PLDT returned to their winning ways after pulling off a 25-20, 25-21, 20-25, 25-22 victory over Cignal in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Tuesday, January 28.The High Speed Hitters retaliated fiercely after the HD Spikers won the third set, gaining a 16–6 lead in the fourth set and appearing poised to win the match easily.The Cignal team, led by Vanie Gandler and Ishie Lalongisip’s aggressive performances halfway through the frame, even got within one at 22-21, but Majoy Baron and star spiker Savi Davison’s kills helped the High Speed Hitters regain their rhythm and end the game.Davison put up her usual output with 24 points along with 12 excellent digs and 10 excellent receptions as PLDT now holds a 5-3 record. 

The Creamline Cool Smashers sustained its pristine record in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference by showcasing great resolve in a 25-12, 25-21, 25-19 victory over the Nxled Chameleons on Tuesday, January 28, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.A day after receiving a special citation at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Awards Night, Creamline did not hesitate to get the job done and show the league who they are.Bernadeth Pons led the charge for the Cool Smashers with 13 points along with 12 excellent digs, while Tots Carlos added 10 markers behind Kyle Negrito’s 15 excellent sets.Creamline’s win streak extends to 16 games and they will try to beat their previous record of 19 games that was ended by the Chery Tiggo Crossovers in the second round of the Reinforced Conference last year. Meneses rotated all of his 14 players in the game, giving each player a chance to play and score at least one point.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is moving closer to enforcing a complete ban on transgender women competing in female events, signaling a major shift in Olympic policy.Under the leadership of newly elected IOC president Kirsty Coventry, the organization aims to establish a unified global framework to “protect the integrity of the female category” across all sports. A move that could take effect within the next six to twelve months, in time for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.Previously, individual federations were allowed to set their own inclusion rules, but Coventry is pushing for consistency, citing scientific reviews highlighting the long-term physical advantages of being born male.The potential policy is also expected to align with the stance of the U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier signed an executive order barring transgender women from competing in female sports.However, the IOC continues to face internal debate over how to handle athletes with differences in sexual development (DSD), those reported female at birth but with male chromosomes and elevated testosterone levels.

After scoring back-to-back first-round wins, rising Filipino bantamweight Kenneth Llover showed maturity beyond his years by taking his time — and it paid off.He stopped former two-division world champion Luis Concepcion via eighth-round TKO on Sunday, August 17, at Winford Resort and Casino Manila.The pride of General Trias, Cavite is now one step closer to a world title shot. His strategy took place by means of patience and that is why he obtained victory.Despite scoring early knockdowns in the second and third rounds, the 22-year-old from General Trias, Cavite didn’t rush the finish. Instead, he listened to his corner and stuck to the game plan, ultimately earning a technical knockout in the 8th round over former two-division world champion Luis Concepcion. “Hindi lahat ng laban natatapos agad. Kailangan may diskarte, may tiyaga, ang pinaghahandaan namin ay world championship,” Llover said. Concepcion’s grit and experience weren’t enough to stop Llover, whose patience and power carried him through.“Hindi po [ako na-frustrate] kasi expected ko na po yun sa laban namin ngayon na talagang aabot kami sa mahabang round. Then yun naman yung sinabi sa akin ni Sir Gerry Peñalosa na malakas yan, Mag-ingat ka. Then nung time na knockdown ko siya, di akong nagmadali. Talagang hindi ko siya tinapos kasi once na mamadaling ko yun, pwede akong ako yung madehado, ako yung matsambahan. Kaya, talagang nag-ingat ako na hanggang makuha ko siya sa tamang round na yun yung biniyaya ng Diyos ko kanina.” he added.Up next: a world title eliminator this October against IBF No. 5 contender Landi Ngxeke. The road to a world championship for Llover is on.

The Choco Mucho Flying Titans overcame a first-set loss by overcoming PLDT, 21-25, 25-22, 25-18, 25-18, in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig on Thursday, January 23.The Flying Titans, who were tied at 17 points apiece in the fourth quarter, went on a 7-0 run led by Sisi Rondina and Cherry Nunag’s five points apiece.Erika Santos' crosscourt hit halted the High Speed Hitters' bleeding, but it was too late as Rondina's down-the-line kill, which Kath Arado was unable to block, sealed the win for Choco Mucho.As a result, the Flying Titans moved up to 5-3 for fourth place alone after defeating Farm Fresh, ZUS Coffee, and PLDT despite missing the services of Kat Tolentino, who had surgery due to a ruptured appendix."Firstly, of course, we dedicate our victory to Kat, she is recovering now. I hope she recovers quickly and we can be together again," said Flying Titans head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

Para swimmer Christian Benedict Paulino won the first gold medal in the ongoing 8th Philippine National Para Games being held at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.Paulino, who represented Quezon City LGU, won the men's 400m freestyle S6-S7 in six minutes and 55.61 seconds, beating Zach Lucas Osioma of Cadiz City, who clocked 8:27.50.According to Paulino, this is his first win in the Para Games so he is happy to have won the gold medal and said that it is also his dream to participate in the Paralympics."This is my first time winning in the National Para Games. I am happy because I want to pursue my dream of participating in the Paralympics," Paulino said in Filipino.Paulino added that he also wants to achieve what his idol, Para swimmer Ernie Gawilan has accomplished."I also want to achieve what my brother Ernie accomplished. He is my idol," Paulino added. Meanwhile, other gold medalists on the first day of the Para Games were Justine Oliveros of Laguna for the men's 400m freestyle S8, S9, S10 and Tokyo Paralympian Gary Bejino for the men's 50m butterfly S6 and S7.

Fresh from their successful Group IV campaign in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the Philippine Men’s Davis Cup team was formally recognized after a clean sweep, capped by a 2-0 playoff win over Kyrgyzstan, earned them a much-anticipated promotion to Group III of the Asia-Oceania Zone.“It’s a slow climb, but we’re happy to be back in Group III,” said Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) Executive Director Tonette Mendoza. “The goal is to return to Group II, where we used to compete before.”Team standout Jed Olivarez, who now holds an impressive 7-0 Davis Cup singles record since the team’s climb from Group V, said the team is determined to keep the momentum going. “It’s always an honor to represent the country. We’re inspired by Alex Eala and hope to make the nation proud,” he said.Also part of the Davis Cup roster are AJ Lim, Arthur Craig "Iggy" Pantino, and seasoned doubles specialists Ruben Gonzales and Francis Casey Alcantara. Former PH tennis greats Joseph Lizardo and Johnny Arcilla serve as the team’s coaches.Lim, recovering from an injury sustained during the Olivarez Cup finals, was unable to attend the forum, while Pantino and Gonzales are competing and training overseas. Alcantara, currently ranked among the world’s top 250 in doubles, also recently returned to Europe after representing the Philippines.

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala has etched her name in history, securing a spot in the quarterfinals of the Miami Open.The 19-year-old moved forward after Spain’s Paula Badosa, ranked No. 11 in the world, withdrew due to a lower back injury during their Round of 16 matchup on Monday, March 24 (Tuesday, March 25, Manila time).Eala’s stellar performance throughout the tournament already included massive upsets. She stunned the World No. 5 and reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys, as well as No. 25 and 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko, to advance to the fourth round.

When you think of Philippine sports, ice hockey might not be the first thing that comes to mind but for BJ Imperial, it’s been his lifelong passion and purpose. Born on February 23, 1999, and a proud graduate of Ateneo de Manila University, Imperial now anchors the blue line as a defenseman for the Philippine National Ice Hockey Team.His journey into the sport began with a touch of family influence. “I first started playing ice hockey when my cousins, who grew up in the States, moved back to the Philippines when they were in college,” Imperial recalled. “I was around four or five years old then. They liked to play hockey back in the U.S., so when they came back, I just wanted to tag along.”At first, those games played on the streets were simple, playful sessions that sparked a lifelong love for the game. It wasn’t until age 12 that Imperial first laced up his skates on real ice, marking the beginning of his serious pursuit of the sport.Representing the country, he says, is a feeling like no other. “It’s something that I really take pride in, he shared. I tell my friends, I don’t think you’ve ever sung the national anthem like I have. It’s a different kind of pride when you play for your country.”That sense of pride extends to his teammates, with whom he shares a strong brotherhood forged through hard work and shared sacrifice. “Within the team, I think it’s a really close bond because you go through a lot of things together, the struggles of training, competing against other countries, and taking pride in what you’re doing,” he said.For Imperial, winning is always the goal, but it’s not the only one. “Aside from winning, I guess it’s also to encourage the next generation. We hope that hockey doesn’t stop with our team. We hope that it continues for the next generation.”When he’s not patrolling the rink or studying game tapes, Imperial trades his hockey stick for a golf club. “When I’m not playing hockey or watching hockey, I like to play golf,” he said with a smile.And for young Filipinos curious about trying ice hockey, his message is simple but heartfelt: “Don’t be intimidated. It’s a sport that’s not really famous for a tropical country, but just come out and join us.”For BJ Imperial, the ice may be cold, but his passion burns bright. A proof that even in a tropical nation, dreams can glide and goals can shine under the rink lights.

The final two quarterfinal spots are on the line today, August 5, as the PVL On Tour returns to the Philsports Arena in Pasig for a pivotal doubleheader.Reigning All-Filipino champions Petro Gazz Angels take on the Akari Chargers at 4 PM, followed by a high-stakes clash between the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles and the Choco Mucho Flying Titans at 6:30 PM.Both Petro Gazz and Akari had inconsistent performances during the eliminations, but each showed flashes of brilliance in their recent outings. The Angels stunned the Flying Titans in four sets last July 29 in Candon, Ilocos Sur, while the Chargers swept the Capital1 Solar Spikers back on July 15 at the Playtime FilOil Centre.

In celebration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s 68th birthday, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) donated 2,000 sports balls to the Office of the President to boost grassroots sports development in public schools. The donation consists of 1,000 volleyballs from the FIVB and PNVF, 500 basketballs from the SBP, and 500 footballs from the PFF.The initiative aligns with Marcos’ call for a national sports development program, as announced in his recent State of the Nation Address. “Bubuo tayo ng bagong pambansang programa para sa sports development. Uumpisahan natin ito sa paaralan pa lamang,” Marcos said in his SONA.In partnership with the Department of Education, the PSC will help revive sports clubs and competitions in public schools to nurture young athletic talent.The First Family attended the FIVB Men’s World Championship 2025 opening at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, last Friday where President Marcos delivered the ceremonial serve. PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio hailed the milestone as a sign of a promising future for Philippine sports and youth development.“We are standing at the threshold of a great new era and the dawn of a truly exciting legacy. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!” said Gregorio.

Cignal knocked Akari out in the quarterfinals with a 25-20, 25-11, 28-16 win, booking a semifinals slot in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour on Thursday, August 7, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.Erika Santos spearheaded the triumph, tallying 24 points built from 22 attacks, including the game-winning spike.Santos ignited the second set, erupting 11 markers, to power the HD Spikers to an 18-7 cushion. Her scoring spree paved the way for a dominant 14-point win that put Cignal on the brink of a sweep.The young opposite spiker also sealed the match with a game-winning spike that clipped Akari’s line. This came after the Chargers twice reached set point at 24-23 and 25-24, only for Chenie Tagaod to commit back-to-back attack errors. Grethcel Soltones momentarily pulled Akari level in the third at 26-all, but Tin Tiamzon’s clutch hit put Cignal at match point, 27-26.

ZUS Coffee kept their momentum alive, logging its second victory against winless Galeries Tower, 25-22, 25-16, 25-19, in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Thursday, November 28.The Thunderbelles achieved their first-ever sweep since entering the league in the 2024 season with this victory.ZUS Coffee, once a consistent bottom-dweller, is currently tied for fourth position alongside Petro Gazz, Akari, Chery Tiggo, and Choco Mucho, all of whom have identical 2-1 records.

The University of the Philippines (UP) capped off the UAAP Season 87 first round with crucial victories in both men’s and women’s volleyball, overcoming Adamson University’s standout performances at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, March 16.

Many may be surprised to learn that Lewis Alfred Tenorio has been placed on Barangay Ginebra's unrestricted free agent list, with rights to salary. In his place, Jayson David has been reactivated to the Gin Kings' active roster.This decision came just a day before Ginebra’s matchup with the NorthPort Batang Pier on Wednesday, April 30, at the Philsports Arena, following a tough 93-104 defeat to the powerhouse San Miguel Beermen.Tenorio's playing time has been limited this season, particularly after Ginebra secured the services of RJ Abarrientos during the draft.The four-time Finals MVP saw limited action during Ginebra’s recent Commissioner's Cup Finals series, where the team fell to TNT in a hard-fought best-of-seven series that even stretched into overtime.

EJ Obiena returned to competition with a bronze medal at the World Athletics Continental Tour in China, clearing 5.65 meters to finish third. Chinese vaulter Tao Zhong and American Cole Walsh both cleared 5.75m, with Zhong taking gold on countback.The podium finish gives Obiena a timely boost as he heads into a busy September, highlighted by the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo from September 13–21. Obiena, the Philippine and Asian record holder at 6.00m, will also headline the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge in Makati on September 20–21. The event boasts a strong international field, including several top-25 vaulters.Riding the momentum from China, Obiena aims for another landmark performance on the world stage and a memorable homecoming in Manila.

Justine Jazareno stood tall as the defensive anchor for the Akari Chargers, steering her team to a five-set victory over the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, 25-11, 22-25, 29-27, 17-25, 15-7, in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.Jazareno, known for her steady hands and exceptional court coverage, was named Player of the Game after registering 27 excellent digs and 9 excellent receptions, setting the tone for Akari’s strong defensive stand. Her consistent presence at the backline allowed the Chargers to maintain control in crucial moments, especially during the tight third and fifth sets.The Chargers displayed resilience after dropping the fourth frame, tightening their floor defense and minimizing errors to dominate the decider. Jazareno’s leadership and composure played a crucial role in keeping her teammates calm and focused amid the pressure.With this win, Akari not only opened its 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference campaign on a high note but also showcased the importance of solid defense, a department masterfully led by Jazareno, who continues to prove why she’s among the league’s premier liberos.

The Philippine women’s football national team opened its campaign in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers, blanking Saudi Arabia with a 3-0 score on Sunday, June 29, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.The Filipinas quickly took control of the match with midfielder Jaclyn Sawicki scoring the opening goal in the 16th minute after Meryll Serrano found her inside the box. Serrano remained relentless throughout the match, breaking through Saudi Arabia’s tight defense to double the lead in the 55th minute.Filipino-American rising star Alexa Pino then put the game beyond doubt, slotting in a goal in the 81st minute to secure a dominant win for the Philippines in their tournament opener.

Belgium pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, handing defending champion Italy its first defeat with a pulsating five-set victory on Tuesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.Despite letting a two-set lead slip away, the Belgians regrouped in the decisive fifth to prevail, 25-23, 25-20, 22-25, 21-25, 15-13, stunning the four-time world champions and putting themselves in prime position for a deep tournament run.Rising star Ferre Reggers powered Belgium with a spectacular 31-point performance, delivering the big hits when it mattered most. The outside hitter credited their aggressive approach and composure for the upset win.“We started really good and really aggressive like we did two days ago. We knew what to do, the same thing, and that’s exactly what we did,” Reggers said. “From the start we felt there was a chance, because we’re playing at the highest level we’ve ever played.”The victory builds on Belgium’s momentum from its opening win over Ukraine, boosting their confidence against one of the world’s volleyball giants.Now at 2-0 in Pool F, Belgium has already secured its place in the Round of 16—cementing its status as a dangerous dark horse in the tournament.Italy, meanwhile, faces a tougher road in its title defense, with its aura of invincibility finally cracked by a surging Belgian side.

The Pilipinas Aguilas captured the Women's Maharlika Basketball League (WMPBL) championship against the UST Growling Tigresses, concluding the league's inaugural tournament yesterday, April 23, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.The WMPBL has successfully staged its first-ever tournament this season, and now, it’s time to turn professional—offering hope to all Filipinas who aspire to pursue a career in basketball beyond college and national team opportunities.This is now clear proof that the league is ready to take the next step in the world of women’s basketball.Basketball is a sport loved by many Filipinos, and this league is now ready to give Filipina athletes a true career path in the sport they are passionate about.In an exclusive interview with Scoreline.ph, WMPBL Commissioner Haydee Ong expressed her excitement and officially announced the league’s upcoming transition to professional status.“We went to GAB (Games and Amusements Board) to formally declare that the WMPBL will launch its pro league this coming June. Of course, I’m one of the happiest that it’s finally pushing through. But of course, we still have a lot to do to make the league sustainable,” said Ong.Commissioner Ong also emphasized that she hopes the league will remain stable. She is committed to ensuring the league evolves for the better, aiming to provide lasting opportunities for both present and future generations of women’s basketball players to showcase their talents.“Our league needs to become stable first, and the team criteria are very important—who we allow to join the first regular season of the WMPBL. So we will thoroughly scrutinize everything to make the league even better. This is a great opportunity for the present and future generations of women’s ballers,” Ong added.