The East Asia Super League (EASL) returns on October 8, 2025, with the season tip-off taking place in two venues—one in Taipei and the other in Tokyo.At the Taipei Heping Basketball Gymnasium, fans will be treated to a doubleheader. The first matchup features the B.LEAGUE champions Utsunomiya Brex against the P. LEAGUE+ runners-up Taipei Fubon Braves.Utsunomiya will be spearheaded by veteran star Makoto Hiejima, while the Braves will rely on the leadership of Chinese Taipei legend Lin Chih-Chieh.

The Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates are once again setting sail for another NCAA campaign, ready to prove that their semifinal run last season was no fluke. With a mix of proven veterans, emerging talents, and an MVP-caliber leader, the Pirates enter Season 101 eager to reassert themselves among the league’s contenders.The Pirates won’t have the services of three familiar faces this year. JM Bravo has turned his attention to the professional ranks, Greg Cunanan has closed the book on his collegiate career, and Mclaude Guadaña is sidelined due to injury. These absences create notable gaps on both ends of the floor, particularly in experience and stability.Yet the Pirates are no strangers to transition. In fact, they see this as an opportunity for other names to step into the spotlight.The heart of Lyceum’s attack is still Ato Barba—and he enters the season with even more motivation. After going undrafted in the PBA Season 50 Rookie Draft, Barba has chosen to use the setback as fuel rather than frustration. At 25, the 6-foot-2 guard remains determined to pursue his basketball dream, and his final year with LPU is the perfect stage to remind everyone what he can do.Barba has already proven he belongs among the NCAA’s elite. He finished second in scoring last season with 17.6 points per game, powering the Pirates to their third straight Final Four appearance. His stellar play earned him a spot in the Mythical Five, where he shared the honor with MVP Allen Liwag, Tony Ynot of Benilde, Clint Escamis of Mapúa, and Tristan Felebrico of San Sebastian.His rise, however, didn’t just start in the seniors’ division. Back in Season 95, Barba was named NCAA Juniors MVP while leading the Junior Pirates, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s brightest prospects even before making the jump to college.

The Philippine women’s softball team—the Blu Girls—are eyeing nothing less than gold as they prepare to defend their title at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand.After softball’s two-edition absence from the SEA Games, head coach Ana Santiago said the team’s hunger for victory remains undiminished. “Nothing less than gold ang goal natin,” Santiago declared, recalling the Blu Girls’ last gold win at home in 2019.A dominant force since 1979, the Blu Girls have collected 11 SEA Games golds and are returning as favorites. Team captain Charlotte Sales and power hitter Roma Cruz, both SEA Games debutantes, expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness, especially after a productive training camp in Taiwan.“Malaking bagay ‘yung training camp namin. Nakatulong sa teamwork, communication, and ‘yung samahan,” Sales shared.Cruz, who smashed five homers at the Asian Cup in China last July, is determined to prove herself on the SEA Games stage. “Gusto ko ipakita na kaya ko makipagsabayan,” she said.While the Blu Girls topped Indonesia for gold in 2019, Santiago sees Singapore as this year’s biggest threat, citing their extensive preparations in Australia, Japan, and Taiwan.The Philippines opens against Singapore on December 15, then faces Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia before the gold medal game on December 20.Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines president John Henry Lhuillier’s marching order is clear: go for double gold in both women’s and men’s softball. “That’s the goal,”  Santiago affirmed.

On March 25, 2025, the Philippines men's football team will play its first home game against the Maldives in a crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier at New Clark City Athletics Stadium in Capas, Tarlac.Since Rizal Memorial Stadium remains under renovation, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has adeptly organized the event at New Clark City Athletics Stadium, ensuring a top-tier experience for both players and fans.It will be the first time the national football team plays at New Clark City Athletics Stadium, though the venue previously hosted two matches of the Philippines Football League in 2022.The Philippine men's football team begins its campaign to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 following its successful run in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup, where the country reached the semifinals for the first time since 2018.Meanwhile, the Maldives, an island nation with a population of approximately 500,000, considers football its most popular sport.The country's passion for football is evident through its competitive Dhivehi Premier League, which features top clubs like Maziya, the reigning champions with five titles.The Maldives will also face Tajikistan and Timor-Leste in the qualifiers, now in its third and final round, where the top teams from each of the six groups qualify for the Asian Cup.The Philippines enters this match as the clear favorite, boasting a strong squad and the advantage of playing on home turf. A victory would significantly enhance their prospects of securing a spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2027, one of Asia's most prestigious football tournaments.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) gathered government leaders, private partners, athletes, and stakeholders at the 2025 Sports Stakeholders Forum held at Solaire Resort, emphasizing the shared mission of strengthening Philippine sports through collaboration.The event brought together representatives from various sectors, including government, media, academia, and the athletic community. Business leader Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) delivered the keynote speech, highlighting the long-term value of investing in sports. He recalled the nation’s first Olympic gold medal by Hidilyn Diaz, noting it was the result of years of preparation and nearly ₱2 billion invested in coaches, facilities, and athlete support. “When she raised the bar in Tokyo, she lifted an entire nation, adding that the next medal will be less expensive, because the first one will always cost more than the rest.” Pangilinan keynoted in his speechMVP described sports as a “metaphor for life,” teaching discipline, teamwork, and focus—qualities that benefit families, communities, and workplaces. He also emphasized the power of sports to strengthen national identity, citing France’s 1998 World Cup win, Didier Drogba’s call for peace, and Manny Pacquiao’s unifying impact on Filipinos worldwide.“Whenever Team Philippines competes, our nation rallies together, united in spirit and purpose,” Pangilinan said.The PSC reiterated that the forum is a crucial platform to engage stakeholders in shaping policies and initiatives for the continued advancement of Philippine sports.Meanwhile, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has announced sweeping reforms in athlete support, grassroots development, and sports tourism, signaling a stronger commitment to youth programs and national sports growth.PSC Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio revealed that starting January 1, 2026, the commission will begin funding youth athletes as part of the National Training Pool—a major shift aimed at supporting rising stars as young as 15 or 16. “Previously, only main pool members were eligible for PSC funding. But starting 2026, youth athletes will be recognized and funded under PSC programs,” Gregorio said.He emphasized the importance of grassroots initiatives, citing Cebu’s successful youth program that’s thrived for over 25 years. Gregorio also announced a new pathway for retiring athletes to transition into coaching roles, with PSC-supported training in partnership with the Bureau of Sports Instruction. “Retired athletes can now become coaches in regional training centers, keeping the grassroots cycle alive,” he shared.Gregorio highlighted the impact of the government’s push for healthier lifestyles, noting the daily turnout of 3,000 people at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex since sports facilities were opened nationwide. There are also plans underway to redevelop the 22-hectare Parks and Wildlife facility in Quezon City into “Parks and Sports Life,” a hub for walking, biking, and recreation.Sports tourism is another focus, with the Philippines set to host major international events between 2026 and 2027, including the World Surfing Championship, Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics, Philippine Golf Open, Karate World Youth, Soft Tennis, and the FIBA Women’s Asia Cup. “The Tour of Luzon last March reached 103 million views in just 10 days. That’s the power of sports tourism—it creates jobs, drives visibility, and puts the Philippines on the global map,” Gregorio noted.PSC Chairman Gregorio closed the forum by assuring stakeholders of transparency and commitment in his leadership: “I assure you of my commitment, honesty, and 100% dedication. We will take care of government resources and private sector support—but let’s do this together for Team Philippines.”

The Hiroshima Dragonflies, reigning B. LEAGUE champions (2023-24), edged the Taoyuan Pauian Pilots, P. LEAGUE+ champions (2023-24), with a 72-68 victory on Sunday night, March 9, to claim the EASL 2024-25 championship in Macau.This marks the second consecutive season that a B. LEAGUE team has won the EASL title, following the Chiba Jets' triumph in 2023-24. 

Filipina Muay Thai fighter Islay Erika Bomogao's birthday wish has been granted as she won her debut in ONE Championship against her Japanese foe, Fuu.One of her dreams has been fulfilled when she entered the ONE Championship ring, and it became more special when she got the win during her natal day.The Muay Thai fighter from the Philippines earned a unanimous decision to win over her Japanese opponent on Friday night at the Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.Bomogao's opponent came out swinging which momentarily caught by Filipina fighter off guard. It did not take long for the Filipina to adjust, and she threw sneaky kicks up top while unleashing quick punches and elbows.The Japanese  fighter pressed the action in round two, but it was Bomogao who landed cleaner with her counterstriking.Fuu continued to move forward in the third and final round but was mostly on the receiving end of Bomogao's lengthy kicks that kept her at bay.

Ysa Bakabak defied the usual path taken by many sports journalists.While others often turned to reporting after unfulfilled dreams of becoming professional athletes, Bakabak managed to pursue both—breaking into the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) as middle blocker for the Akari Chargers while she continued her role as a sports writer for The Lasallian, De La Salle University’s official student publication.The 22-year-old stood out not just for her height and skill on the court but for her ability to balance athletics, journalism, and academics.Bakabak had been part of the DLSU Lady Spikers’ training pool but was never officially fielded in collegiate leagues. Despite the limited exposure and absence of high-profile playing experience, she took a bold step by joining the inaugural PVL draft.Her name was not called during the draft, but she remained undeterred. She later reflected that she wasn’t discouraged, understanding that teams might have prioritized players with greater public visibility. She believed that her lack of collegiate play limited her exposure, but not her potential. Confident in her abilities, she trusted that she could succeed at the professional level and expressed gratitude that Akari recognized that and signed her as a free agent.Her signing with Akari marked a significant turning point, especially after overcoming challenges in her athletic journey. 

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, welcomed the Masters Pinoy Pilipinas 45-Up Basketball Team to the Senate last Monday, August 4, following their gold medal victory at the 2025 World Masters Games in Taiwan.Known for his unwavering support for Filipino athletes, Senator Go personally congratulated the team for bringing pride and honor to the country.He recognized team officials—Team Manager Reynaldo Punongbayan, Assistant Manager Dick Victor Carmona, Head Coach Arlene Rodriguez, and Assistant Coaches Dann Michael Caneba, Albert Valbuena, and Diego Padua—as well as the players, including Justice Midas Marquez, Gilbert Malabanan, Roger Yap, Estong Ballesteros, Oliver Agapito, Rendell dela Rea, Romel David, Guiness Nabung, Milo Bonifacio, Edwin Manabat, Ricky Ricafuente, Arvin Aguila, Paul Reguera, and Marlon Basco.The senator’s interaction with the athletes was warm and sincere, as he shared anecdotes and checked on their well-being.“Congratulations to our Pilipinas 45-Up Basketball Team for winning the 2025 World Masters Games in Taiwan. Victories like this bring national pride that money can’t buy. You carry the honor of our country—thank you for your dedication,” Go said.

Illeana Venice Jimenez is a prominent member of the Philippine women's national ice hockey team, widely recognized for her skillful play and contributions as a forward. Born on September 15, 2004, she currently plays for the Mustangs Hockey Club and has become a standout representative of the Philippines on the international stage.One of her most notable appearances came during the 2024 IIHF Women's Asia and Oceania Cup held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. She played a crucial role in the Philippines' campaign, helping lead the team to a strong 4–1 tournament record and a well-earned silver medal finish.During the 2024 IIHF Women’s Asia and Oceania Cup, Jimenez tallied two goals and two assists, showcasing her offensive capabilities and consistency under pressure.Her performance in the Asia and Oceania Cup not only elevated her status as an elite athlete but also underscored the growing presence of women’s ice hockey in the Philippines.

Petro Gazz Angels star Brooke Van Sickle capped a sensational 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference campaign by claiming her third Most Valuable Player award at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Sunday night, November 30. Less than an hour after steering the Angels past ZUS Coffee in the finals, Van Sickle received the league’s top individual honor, solidifying her status as one of the league’s all-time greats.Already a back-to-back MVP in the last two All-Filipino Conferences, Van Sickle joins Creamline icons Alyssa Valdez and Tots Carlos as the only three-time winners in league history. She also earned her second Best Outside Spiker award, finishing second among local scorers and 10th overall with 160 points. Van Sickle ranked ninth in spiking at 35.48% and eighth in digs with 3.23 per set, proving her dominance on both ends of the court.For ZUS Coffee, Anna DeBeer was recognized as Best Foreign Guest Player after a standout performance that helped the Thunderbelles reach their first-ever PVL Finals. The former University of Louisville standout tallied 210 points on 197 attacks, added eight blocks and five aces, and ranked third in both spiking (39.40%) and receiving (45.68%).Other notable awardees included Savi Davison of PLDT, who claimed Best Outside Spiker honors. Davison led all local scorers with 178 points, ranked second in blocking at 0.71 per set, and placed sixth in spiking at 36.86%.Trisha Tubu of Farm Fresh earned Best Opposite Spiker, finishing as the league’s top spiker at 39.53% and 13th overall in scoring with 116 points.At the net, Maddie Madayag of Choco Mucho was recognized as Best Middle Blocker, leading the league with 29 blocks, including a single-game pro record-tying 10 denials against ZUS Coffee. Pangs Panaga of Creamline also took home a Best Middle Blocker award, tallying 20 kill blocks for her ninth career recognition.Cloanne Mondoñedo of ZUS Coffee claimed Best Setter, topping the league with 6.24 excellent sets per set. Meanwhile, Thang Ponce of Choco Mucho continued her defensive mastery as Best Libero, earning her fifth career award while leading the league in receiving at 55.42% and finishing third in digs with 4.46 per set.Rounding out the awardees was AC Miner of ZUS Coffee, who was named Rookie of the Conference. Miner ranked eighth in blocking at 0.55 per set and finished second among all rookies in scoring with 82 points.The 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference highlighted both individual brilliance and team excellence, with Van Sickle’s historic third MVP award and Petro Gazz’s third conference crown cementing their dominance in Philippine volleyball. Meanwhile, the emergence of rising stars such as AC Miner and Trisha Tubu signals a bright future for the league.

Defending champion National University (NU) held off a resilient Far Eastern University (FEU) in a thrilling-five set match, winning 25-15, 23-25, 24-26, 25-23, 15-8, to remain unbeaten in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, February 23, at the Mall of Asia Arena.After dropping the second and third sets to the Lady Tamaraws, Alyssa Solomon took charge, leading the Lady Bulldogs in the fourth set to a 24-21 advantage.FEU's Faida Bakanke and Jaz Ellarina narrowed the gap, but Bakanke's final attack went out of bounds, and a video challenge failed to overturn the call.Solomon carried her momentum into the fifth set, while Bella Belen contributed with a crucial ace and a net touch violation by FEU, giving NU an 8-3 lead. Erin Pangilinan extended the lead to 12-7, sealing the win with her signature finger-wag celebration.Solomon finished with 23 points, including 19 kills and four blocks, while Belen added 21 markers, including 13 attacks and seven aces. Vange Alinsug also contributed 19 points and 15 excellent receptions, while setter Lams Lamina dished out 23 excellent sets.

For the first time in history, the Gilas Pilipinas Women are poised to chase a spot in the FIBA Women’s World Cup.The Filipinas clinched a berth in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying tournament after narrowly defeating Lebanon, 73-70, during the group stage of the 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup on Wednesday, July 16, at the Shenzhen Sports Center in Shenzhen, China.This crucial win propelled the Philippines into the quarterfinals of the Women’s Asia Cup and guaranteed them an automatic place in the World Cup qualifiers, courtesy of a secured top-six finish in the tournament.“This win represents everything that we’ve been working hard for in the last 10 years or so. We’re glad to be competing and not just staying in Division A, but we still have to improve and we hope we level up again soon,” said Gilas Women’s head coach Pat Aquino.Five Gilas players scored in double figures in the hard-fought victory, led by Naomi Panganiban’s 15 points, highlighted by two clutch free throws with just 8.3 seconds left.Sumayah Sugapong iced two crucial free throws at the 2:18 mark in the fourth quarter to give the Philippines a 71-66 lead, but Lebanon clawed back, trimming the deficit to just 71-69 with 1:15 to play. After Sugapong missed a potential game-sealing three, Lebanon’s Jillian Archer split her free throws, making it 71-70 with under a minute remaining.Panganiban then calmly knocked down her pressure-packed free throws to stretch the lead to 73-70, and Lebanon failed to attempt a game-tying three as time expired.Sugapong and Jack Animam each added 14 points for Gilas, with Animam also hauling down a game-high 16 rebounds. Vanessa de Jesus chipped in 13 points, while Kacey dela Rosa contributed 10, helping the team withstand blowing a 17-point first-quarter lead.The Philippines overcame a stellar performance from Archer, who tallied a game-high 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting and 10 rebounds for Lebanon.Gilas Women finished third in Group B with a 1-2 record. They will take a one-day break on Thursday, July 17, before facing the No. 2 seed from Group A in the quarterfinals on Friday, July 18, at 4:30 pm.The Scores:PHILIPPINES 73 – Panganiban 15, Sugapong 14, Animam 14, De Jesus 13, Dela Rosa 10, Pastrana 7, Castillo 0, Fajardo 0, Surada 0, Ozar 0, Pagdulagan 0.LEBANON 70 – Archer 23, Akl 13, Elias 10, Mansour 7, Naassan 6, Ghaleb 6, Fayad 3, Labban 2, Raffoul 0.Quarters: 29-12, 41-37, 55-57, 73-70.

Philippine billiards legend Efren “Bata” Reyes was honored with a heartfelt tribute at Pacman’s Cue Club in Mandaluyong City as he celebrated his 71st birthday last Tuesday, August 26.Known worldwide as “The Magician,” Reyes was surrounded by friends, fellow legends, and fans who gathered to celebrate the man regarded as the greatest pool player of all time. “It feels like I’m not growing old—like I’m still a kid. This birthday celebration makes me really happy,” Reyes said, beaming with gratitude.Fellow icons Marlon “The Marvelous Captain” Manalo and Francisco “Django” Bustamante were among those who paid tribute.“My wish for Efren is for him to keep playing and stay strong. Don’t stop playing, because if you stop, you might lose your edge,” said Manalo.“This tribute is from me and Senator Manny Pacquiao. Happy Birthday. You know I love you so much. Even as we grow old, we’re still here. I hope you have many more years ahead, ”  Bustamante shared.Reyes delighted the crowd with his signature trick shots, proving that his magic remains. Despite his legendary status, his focus is on the future of Philippine billiards. He expressed his desire to mentor young talents, especially in the provinces, and emphasized the need for more support and sponsorship for rising stars.“We have so many talented players who haven’t emerged yet because they lack sponsors. They need to showcase their skills,” Reyes explained.A longtime advocate for billiards’ inclusion in the Olympics, Reyes hopes the next generation of Filipino cue artists might one day achieve that dream. “I may never see billiards in the Olympics myself, but I want our young players to have that chance,” he added.

The UAAP Season 88 sidelines are set to come alive as Cignal once again tapped student reporters from all eight member schools, blending familiar voices with exciting new talents. Returning for their second stint are University of the Philippines’ Cheska Ramos, Ateneo de Manila University’s Vicsi Burgos, and University of the East’s Althea Franco. They will be joined by five first-time correspondents: De La Salle University’s Sophie Espiritu, Adamson University’s Frankie Buenvenida, Far Eastern University’s Juliana Marasigan, National University’s Zjeahne Luis, and University of Santo Tomas’ Sidney Oliva, representing the host school.

The Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) officially launched its inaugural professional season on Sunday, June 29, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, marking a major milestone for Filipina athletes in the sport of basketball.Six pioneering teams—Batangas New Zealand Bluefire, Pangasinan Solar Home Suns, RK Hoops Quezon City, Discovery Perlas Rizal, San Juan Lady Knights, and Tagaytay Tol Patriots—are taking part in the league’s first-ever pro season.The opening ceremony featured a powerful message from SBP Executive Director Erika Dy, who highlighted the significance of the moment for women in sports.

Filipina tennis sensation Alex Eala continues to make waves on the international stage, reaching a new career milestone by advancing to the semifinals of the WTA 250 Eastbourne Open after a dominant straight-sets win over Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska on Thursday, June 27 (Philippine time).The 20-year-old Eala displayed grit and maturity well beyond her years as she outclassed the World No. 42 Yastremska, 6-1, 6-2, in a clinical performance that underscored her growing confidence on grass courts. The victory came just a day after she pulled off one of the biggest wins of her young career by stunning World No. 20 and former Grand Slam champion Jelena Ostapenko.Even with strong winds sweeping through the Eastbourne courts, Eala remained unfazed. She showcased a well-rounded game anchored by deep, consistent returns and tactical precision that kept her Ukrainian opponent off-balance throughout the match. With a decisive 57-37 advantage in total points won, Eala’s control over the match was evident from start to finish.

Two of the country's Filipina fighters secured victories in their fights this past weekend.Muay Thai fighter Islay Erika Bomogao clinched her second win after winning a unanimous decision against her opponent, Chinese fighter Ran Longshu, at ONE Friday Fights 93 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on Friday night, January 10.In the opening round of their match, her Chinese opponent immediately showed aggression, but Bomogao showed her defense and immediately hit the Chinese fighter with a series of combo punches until she finally gained the advantage over her opponent.With the win, Bomogao now has a 2-0 win-loss record.Meanwhile, mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga made history by defeating Ukrainian grappler Alyona Rassohyna via second-round technical knockout on Saturday, January 11, in the co-main event of ONE Fight Night 27 at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.Zamboanga is now the first Filipina mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter to win the ONE Championship crown and an impressive win over the women’s MMA atomweight title.To secure the victory, the 27-year-old Filipina fighter used her striking skills with well-aimed punches and good grappling defense to overcome Rassohyna, who tried to use her for Zamboanga.The referee stopped the fight at 4:47 after Zamboanga landed elbows and ground and pound punches and was able to break through Rassohyna’s ankle lock attempt.Zamboanga couldn't believe her victory, which she had been hoping for for years, and now her efforts have paid off.“I’ve been aiming for this gold for years. I’m not here for short notice or something, I’ve made this from hard work, tears and everything. The delays and injuries, I’ve had a lot of injuries. Last two weeks ago I couldn’t move my left arm. But I didn’t want to cancel the fight because I know God will give me this belt. Thank you for giving me this opportunity,”  Zamboanga said. Because of her impressive win, she will now be able to fight for the unification bout against the regular champion of her division, Stamp Fairtex. “I really deserve to fight stamp because I proved it (in this fight) by finishing my opponent’,” Zamboanga added.

The second Galaxy Manila Marathon, happening this Sunday, August 10, at the SM Mall of Asia Complex, has drawn a record 19,000 participants—solidifying its status as one of the Philippines’ largest running events for 2025.The international marathon, organized by Runrio Inc., features 42km, 21km, 10km, and 5km categories, with ₱700,000 in total cash prizes. Both the male and female winners of the 42km race will each receive ₱100,000.Race director and international marathoner Rio de la Cruz shared that the 21km category alone attracted 7,000 runners—their biggest half-marathon turnout yet. The full marathon drew 3,000 participants, the 10k had 5,200, and the 5k nearly 4,000.With this surge in participation, Runrio Managing Director Andrew Neri stressed the implementation of heightened safety measures: “We doubled security, medical staff, and ambulances. Safety is our top priority.”Sanctioned by the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association and included in the World Athletics rankings, the event will showcase elite local and international runners, including national team members Christine Hallasgo, Artjoy Torregosa, Richard Salano, and Arlan Arbois, as well as competitors from Japan, the U.S., the UK, Kenya, and more.“This is also a SEA Games qualifying race for the national team,” de la Cruz noted, referencing the upcoming Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December.The marathon will cover notable Metro Manila routes, passing through Manila, Makati, Pasay, and Parañaque, including landmarks like Rizal Park, Intramuros, Roxas Boulevard, and the CCP Complex.Gun start times:42km: 12:00 midnight21km: 4:00 a.m.10km: 5:00 a.m.5km: 5:30 a.m.

The East Asia Super League (EASL) has upheld Meralco’s 85-76 victory over the Taoyuan Pilots in their match held last Saturday in Ilagan, Isabela, even as the Bolts offered to replay the game in the spirit of sportsmanship.Under EASL rules, each team may enlist two world imports, one naturalized player, and one Asian heritage recruit—but only three of them can be on the court at the same time. A misunderstanding of this rule led to Meralco fielding four imports simultaneously for a total of over 9 minutes. EASL records show Meralco outscored Taoyuan 22-15 during that stretch.EASL CEO Henry Kerins stated the incident was unintentional and did not significantly impact the outcome. Both teams acknowledged the oversight, and Taoyuan accepted the result. EASL requested FIBA not to assign the same game commissioner to future matches to ensure stricter enforcement of the rule.In addition, Meralco received penalties for other violations: Rondae Hollis-Jefferson was fined $2,000 for skipping pre- and post-game interviews, while coach Nenad Vucinic was fined $5,000 for unsportsmanlike gestures, with a warning of future suspension.With the ruling, Meralco’s EASL record stands at 1-2. The Bolts next face the Macau Black Bears on Saturday at the Cebu Coliseum, with all ticket proceeds going to disaster relief for Cebu and nearby provinces.The Black Bears, making their season debut, will be led by Damian Chong Qui, supported by Omar Peek Green, Torrance Watson, and Phoenix Shackelford.