The Alas Pilipinas girls’ under-16 squad has soared to world No. 25 in the latest FIVB Girls’ U17 rankings after clinching a berth in next year’s world championship in Santiago, Chile.The young nationals made a remarkable leap of 17 spots, from world No. 42, after finishing fifth in the 2nd Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Asian Women’s U16 Volleyball Championship in Amman, Jordan. Even more impressive, the program began at world No. 57, making their rise one of the most significant in Philippine youth volleyball history.“Awesome leap from 57 to 25! We didn’t realize that our small wins in the Asian Qualifying were that instrumental in raising our country’s standing to a higher rank,” said head coach Edwin Leyva. “It just shows that the level of play here in the Philippines has improved and is slowly catching up with our top Asian counterparts.”Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara hailed the feat as “big,” emphasizing how the federation’s grassroots program, strengthened over the past four years, continues to bear fruit.“We are now reaping the fruits of the grassroots program that the PNVF has started four years ago,” Suzara said.Since its establishment in post-pandemic 2021, the PNVF has steered Philippine volleyball to significant growth: breakthroughs by Alas Pilipinas Men and Women at the Asian and world levels, the country hosting world-level events, and Suzara’s rise to AVC president and FIVB executive vice president.With their new ranking, the U16 team is now the highest-ranked Philippine volleyball squad worldwide, surpassing the Alas Women (46th) and Alas Men (80th).Leyva, however, was quick to remind the team that the journey continues.“Being in the top 25 is already a milestone. Why stop dreaming? Let’s train hard, play harder!” he said. “We have the momentum and we are highly motivated. First, win a set or two, then work up from there. It’s up to us to keep the fire burning.”The Philippine U16 team secured 14 ranking points after a gutsy 25-23, 25-20, 19-25, 25-22 victory over Thailand—clinching the final Asian ticket to the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Girls’ U17 World Championship.China qualified automatically as defending world champion, while Asian representatives also include newly crowned AVC U16 champion South Korea, silver medalist Chinese Taipei, and fourth-placer Japan. Against all odds, the Philippines now stands proudly among Asia’s elite.The world championship in Santiago is set for August 5 to 16.

The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has become the latest major sports body to update its policy on transgender athlete participation, joining several other organizations that have clarified or altered their rules this year. Here’s a summary of the most prominent changes:US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC)The USOPC now effectively bars transgender women from competing in women’s sports, citing an obligation to comply with President Donald Trump’s executive order. The USOPC oversees around 50 national governing bodies, potentially prompting rule changes at local club levels to maintain membership.International Cycling UnionEarlier this month, cycling’s global governing body banned transgender women who transitioned after male puberty from women’s races. This came after American rider Austin Killips became the first openly transgender woman to win an official cycling event in May.University of PennsylvaniaThe university modified three women’s swimming records previously held by transgender swimmer Lia Thomas, settling a federal civil rights investigation and restoring records to female athletes. Thomas, who won an NCAA title in 2022, was at the center of the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict transgender participation in women’s sports.World AquaticsSwimming’s governing body announced a policy in June allowing only transgender athletes who transitioned before age 12 to compete in women’s events. They are also exploring an “open competition” category for the future.World Boxing OrganizationIn May, World Boxing mandated sex testing for all athletes in sanctioned events, referencing scrutiny around Olympic champion Imane Khelif and other elite boxers whose eligibility had been questioned.British SportsFollowing a UK Supreme Court ruling in April, the governing bodies for soccer in England and Scotland banned transgender women from women’s teams, while the England and Wales Cricket Board imposed a similar ban.World Athletics CouncilIn March, track and field’s governing body barred transgender women who underwent male puberty from international competition. New regulations on athletes with differences in sex development, such as Caster Semenya, now require six months of hormone suppression before eligibility.US National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)The NCAA announced in February that women’s sports would be limited to athletes assigned female at birth, enforcing the rule immediately after Trump’s executive order. The NCAA governs over 1,100 schools and 500,000 athletes.High School SportsNebraska became the latest state in June to ban transgender girls from girls’ sports, joining at least 24 other states with similar policies. The federal government and several states have clashed over such participation rules.These policy changes reflect a global trend toward more restrictive eligibility standards for transgender athletes, often citing fairness and safety in women’s sports.

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.

In his inaugural event as chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, Patrick “Pato” Gregorio made a heartfelt commitment to give his all, with one clear objective: to secure more gold medals for the nation."There’s no dead end when it comes to dreams. And our dream is to win more gold and serve the 110 million Filipinos,” said Gregorio in Filipino.The forum marked Gregorio's first appearance following the official turnover of the PSC flag from outgoing chairman Richard Bachmann, who had led the agency since December 2022. His official appointment was confirmed just the previous day by Malacañang.“Am I excited? Yes. Am I happy? Yes. It’s very difficult to say no to the Republic of the Philippines. This role we’re about to take on for Philippine sports and for the people is not going to be easy,” he added.With extensive experience in aiding various sports such as basketball, boxing, and rowing, he expressed confidence that with the collaborative support of major stakeholders, achieving these goals is entirely possible.“I feel grateful and privileged for the chance to rise to the occasion. I am your lucky 13th chairman of the PSC. Don’t expect anything less.”Gregorio emphasized that under his leadership, the PSC aims to empower and inspire national athletes, establish solid connections between sports and economic growth, and promote a healthy populace.He expressed a desire for the country to build on the remarkable achievements of its athletes on the international stage, referencing the three gold medals won in the last two Olympics—one by weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz and two by gymnast Carlos Yulo.Additionally, he stressed the importance of giving non-Olympic sports equal attention and support from government funding."There often seems to be a tug-of-war between Olympic and non-Olympic sports, but both are equally significant,” Gregorio asserted, suggesting establishing a foundation to support Philippine sports comprehensively. “This foundation would ensure continuous funding, not just when victories are achieved. It would allow all private sector supporters who wish to help to come together,” he explained, noting his intention to engage with National Sports Associations (NSAs) and athletes in the near future.“In the next two years, I promise to give my all. That's what I conveyed to the PSC employees. But I can’t do it alone. If we perform well, the entire nation will celebrate our success.” When asked about the relationship between the PSC and the Philippine Olympic Committee, Gregorio’s response was succinct and decisive. “Automatic. Matic ‘yan,” he affirmed, underscoring the inherent synergy between the two organizations. 

Filipino combat sports standout Chino Sy Tancontian continues to make waves on the international stage after clinching the silver medal in the men’s -100kg division of the Oceania Judo Open held last weekend in Gold Coast, Australia.The Davaoeño International Olympic Committee (IOC) Solidarity scholar also achieved a new career milestone, leaping to No. 74 in the world judo rankings following his stellar performance.Tancontian powered through a tough field, defeating Indonesia’s Gene Kalbu Soethama via ippon, American Tokuzo Takahashi with two yuko, and Australian Jack Rigby in the semifinals to earn a spot in the title match. In the final, he opened strong with a quick waza-ari, but Great Britain’s Oliver Barratt mounted a rally midway through the bout and secured the gold with an ippon finish.Despite falling short of the top podium, the multi-medaled Sambo and judo athlete once again proved his consistency and competitive edge, adding another accolade to his growing list of international honors.With the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand fast approaching, Tancontian will undergo a month-long intensive training camp in Japan, honing his skills under elite coaches to prepare for the regional battle.“This silver medal is another step forward. The goal remains the same—to keep improving and bring pride to the country,” Tancontian said.

Barangay Ginebra bounced back in Game 2 of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup Finals, finishing with a hard-fought 71-70 victory over TNT Tropang Giga on Sunday, March 16, at the Mall of Asia Arena and now tying the series 1-1.Justin Brownlee carried the offensive load for Ginebra, finishing with 35 points and 11 rebounds in another stellar performance. Scottie Thompson added 16 markers, 12 boards, and a game-high seven dimes while coming up with a crucial defensive stop in the crucial moments of the game.Japeth Aguilar contributed eight points and eight rebounds, while Stephen Holt made his presence felt on both ends, especially on guarding TNT’s import Rondae Hollis-Jefferson all night.Holt held his ground and teamed up with Thompson for the game-sealing defensive stand. He also added seven points, four rebounds, and two steals.Rondae Hollis-Jefferson led the charge for TNT, posting 25 points, 15 rebounds, two assists, one steal, and two blocks. Despite his dominant play, he was neutralized in the final two possessions, allowing Ginebra to escape with the win.Rey Nambatac and RR Pogoy were the only other Tropang Giga players to score in double figures. Nambatac chipped in 14 points, three rebounds, and five assists, while Pogoy provided 11 points, including a clutch three-pointer at the 3:40 mark that gave TNT its first lead of the game.Ginebra controlled most of the contest, but Pogoy’s late triple with 3:40 left in the game, briefly put TNT ahead, setting up a tense finish. However, Brownlee and the Gin Kings responded with timely buckets and defensive stops, holding on to win in front of over 12,000 fans.A key factor in Ginebra’s victory was their perimeter defense. After allowing TNT to shoot 14-of-37 from deep in Game 1, the Gin Kings tightened up in Game 2, limiting Tropang Giga to just 6-of-31 from beyond the arc.With the series now tied, both teams will look to make adjustments to get one game ahead as they battle in the pivotal Game 3.

Filipino warriors stood tall in an electrifying night of boxing at the Thrilla in Manila II card, as Marlon Tapales, Melvin Jerusalem, Eumir Marcial, and Carl Jammes Martin each delivered spectacular victories before a roaring home crowd at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.Tapales Ends Venezuelan’s Dream Run Venezuela’s Fernando Toro came charging for glory against former world champion Marlon “The Nightmare” Tapales, but the Filipino veteran unleashed his fury to score a sixth-round stoppage in their super bantamweight clash. Tapales improved to 25-4 (22 KOs).Jerusalem Retains WBC Crown Reigning WBC minimumweight champion Melvin Jerusalem successfully defended his title for the third time, outpointing South Africa’s Siyakholwa Kuse via unanimous decision. Scores read 115-113, 116-112, 116-112 — all for the Filipino, who now boasts a 25-3 (12 KOs) record.Marcial Survives Two Knockdowns, Captures WBC International Title Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial proved his heart and grit, surviving two knockdowns to defeat Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares via majority decision in their WBC International middleweight title bout. Scores were 94-94, 95-93, 95-93, with Marcial improving to 7-0.Martin Stays Unbeaten with Comeback Win Unbeaten prospect Carl Jammes Martin showed championship resilience, recovering from a third-round knockdown to dominate Thailand’s Aran Dipaen and score a unanimous decision victory, capturing the WBO International super bantamweight title and keeping his 27-0 (24 KOs) record intact.From Tapales’ vintage power to Marcial’s iron will, the Thrilla in Manila II proved that Filipino boxing remains alive, dangerous, and ready to conquer the world once again.

The Hiroshima Dragonflies became the second team to qualify in the East Asia Super League's Final Four after defeating the winless San Miguel Beermen, 94-63, at the Hiroshima Sun Plaza on Wednesday night, January 8.Hiroshima joined their B.League rivals, Ryuku Golden Kings, as the only teams assured of a playoff spot.The win of the Dragonflies also put the Beermen out of contention in the next round.Kerry Blackshear Jr. was instrumental to the win as he delivered 12 points, 15 boards, nine assists, and three steals to lead Hiroshima's cause.Nick Mayo led the Japanese team in scoring with his 18 points. He also added eight rebounds and two assists to his output, while Keijiro Mitani also put up 18 markers with three steals.On the other hand, SMB import Torren Jones led the team with 24 points and 13 rebounds, while June Mar Fajardo added 12 markers and nine boards.

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.

Undefeated Filipino lightweight MMA fighter Ian Paul “Choco” Lora (3-0) will make his international debut at BRAVE CF 98 in Zhengzhou, China, on September 19. The 20-year-old from Daraga, Albay, faces India’s Owais Yaqoob (3-1) in a three-round undercard bout.Lora, representing Lion’s Den MMA Academy, has impressed on the local MMA scene with one knockout and one submission win. He drew attention with a nine-second KO in May and now aims to make an impact on the global stage. Yaqoob enters with a three-fight win streak, also making his BRAVE CF debut.Lora is the second Filipino signed to BRAVE CF this year, following Drex Zamboanga. The event is headlined by a featherweight interim title bout between Ukraine’s Omar Solomanov and Kazakhstan’s Rauan Bekbolat.

Rain or Shine came back strong from a tough Game 1 loss to win the next two and book a ticket to the semifinals for the third straight conference after dismantling Converge in Game 3 of their quarterfinals match-up of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup, 112-103, on Sunday night, February 9, at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.The Elasto Painters reinforcement Deon Thompson made up for his early exit in their first QF encounter when he fouled out of the game just as early as the third quarter.Last night, Thompson showed his might finishing with 34 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists. He was supported by Adrian Nocum who fired 25 markers. These two were also the reason why they won Game 2, when they combined for a total of 55.RoS head coach Yeng Guiao said they were happy with the victory and their hard work paid off."We're very happy. The past two conferences we made the semifinals so it would be a pity if we did not make the semifinals this conference," Guiao shared."It's also a validation of all the hard work the guys put in, the togetherness and the camaraderie that they have," he added.

The World Games 2025 in Chengdu is underway, with Filipino athletes leaving it all on the field, striving not just for personal glory but also to bring pride and recognition to the Philippines in theirAs of August 14, Team Philippines has secured a total of three medals—two silvers and one bronze.

The Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots survived the grit of the Terrafirma Dyip to carve out an 89-84 victory in their battle last night, January 10, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.Magnolia improved their record to 3-5 and still held on to their chance of making it to the playoffs of the PBA Season 49 Commissioner's Cup.The win also gave the Hotshots their 20th straight triumph against the Terrafirma, which fell down to 0-9 in the conference and officially put them out of contention in the next round.

In a dramatic and unforgettable finish, Carlo Baltonado delivered a golden moment for the Philippines at the 47th Southeast Asian Shooting Association (SEASA) Championship held in Photharam, Thailand.Baltonado showcased nerves of steel in a tense 25-target shoot-off, narrowly edging his opponent by just one clay to secure the individual gold medal. His victory not only highlighted his remarkable precision and composure under pressure but also marked a proud milestone for Philippine shooting sports on the regional stage.Teaming up with Cong. Richard Gomez, Jakey Ancheta, and Jed Rivilla, Baltonado also helped steer the Philippine Sporting Clays Team to a silver medal finish in the team category — a testament to the squad’s growing presence and consistency in international competition.Guiding the team throughout the tournament was Olympic Skeet Bronze Medalist Anthony Terras, whose leadership and technical expertise played a key role in refining the group’s performance. Under his mentorship, the national team continues to build on its momentum and reaffirm its standing among Southeast Asia’s best.The triumph in Thailand stands as another shining chapter in the Philippines’ shooting history — a victory defined by precision, discipline, and heart.

Despite a stellar debut from Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, the Meralco Bolts faltered late and suffered an 81–72 road loss to the Ryukyu Golden Kings in their East Asia Super League opener on Wednesday, October 22, in Okinawa, Japan.The former NBA standout and three-time PBA Best Import powered the Bolts with 25 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocks, showing flashes of brilliance even without key teammates Justin Brownlee and Sina Vahedi.Hollis-Jefferson found solid support from Ismael Romero, who posted a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Chris Newsome and CJ Cansino added 12 and 11 points, respectively.Meralco mounted a late rally, cutting the deficit to two, 72–74, on a Newsome three-pointer, but Ryukyu answered with a decisive 7-0 closing run behind Ryo Sadohara and Ryuichi Kishimoto. Sadohara drilled a clutch triple to seal the win, while Kishimoto led the Golden Kings with 22 points, 8 assists, and 4 steals.The Bolts missed the dynamic presence of Brownlee, who starred for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2023 Asian Games, and Vahedi, an All-Tournament Team member from the FIBA Asia Cup.Now 0–1 in Group B, Meralco aims to regroup as it heads to Taiwan to face Taoyuan on November 2, determined to translate Hollis-Jefferson’s strong performance into their first EASL victory.

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. 

Shaina Nitura unleashed a record game debut to lead Adamson to a thrilling reverse sweep over Ateneo de Manila University, 21-25, 20-25, 25-12, 25-15, 15-12, in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, February 16, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.The homegrown Adamson product reset the UAAP scoring record for a rookie in her debut game as she unloaded 33 points anchored on 28 attacks, four blocks, and one ace, while also grabbing five digs and seven receptions. Despite Nitura surpassing the record previously set by University of Santo Tomas’s Angge Poyos, who fired 31 markers last season, she downplayed the achievement. 

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio has been appointed to head the newly created National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC) established by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. under Administrative Order No. 38, signed on October 29, 2025.Gregorio will serve as chairman of the committee, with the Department of Tourism (DOT) as vice-chair, and representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) as members.The NST-IAC aims to promote and develop sports tourism across the Philippines — integrating sports and tourism as twin engines for economic growth, youth development, and national pride.“This initiative recognizes how sports can inspire communities, drive regional progress, and showcase Filipino excellence on the global stage,” said Gregorio.

Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara has parted ways with the Angels.In an exclusive message to Scoreline.ph, the 60-year-old coach confirmed his decision, stating: “As you may have heard, I’ve decided to leave the team. I’ll go to a country that needs me. See you soon.”Tsuzurabara added that his agent is actively searching for his next team but assured fans that he’s open to returning: “If a PVL team needs me, I’ll come back to the Philippines.”His departure means Tsuzurabara will miss the Angels’ crucial final pool match against Choco Mucho on July 29 at the Candon City Arena.Meanwhile, in a Facebook post by the Petro Gazz Angels, they expressed their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to their former mentor, who dedicated his life—especially for the legacy he left behind.“Coach Koji, as you return home to Japan to be with your family, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude. Your decision to pursue new opportunities in your continuing volleyball journey is acknowledged with deep respect.Thank you for the time and dedication you have shared with us. You have been more than just a coach—you have been a mentor, a teacher, and a true inspiration. We are especially grateful for the legacy you leave behind, having led us to our first-ever All-Filipino Championship in the PVL. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”During his tenure, Tsuzurabara made history with the Angels, guiding them to become the first local team in the league’s pro era to defeat Creamline in the PVL Finals since Chery Tiggo’s 2021 Open Conference victory.Before his PVL debut in January last year, he steered Petro Gazz to gold in the 2024 PNVF Champions League, sweeping Cignal in the finals.Tsuzurabara led the Angels to the podium twice in three conferences—earning bronze in his first All-Filipino Conference, finishing sixth in the import-laden tournament, and eventually capturing the PVL crown.

ONE Atomweight MMA World Champion Denice Zamboanga defends her belt for the first time in this massive card for Philippine MMA — ONE 173, set for November 16 at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan.Zamboanga will tackle a hostile environment as she battles the Japanese star and defends her strap against Ayaka Miura.On the other hand, Miura will jumpstart her title reign chase against the red-hot Zamboanga, having won her last five fights in the most impressive fashion.“The Menace” became the first Filipina to win a championship in a major MMA organization last January, and she wants nothing more than to be remembered as a fighting champion who never said no to a match.That’s why, even though she’s eyeing a highly anticipated superfight with her good friend and highly popular atomweight star Stamp Fairtex, she’s not waiting around for her first defense."I believe God’s timing is always perfect, and I’m honored to defend this belt against Ayaka Miura in Japan. She’s one of the strongest grapplers in the atomweight division, and I’ve watched how relentless she is with her ground game. There’s still a long road ahead in my preparation, but I’m committed to putting in the work and showing up stronger than ever," Zamboanga said.