Alas Pilipinas’s impressive performance at the FIVB Men’s World Championship has been seen as a key moment for Philippine volleyball, securing the nation’s spot on the global stage. “It was a dream come true,” said Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, after the Philippines defeated world No. 21 Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Tolentino stressed that this victory was more than just a win—it was a moment in history. “These men have made their mark in volleyball history, and their success will inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps as role models,” he said. The POC chief acknowledged that Alas Pilipinas exceeded all expectations. “It was a long shot. We never aimed that high for Alas Pilipinas in this world championship, but they did better than we hoped. I commend the PNVF and the entire sports community for this success.” 

Carlo Biado has made history once again, becoming the first Filipino to win a second World Pool Championship title after dethroning defending champion Fedor Gorst in a thrilling 15-13 final in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, yesterday morning, July 27 (Philippine time).Biado, who first captured the World Nineball crown in 2017 in Doha, Qatar, is now the only Filipino to lift the prestigious trophy twice. In the final, Gorst raced to a quick 2-0 lead, but Biado responded with a dominant 9-2 run. Gorst clawed his way back, capitalizing on Biado’s errors to tie the match at 9-all and again at 13-all."I'm over the moon—I still can't believe I'm a two-time world champion. It means everything to me. I'm so proud to bring this trophy home to the Philippines," Biado said.Undeterred, the 41-year-old showed poise under pressure, taking the last two racks to seal the victory and the title."This final is something I'll remember forever. Fedor is one of the best in the world," he added.With this feat, Biado joins Filipino pool legends Efren “Bata” Reyes (1999), Ronnie Alcano (2006), and Francisco “Django” Bustamante (2010) as World Pool champions.Meanwhile, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino lauded Biado for upholding the country’s winning legacy in billiards.“This is another great reason to rejoice and celebrate. Carlo Biado becoming the only player in the world to win the 9-ball championship twice is remarkable. Long live Biado and Philippine billiards,” he said.The POC, which currently oversees the Billiard Sports Confederation of the Philippines (BSCP) following its suspension by the Asian Confederation of Billiard Sport, reaffirmed its commitment to support the country’s billiards athletes in training and international competitions, including the upcoming Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December."We will continue to work, guide and help our national billiards athletes in their training and competitions abroad, including the Thailand SEA Games this December," Tolentino added.

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.

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 Fighting Maroons snapped defending champion National University’s perfect run, clawing their way back from the brink to pull off a 26-24, 23-25, 17-25, 25-23, 15-12 victory on Wednesday afternoon, March 26, at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.UP’s fiery start in the opening set proved crucial as they erased NU’s 24-23 advantage with three straight points, including two clutch attacks from Niña Ytang and an error from Alyssa Solomon. 

Despite missing out on the Paris Olympics in 2024, Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo remains undeterred. The country’s first Olympic gold medalist is now focused on the 33rd Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand, where she will compete in the women’s 58-kilogram division.“I’m preparing for the SEA Games. Maglalaro po ako ngayong December. Again, depende sa Philippine delegation, pero maglalaro po ako,” Diaz-Naranjo shared, her determination unwavering.For the Filipina weightlifting icon, representing the nation remains central to her career. “Bumabalik ako parati sa why. It’s always to represent my country and doing my best for the Philippines in weightlifting and also to inspire young Filipinos,” she said.Diaz-Naranjo already boasts two SEA Games gold medals in the 55kg category and two silvers in the 58kg class, but she knows each competition demands renewed commitment.Balancing Acts: Training, Coaching, and Inspiring the YouthWhile preparing for the SEA Games, Diaz-Naranjo juggles multiple roles: mentoring young lifters for Batang Pinoy, giving motivational talks, and pushing grassroots development in weightlifting.“Yes, [I’m] very busy. Pero ayun nga, kung may tinatarget ka, you prioritize training kahit saan ka man. Kaya tinatanong ko talaga sa hotel kung may gym ba sila. Baka pwede akong mag-training doon,” she explained.She often trains before or after coaching sessions to maintain her own focus. “Hindi ko sinasabayan na training and coaching… minsan nag-training ako before or after nila para makapag-focus ako,” she added.Building Back Discipline and FocusWith less than three months before the SEA Games, Diaz-Naranjo admitted she’s still finding her rhythm. “How prepared? Sorry to say, nasa 70 pa lang. So, restart ako. Nag-training ako, pero iba yung talagang from mag-start ako sa anong ginawa ko nung sa Olympics,” she shared.Her preparation is both physical and mental, with renewed emphasis on mindset and weekly mental training. She’s also prioritizing injury prevention and diet as she balances her demanding schedule with consistent workouts.

The stage is set for a wide-open race as the maiden Pilipinas United 3x3 League (PUL) tips off this weekend at Ayala Malls Manila Bay.Twelve men’s teams and eight women’s squads will battle for supremacy in this new halfcourt basketball showcase.“Passion fuels every drive, every shot, every hustle, while purpose brings us together to push Philippine basketball to greater heights,” said PUL commissioner Eric Altamirano.Local men’s teams include David Licauco’s Taho Story A, powerhouse Half Court Group (Hoopjeep), Sidney Onwubere’s YouGuard, and David Carlos’ Activate Sports, along with AMG Physical Therapy Clinic, Smile 360 Dental Clinic, Solaris, and Taho Story B. They will take on an international field featuring Ninja Airs and SBB from Japan, Dame Dolla from Vietnam, and Kuala Lumpur from Malaysia.The men’s champion will earn a USD 5,000 prize and a ticket to the FIBA 3x3 Kaohsiung Challenger in October, while the top local team secures a spot in the FIBA 3x3 Manila Challenger in September.In the women’s division, two-time UAAP MVP Kacey dela Rosa leads Gilas Pilipinas Women U23, joined by Uratex Dream and Pilipinas Aguilas.International contenders include Japan’s Maurice Lacroix, Malaysia’s Harimau Black and Yellow, Vietnam’s Hanoi 3x3 By Amigos, and Singapore’s Jumpshot—all vying for the USD 3,000 cash prize.Fans can catch the action live on PusoP.com and on Solar Sports via Digital Free TV Channel 21 in Mega Manila, Cablelink Channel 58, Sky Cable Channel 70 in NCR, and over 200 Pay TV operators nationwide.

Defensive specialist Justine Jazareno emerged as the Philippines’ lone awardee in the second leg of the SEA V.League, earning Best Libero honor Sunday night, August 10, — her first international award.Jazareno anchored Alas Pilipinas’ streak of having at least one individual honoree alive for five straight legs of the tournament. She joined Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Bich Tuyen (MVP and Best Opposite Spiker), Vi Thi Nhu Quynh (Best Outside Spiker), Tran Thi Bich Thuy (Best Middle Blocker), and Thailand’s Pornpun Guedpard (Best Setter), Chatchu-on Moksri (Best Outside Spiker), and Thanapan Wimonrat (Best Middle Blocker) in the list of top performers.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) elected its new president last Thursday, March 20, naming Kirsty Coventry as the first woman and first African to hold the position.Before becoming an IOC member, Coventry was a standout athlete for Zimbabwe, winning seven of the country’s eight Olympic medals. At 41, she also became the youngest person to assume the most powerful position in sports governance.The first round of voting did not proceed without issues, as numerous voters reported problems with the technological voting systems.However, the voting was quickly closed after the first round, with a winner already securing the absolute majority (50% + one vote) required.After a 30-minute break, Coventry was announced as Thomas Bach’s successor and the 10th president of the IOC. Of the 97 votes cast, Coventry received 49, while second-place candidate Juan Antonio Samaranch secured 28.“This is an extraordinary moment. As a nine-year-old girl, I never thought I would be standing up here one day, getting to give back to this incredible movement of ours,” Coventry said.She was initially expected to face a tight contest against IOC veteran Juan Antonio Samaranch Jr. and World Athletics president Sebastian Coe for the top job.Coventry emphasized her commitment to addressing inequality in sports, stating, “This also means strengthening women’s sports by protecting female athletes and promoting equal opportunities for women at all levels of our movement.”“This is not just a huge honor; it’s also a reminder of my commitment to every single one of you. I will lead this organization with immense pride and uphold its core values. I promise to make you all very, very proud and confident in the decision you’ve made today. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Now, we have work to do—together. This race was an incredible challenge, and it made us better and stronger,” Coventry added.Meanwhile, her first major event to oversee will be the Milan-Cortina Winter Games next year in Italy, with the Opening Ceremony less than 11 months away. She will officially take up the role on June 24, following the conclusion of Thomas Bach’s 12-year tenure.

The PBA’s historic 50th season kicked off with major changes, as four teams debuted new head coaches during the 2025 Rookie Draft at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. LA Tenorio (Magnolia), Willy Wilson (Phoenix), Ronald Tubid (Terrafirma), and Dennis “Delta” Pineda (Converge) wasted no time putting their stamp on their squads, selecting from a deep pool of 122 applicants.Tubid and Terrafirma picked Geo Chiu first overall, while Pineda and Converge took Juan Gomez de Liano at No. 2. On the other hand, Tenorio drafted Yukien Andrada (No. 6), and Wilson chose Will Gozum (No. 8) for Phoenix. Terrafirma and Converge each drafted ten players, with Magnolia and Phoenix also bolstering their lineups.“Thankful sa opportunity. Ang daming puwedeng coaches na possible dito, pero tayo ang binigyan ng pagkakataon. So I think there’s a reason why,” Tenorio said. With new leadership and a strong rookie class, the PBA’s golden season promises exciting games and intrigue.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has officially announced that Bacolod City will host the 2026 Batang Pinoy, marking the return of the national youth games to the Visayas after more than a decade.The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the 2025 Batang Pinoy in General Santos City, where PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio confirmed Bacolod’s hosting. This will be Bacolod’s fourth time to stage the event, following previous editions in 1999, 2001, and 2014.During the turnover rites, GenSan Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao passed the Batang Pinoy banner to Atty. Jose Marty Go, who represented Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya.“It is just fitting for Bacolod to host the Batang Pinoy after several years, being among the pioneers of this grassroots sports program,” said Gregorio.Nearly 20,000 young athletes participated in 27 sporting events in the 2025 edition held from October 25 to 31 in General Santos City.Gregorio highlighted the importance of Batang Pinoy as a cornerstone of grassroots sports development, noting that several of the country’s top athletes — including Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz and world champion gymnast Carlos Yulo — once competed in the tournament.The upcoming Bacolod hosting in 2026 signifies another milestone for the PSC’s efforts to develop and discover young Filipino athletes from all over the country.

Ateneo de Manila University regained momentum in its semifinal push, sweeping winless Arellano University, 26-24, 25-18, 25-22, in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Sunday afternoon, September 7, at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.Shaking off the sting of a narrow loss to archrival La Salle the day before, the Blue Eagles leaned on the leadership of team captain Jian Salarzon and the consistency of Amil Pacinio to keep their campaign alive.

Boxing legend Nonito “The Filipino Flash” Donaire is set to make another run at history as he faces Seiya Tsutsumi for the World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight championship on December 17 in Tokyo — a bout that could make him the oldest bantamweight world champion in history.The Donaire-Tsutsumi clash will headline a tripleheader event promoted by Teiken Promotions, according to multiple reports.Tsutsumi (12-0-3, 8 KOs), the reigning “champion in recess,” previously captured the WBA title after defeating Takuma Inoue but was sidelined due to injury following a draw with Daigo Higa. Meanwhile, Antonio Vargas — who was elevated to full champion — withdrew from a planned consolidation bout due to personal reasons, opening the door for Donaire’s shot at glory.Donaire (43-8, 28 KOs), now 43 years old, earned his interim champion status after a ninth-round technical decision victory earlier this year, marking a triumphant return following a two-year layoff.A victory in Tokyo would not only unify the title but also cement Donaire’s place in the record books — and in the hearts of Filipino boxing fans worldwide.“Age is just a number when you have the heart for greatness,” said Donaire, who remains one of the most respected names in the sport.

Many were surprised when Manny Pacquiao officially announced his return from retirement to challenge World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion Mario Barrios.This bout will be Pacquiao's first in four years, and at 46 years old, he faces a significant challenge: Barrios, who is 16 years younger and stands six inches taller than the 5-foot-6 Filipino legend.However, "Sugar" Shane Mosley—a fellow boxing great and former opponent who recently joined Pacquiao's training camp in Los Angeles—believes Pacquiao can emerge victorious at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, July 19. Mosley, who lost to Pacquiao by unanimous decision in 2011 while defending his WBO welterweight title, noted that Pacquiao is in great shape both physically and mentally.

Karl Jahrel Eldrew Yulo has qualified for four final events after a standout performance in the men’s artistic gymnastics team and qualification round of the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championship on Thursday night at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City.The 17-year-old Yulo advanced to three apparatus finals and made the cut for the men’s individual all-around final.Yulo finished sixth overall in the horizontal bar, scoring 13.700 points. He followed up with an impressive 14.233 points in the floor exercise, placing second overall. The 2024 Junior Asian MAG Vault Champion also qualified for the vault finals after finishing fifth with 14.200 points in the qualifications.Eldrew likewise advanced to the men’s individual all-around final, tallying a total score of 78.332 for 15th place overall, with the top 24 gymnasts qualifying.The men’s individual all-around finals are set for Saturday, Nov. 22, while the men’s apparatus finals are slated for Nov. 23 and 24.

Alas Pilipinas is setting its sights on the top prize in beach volleyball at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand.“Gold is what we’re aiming for in Thailand,” said Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara during the Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge at Nuvali Sands Court in Santa Rosa, Laguna. “We’ve had plenty of SEA Games bronze medals, and while we know it won’t be easy, we believe it’s possible. I’m hopeful our athletes can turn their Nuvali experience into a gold-medal run in Thailand.”Thailand and Indonesia have historically dominated SEA Games beach volleyball, while the Philippines has earned six bronze medals—three each in the men’s and women’s divisions—since 2003.PNVF head coach Joao “Kioday” Luciano Simao Barbosa confirmed the SEA Games lineups: Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons, and Dij Rodriguez and Sunny Villapando for the women; and James Buytrago and Ran Abdilla, and Ronniel Rosales and Rancel Vergara for the men.Each country can field two pairs per division. The 33rd SEA Games opens December 9, with beach volleyball running from December 12 to 19 at Bangkok’s Huamark Sports Complex.“We’re working very hard to fight for the gold,” said Kioday. “All teams are strong, but with a few more months of preparation, we’ll take it step by step—and reach for that gold.”

De La Salle University and University of Santo Tomas kept their winning streaks intact in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge, dispatching their opponents in contrasting styles Tuesday, August 12, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.The Green Spikers fended off a late scare to sweep National University, 21-17, 21-15, 33-31, for their second straight win. La Salle nearly let a 22-18 lead slip in the third set, but Cameroonian middle blocker Issa Ousseini delivered a crucial service ace to reach match point. Ousseini posted nine points from four attacks, four blocks, and an ace, including two excellent  digs. Eugene Gloria and MJ Fortuna also tallied nine markers apiece, while timely contributions from bench players Rui Ventura and Yoyong Mendoza helped seal the win.Coach Jose Roque said he challenged his team to show growth from their opening match. “I only told the team one thing before the game — to see if we can perform better than in our first match, so we have a gauge if we’re improving or not. No pressure because this is just pre-competition. Winning is just a reward; what matters is moving well and showing something on the court,” Roque explained.Mac Bandiola led NU with 14 points, all from attacks, while Jan Abanilla chipped in seven.

The Philippines marks its historic Olympic return to Paris, 100 years since the country debuted in the world’s biggest sporting event in the French capital.With the Filipino contingent edging closer to showcase the fruit of their labor and bring home glorious laurels on the nation’s centennial anniversary, one sport that has been in a deep slumber in over three decades finally punctuated its return because of one Filipina athlete.Samantha Catantan ended a long drought for Philippine fencing with her entry to the Paris Olympics 2024.Catantan demonstrated resilience during the daunting challenge of the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Fencing Qualifier that sealed her pathway to Paris, a feat that would make her the first fencer from the Philippines to compete after 32 years.No Filipino fencer has ever reached the Olympics since the 1992 edition.Percival Alger and Walter Torres were the first and last Filipino fencers to do it when they donned the national colors in the 1988 and 1992 Summer Games, respectively.

Mario Barrios narrowly retained his WBC welterweight title after a dramatic battle with People's Champ and former eight division titlist Manny Pacquiao which ended in a majority draw at the MGM Grand. Throughout the fight, Pacquiao’s trademark grit and ring savvy kept Barrios guessing, fueling hopes of yet another fairy-tale chapter in the Filipino legend’s storied career.But Barrios surged in the final three rounds—sweeping them on all three judges’ scorecards—to do just enough to hold on to his belt. One judge scored the bout 115-113 for Barrios, while the other two saw it even at 114-114.“I thought I won the fight. It was close. My opponent was very tough, but it was a wonderful fight.” said Pacquiao.For Barrios, sharing the ring with Pacquiao was an honor: “I thought I pulled it out, but I tip my hat to Manny. His stamina, power, and rhythm are still incredible. He’s a tough puzzle to solve.” Barrios said. The result elicited a muted response from the MGM Grand crowd, who had cheered Pacquiao’s attempt at a storybook comeback. Ultimately, Barrios keeps his crown, while Pacquiao once again proves he can compete with the best—even at 46.

Filipino gymnastics star Carlos Yulo has opted to skip the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December to focus on the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta, where he is competing only in floor exercise and vault due to a left wrist injury.“I still want the taste of competition,” Yulo said “That is the most important for me right now.”Yulo, a double gold medalist in vault and floor at the Paris 2024 Olympics, officially announced his SEA Games withdrawal through Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) president Cynthia Carrion-Norton. According to Carrion-Norton, Yulo’s decision was motivated by two factors: SEA Games rules now restrict elite gymnasts to only one event, and Yulo’s desire to give other Filipino gymnasts a chance to shine.“It’s a selfless decision because he likes to give others a chance. He’s now focused on winning in the world championships,” Carrion-Norton said. She added that the SEA Games organizers also scrapped the all-around competition, limiting medal opportunities for top gymnasts.Yulo revealed his wrist injury occurred two months ago while working on a difficult new dismount on the parallel bars. “I kind of did it too much,” he admitted.Despite his limited participation in Jakarta, Yulo remains committed to showcasing beautiful, graceful gymnastics. “My goal is to perform beautiful gymnastics, to be really graceful,” he shared.Yulo is joined at the world championships by fellow Filipino gymnasts Miguel Besana and Ivan Cruz, the latter fresh off a gold medal at the Cambodia SEA Games.