Alas Pilipinas secured its third consecutive Southeast Asia V.League bronze medal after defeating Indonesia, 25-20, 25-20, 16-25, 25-13, last Sunday, August 4, in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.After dropping their first two matches to eventual champion Thailand and runner-up Vietnam, the Filipinas bounced back with a strong performance against Indonesia to secure another podium finish at the end of the first leg of the tournament.The national team delivered a commanding 18-6 run in the final set to clinch the victory in front of a supportive crowd.

Down by as many as 18 points, Barangay Ginebra San Miguel still managed to take Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Philippine Cup semifinals against the San Miguel Beermen, 73–71, on Wednesday night, June 25, at the Mall of Asia Arena.Scottie Thompson was named Best Player of the Game after tallying 16 points on 6-of-9 shooting from the field, along with eight rebounds, one assist, and a steal.Japeth Aguilar also provided steady production despite being in foul trouble, finishing with a team-high 18 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and a block. Jamie Malonzo added 14 points, five rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

It was a grind night for the defending champions Creamline Cool Smashers as ZUS Coffee pushed them to a five-set thriller, 25-22, 28-30, 26-24, 17-25, 15-13, in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at the Philsports Arena.The Smashers improved to 4-0, and now tied with Cignal HD Spikers at the top of the league standings heading into 2025.Alyssa Valdez fired up 17 points, while Jema Galanza had 15 and Michele Gumabao added 14. The Cool Smashers had a 72-66 advantage in kills, allowing them to offset their whopping 33 unforced errors.Also coming through were Bernadeth Pons, and Galanza who scattered 17 and 15 hits, 12 digs and 12 receptions respectively, for the dynastic champion-seeking a magnificent five-peat feat and 11th crown.

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 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.

After a dazzling debut game in their East Asia Super League win last November 13 against Busan KCC Egis, 81-80, Meralco’s midseason addition, Akil Mitchell, has quietly put together one of the most impressive EASL campaigns in history.On Wednesday, January 22, Mitchell will again have the toughest test against the Ryukyu Golden Kings, and he is expected to deliver another standout performance against their opponent's versatile frontcourt of Jack Cooley, Alex Kirk, and Keve Aluma. It will also depend on head coach Dai Oketani how to rotate his big men in challenging Mitchell.It will be a crucial game for the Bolts as they try to vie for a playoff spot in their remaining games (including this one).Mitchell will also be tested inside the paint as Ryukyu’s second-chance opportunities always help them to win, secure a spot in the Final Four, and now lead Group B in the standings.Mitchell will be needing the support of his teammates and as well as his captain Chris Newsome for Meralco to stand a chance. Newsome must step up and boost their record and move one step closer to securing a spot in the semifinals.During Mitchell’s stint in this season's EASL, he collected an average of 25 points, 20 rebounds and two assists, and this upcoming match-up will prove his toughness to the league's elite.  He also helped the Bolts to get back on track after they absorbed a 74-77 loss to the Japan B. League club last October.Meanwhile, Ryukyu is holding onto the top spot, but still their position isn’t entirely secure. They might have secured a Final Four spot already, but a loss to Meralco, combined with either the Bolts or the P. LEAGUE+’s New Taipei Kings winning out, could see them slip to the second seed in Group B.The Golden Kings will look to build on that success and secure control of the B1 seed heading into the next round.

The Philippines marks a momentous milestone as the nation returns on this year’s Paris Olympic stage, celebrating its centennial year of debuting in the world’s biggest sporting event in the French capital.It was 1924 when the first Filipino athlete stepped into the Olympics arena and waved the Philippine flag in Paris. A century later, a larger and stronger Filipino contingent returned to the French capital to raise the nation’s flag on the world stage once again.To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Philippines’ participation in the Olympics, we take a look back on the Top 10 fascinating facts on the colorful history of the country’s Olympic campaign. 

Former two-time ONE Lightweight MMA World Champion Eduard "Landslide" Folayang has given his full support to Filipina Muay Thai rising star Islay Erika Bomogao in her upcoming debut fight on November 8 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.Bomogao will face Japanese striker Fuu in a 100-pound catchweight Muay Thai bout at ONE Friday Fights 86.In a conversation between Folayang and Bomogao on social media, the former two-time ONE Lightweight MMA World Champion said he has seen how Bomogao has grown and become a great fighter and martial artist.

Fate definitely smiled on Samantha Catantan as she snapped the 32-year longing for a Filipino fencer in the Olympic Games after emerging triumphant in the women’s foil event of the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifiers 2024 in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates last April.The 22-year-old seized her Paris berth after defeating Kazakhstan’s Sofiya Aktayeva in a dramatic final match that saw the Filipina overcome a late deficit and a medical break to treat a knee injury.Tied at 13-all, Catantan took an injury timeout and was visibly limping when she returned to action. Aktaveya forced a final deadlock at 14, before Catantan seized the final point.

After a rollercoaster Season 100, the Emilio Aguinaldo Generals step into NCAA Season 101 with momentum, a refined identity, and perhaps their strongest claim yet to be a dark horse in the race. With a blend of seasoned returnees and a sensational incoming rookie, EAC is aiming to break new ground—finally punching into the Final Four and beyond.The foundation remains steady. Holdovers Kyle Ochavo, Brianne Angeles, and Nico Quinal return to carry continuity, leadership, and stability. They will help offset the departures of Harvey Pagsanjan, King Gurtiza, and Axel Doromal, whose exit left gaps in experience and production. The Generals also retain key contributors such as Jethro Bacud, Jude Bagay, Deo Lucero, Ruzzelle Dominguez, Wilmar Oftana, and Gelo Loristo, whose veteran presence gives balance and depth.But the real game-changer is EJ Castillo. A 6-foot-1 rookie guard who dominated his high school years with the EAC Brigadiers, Castillo arrives with an impressive pedigree: Mythical Five honors, a Most Improved Player award, and scoring consistency. He has publicly committed to staying with EAC as he transitions to collegiate play. While recognizing he must learn and adapt, Castillo brings a natural scoring touch and confidence that promises to shake up lineups.To round out the additions, EAC also welcomes Jacob Shanoda and Oman Omandac, both of whom are expected to contribute defensively and offer rotational flexibility. Completing the roster are Joshua Devara, Adam Doria, Chester Jacob, Rico Postanes, Joshua Tolentino, and Felix Villarente, each vying for meaningful minutes.

Petro Gazz soared past Choco Mucho, 25-20, 26-28, 25-21, 25-16, capping the first day of the Premier Volleyball League’s All-Filipino Conference on Saturday, November 9, at Philsports Arena in Pasig.Brooke Van Sickle powered the Angels, erupting 34 points anchored on 28 attacks, four aces, and two kill blocks, while also putting up 14 excellent digs. 

Rhianne Hailie Jade Alix is already turning heads as a forward for the Philippine National Women’s Ice Hockey Team at the age of 16. She is known for her speed, agility, and smart puck control, Alix brings youthful energy and a fresh edge to the team’s offensive lineup.She is also a product of the Philippines’ growing grassroots ice hockey movement, Alix exemplifies the sport’s expanding reach among the youth. Her journey began in mall skating rinks, where curiosity quickly turned into passion—and then into national-level performance. Despite her age, she has earned the respect of her teammates and coaches with her relentless work ethic, sharp instincts, and playmaking ability.

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.

Every team, every sport, and every coaching staff shares one objective: to attain victory and claim the championship. For the Petro Gazz Angels, this dream became a reality.After a thrilling 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference Finals, the Angels proved to themselves that the win was theirs. They dethroned the Creamline Cool Smashers with a commanding 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19 victory in Game 3 on Saturday, April 12.For Petro Gazz Coach Koji Tsuzurabara, the championship was the culmination of a long-held dream.Tsuzurabara never doubted his team. He believed in the players he had—players capable of going all the way.Tsuzurabara was fortunate and thrilled to have a talented team, including standout players like Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Philips, who not only secured the championship but also earned the Conference MVP and Finals MVP awards, respectively.“I trust the player we could win. I’m lucky to have a great team with great players,”  Tsuzurabara said.For now, the Angels are preparing for the upcoming AVC Women's Champions League to be held on April 20 to 27, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig wherein they will face the teams of Chinese Taipei and Hong Kong. For Brooke Van Sickle, the PVL Conference MVP, the upcoming international tournament is especially exciting, as it marks her debut in international competition. She is eager to see how other countries play volleyball and learn from the experience.“This is my first time with international play. So I'm just excited to see good volleyball and just be able to see how other countries play the sport and to learn from them and grow and just to see the intensity. So I'm super stoked,” said Van Sickle.The Petro Gazz Angels, alongside PLDT High Speed Hitters and Creamline Cool Smashers, will represent the Philippines at the AVC Women’s Champions League, fighting not just for victory, but for national pride and honor.

The PLDT High Speed Hitters etched their name in Premier Volleyball League (PVL) history after outlasting Chery Tiggo in a thrilling five-set, 25-17, 25-17, 19-25, 24-26, 15-8, to capture the 2025 PVL On Tour title on Sunday, August 17, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.Guided by head coach Rald Ricafort, PLDT completed a flawless run throughout the tournament—sweeping the group stage with a 5-0 slate before dispatching ZUS Coffee and Creamline in the knockout rounds. The breakthrough marked the High Speed Hitters’ first-ever appearance and victory in a PVL championship stage.

It was a night to remember at Montano Hall in Cavite City as Stef Berberabe carved her place in Philippine basketball history, becoming the first woman to record a quadruple-double.The WMPBL star was honored in front of her hometown crowd, with WMPBL Commissioner Haydee M. Ong, league president John Kallos, and Senator Francis Tolentino leading the special tribute. The recognition underscored not only Berberabe’s personal achievement but also the growing prominence of women’s basketball in the country.Berberabe, known for her tireless energy and versatility, reflected on the significance of the milestone.“This is more than just my achievement — it’s a victory for women’s basketball,” she said. “I hope this inspires young girls to keep pushing boundaries and chasing their dreams.”Her rare feat — a testament to all-around excellence on the court — resonates beyond statistics. For fans and aspiring players alike, it symbolized the strides women’s basketball continues to make in the Philippines.The celebration at Montano Hall was not only about honoring Berberabe’s historic performance but also about envisioning a brighter, more inclusive future for the sport she represents so passionately.

Defending champions Boston Celtics tied the most number of three-pointers made by a team in their victory over the New York Knicks, 132-109, in the opening night of the NBA’s 2024-2025 Season.Before the game started, the Celtics received their championship rings and the 18th banner of the franchise was raised in the rafters.Jayson Tatum grabbed the microphone before the ceremony to pump-up the crowd inside the TD Garden in Boston.

Rey Nambatac has overcome jitters in his very first game in a championship series and even led the TNT Tropang Giga to victory over Barangay Ginebra, 104-88, in Game 1 of the PBA Season 49 Governors’ Cup Finals who was witnessed by 11,021 spectators at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.Nambatac was named Best Player of the Game after putting up 18 points (12 in the final quarter), 10 rebounds and seven assists in his first Finals appearance.

Filipino Olympic boxer Hergie Bacyadan dominated the women’s K1 -70kg category in the Asian Kickboxing Championships in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Saturday, October 12.Bacyadan’s frustrated attempt to clinch a medal in the women’s boxing tournament of the 2024 Paris Olympics only strengthened her to pursue glory in other combat sports. The 29-year-old Kalinga fighter delivered one of the Philippines’ four gold medals in the event, overwhelming her opponent Chinese Jinwei Teng via abandonment. Bacyadan’s triumph in the continental kickboxing championships earned her a spot in the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China.“Everybody wants to be there in the World Games and I’m glad that I’ve qualified,’’ said Bacyadan.

Proving that age is just a number, Laurence Quinlivan, 90, grandfather of actress and model Hannah Quinlivan, stole the spotlight at Taiwan’s World Masters Games, not only for his athletic performance – winning one gold and two silver medals – but also for his charming sense of humor.On the opening day of the competition, May 18, Quinlivan won gold in javelin and silver in the 100m sprint in the 90+ age group.Meanwhile, Jay Chou, 46, took to Instagram Stories on May 18 to congratulate his grandfather in law, posting a photo of Quinlivan being interviewed by the media with the proud caption:“@hannah_quinlivan’s grandpa is awesome.”Hannah Quinlivan, also known as Hannah Chou, is originally from Kaohsiung, where her father once ran a tutoring center.Quinlivan is the grandfather of Chou’s wife, Hannah Quinlivan, a 31-year-old Taiwanese-Australian model and actress. Her father is Australian, while her mother is of Chinese and Korean descent.Hannah also shared a heartwarming video of her grandfather sprinting down the track, captioned:“Thank you for cheering for grandpa.”Quinlivan’s inspiring participation not only highlights the spirit of lifelong athleticism but also shines a spotlight on how sport continues to unite and uplift—across generations.