When you talk about pioneers and pure scorers in Philippine basketball, one name always comes up—Fortunato "Atoy" Co, also known as "The Fortune Cookie."The nickname, a play on his first name “Fortunato,” was popularized by PBA commentators and fans not just because it sounded catchy—but because he delivered results, night in and night out, like a sweet fortune waiting to happen. When Crispa needed a bucket, Co was the guy who cracked the code.Born on October 15, 1951, in Pasig City, Atoy Co was already making noise before the PBA even existed. But it was in 1975, during the PBA’s inaugural season, that he formally entered the pro scene as part of the Crispa Redmanizers. And he didn’t disappoint. On April 22, in his first-ever pro game, Co dropped 34 points, leading Crispa to its first franchise win after starting 0-3.He would go on to become a vital part of Crispa’s dynasty, playing from 1975 to 1984 and helping steer the team to two Grand Slams. In 1976, he was honored with the All-Filipino Sports Award for Basketball, further cementing his place among the league’s elite.When Crispa disbanded, Co played briefly for Manila Beer (1985) and later joined Great Taste/Presto Ice Cream in 1987 and 1988, before calling it a career.Across 13 PBA seasons, Atoy Co racked up 15 championships, one MVP award (1979), and a scoring title in the same year. He was a 9-time Mythical First Team member, known for his smooth jumpers, crowd-pleasing style, and unshakable confidence on the floor.

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.

Lee Vann Corteza is a Filipino professional pool player. Nicknamed "The Slayer," he began playing pool in 1993. He is the oldest of five brothers, and his parents named him after American actor Lee Van Cleef.Corteza first took up pool at the age of thirteen, after a friend brought him to a pool parlor. He was subsequently blacklisted from the establishment after accidentally damaging a table.He has won four gold medals and one silver medal at the Southeast Asian Games and was the winner of the 2004 WPA Asian Nine-ball Tour tournament in the Philippines, defeating fellow countryman Francisco "Django" Bustamante, 13–11, in the final.On March 31, 2007, Corteza won the Philippine National Championship by defeating Marlon Manalo with a score of 13–11.In 2009, Corteza finished as runner-up in the WPA World Ten-ball Championship, losing to Mika Immonen of Finland, 11–6, in Quezon City, Philippines.In 2010, Corteza beat Taiwanese player Lo Li-Wen, 13–12, in the final to win the U.S. Open Ten-ball Championship in Las Vegas. He avenged an earlier loss to Lo, who had sent him to the one-loss side with a 9–6 victory. Corteza then defeated Shane Van Boening, 9–8, to earn another shot at Lo and ultimately captured the title along with $20,000 in prize money.

Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, the first and only eight-division world champion in the sport’s illustrious history, is set to make a historic return to the ring. At 46 years old, the Filipino legend will face off against current WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19 at the prestigious MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.This comeback is nothing short of monumental—should Pacquiao claim victory over Barrios, he will shatter records by becoming the oldest welterweight world champion, surpassing the milestone he previously set at age 40. Yet standing in his path is a formidable opponent: Barrios, nearly two decades Pacquiao’s junior, brings youthful energy, relentless activity, and significant momentum—a combination that could redefine both fighters’ legacies.As the fight approaches, Pacquiao appears to be in peak condition. In a rare and powerful move, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman recently announced early results from Pacquiao’s anti-doping test, confirming that the former champion tested negative for banned substances under the rigorous WBC Clean Boxing Program.This early release of test results is significant—it underscores Pacquiao’s commitment to integrity in a sport often marred by controversy. Typically, results from the Clean Boxing Program—coordinated by the WBC and the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA)—remain confidential until after the fight. Such disclosures usually follow final testing, which VADA releases post-bout.Sulaiman also highlighted a notable surge in testing activity, with intensified scrutiny worldwide. Fighters enrolled in the Clean Boxing Program undergo random drug testing year-round, face increased monitoring in the 6–12 weeks leading up to a fight, and may be tested in the final 30 days and even on fight day.At this time, there are no public updates regarding Barrios’ test results. It’s worth noting that due to his retirement, Pacquiao had not been included in the program’s ongoing testing pool—making his clean return all the more remarkable.With this proactive announcement of test results, the WBC sends a powerful message: Manny Pacquiao is not only clean, but also primed and prepared to silence doubts about his age, hiatus, or ability to compete at the elite level once again. Boxing fans can anticipate an electrifying showdown that could stand as a testament to enduring greatness.

The NLEX Road Warriors kept their hopes of making the playoffs alive after defeating the Phoenix Fuel Masters last night, January 19, at the Ynares Center, Antipolo City, 108-94.Their previous match against TNT Tropang Giga served as inspiration for the Road Warriors to regain their victory in the ongoing PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup.NLEX head coach Jong Uichico also couldn’t help but be happy and praise his local players for their contributions to achieving their victory.“Everybody had their mindset to contribute in today’s game. Alam nila gaano ka-importante yung laro ngayon. Everybody had the mindset and the will na maka-contribute maski papaano sa larong ito. Then malaking bagay [sila]. Tony was great, he was able to come back and was a big help to us. Kay Herndon naman, nabigyan ko ng minuto. Kaya nanalo, maganda yung contribution ng lahat. Hindi naman namin kontrolado yung result, pero yung tsansa manalo today, binigyan nila yung sarili nila ng tsansa,” said coach Uichico. Uichico was also satisfied with Jonnel Policarpio's performance, which helped Robert Bolick win the match. According to the former La Salle Green Archer, he just did his best and gave his all in the opportunity given by his coach.“Binigay ko lang yung best ko sa opportunities na binigay sa akin ni coach. Hindi ko lang sinayang. Talagang sinunod ko lang yung game plan namin nila coach kanina,” said  the former La Salle Green Archer player. Robert Bollick led NLEX in the win with 26 points, nine rebounds and one steal, while Jonnel Policarpio had 17 points, nine rebounds and one steal. Tony Semerad had 15 points, while Rob Herndon scored 11 points.NLEX must overcome the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters and Hong Kong Eastern, and they now have the cards to make the most of the remaining opportunities they need to make sure of a place in the playoffs.The Scores:NLEX 108 – Bolick 26, Watkins 22, Policarpio 17, Herndon 15, Semerad 11, Torres 9, Ramirez 5, Nieto 3, Mocon 0.PHOENIX 94 – Smith 36, Rivero 13, Muyang 8, Perkins 8, Tio 7, Tuffin 6, Jazul 5, Alejandro 3, Ballungay 2, Manganti 1, Salado 0, Ular 0, Verano 0, Camacho 0.Quarter Scores: 25-17, 45-48, 86-73, 108-94.

Hong Kong Eastern walloped Phoenix to notch its debut win, 102-87, in the Philippine Basketball Association, or PBA, Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Wednesday, November 27.HK Eastern showed no jitters right from the start and just took care of business the rest of the way for a 1-0 start, while the Fuel Masters fell to a 0-1 card. Familiar faces led the charge for the Hong Kong team with ex-PBA import Cameron Clark and former Bay Area player Hayden Blankley starring on both ends. Clark, who has played for San Miguel and NLEX in the past, recorded a double-double with 25 points, 11 rebounds, two steals, and two blocks.Blankley poured in 18 markers, dishing out five dimes and three rejections after making his PBA comeback nearly two years after the Dragons lost to Ginebra in the 2022-23 PBA Commissioner's Cup finals.

Italy cemented its volleyball dynasty after overpowering Bulgaria, 25-21, 25-17, 17-25, 25-10, to capture back-to-back FIVB Men’s World Championship titles before a record crowd of 16,429 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.Yuri Romano spearheaded the win, delivering a masterclass in the gold medal showdown with 22 points built on 16 powerful attacks, one block, and five consecutive service aces that broke the game wide open late in the second set. Mattia Bottolo and Alessandro Michieletto complimented Romano's brilliance, providing steady power with 13 and 11 points, respectively.

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 Philippine women's national football team will play an intersquad exhibition game at the Mall of Asia Football Field on February 25 as part of their nine-day training camp in Manila.The Filipinas' home training camp kicks off a busy 2025 as they get ready for three important competitions.The exhibition game featuring the national team will take place at the recently finished MOA Football Field, giving Filipino supporters a unique chance to watch the team at home.

Another Filipino boxing star is set to shine on the global stage, as former world champion Mark "Magnifico" Magsayo returns to action on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Mario Barrios fight card next month at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.Magsayo will take on Mexican fighter Jorge Mata Cuellar in a 10-round bout for the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Featherweight Title, under the banner of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC).It was earlier announced that former Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Eumir Marcial will also fight on the Pacquiao-Barrios undercard, squaring off against American Alexis Gaytan in an eight-round non-title middleweight bout. The inclusion of Magsayo was later confirmed by MP Promotions, further strengthening the Filipino presence at this high-profile event."It’s a great opportunity to fight for the second time as part of the undercard for my childhood hero, Manny Pacquiao—who is the main reason I started boxing. Just like the first time I fought on his card when I was in the featherweight division, this is another stepping stone toward my second-division world title bid at super featherweight. I'm grateful for the opportunity from big brother Manny," Magsayo said.This won’t be the first time Magsayo shares the stage with Pacquiao. He previously appeared as an undercard fighter during Pacquiao’s final U.S. bout against Yordenis Ugas in 2021, where he delivered a dramatic 10th-round knockout of Mexican Julio Ceja.That performance catapulted Magsayo into a world title opportunity, which he seized by defeating Gary Russell Jr. on January 22, 2022, in Atlantic City to become the WBC Featherweight World Champion.Now riding a three-fight win streak, Magsayo looks to continue his resurgence. His most recent victory came on December 14, 2024, when he scored a dominant second-round knockout over Ecuadorian Bryan Mercado in Long Beach, California. Magsayo currently holds an impressive record of 27 wins, 2 losses, with 18 knockouts.Standing in his way is the hungry and talented 24-year-old Cuellar, who brings a solid 21-2-2 record with 13 KOs. With both fighters eyeing a shot at greater glory, fans can expect fireworks when they step into the ring.Meanwhile, MP Promotions President Sean Gibbons thanked Manny Pacquiao for putting Magsayo on this historic card, where the boxing icon attempts to become the oldest welterweight champion in history. Gibbons expressed confidence in Magsayo's chances against Cuellar and hopes he will emerge as the next contender for a WBC world title."I want to thank Manny [Pacquiao] and Al Haymon for putting Mark on this historic night of boxing, when Pacquiao attempts to become the oldest welterweight champion. A win over Jorge Mata will put Mark next in line for a WBC world title shot," Gibbons said.

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.

Stephanie Bustrillo transitioned from a standout player at the University of the Philippines to a promising rookie with Akari in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference. Drafted as the sixth overall pick in the inaugural PVL Rookie Draft, Bustrillo wasted no time making an impact in her professional debut.Known for her scoring ability and unshakable determination, Bustrillo was determined to bring more than just volleyball skills to Akari’s lineup. Drawing from her experiences at UP, she was ready to apply the lessons learned both on and off the court.Joining a revamped Akari roster with players like Ivy Lacsina, Kamille Cal, and Dani Ravena, Bustrillo embraced the challenge of filling the void left by Faith Nisperos and Fifi Sharma, who were away with Alas Pilipinas.

ZUS Coffee delivered a shocking sweep of Petro Gazz, 25-21, 25-23, 27-25, in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference quarterfinals on Tuesday night, March 18, at the PhilSports Arena. The victory not only snapped the Angels’ 10-game winning streak but also pushed the Thunderbelles to the verge of their first-ever semifinal appearance. In one of their most balanced performances yet, five players scored in double digits, proving their depth and teamwork against an established PVL contender.Setter Cloanne Mondoñedo orchestrated the offense brilliantly with 19 excellent sets, while Chai Troncoso led all scorers with 14 markers. Thea Gagate and Jovelyn Gonzaga tallied 11 apiece, while Mich Gamit and Chinnie Arroyo contributed 10 each in a well-rounded attack.The Thunderbelles also dominated at the net, recording 11 blocks compared to Petro Gazz’s five. Troncoso anchored the defense with five kill blocks, while Gagate added three.

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.

The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles carved history in Davao, clinching their first-ever franchise championship after outlasting the powerhouse De La Salle University Lady Spikers, 25-17, 25-19, 23-25, 25-23, in the finals of the 2025 Davao Invitational Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, September 7, at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium and Cultural Center.Led by Guimaras native Jovelyn Gonzaga, the Thunderbelles capped an unbeaten four-game campaign, dropping just one set throughout the week-long tilt. Gonzaga, who made her much-anticipated return after sitting out the PVL Invitational, shone brightest as she claimed both the Most Valuable Player and Best Opposite Hitter awards.ZUS Coffee’s depth also came to the fore as team captain Cloanne Mondoñedo earned the Best Setter citation, Chinnie Arroyo was named Best Outside Hitter, and promising rookie Mycah Go took home the Best Server award.

Don’t miss the chance to witness history in the making as Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial returns to the ring on the undercard of the blockbuster Manny Pacquiao-Mario Barrios bout this Sunday, July 20, 2025 (Manila time) in Las Vegas.Marcial, one of the Philippines’ brightest boxing stars, was originally set to face Mexico’s Alexis Gaytan in an eight-round middleweight showdown. But with Gaytan sidelined by an injury, Marcial will now take on the formidable American, Bernard Joseph—a fresh challenge that promises even more excitement.This isn’t just another bout for Marcial. It’s a pivotal moment in his journey from Olympic hero to professional contender, and all eyes will be on him as he steps into the global spotlight once again. With his relentless drive and world-class skills, Marcial is determined to prove he’s a force in the pro ranks.As the world tunes in to celebrate Manny Pacquiao’s legendary comeback, make sure you’re there to cheer for the next generation of Filipino boxing greatness. Eumir Marcial’s fight is a must-watch—don’t miss this electrifying night of action. Team Pacquiao and Marcial are already heading to Las Vegas in great condition following intense strength and conditioning programs and heavy sparring sessions, along with the heavy pain and trials they endured after a disappointing result in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

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.

On Sunday, May 4, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo City, Rizal, the TNT Tropang 5G finally found their groove after dropping their first three outings, while the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots continued to dominate the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup, capturing their fifth straight victory.TNT’s 89-84 upset over the San Miguel Beermen was less about precision and more about pride.“We're a different team now,” admitted TNT head coach Chot Reyes, acknowledging the absence of Rondae Hollis-Jefferson—due to the All-Filipino format—and team leader Jayson Castro, who remains out with an injury. “We said, ‘Let’s write our own story.’ This win is just the first chapter.”Calvin Oftana led the charge with 23 points and a career-high 21 rebounds, delivering both the numbers and the intangibles.

The controversial result of the super-featherweight title clash between Filipino boxing star Charly Suarez and Mexican champion Emanuel Navarrete on May 11, 2025, is set to be overturned following a thorough review by the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC).The CSAC is expected to change the official outcome of the fight to a no-contest — a decision that could pave the way for a high-stakes rematch.Navarrete originally retained his WBO super-featherweight title via an eighth-round technical decision. The bout was halted due to a cut above Navarrete’s left eyebrow, which referee Edward Collantes ruled was caused by an unintentional headbutt. This led to the judges' scorecards being used, resulting in a win for Navarrete.However, after conducting an extensive post-fight review, the CSAC determined that the cut was actually caused by a legal punch from Suarez in Round 6 — not a clash of heads, as initially ruled. Video replays supported this finding, contradicting the original call.Had this been correctly identified during the bout, Suarez would have won the title by technical knockout (TKO), as the injury would have forced a stoppage.While replay official Jack Reiss maintained there was "no conclusive evidence" to reverse the referee’s decision at the time, the CSAC’s subsequent investigation provided clarity. As a result, the fight’s outcome is now poised to be amended to a no-contest.The WBO is expected to mandate a rematch — a move welcomed by both camps. In fact, Top Rank Vice President of Operations Carl Moretti voiced his support for a rematch immediately following the fight.If the ruling is officially changed to a no-contest, it would not only revive Charly Suarez’s shot at the world title but also set the stage for what could become one of the most compelling rivalries in boxing this year.