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.

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.

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.

That’s what former PBA player and current Lyceum Pirates head coach Gilbert Malabanan emphasized in an exclusive interview with Scoreline.ph. Malabanan is set to join the Masters Pinoy Pilipinas Basketball team, competing in the World Masters 45+ category from May 17-30, 2025 in Taiwan.Malabanan shared that commitment is the biggest challenge he and his teammates face as they juggle work, basketball, and other responsibilities. However, as a professional, he has learned to manage his time effectively, driven by his dedication to the game—especially when representing the country.“First of all, the most challenging part is commitment. Of course, all of us have jobs. But when it comes to commitment, how do you manage it? Especially with our practices,” Coach Gilbert said.“We want to be complete during training because this is our preparation for the Masters tournament in May,” he added.

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.

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.

In the world of collegiate volleyball, some stars shine quietly, only to blaze brightly when the time is right. Jhasmin Gayle Pascual, born on August 3, 1999, is one such star—a powerful opposite hitter whose journey with the Benilde Lady Blazers became a story of resilience, dominance, and triumph.When Pascual first stepped onto the court for the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in NCAA Season 95, expectations were high. She was poised to make her mark—but fate had other plans. The season, like many sports events in 2020, came to an abrupt halt as the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe. For Pascual and her teammates, it was a moment of heartbreak and uncertainty, a pause in what could have been a breakout year.But champions are not only defined by trophies—they are also shaped by how they bounce back.Two years later, the NCAA returned with renewed vigor in Season 97. The Lady Blazers came back with something to prove, and Pascual emerged as one of their most vital weapons. With her powerful spikes and unshakable composure, she led the team to their second NCAA title—their first since Season 90. Her performance earned her the Finals Most Valuable Player award, a fitting recognition for someone who had waited years for her moment.

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.

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.

UAAP executive director Rebo Saguisag announced that, beginning Season 89, schools will be permitted to include up to two foreign student-athletes (FSAs) in their team pools for all sports.“This was approved this year and, like all our rules, will take effect the following season — so starting UAAP Season 89,” Saguisag said in a statement. Under the new rule, only one FSA can be on the active roster, with the other on reserve.Previously, teams were limited to a single FSA. The change aims to provide roster security—especially after instances like National University being left without an FSA due to injury—while maintaining competitive balance. “For all sports, teams can have two foreign student-athletes in their pool, but only one can be part of the active roster at a time, with the other on reserve,” he added.The rule takes effect next year, as UAAP Season 88 kicks off this week. 

A new basketball team has emerged from the Far East.Here, we will see its uniqueness because the team from the Philippines is composed of veteran and well-known basketball players in the country, together with the professionals in their chosen field that are able to compete in the sports.It is led by one of the legendary coaches in Philippine basketball, none other than Coach Arlene Rodriguez.In an exclusive interview with Scoreline.ph, Rodriguez shared and identified the formation and humble beginning of the Masters Pinoy Pilipinas 45up Basketball, as well as how he managed to coach the team. He also shared his thoughts about the country's upcoming participation in the World Masters Games to be held this coming May.Coach Arlene told Scoreline that they started the Masters Pinoy Pilipinas 45up Basketball in October last year, through the help and initiative of their team manager, Architect Rey Punongbayan. Together with coaches Dann Michael Caneba and Albert Valbuena, they started planning and organizing the structure of the basketball team from the second week of December until this January, and the players also started practicing.“Masters Pinoy was created in October. But we started practicing on the 2nd of December, then we had a talk. Then we decided to start it again this January,” said Rodriguez. One of the things that Coach Arlene considered was the conditioning of the players who are already at the age of 45 years old and above, but still have the skills, passion, and effort to play competitive basketball.The former assistant coach of the now defunct Formula Shell added that their team is composed of ex-professional players, amateurs, varsity players, and even businessmen who are passionate about basketball.Coach Arlene also shared that he did not have any difficulty in handling his players because of the amount of basketball experience they had.“Actually, they understand the game better as they already have a lot of experience playing. Mentally, they are prepared, they can pick the instructions easily, unlike the young ones that need details of everything. The only thing that we need to work out is their conditioning, including team effort from both offense and defense.”And the World Masters tournament will be an avenue for Coach Arlene and his players to showcase Filipino talent once again.In the end Coach Arlene asked our countrymen to support the Masters Pinoy in their upcoming tournament.“I hope you support us. Masters Pinoy in the World Masters tournament in Taiwan from May 17th to 30th. And those who haven’t been part of the Philippine team before, still work hard, especially when you’re 40 and above, because maybe in the future you can be part of the team,” coach Rodriguez concluded.We can say that Coach Arlene has dedicated his life to the field of basketball since he started playing for the JRC Heavy Bombers until he became an assistant coach to famous teams in the PBA, such as Formula Shell and the crowd-favorite Ginebra. Coach Arlene is also currently the coach of TUP Greyhawks and shaping the future of Philippine basketball through his grassroots programs.

Team Philippines will send a 136-strong delegation to compete in 16 of the 23 sports featured at the 3rd Asian Youth Games, set from October 22 to 31 in Manama, Bahrain.Boxing prospect Leo Mhar Lobrido and rising volleyball talent Harlyn Serneche will carry the national flag during the parade of nations at the opening ceremony in Exhibition World Bahrain, the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) confirmed.“We’ll field a compact team of promising athletes who could become our future Olympic, world, and regional champions,” said POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino. The Philippines aims to match or surpass its 2013 Nanjing Youth Games tally of two golds and three silvers.

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. 

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 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.

Jamie Malonzo made a triumphant return as Barangay Ginebra eked out an 86-63 win over the Blackwater Bossing in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup on Sunday night, January 12, at the Ynares Center Antipolo.The Gin Kings missed the services of the 6-foot-7 athletic wingman due to a calf injury that had sidelined him for nine months. Malonzo registered eight points on top of three rebounds and a steal that saw the return of the crowd darling back to the win column, sitting at 6-3 in the team standings, tied with Converge and guest team, Hong Kong Eastern. Ginebra head coach Tim Cone admitted that they are still gradually reintroducing Malonzo into their lineup, with limited to just 10 minutes of action off the bench.

NorthPort extended its campaign in the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup by securing a 108-103 victory over Barangay Ginebra in Game 4 on Wednesday, March 5, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.After suffering blowout losses in the first three games—losing by an average of 20.6 points—the Batang Pier finally found a way to stay alive and force a Game 5 on Friday, March 7.

If there's a basketball referee today who belongs to the elite ranks of FIBA, it is none other than Filipino referee Glenn Cornelio.One of Cornelio's greatest aspirations is to officiate in the FIBA World Cup. Currently, he holds a FIBA Black License, allowing him to officiate both men's and women's competitions.He was also part of the recently concluded East Asia Super League (EASL) championship finals in Macau.Aside from Cornelio, five other Filipino referees are accredited by FIBA—Totie Celeste, Aaron Canete, Harry Santos, Ralph Moreto, and Christian Penaojas. However, Cornelio is the only one recognized at the elite level for the 2023-25 cycle.“My goal is to officiate in the World Cup’s main competition. In the last World Cup, I was only a reserve referee,” Cornelio said.For Cornelio, being a basketball referee is no easy task. He believes that referees must always be ready, well-prepared, and highly knowledgeable about the rules, while also maintaining top physical condition."Readiness and preparedness in terms of rule knowledge and physical conditioning should always be a referee’s mindset. Our motto is ‘learning never stops’ because basketball is constantly evolving and improving. Referees must continue studying to stay updated. Basketball knowledge and refereeing expertise should go hand in hand,” he added.Cornelio began his officiating career in 2002 during his third year in college. He later advanced to officiate in prestigious leagues such as the UAAP, NCAA, FilOil, Liga Pilipinas, PBA, and FIBA.His international experience includes officiating in the SEA Games (twice), FIBA Asia and World Cup qualifiers, the FIBA Asia Cup, BCL, WASL, ABL, EASL Final Four (twice), EASL Terrific 12, PBA 3x3 and 5x5, and the FIBA U19 World Cup.Cornelio’s journey serves as an inspiration to fellow Filipino referees who aspire to reach the highest levels of the profession.

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) women’s volleyball world was shaken when the news broke out that some of the University of the East (UE) Lady Warriors left the team, and made their transfer to the University of the Philippines, in the aftermath of coach Obet Vital’s resignation and reported transfer to UP, to go along Fighting Maroons head coach Benson Bocboc.In a Scoreline.ph exclusive interview with these “FOURmer” UE Lady Warriors, Casiey Dongallo, Jelai Gajero, Kizzie Madriaga, and Shamel Fernandez shared their journey in going from one school to another.The four women standout shared that the transition was not that smooth as they felt a lot of bashing about their decision to become part of the Fighting Maroons.“Personally, I don't think the transition from UE to UP was smooth. Because, when the issue came out that I had to move, of course, everyone has their own opinion about the decision. So, yes, we felt bashing, like, why is it like this, why is it like that,” said Dongallo in Filipino.“But, for me, I didn’t really bother to dwell on it because it won't help me in my future endeavors,” added the star rookie of the Lady Warriors last season.