Team Philippines celebrated a golden double in Muay at the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Manama, Bahrain, as young standouts Lyre Anie Ngina and Zeth Gabriel Bueno captured top honors in their respective Wai Kru divisions on Sunday, October 26.Ngina opened the country’s campaign with a commanding performance in the Girls’ Wai Kru 14–15 division, delivering a near-flawless routine that showcased grace, precision, and discipline. The 14-year-old Filipina impressed the judges with a 9.00 score, edging Malaysia’s Auryelle Xzandra Bobby (8.80) and Thailand’s Kittima Yotsombat (8.60) to secure the gold at the Exhibition World Grand Hall.Following her lead, Bueno extended the nation’s success by ruling the Boys’ Wai Kru 14–15 category, producing an outstanding performance that earned a remarkable 9.17 points—surpassing Thailand’s Daonuea Phuangmali (9.00) to clinch the top spot.Their victories highlighted the Philippines’ growing strength in Muay, a traditional martial art rooted in culture and discipline. Both Ngina and Bueno’s golden finishes not only brought pride to the nation but also underscored the promise of the country’s next generation of martial artists on the Asian stage.Their golden triumph further boosted the Philippines’ medal haul, bringing the nation’s tally to six golds, five silvers, and six bronze, solidifying its position among the top contenders in the overall standings.

Far Eastern University (FEU) snapped its losing streak by outlasting Ateneo de Manila University, 25-15, 20-25, 25-17, 24-26, 15-11, in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, March 2, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.Coach Tina Salak expressed satisfaction with her team’s performance but emphasized the need for consistent readiness. “It was a convincing win, but we want to push them further so that by the second round, we’re fully prepared to fight back against all the struggles we’re facing now,” she said.  FEU’s strong net defense played a crucial role in the win, dominating Ateneo in blocks with a 20-2 advantage. The victory improved their record to 2-2 after back-to-back defeats.  Gerzel Petallo led the Lady Tamaraws with 18 points, including 14 attacks and four blocks, while also contributing 14 excellent receptions. Ateneo extended the match to a fifth set after Petallo leveled the fourth frame at 24 with a precise drop ball. However, Lyann de Guzman answered with a strong attack that deflected off an FEU defender’s hand, securing the point after a successful block touch challenge.Yvana Sulit then stepped up with a crucial service ace, forcing a deciding set.  

Akari wasted no time in claiming a podium finish, sweeping the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in straight sets, 25-15, 26-24, 26-24, to capture the bronze medal in the 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference Finals.The Chargers quickly established dominance, capitalizing on Choco Mucho’s early unforced errors to build momentum. A blistering 7-0 run in the second set showcased Akari’s composure and control, as they kept the pressure on the Flying Titans.With their firepower on full display, Akari surged to an 18-12 lead. However, a screening violation gave Choco Mucho a much-needed break, halting Akari’s run and shifting the tide. 

After defeating his first two opponents in Mexico last year, 25-year-old Carl Jammes Martin, a warrior from Lagawe, Ifugao, is set to compete in a non-title, 10-round super bantamweight bout against Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin on March 22 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada.Martin dominated Anthony Jimenez Salas with a second-round technical knockout last September, followed by a fifth-round technical knockout victory over Ruben Tostado Garcia in December—both fights taking place in Mexico, where he has maintained an undefeated record of 25 wins, including 20 knockouts.However, Sanmartin presents a greater challenge, given his experience, as reflected in his 35-9-1 record, which includes 21 knockouts.This marks a significant opportunity for the Filipino boxer to showcase his skills in the boxing world’s most prestigious venue—Las Vegas, often regarded as a proving ground for the sport’s top prospects and future champions.“I am so thrilled to be fighting in Las Vegas, Nevada. When I was a little boy, I grew up watching some of the greatest fighters in boxing history showcase their talents in Las Vegas. I watched many of Manny Pacquiao’s fights there, and now I’m fighting in Las Vegas. This is a dream come true,” Martin said.Sean Gibbons, president of Manny Pacquiao’s MP Promotions, also expressed his full support for Martin’s campaign, hoping for a victorious run leading to a world title in 2025.“This is a very exciting time in Carl’s career. Having his first fight in the United States take place in Las Vegas—where his idol, Manny Pacquiao, has fought so many times—is a dream come true,” Gibbons said.According to Gibbons, Carl is eager to make a lasting impression next week as he continues his journey toward becoming a world champion.“Carl is looking to impress everyone next week as he works toward his ultimate goal of winning a world title in 2025,” Gibbons added.

The Philippines made a strong statement in their opening match at the U23 ASEAN Championship Mandiri Cup, defeating Malaysia 2-0 on Wednesday, July 16, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia.Otu Banatao starred for the U23 squad, netting both goals and securing the team's first win over Malaysia since the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, as well as their first tournament victory since a 2-1 triumph over Brunei in 2022.Banatao opened the scoring in the ninth minute, finishing off a well-placed pass from Javier Mariona, before doubling the lead in the 40th minute to complete his brace.Solid defensive work from goalkeeper Nic Guimaraes and defenders Joshua Merino, Noah Leddel, Ziggy Taningco, and Kamil Amirul helped the Philippines preserve the clean sheet.Next, the Philippines will take on defending champions Vietnam on Friday, July 18.Head coach Garrath McPherson credited his staff for the team's preparation, saying: “I would like to thank our assistant coach Popoy Clarino and our goalkeeper coach Joan Lleida, who held a training camp a week prior. Every little thing helps. With a short journey, you need to prioritize what you want to know and understand. We focused on key areas, kept things simple, and let the players take it from there.”

The East Asia Super League (EASL) returns on October 8, 2025, with the season tip-off taking place in two venues—one in Taipei and the other in Tokyo.At the Taipei Heping Basketball Gymnasium, fans will be treated to a doubleheader. The first matchup features the B.LEAGUE champions Utsunomiya Brex against the P. LEAGUE+ runners-up Taipei Fubon Braves.Utsunomiya will be spearheaded by veteran star Makoto Hiejima, while the Braves will rely on the leadership of Chinese Taipei legend Lin Chih-Chieh.

The Philippine National Weightlifting Team, is aiming to win a medal in the 2024 Asian Youth & Junior Weightlifting Championships to be held in Doha, Qatar, which started last Sunday, December 15 and will end on Christmas Day, Wednesday, on the 25th of December.The team is set to compete in the women’s youth division with Althea Bacaro in the -40kgs category where she submitted a total lift of 122 kgs.Joining Bacaro are Princess Jay Ann Diaz (40kgs and total-125kgs), Alexsandra Ann Diaz (45kgs), Jeaneth Hipolito (45kgs), Kim April Inan (-49kgs), Jhodie Peralta and Rosalinda Faustino in the -55kgs.Meanwhile, the men’s youth division is composed of Aldrin Colonia (-49kgs), Eron Borres (-49kgs), Prince Keil Delos Santos (-55kgs) and Jose Masangkay Dayao III (-67kgs). Lifting in the women’s junior category are Angeline Colonia (-45kgs) Rosejean Ramos (-45kgs) and Lovely Inan (-49kgs).Also participating in the men’s junior division are Eron Borres (-55kgs), Prince Keil Delos Santos (-55kgs), Eleaphraime Limmong (-55kgs) and Jose Masangkay Dayao III (-67kgs).Also, PH young Weightlifters will be led by Head of Delegation Monico Puentevella and coaches Patrick Lee, Edmundo S. Cardano, Allen Diaz, Kelly Kae Rojas and Joe Patrick Diaz.The delegation builds on the momentum of the Philippine senior weightlifting team, which recently achieved significant success at the IWF World Championships. Cebuano Fernando Agad clinched a bronze medal in the men’s 55-kilogram Group A division, while Rosegie Ramos earned a bronze in the women’s 49-kilogram category.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is pushing a landmark plan to open government-run golf courses to children aged 15 and below—completely free of charge.Initiated by PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio, the proposal would give youth access to select courses, including Camp John Hay in Baguio and Intramuros Golf Club in Manila, starting at noon daily, seven days a week. The plan, now with the Office of the President, awaits approval as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. consults with golf industry stakeholders.While some military-run courses may resist concerns about income and congestion, Gregorio believes the long-term benefits for grassroots golf outweigh the drawbacks. “If we want golf to grow, we have to let more Filipino kids touch a golf club—not just the ones who can afford it,” he said.With golf’s high costs limiting access, the PSC hopes the initiative will spark broader participation, open doors to scholarships, and develop future champions from all backgrounds.

Jansen Rios buried a crucial three-pointer in the dying seconds of the game to give Meralco the win against Terrafirma, 96-91, on Friday night, December 6, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.The win also lifted the Bolts the share of the lead in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup team standings with NorthPort Batang Pier at 3-0.It was a grind-out battle in the crucial stage of the game until Rios hit an unmolested triple at the right corner to give the Meralco a 94-91 lead and Chris Newsome sank two free throws after Dyip's erratic plays in the final 9.4 seconds of the game.The game seemed like it would be a blowout game when the Bolts erected a 67-51 lead in the third quarter but Terrafirma showed resiliency and even tied the game at 91-all with 1:05 left in the fourth and final period.Meralco coach Luigi Trillo was just glad his team hung on despite blowing a big lead.

Akari began their title hunt after defeating Galeries Tower in four sets, 28-30, 25-15, 25-16, 25-23, making a victorious start in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Saturday, November 9, at the Philsports Arena.Among the fueled Chargers, veteran hitter Eli Soyud tallied a game-high 21 points built on six blocks, including the game-winning hits in the fourth set that sealed the victory for the Akari team.Returning player Faith Nisperos, Reinforced Conference Best Outside Spiker Grethcel Soltones, and Ivy Lacsina all scored 16 markers apiece.

Cignal ended what could have been a potentially lengthy game into a 25-16, 25-23, 26-24 victory over D’Navigators Iloilo in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference preliminaries at the Ynares Sports Arena on Sunday, November 10.After falling behind 22-24 in the third set, the HD Spikers showed grace under pressure as they delivered four consecutive points to secure a straight-set win, improving their record to 4-1.Cignal coach Dexter Clamor decided to use his second six as the D’Navigators pushed Cignal into tight battles, going ahead 22-19 in the third frame. An off-the-block hit courtesy of Steven St. Maria steered the team to a set point, 24-22, paving the way for a possible fourth set. However, the HD Spikers’ second unit took advantage of the D’Navigators’ mistakes and indecisiveness during the crucial moment. c came through to end the game, sealing the HD Spikers’ victory in the tournament. 

The country’s golf scene is set to take center stage as the Philippine Golf Convention (GOLFCON) 2025 tees off on March 8-9 at the Marriott Grand Ballroom.  Organized in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), this highly anticipated event aims to showcase the country as a premier golf destination, both for local and international players.“Obviously it's in partnership and collaboration with the DOT, because we really want to promote, not just the brands or the sport, but the Philippines as a very viable destination for golf,” said event organizer Jesse Guerrero in Tuesday’s Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum.GOLFCON 2025 will feature masterclasses led by top coaches, including PGA Tour coach Nathan Cam, as well as panel discussions with professional golfers and industry leaders. Attendees can also experience golf simulators, free beginner clinics, and exhibits highlighting the country’s top golf courses—from Metro Manila’s elite clubs to hidden provincial gems.With the theme "Let’s Golf in the Philippines," the event aligns with the DOT’s initiative to promote golf tourism. 

Creamline bounced back from a failed third-set rally against sibling rival Choco Mucho, 25-22, 25-20, 30-32, 25-20, in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday, December 3.The Cool Smashers, who were on the verge of winning the tournament with their third consecutive sweep, faltered in a thrilling third set before rallying in the fourth to force a tie with Cignal at the top of the rankings, both with identical 3-0 records."But of course, the Choco [Mucho] really, really won't lose easily. We know they will come back to the game so I just told the players that we should just enjoy ourselves, perform well so we can get the win," said Creamline head coach Sherwin Meneses."Let's not be pressured. It's just that, the [players] responded, because there are many [game] rallies, so it's really not just a battle, it's really endurance. So, it's good that we got the win," he added.

A mini volleyball tournament featuring four local teams will highlight the “Set Na Natin ‘To” Trophy and Mascot Tour this Saturday, August 24, at the newly-opened SM City Laoag.Competing at Dap Ayan Park are Block Builders, Laoag MVT, PSQ, and NWU, in what organizers say will be both a celebration of the sort and a showcase of Ilocos Norte’s grassroots talent.

For San Beda University and its storied basketball history, the return of Yukien Andrada marks more than just another season, it’s a chance to recapture the crown before their veteran goes out on top. Andrada, who may have professional ambitions on his horizon, has made it clear that his immediate mission is guiding the Red Lions back to the throne in NCAA Season 101.The journey last year ended in heartbreak. San Beda’s title defense was cut short in the Final Four by a formidable Benilde squad, extinguishing hopes of consecutive banners. That loss has become fuel rather than setback, and this time around the Lions intend to roar louder.Andrada isn’t alone. Returning holdovers Jomel Puno, Bismarck Lina, and Penny Estacio, along with Nygel Gonzales, form the experienced core that will support him. The roster also brings back Bryan Sajonia, RC Calimag, Joe Celzo, JC Bonzalida, and Menard Songcuya, ensuring depth and continuity even as the team moves on from James Payosing, who transferred to the UAAP’s UP program.To supplement its veteran firepower, San Beda has added Agjanti Miller and MJ Vailoces to the fold. Rounding out the squad are Ismael Culdora, Zedljay Etulle, Kyle Jamora, Jimuel Reyes, and Ron Tolentino—young talent and role players primed to rise under pressure.

The Converge FiberXers defeated the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, 103-96, in their match-up last night, January 14, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.Converge victory gave the squad the solo second spot with a 7-3 card in the team standings, just a half-game behind the lead-leading NorthPort Batang Pier (7-2), who just lost their game earlier against the Meralco Bolts, 94-111.

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.

Filipino cue artist Johann Chua was crowned king of the Hanoi Open Pool Championship 2024 after defeating Chinese Taipei's Ko Pin Yi, 13-7, in the race-to-13 finals last Sunday. It was Chua's first 9-ball world title at the Hanoi Indoor Game Gymnasium in Vietnam.Before entering the finals, Chua first defeated his compatriot Carlo Biado, 11-5 in the semifinals. At the beginning of the match between Chua and Ko, the two players were still going toe-to-toe because their easy shots in the 3-ball and 7-ball were still missing.Yi was the first to win the first rack but Chua didn't give in despite of nervy start, who didn't get a chance so he immediately took four wins in a row until he claimed the crown.His Chinese Taipei bet committed a foul on the 2-ball on rack 16 which gave the opening for Chua to once again regain the table to restore his lead.This is where Chua gained momentum and was careful with his turns and also took advantage of the opportunity to get the 19th rack, until the 20th rack, and his turns became more smooth and here he claimed the expected title after falling short in the World Pool Championship semifinals and in the Europe Open finals.Chua, a 32-year-old cue master, emotionally receives the prize of his labor amounting to $30,000 cash prize and he wants to show the Vietnamese and Filipino fans the skill and the talent of Pinoys in the field of billiards. “Sa Vietnam last night, ang dami ng tao but iba pa rin yung mag-perform ka sa sarili mong bansa and my family and friends talaga. Yun yung mga bagay na sobrang excited ako ngayon and hindi ko maantay na makapag-perform ako bukas (Reyes Cup),” said Chua.

For Manvil “Manny” Billones, ice hockey isn’t just a sport. It’s a rush, a rhythm, and a reflection of pure adrenaline. Born on November 1, 1993, Billones has carved his path from the rinks of the United States to representing the Philippines in the international arena.“I played a lot of sports, but hockey was the one that really caught my eye,” he shared. “I like the speed and how fast you can go on the ice, the flow of the game. There’s not that much stoppage. You just go out there, and how intense it is, you can hit, score, and it’s just a fun time.”Billones, who studied at West Chester University in the U.S., found hockey a sport that matched his competitive fire. Now a forward for the Philippine Men’s National Ice Hockey Team, he carries with him both skill and pride every time he dons the national jersey.“It’s an honor, really—and just pride,” he said when asked what it means to represent the country.The team, a mix of veterans and new faces, continues to evolve each season. “There’s a lot of new players, veterans and new guys. It’s a different dynamic,” he explained. “But we’re going to blend better, practice more, and it’s going to be a great time together.”As one of the team’s experienced players, Billones sets his sights on progress. “Our goal is to get promoted every year, to reach a higher level every time,” he said. “We don’t want to stay on the same level. We just want to improve every time and try to get medals in any tournament we play.”Off the ice, Billones is as laid-back as he is competitive. “I like to golf,” he admitted with a grin. “But other than hockey, I like to sleep a lot.”When asked what he wants Filipinos to appreciate about ice hockey, Billones encourages fans to look beyond the usual courts and fields. “It’s not just the main sports like basketball or volleyball,” he said. “You should go out and watch a new sport. Seeing the speed, how fun it is, and the intensity, it’s just a good time.”And for young Filipinos curious to give hockey a shot? Billones keeps it simple: “Just come to MOA and try it out. Even if it’s just public skating, you never know, you might fall in love with it like us.”From the ice rinks of West Chester to the cold confines of the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Manny Billones continues to embody the grit and passion of Filipino athletes proving that no climate can cool the fire of national pride.

The Philippine women’s national football team saw a promising lead slip away as Uzbekistan rallied late to force a 2-2 draw in their international friendly on Wednesday night at Rizal Memorial Stadium.After a ten-day training camp in Manila, the Filipinas looked sharp early, with Chandler McDaniel scoring just two minutes into the match off a brilliant setup by Meryll Serrano. Serrano later doubled the advantage in the 56th minute to give the hosts a 2-0 cushion.However, Uzbekistan’s Diyorakhon Khabibullaeva stole the spotlight, pulling one back with a long-range free kick in the 67th minute before capitalizing on a defensive miscue to equalize in the 81st.The result was a tough pill to swallow for the world No. 39 Filipinas, who are using the friendly as part of their preparations for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in December.