Filipino former champion Mark "Magnifico" Magsayo is slated to face Jorge Mata Cuéllar of Mexico in a non-title 10-round super featherweight clash on the undercard of the Pacquiao-Barrios event on July 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.The 30-year-old Magsayo, with a stunning 27 wins, 2 loss, 18 KOs), hailing from Tagbilaran, Bohol, is riding high on the momentum of three consecutive victories since moving up to the 130-pound division, as he aims to reclaim a shot at a world title.On the other hand, 24-year-old Cuéllar (21-2-2, 13 KOs) from Guadalajara, Mexico, arrives on the scene after scoring five straight wins. He is eager to topple the former Filipino champion to enhance his world ranking.Currently, Magsayo is positioned at #2 by the WBC and #3 by the WBO, while Mata holds the #9 spot in the WBO rankings, making this encounter particularly significant.A victory is vital for both fighters, promising an intense 10 rounds of action. For Magsayo, winning this bout is crucial for regaining his momentum as he eyes a future challenge for the super featherweight world title.

Gilas Pilipinas’ naturalized star Justin Brownlee will be sidelined from the team’s upcoming basketball games as he recovers from pneumonia, team officials confirmed.Brownlee, a key contributor in recent international campaigns, is currently undergoing medical treatment and observation. According to the Gilas medical team, his health remains the top priority, and he will return to action only once fully cleared by doctors.Meralco Bolts head coach Luigi Trillo noted, “We’re waiting for Justin, he is our naturalized (player) so he’s an option to play. He would be a big help if he was here.”The development comes as Gilas prepares for the next phase of training and competitions, with head coach Tim Cone emphasizing that Brownlee’s recovery takes precedence over the schedule.“Justin’s health is our main concern. We want him to get back to 100% before stepping on the court again,” said Cone.

The Philippine National Para Games will formally return at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex from November 11 to 14. Over 900 aspiring para athletes from 72 cities and provinces, as well as from five stand-alone organizations will take centerstage to compete for the top spot.The Games were last held in Malolos, Bulacan, in 2019, before being postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) and PHILSPADA president Michael Barredo on Tuesday’s forum.The eighth stage, however, will soon unfold with the assistance of the Philippine Sports Commission.“This is also the biggest opportunity for us to select players for the national Para team,” PPC secretary-general Goody Custodio told the media during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Conference Hall of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

The Rain or Shine Elasto Painters banked on their energy and aggressiveness to defeat the San Miguel Beermen, 107-93, in their PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup match-up on Tuesday night, December 10, at the Filoil EcoOil Arena in San Juan City.RoS import Deon Thompson led the charge with 18 points, four rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and two steals but was only limited to 31 minutes of playing time because of foul trouble.As Thompson was handcuffed, young guns Adrian Nocum, Felix Lemetti, Caelan Tiongson and Jhonard Clarito took charge, especially in the final canto where Rain or Shine posted a 37-21 quarter.Nocum scored 15 markers to go along with four boards, five dimes and four deflections, while Tiongson added 14 points, three rebounds and two assists.Lemetti had 12 points, three rebounds, five assists and one steal, while Clarito put up a double-double of 10 markers and 12 boards.Another E-Painter's youngster, Keith Datu provided solid numbers of 12 points, two boards and a block.

Laoag City threw its full support behind the country’s historic hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Volleyball Championship by staging the “Set Na Natin ‘To Trophy and Mascot Tour” at Laoag City over the weekend.Cignal stars Josh Umandal, JM Ronquillo, and Vince Malinao attended the festivities, which included a mini-tournament at Dap-Ayan Park. The Block Builders, led by MVP John Paul Lorenzo, claimed victory over North Western University, the Laoag men’s team, and Pasuquin.PNVF and AVC president Tats Suzara expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and acknowledged the efforts of local officials and partners in making the event possible.“We are very thankful to the City of Laoag and the Province of Ilocos Norte for the warm welcome and enthusiastic support for the world championships,” said PNVF and AVC president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.The tour, which launched at SM Seaside Cebu, will culminate at SM Downtown Cagayan de Oro.Fans enjoyed appearances by official mascots KidLat and Hataw, as well as participation from Department of Tourism officials and SM City Laoag representatives.The 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship kicks off September 12 at Mall of Asia Arena, with Alas Pilipinas debuting against Tunisia at 6 p.m. The opening ceremony will feature a performance by K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR.The tournament runs through September 28, bringing together 32 nations for one of volleyball’s biggest events.

The NLEX Road Warriors and Blackwater Bossing opened their campaigns in the 2025 Kadayawan Invitational Tournament with victories on Thursday, August 21, at the USEP Gym in Davao City.In the first game, Sedrick Barefield powered Blackwater to a 94-81 triumph over the Phoenix Fuel Masters.The 2024 second overall draft pick finished with 28 points built on six three-pointers, including three straight that stretched their 72-66 lead to a commanding 81-68 advantage.Aside from Barefield, Jed Mendoza made an impressive debut with the Bossing, scoring 16 markers, while Troy Mallillin added 17 points and six rebounds.On the other side, Jason Perkins and Kai Ballungay led Phoenix with 12 points apiece in the Fuel Masters’ first game under new head coach Willie Wilson, who took over from Jamike Jarin after he was elevated to team consultant.

Creamline maintained their perfect record, securing its fifth win at the expense of Capital1, 25-19, 25-19, 25-18, in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Tuesday, January 21, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.The Cool Smashers sustained their title as the lone undefeated team in the conference, improving their record to 5-0 in the standings.The team was dominant from beginning to end, with Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, and Alyssa Valdez leading the defending Grand Slam champions in the third set with a 7-1 run, giving them a 16-10 advantage. Creamline kept up their momentum as Lorie Bernardo and Galanza completed the match, before Patty Orendain's error sealed the victory.

The Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) is going all out in its preparations for the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships, set for November 20–24 at the Manila Marriott Grand Ballroom.The prestigious global event will gather a record-breaking number of nations and athletes, further highlighting the Philippines’ growing prominence in the gymnastics world—especially after Carlos Yulo’s historic double gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics.According to GAP, delegates will begin arriving by November 14, with some already expressing interest in staying longer to explore the country. Adding star power to the festivities, actor and GAP board member Derek Ramsay will host the opening ceremony.“We are going all out in our effort to host this huge international sporting competition featuring the world’s top junior gymnasts,” said GAP President Cynthia Carrion. “It will be a showcase of skills and talent amid a lively, festive, and warm atmosphere that only Filipinos are known for.”Carrion added that the Philippines’ track record in staging world-class sporting events convinced the Fédération Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG), led by President Morinari Watanabe, to entrust the hosting to Manila—following the federation’s Congress in Doha in 2024.With passion, hospitality, and world-class preparation, the Philippines is ready to make history once again on the global gymnastics stage.

Akari clinched a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour after defeating short-handed Petro Gazz, 32-30, 25-22, 25-19, on Tuesday, August 5, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.The Chargers regrouped from a chaotic first set, where they wasted six points, before finding their rhythm and pulling away behind a well-balanced attack and improved composure. The win not only sealed their place in the knockout round but also marked a turning point for the young team, who are steadily adapting to the system of their head coach, Tina Salak.

A 14-strong Philippine delegation is set to compete at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Canfranc, Spain, from September 23 to 28.Led by veteran captain Arnie Macarenas, the team will see action in long trail, short trail, U23, and U20 events. The squad departs for Spain on September 10 for training and acclimatization.Philippine Trail Running Association (Philtra) Vice President and Secretary-General Tin Ferrera said expectations are measured, as nearly half the team will make their international debut. “Based on training, we expect Top 20 to Top 30 finishes,” Ferrera said. Macarenas, a silver medalist at the Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships, will lead the long trail team with Larry Apolinario, Joebert Elmaguin, Elizabeth Dangadang, and Angelie Cabalo. The short trail team features Randolf Gonzales, Romnick Tongkaling, John Ray Onifa, Joy Beltran, and Noime Fernandez.In the youth divisions, Ken Olver Libo-on and Evan Dian Sitoy will compete in the mountain classic-junior (U20), while Samuel Manuel and Charlotte Muyco represent the Philippines in the mountain classic-senior (U23).Joy Beltran and Charlotte Muyco, both set for their first international competition, shared their excitement and determination ahead of the event.“I’m excited to go there because after four months of training, we know we are ready to compete,” said Beltran.“I feel nervous, but I know I can do it,” added Muyco.Muyco also hopes to inspire young athletes to try trail running, a sport she believes offers a unique experience compared to others.“I will really do my best to reach the podium and become an inspiration, especially for our youth (U23). We should encourage kids to start young and explore the outdoors, especially the mountains. Trail running is amazing and truly different from other sports—that’s why we love it.”The delegation also includes officials and support staff, with the team set to test themselves against powerhouse squads from 75 countries— including the US, France, Italy, Germany, and host Spain. Top Asian rivals include China, Japan, South Korea, and Nepal.Following a 12th-place finish last year in Austria, the Philippine team is eager to build on that performance at this year’s global showcase.

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. 

Cignal bounced back from a tough loss and clinched the first outright quarterfinal berth in Pool B, defeating ZUS Coffee, 25-22, 25-17, 21-25, 25-16, in the PVL On Tour at the City of Passi Arena on Sunday.After dropping the third set and missing out on a sweep, the HD Spikers responded with a dominant fourth set. Erika Santos led the way with a stellar 30-point performance, blending power and creativity to guide Cignal to a one-hour, 51-minute victory.Cignal seized control early in the fourth, racing to a 6-2 lead with key contributions from Ishie Lalongisip, Jackie Acuña, Heather Guino-o, and playmaker Gel Cayuna. The team also capitalized on ZUS Coffee’s errors and showcased superb floor defense, anchored by libero Buding Duremdes.Santos sealed the win with a blistering down-the-line hit for her 30th point, pushing Cignal to match point. After a brief delay by a Chinnie Arroyo hit, Cignal closed out the match by winning a floor touch challenge.The win lifted Cignal to a 4-1 record and secured their place at the top of group play, guaranteeing a spot in the quarterfinals. Despite her standout performance, Santos credited the team.“We prepared hard for this. Yesterday, we were a bit off, but this time we stayed composed and just enjoyed the game. Everyone sacrificed.” said Santos. Lalongisip and Acuña added 15 and 11 points, respectively, while Roselyn Doria-Aquino, Tin Tiamzon, and Cayuna all contributed on both ends. Cayuna also tallied 27 excellent sets, outplaying her counterpart Cloanne Mondonedo.For ZUS Coffee, Arroyo topscored with 20 points, while Chai Troncoso, Fiola Ceballos, and rookie AC Miner provided support.Cignal’s firepower was evident as they outgunned ZUS Coffee, 71-49, and controlled the net with a 9-5 edge in blocks, overcoming their 23 unforced errors. ZUS Coffee, meanwhile, committed 15 errors of their own.After falling behind 0-2, the Thunderbelles rallied in the third set, fueled by Arroyo’s attacks and a timely timeout by coach Jerry Yee. However, Cignal shut the door in the fourth, refusing to let the match extend to a fifth set.A five-day break now awaits before the action resumes in Cebu City on Saturday, July 26, with Nxled taking on PLDT and Galeries Tower facing Farm Fresh at the USJ-R Coliseum. 

The PLDT High Speed Hitters hiked its win streak to six, breaking into the top three of the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference with a masterful 25-20, 25-17, 25-19 victory over Farm Fresh at the Philsports Arena on Tuesday, February 4.Savi Davison was relentless, posting a match-high 26 points loaded with 23 kills to carry the High Speed Hitters past the Foxies to a 6-3 record.The Filipino-Canadian spiker also registered three blocks along with six excellent receptions. While Davison spearheaded PLDT’s offense, young setter Angge Alcantara orchestrated the plays and served as the catalyst with 12 excellent sets and four markers to earn Player of the Game honors.Despite the impressive outing, the High Speed Hitters should not lower their guards as head coach Rald Ricafort stressed the value of maintaining consistency as they move into the tournament's pivotal stage.

The East Asia Super League (EASL) and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) are set to launch Future Champions Philippines this September, a program aimed at young basketball enthusiasts across the country.Under the EASL Future Champions Philippines program, the initiative promotes high-quality basketball training and elite-level competition, offering young players meaningful community engagement and opportunities for success not only in national competitions but also on the international stage.This marks a significant step by SBP in focusing on youth development in Philippine basketball.The EASL Future Champions initiative consists of two main components:1. Grassroots ProgramThis will focus on talent development camps and community outreach, strengthening the foundation of basketball starting at the youngest levels.2. Elite ProgramLaunching in March 2026, this will become the premier youth performance program across Asia. Selected athletes will receive world-class coaching, international exposure, and continuous career development support.The goal of both programs is to provide a structured pathway for young Asian players to find basketball opportunities both within and beyond the ASEAN region.Through this initiative, SBP aligns itself with the EASL’s mission—a mission that is also recognized and supported by FIBA at all levels of basketball, from grassroots development to the national team.According to Henry Kerins, CEO of EASL, SBP is fully committed to developing young talent and providing them with leadership experiences that foster both personal growth and basketball skills.“SBP brings the leadership, experience, and infrastructure to make EASL Future Champions the premium youth development program in the Philippines,” said Kerins.He added that EASL leadership is proud of SBP’s initiative and willingness to collaborate for the benefit of Filipino youth.“We’re proud to be working alongside them to build something that can create real impact,” Kerins added.Meanwhile, SBP President Al Panlilio emphasized that EASL’s vision for Filipino youth aligns closely with SBP’s goals for nurturing the next generation of basketball players.“EASL’s vision matches our commitment to the next generation. We’re excited to help shape the future of grassroots basketball together,” said Panlilio.Currently, the Philippines is the first country in the region to be part of the EASL Future Champions initiative. Macau and Hong Kong are set to follow, as EASL continues its efforts to raise the level of youth basketball across Asia.

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel secured a 2-1 lead in the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semifinals against the San Miguel Beermen with a 100-90 win on Sunday, June 29, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.RJ Abarrientos stepped up big, delivering an almost triple-double performance of 24 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists to lead the Gin Kings in regaining the upper hand.Jamie Malonzo and Japeth Aguilar followed through with 20 and 18 markers, respectively. Malonzo also contributed four rebounds and two assists, while Aguilar had seven boards, two dimes, three steals, and two blocks.Scottie Thompson and Stephen Holt also scored in double figures to help Ginebra clinch the Game 3 win. Thompson finished with 16 points, seven rebounds, five assists, two steals, and a block, while Holt had 10 markers, seven boards, and one deflection.

Terrafirma Dyip prioritized size in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, selecting 6-foot-9 center Geo Chiu as the No. 1 overall pick. Chiu joins a list of former top picks for Dyip, though many before him have moved on from the team. Whether he can break the trend and become the franchise anchor remains to be seen.The 24-year-old rookie said this after he unsurprisingly emerged the first overall pick of the PBA Rookie Draft held on Sunday. “In going pro, you’re up against veterans, seasoned veterans. There is a lot to learn with my new team right now,” said Chiu.Chiu’s college and pro track record shows he has something to prove, having never averaged double-digit points. But he still could not suit up immediately for Terrafirma as he is yet to finish his stint with the Abra Weavers in another league—and it will last until December, depending on their campaign.Chiu also said that he'd still be with his MPBL team."Opo, yes. Mga December po siguro. I think... if ever we reach the finals, then baka mga December po siya," he added. Still, head coach Ronald Tubid is expected to give him every opportunity to develop as the Dyip rebuilds with a roster that includes nine more rookies.Veteran departures have forced a reset, with only a handful of holdovers left. NorthPort Batang Pier also loaded up in the draft, selecting 11 players and making key offseason trades. Of 122 applicants, 78 were drafted, but only about 20 rookies are expected to stick with final lineups.All eyes are now on Chiu as he aims to carve out a lasting role and help turn Terrafirma’s fortunes around.

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala continued her dream run at the Miami Open, pulling off a stunning 6-2, 7-5 victory over World No. 2 and five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek on Wednesday, March 26 (Thursday, March 27, Manila time).The 19-year-old wildcard entry displayed poise and resilience, adding Swiatek to her growing list of high-profile upsets, which already includes 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko and reigning Australian champion Madison Keys.

It will be the best two words in sports for the San Miguel Beermen and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel series, while TNT Tropang 5G kept their grand slam hopes alive after dismantling the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in six games on Sunday, July 6, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.Jordan Heading exploded for 29 points, to go along with three rebounds, four assists, and two steals to lead TNT in securing the pivotal win that put them back in the PBA Finals for the third straight conference this season and gave them a chance to claim the first-ever grand slam in franchise history.Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser added 17 markers, five boards, two dimes, and three rejections to help the Tropang 5G clinch the ticket to the championship round.Three more TNT players poured in double digits in the team’s victory. Glenn Khobuntin finished with a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Kim Aurin and Calvin Oftana ended with 13 and 12, respectively."All we wanted was to give ourselves a chance. Our objective after a 0-3 start was just to get to the playoffs. We were not even thinking of getting a twice-to-beat advantage getting to the playoffs, and we figured whoever it is we need to beat—and if we need to beat them twice—then so be it," said TNT head coach Chot Reyes of their PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup journey."Number two, we came together... and that's what happened. Everyone chipped in, stepped up. Unfortunately, we got all those injuries, but it is what it is. But as you saw today, these guys—they don't know the meaning of quit," he added.

NLEX Road Warriors will try to tie the series of their best-of-five quarter final series of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup against the TNT Tropang Giga this Friday night, September 27, at the Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex in Laguna.Coach Jong Uichico said that adjustments will be the key on who’s going to win the game and even in the series.

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.