvers, and ten bronzes—its best showing yet in the continental event.With this success as inspiration, the PSC hopes to build a stronger foundation for the country’s next generation of sports heroes.

The Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) officially launched its inaugural professional season on Sunday, June 29, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, marking a major milestone for Filipina athletes in the sport of basketball.Six pioneering teams—Batangas New Zealand Bluefire, Pangasinan Solar Home Suns, RK Hoops Quezon City, Discovery Perlas Rizal, San Juan Lady Knights, and Tagaytay Tol Patriots—are taking part in the league’s first-ever pro season.The opening ceremony featured a powerful message from SBP Executive Director Erika Dy, who highlighted the significance of the moment for women in sports.

Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara is fully committed to training and nurturing young volleyball talent at the grassroots level.In an exclusive interview with Scoreline.ph, Coach Tsuzurabara emphasized that the outreach event held last Tuesday, July 1, inMorong, Bataan was his own idea and initiative—aimed at discovering and developing the skills of young boys and girls interested in volleyball."This is my initiative, and I want to help these children develop their skills in playing volleyball," said Coach Tsuzurabara.He added that as long as he has the opportunity to stay in the Philippines, he is eager to contribute to grassroots volleyball development. His goal is to help these young players refine their skills so they can one day join PVL teams or even the national squad.Coach Koji also shared valuable insights on what it takes to become a successful volleyball player, emphasizing the importance of discipline, teamwork, and passion for the sport.The Japanese coach brings a visionary approach to youth development—one that emphasizes skill-building, discipline, teamwork, and above all, love for the game."Nicole Tiamzon, founder of Spike and Serve Philippines, affirmed that the outreach efforts were inspired by Coach Koji’s vision.“All of this was Coach Koji’s idea and initiative,” Tiamzon said. “He’s truly happy when he sees grassroots players in the country who are eager to learn and play volleyball.”This shared vision is the reason behind the collaboration between Spike and Serve Philippines Inc. and the Petro Gazz Angels, working together to help Volleybukid participants develop their volleyball skills and potential.“Coach Koji wants to help children like them become successful and competitive volleyball players,” Tiamzon added.She also emphasized that the current group of young players shows great promise.“These kids from Volleybukids have potential. It’s not just about the skills—we’re also teaching the coaches that values formation is equally important,” she said.Coach Tsuzurabara’s long-term vision includes developing a feeder system that connects local talent with collegiate and national-level volleyball programs. By bridging the gap between recreational and competitive play, he hopes to turn raw potential into real achievement.

Bianca Yasmine Cuevas has emerged as a standout figure in Philippine women’s ice hockey, making significant contributions to the national team’s success on the international stage. Cuevas began her journey on ice as a figure skater before transitioning to ice hockey. Because of her passion for the sport, it led her to represent the Philippines in the 2017 IIHF Women’s Challenge Cup of Asia. She quickly made her mark by leading the team in scoring with five goals and four assists over six games and captured a 7-4 victory against hosts Kyrgyzstan.In 2018, Cuevas was chosen as Tournament MVP finishing first scoring with 8 goals and 1 assist in 3 games, where she earned a total of 13 goals and 4 assists in 9 international competition games for the Philippines. In the 2019 IIHF Women’s Challenge Cup of Asia Division I, Cuevas played a pivotal role in the Philippines' gold medal victory. She led the tournament in scoring with 11 points and was named the Best Forward by the IIHF Directorate. 

Lou Marie Reyes Cauyao, is one of the players of the Philippine Women’s Ice Hockey Team which won as Silver Medalist during the 2024 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Women’s Asia and Oceania Cup in In Bishkek, KYRGYZSTAN, from March 24 to 30 2024. This prestigious tournament brought together top women’s teams from across Asia and Oceania, showcasing talent, determination, and the growing strength of women’s ice hockey in the region. Cauyao played a vital role in fortifying the team's defense throughout the tournament, helping to secure the Philippines’ historic run to the podium.Known for her sharp defensive instincts, determination and dedication to the sport, Cauyao exemplifies the spirit of Filipino athletes who continue to break new ground in less traditional sports like ice hockey. Her contribution not only reflects individual excellence but also highlights the rising momentum of women’s ice hockey in the Philippines.

In an impressive display of skill, taller Japanese southpaw Madoka Wada (4-0, 3 KOs) successfully defended her OPBF Female Minimumweight Title by stopping resilient Filipina challenger Carleans “Chay” Rivas (9-8-4, 1 KO) in Round 7 in Tokyo, Japan.From the very first round, Wada utilized her height advantage, sharp right jab, and accurate counters to dictate the pace, keeping the aggressive Rivas at bay. Renowned for her tenacity and relentless pressure, Rivas found it difficult to close the distance against the rangy champion.In Round 7, Wada unleashed a series of unanswered combinations that prompted the referee to intervene and halt the fight. Although Rivas protested the stoppage, demonstrating her indomitable spirit, Wada had clearly taken command, landing effective shots throughout the bout.A big salute to Rivas—the fearless fighter from Angono, Rizal—whose courage and heart earned her the respect of the crowd despite the loss. She poured everything into the fight and exited the ring with her head held high.Wada’s victory keeps her unbeaten and solidifies her position as the reigning OPBF champion, marking her continued ascent in the minimumweight division.

The Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots dominated the import-less Meralco Bolts, 129-92, last night, January 31, at the Philsports Arena to force a do-or-die match on Sunday for the 8th and final spot of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup quarterfinals.Ricardo Ratliffe waxed hot in the opening half as he took advantage of the absence of Meralco’s reinforcement, Akil Mitchell, who sat out for the second straight game due to back spasm.The hulking Magnolia import already produced 24 points on 10-of-11 shooting from the field going into the break. He also grabbed nine boards, two assists, and one steal before halftime.Ratliffe finished with 31 markers, 19 boards, four assists, and two steals, against two fouls and one turnover.

The Philippines marks its historic Olympic return to Paris, 100 years since the country debuted in the world’s biggest sporting event in the French capital.With the Filipino contingent edging closer to showcase the fruit of their labor and bring home glorious laurels on the nation’s centennial anniversary, one sport that has been in a deep slumber in over three decades finally punctuated its return because of one Filipina athlete.Samantha Catantan ended a long drought for Philippine fencing with her entry to the Paris Olympics 2024.Catantan demonstrated resilience during the daunting challenge of the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Fencing Qualifier that sealed her pathway to Paris, a feat that would make her the first fencer from the Philippines to compete after 32 years.No Filipino fencer has ever reached the Olympics since the 1992 edition.Percival Alger and Walter Torres were the first and last Filipino fencers to do it when they donned the national colors in the 1988 and 1992 Summer Games, respectively.

Host Philippines looks to close its FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup campaign on a strong note as it faces powerhouse Argentina tonight at the PhilSports Arena.Already out of quarterfinal contention after losses to Poland (0–6) and Morocco (2–3), the determined Filipina5 aim to deliver a spirited performance in their final Group A assignment against the unbeaten South Americans.“It’s the World Cup. They’re playing in their home country, so that’s more than enough motivation for the players,” said Philippine coach Rafa Merino.The Philippines nearly pulled off a breakthrough win on Monday when Inday Tolentin and Cathrine Graversen scored early against Morocco. But the African champions rallied with three unanswered goals to steal the match and force a tie with Poland at three points apiece—setting up a do-or-die clash between the two for the group’s last knockout berth.World No. 6 Argentina has already secured its place in the quarterfinals with wins over Morocco (6–0) and Poland (3–2).Ranked 63rd in the world, the Filipina5 enter as clear underdogs, but Merino believes his squad is far from done. “We have to give the best of ourselves, keep our identity, and keep who we are. There’s nothing extraordinary that we can do—just play the best way we can.”Backed by the Philippine Sports Commission and the Philippine Football Federation, the home side hopes to reward its supporters with a gutsy, memorable performance as it wraps up its historic World Cup debut.

The San Miguel Beermen held off a furious comeback by Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to escape with a thrilling 83–81 victory in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai early Monday (Manila time).Leading by as much as 14 points, San Miguel weathered Ginebra’s late rally behind the leadership of June Mar Fajardo, who turned in another MVP-caliber performance with 17 points, 16 rebounds, five assists, and four blocks.Veteran guard Kris Rosales delivered in the clutch, knocking down two crucial three-pointers in the final minutes to help the Beermen secure their second win in four games.“Our schedule is quite packed, but we still managed to execute our game plan and get the win,” said Fajardo, who also took time to thank the Filipino fans in Dubai for their unwavering support.Ginebra had a final chance to snatch the win after forcing a turnover in the last 3.7 seconds, but Scottie Thompson’s desperation three-pointer missed at the buzzer.Japeth Aguilar led the Gin Kings with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists, while RJ Abarrientos added 17 points, and Thompson nearly posted a triple-double with 15 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.Despite Ginebra’s valiant effort, San Miguel’s composure and experience proved decisive, giving them a momentum boost as they continue their title campaign in the midseason conference.

In a crucial moment for Petro Gazz, veteran Nicole Tiamzon delivered when it mattered most.With the Angels reeling from two straight losses and fighting for survival in the PVL On Tour, Tiamzon emerged as a steadying force, firing 16 points on 15 attacks and a block to help Petro Gazz turn back Choco Mucho in four sets, 20-25, 25-19, 26-24, 25-17, Tuesday night, July 29, at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur.It was the perfect time for Tiamzon to break out, stepping into the spotlight as Petro Gazz navigated its first match without Japanese head coach Koji Tsuzurabara. Under interim tactician Brian Esquibel, the Angels played with renewed energy and composure—traits Tiamzon embodied throughout the match.

The UAAP is ramping up health and safety protocols ahead of Season 88, which opens September 19, following the recent tragic deaths of two young basketball players during training.UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag stressed at Wednesday’s preseason press conference that while emergency medical services and health protocols have long been in place, the league is now doubling down on caution—especially during training sessions. “We already have emergency medical services in place for competitions. But we’re making sure that athletes undergo proper pre-participation medical screening and reminding schools to be even more vigilant at their training venues,” Saguisag said. The renewed push for athlete safety follows the deaths of National University’s Ashlyn Abong, 18, who collapsed during training on June 28, and University of the Philippines recruit Israel Friday, 19, who died after collapsing at practice on August 20.In response, member schools have also implemented stricter protocols. At UP, the Office of Athletics and Sports Development now requires all students, including athletes, to undergo medical evaluations before enrollment. Student-athletes must also pass a Pre-Participation Medical Sports Evaluation (PMSE) and additional cardiovascular screenings before joining their teams.“They have to undergo tests. Even if they’ve completed the PMSE, further clearance is needed to detect any existing medical conditions,” explained UP’s Bo Perasol.As Season 88 approaches, the UAAP is sending a clear message: while competition is central to collegiate sports, athlete safety remains the top priority.

The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is making its much-anticipated return to the University of Santo Tomas (UST), with an exciting doubleheader set at the Quadricentennial Pavilion (QPav) on Sunday, November 16.Action tips off at 5:15 p.m. as the NLEX Road Warriors battle the Titan Ultra High Risers, followed by a marquee matchup between the Phoenix Fuel Masters and the Barangay Ginebra Kings at 7:30 p.m.This marks the second time QPav will host PBA games, following its successful stint as a venue for the PBA On Tour pre-season tournament in July 2023, where proceeds benefited UST’s student-athlete programs.The game day also highlights the UST connection. Phoenix’s Dave Ando and Bryan Santos are both former Growling Tigers, while Titan Ultra is owned by UST College of Commerce alumnus Bryann Calantoc. Meanwhile, Ginebra team governor Alfrancis Chua, a former Glowing Goldie, currently serves as UST’s Special Assistant to the Rector for Sports.Following the UST leg, the PBA will go on a brief break to give way to Gilas Pilipinas’ FIBA World Cup Qualifiers home game against Guam on December 1 at the Blue Eagle Gym. On the same day, the UAAP will continue its basketball games at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Jonah Sabete’s journey to becoming a standout volleyball player is one of determination, heart, and humble beginnings. Born on January 29, 1994, in the quiet town of Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, Jonah’s early life was far from the bright lights of major volleyball arenas. As a child, she was a marathon runner — a testament to her endurance and grit — but it wasn’t until a coach convinced her to try volleyball that her true path began to unfold.Moving away from her hometown, Jonah attended San Pedro High School in Hagonoy, Bulacan, where she started to carve her name in the sport. “Even if I had to study by myself, I did everything I could because I had a dream,” she once said, revealing the fire that kept her going despite challenges.Standing at 5-foot-6, Jonah wasn’t the tallest on the court, but she made up for it with incredible vertical leaps and fierce determination. Her powerful attacks and unwavering commitment made her a key player for Bulacan’s volleyball team in the Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLRAA), where she proved that heart and skill can outmatch physical stature.Jonah’s college years were spent at Bulacan State University, proudly representing the BulSU Gold Gears. Her hard work and talent earned her numerous accolades: she was named to the 2014 Bulacan Collegiate Athletic Association (BCAA) Mythical Six, crowned MVP and Athlete of the Year in 2015, and repeated as Athlete of the Year in 2016. She also made the UCLAA Mythical Six, solidifying her status as one of Bulacan’s brightest volleyball stars.

Even as the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters continue to pile up victories in the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup, injuries remain an unwelcome part of their journey.Already missing key players Caelan Tiongson and Stanley Pringle, the Elasto Painters suffered another setback after big man Keith Datu went down with an apparent knee injury during their 91-80 win over the Phoenix Fuel Masters on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.Datu, who had been dealing with knee issues prior to the game, slipped and fell hard midway through the third quarter. He was helped to the bench and did not return, finishing with nine points, four rebounds, and three assists in what was his most active showing of the conference so far.Coach Yeng Guiao expressed concern over Datu’s condition, saying that the team will still wait for results from medical tests to determine the severity of the injury.“I don’t know exactly what his status is or how serious the injury might be,” Guiao said. “He’s already been having issues with his knees before, which is why we’ve been focusing on strengthening his lower body. And now this happened.”The absence of Datu leaves Rain or Shine thin in the middle, with Caelan Tiongson still nursing an injury and veteran Beau Belga playing limited minutes as he recovers from vertigo earlier this year.Despite the setbacks, the Elasto Painters extended their winning run to four games, improving to a 5-1 record to seize solo first place in the standings. Guiao acknowledged that managing player health while maintaining competitiveness will be a tough balancing act heading into the next stretch of the eliminations.“It’s tough because we’re managing Beau’s minutes, and now Keith’s dealing with an injury. Then there’s Caelan who’s also hurt. We might end up playing all guards at this rate,” Guiao joked, though his concern was evident.Rain or Shine now shifts focus to its next assignment against the NLEX Road Warriors on Saturday, hoping for a positive update on Datu’s condition before they face tougher opponents in the coming weeks.

The first time Olympian Filipina fencer Samantha Kyle Catantan shared her advice on how to achieve our dreams and pursue our passion.

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.