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Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, reaffirmed his full support for the budgets of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Games and Amusements Board (GAB), and the Philippine Racing Commission (PhilRACOM) — emphasizing that sustained investment in sports is key to building a generation of disciplined, healthy, and world-class Filipino athletes.

Speaking during a budget hearing, Go highlighted how government backing has already translated into historic success for the Philippines on the global stage.

“Since 2019, when I chaired the Committee on Sports, we won our first-ever Olympic gold in Tokyo through Hidilyn Diaz,” Go said. “And just last year, Carlos Yulo captured two more gold medals in Paris. These victories prove that strong government support leads to results.”

Go noted that despite these triumphs, sports funding remains minimal — only 0.004% of the national budget in 2024. He stressed the need for consistent increases to sustain the country’s progress in international competitions.

“We expect our athletes to perform like world champions, but our support must match that expectation,” Go added. “That’s why we fought to raise PSC’s 2025 budget to ₱1.3 billion.”

Investing in Facilities and Regional Training

The senator also underscored the importance of upgrading sports infrastructure, including athlete dormitories and training centers at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and Philsports (ULTRA).

He proposed the regionalization of sports training centers so that athletes from provinces no longer have to travel to Manila for proper training.

“Let’s bring sports closer to the people,” Go said. “The Philippines is big. We need regional centers to discover and develop talent nationwide.”

He also cited the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City — co-authored by Sen. Win Gatchalian — as a model that allows student-athletes to train and study simultaneously.

Boosting Sports Tourism and Hosting Global Events

Go praised the country’s recent hosting of major international tournaments — including the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, and the upcoming WTA Women’s Tennis Open — noting their positive economic impact and contribution to national pride.

“Hosting world-class events helps promote tourism and shows our capability to the world,” Go said. “We’ve proven that Filipinos can organize events with excellence and passion.”

Supporting Athletes and Fighting Game-Fixing

Beyond funding, Go emphasized the importance of moral and institutional support for athletes, ensuring they can focus solely on competition. He also called on the Games and Amusements Board to intensify its crackdown on illegal gambling and game-fixing, warning that such practices destroy the integrity of sports.

The UAAP’s 88th season officially came alive on September 19 with a vibrant opening ceremony at the University of Santo Tomas Grandstand and Open Field, ushering in a new chapter of collegiate sports tradition and pride.

Athletes, students, alumni, and supporters from all eight member schools gathered in a spirited show of unity, painting the venue in school colors and cheers that reflected the league’s enduring passion and energy.

As this year’s host, UST rolled out its world-class facilities to welcome the league, emphasizing the university’s deep sporting legacy and commitment to excellence.

Carrying the theme “Strength in Motion, Hope in Action,” UAAP Season 88 aims to highlight not only athletic brilliance but also the values of camaraderie, perseverance, and resilience that continue to define the country’s premier collegiate league.

With the stage now set, fans can look forward to another season of unforgettable rivalries, inspiring performances, and stories of triumph that transcend the playing field.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, has renewed his call for government agencies to prioritize health, disaster resilience, and sports infrastructure over projects he described as having little value to Filipinos.

At a Senate Committee on Sports hearing on September 15, Go lamented that billions have been spent on flood control while sports and health facilities remain neglected.

“Sana ‘yung paggamit ng pondo sa infrastructure — instead na gamitin sa mga flood control na wala namang taong nakikinabang, nilalagay sa mga lugar na walang katao-tao — sa sports facilities na makakatulong… gawing dormitoryo, repair po ng ating pasilidad dahil ‘yung iba d’yan napakatagal,” Go said.

He noted that the recent flood control budget could have built 60,000 evacuation centers or 80,000 health centers nationwide, providing tangible benefits for communities.

“Kaysa sa proyektong walang pakinabang o ginagawang gatasan ng iilan, sa sports na lang. At least dito, makikinabang talaga ang ating kababayan at lalo na ang ating mga atleta,” he added.

Go also stressed the urgency of implementing the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates evacuation centers nationwide, and called on the DPWH to focus on sports facility development and rehabilitation.

His comments came after PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio reported on the condition of key sports venues, including the flood-prone Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. 

Gregorio said the PSC is collaborating with the DPWH, MMDA, and other agencies to build catchment systems and upgrade facilities for long-term improvement.

Gregorio assured lawmakers that visible upgrades will soon begin, not only at Rizal Memorial but also at New Clark City’s National Academy of Sports and training centers in Baguio. The PSC is committed to responsible resource management to sustain Philippine sports growth.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has renewed his call for the creation of a Department of Sports, calling it long overdue during the Senate Committee on Sports’ first public hearing of the 20th Congress. 

Go emphasized the need for a dedicated department to address the limited budget and resources currently allotted to sports, noting that the PSC only received significant funding increases through congressional intervention.

“Kung titingnan mo sa budget, napakaliit ng (budget) share ng sports talaga. Kaya nga sana, kung kakayanin maging departamento ito,” Go said. 

Go added that given the meager sports budget, it is high time this was done: “Napapanahon na po talaga, at sobrang liit ng natatanggap ninyo.”

Go argued that enhanced government investment is essential to support Filipino athletes’ international success and strengthen grassroots sports development. He cited the country’s first Olympic gold in Tokyo 2020 and the double gold haul in Paris 2024 as proof that sustained support yields results.

“Kaya naman nagdagdag tayo ng budget para maging PhP 1.2 billion ang budget ng Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) noong 2024,” Go pointed out.

Go also highlighted the wider societal impact of investing in sports, saying it helps protect the youth from drugs and vices while fostering national pride and inspiration. 

“We expect our athletes to perform in international competitions. Kapag nanalo sila damay po ang buong bansa sa honor na dala nila,” Go underscored.

“Makikita naman natin na sulit ang pagsuporta sa ating mga atleta.” “Dati po, since 2019, kulelat tayo sa gold. Sa Olympics, wala tayong gold, naalala ko. Huli tayong silver noong 2016, I think, and before that, 1996 iyung silver na pinakamataas na nakamit natin sa Olympics,” Go added.

“Napapanahon na po talaga,” Go said, underscoring the urgency of establishing a Department of Sports.

“I firmly believe that investing in sports does more than building champions. It protects our youth from drugs and harmful vices while also nurturing world-class athletes who bring pride, honor, and inspiration to our nation,” Go concluded.

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.

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 speech

MVP 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.”

Team Philippines enters the 2025 Chengdu World Games with high hopes and a fighting spirit, as the prestigious international multi-sport event officially opens today in China.

A delegation of over 100 Filipino athletes, coaches, and officials arrived earlier this week, ready to compete in sports where the country has previously excelled—including wushu, dancesport, billiards, archery, and modern pentathlon.

Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino expressed confidence in the team’s medal prospects, citing their extensive preparation and strong international track records.

“We’re not just here to participate—we’re here to compete and win. Many of our athletes are world-class and have proven themselves on the biggest stages,” Tolentino said.

Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio will be among the spectators, joined by top Chinese officials and World Games President José Perurena López.

The men’s floorball team opens the country’s campaign, facing Latvia at 9 a.m. at the Xindu Xiangcheng Sports Centre. The 14-man squad, ranked No. 12 in the world and coached by Noel Mendoza, arrived in Chengdu last Sunday and has been preparing for their match against the No. 4-ranked Latvians.

“We feel great and confident. The team is ready,” said Philippine Floorball Association President Marco Ortiz.

Wushu artist Agatha Wong also expressed her excitement about competing in the World Games.

"I am excited because it is my first time in an opening ceremony. I just want to enjoy and live in the moment," Wong said.

Among the key players is forward Melvin Mendoza, a silver medalist at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games and a veteran of three World Championship appearances.

Senator Bong Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, Youth, Health, and Development, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Filipino athletes by highlighting key legislative initiatives.

Among his notable efforts is the establishment of the National Academy of Sports (NAS) under Republic Act No. 11470, which he authored and co-sponsored. The NAS offers a dual-track system that integrates academic education with elite sports training for young athletes.

Senator Go is also pushing for the passage of the National Academy of Sports Regional Expansion Act (Senate Bill No. 171), which aims to establish regional NAS campuses—particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao—to provide full scholarships and nurture athletic talent across the country.

Other key initiatives include:

• Senate Bill No. 407, amending the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act (RA 10699), to improve support for para-athletes;
• Senate Bill No. 413, or the Philippine National Games Bill, to institutionalize grassroots sports competitions nationwide;
• Senate Bill No. 678, or the National Tertiary Games Act, to promote collegiate-level sports development.

Since assuming his role in 2019, Senator Go has helped oversee historic achievements in Philippine sports, including the country's first Olympic gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games and a double-gold performance at Paris 2024.

“I encourage everyone, young and old, to get into sports and stay away from drugs to keep us healthy and fit,” Senator Go said.

American transgender women will no longer be able to compete in women’s events at the Olympics and Paralympics, following a policy update by the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC).

Effective last July 21, 2025, the USOPC updated its Athlete Safety Policy to align with United States President Donald Trump’s “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports” executive order. The new guidelines, detailed on the USOPC website under “Additional Requirements,” state the committee’s commitment to ensuring fair and safe competition for women athletes.

“The USOPC will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure women have a fair and safe competition environment consistent with Executive Order 14201 (Trump’s order) and the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act,” the statement reads. The Stevens Act, enacted in 1988, governs eligibility disputes for Olympic and amateur sports.

A memo sent Tuesday to Team USA athletes from USOPC chief executive Sarah Hirshland and president Gene Sykes referenced the executive order, noting the committee’s obligation to comply with federal laws. Trump’s order threatens to withhold federal funding from schools or institutions that allow transgender girls to participate on girls’ teams, citing potential Title IX violations.

The order also mandates immediate enforcement of single-sex sports and locker rooms for women, reinforcing the new USOPC policy.

The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has become the latest major sports body to update its policy on transgender athlete participation, joining several other organizations that have clarified or altered their rules this year. Here’s a summary of the most prominent changes:

US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC)

The USOPC now effectively bars transgender women from competing in women’s sports, citing an obligation to comply with President Donald Trump’s executive order. The USOPC oversees around 50 national governing bodies, potentially prompting rule changes at local club levels to maintain membership.

International Cycling Union

Earlier this month, cycling’s global governing body banned transgender women who transitioned after male puberty from women’s races. This came after American rider Austin Killips became the first openly transgender woman to win an official cycling event in May.

University of Pennsylvania

The university modified three women’s swimming records previously held by transgender swimmer Lia Thomas, settling a federal civil rights investigation and restoring records to female athletes. Thomas, who won an NCAA title in 2022, was at the center of the Trump administration’s efforts to restrict transgender participation in women’s sports.

World Aquatics

Swimming’s governing body announced a policy in June allowing only transgender athletes who transitioned before age 12 to compete in women’s events. They are also exploring an “open competition” category for the future.

World Boxing Organization

In May, World Boxing mandated sex testing for all athletes in sanctioned events, referencing scrutiny around Olympic champion Imane Khelif and other elite boxers whose eligibility had been questioned.

British Sports

Following a UK Supreme Court ruling in April, the governing bodies for soccer in England and Scotland banned transgender women from women’s teams, while the England and Wales Cricket Board imposed a similar ban.

World Athletics Council

In March, track and field’s governing body barred transgender women who underwent male puberty from international competition. New regulations on athletes with differences in sex development, such as Caster Semenya, now require six months of hormone suppression before eligibility.

US National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)

The NCAA announced in February that women’s sports would be limited to athletes assigned female at birth, enforcing the rule immediately after Trump’s executive order. The NCAA governs over 1,100 schools and 500,000 athletes.

High School Sports

Nebraska became the latest state in June to ban transgender girls from girls’ sports, joining at least 24 other states with similar policies. The federal government and several states have clashed over such participation rules.

These policy changes reflect a global trend toward more restrictive eligibility standards for transgender athletes, often citing fairness and safety in women’s sports.

The NCAA is heading back to where it all began.

In a landmark decision, the league is set to return to the historic Rizal Memorial Coliseum for its Season 101, marking a symbolic homecoming to one of Philippine sports' most iconic venues.

The move was made official after the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) gave the green light, clearing all logistical hurdles to host NCAA events at the restored coliseum.

The Rizal Memorial Coliseum has been an enduring symbol of Filipino athletic history. First opened in 1934, it has hosted countless memorable moments—from collegiate rivalries to international competitions. 

Its return as the NCAA’s battleground underscores the league’s commitment to honoring its deep roots while pushing forward into a new era, serving as the league’s iconic home and witnessing countless memorable games until 2005.

“This is truly where the NCAA’s identity was forged. Back in the day, the Rizal Memorial Coliseum and the NCAA were one and the same,” told by the acting Management Committee chairman Atty. Jonas Cabochan of San Beda University. 

The NCAA’s return has been warmly received by newly appointed PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio.

“We welcome back the NCAA with open arms. This is their home,” Gregorio affirmed.

The coliseum’s central location stands to benefit most member schools, many of which are based in Manila or the southern parts of Metro Manila—such as San Sebastian, San Beda, St. Benilde, Arellano, EAC, Letran, Mapúa, Lyceum, JRU, and Perpetual Help.

“Having the NCAA back here will draw bigger crowds for every game and reinforce the vibrant spirit that has always defined the league,” Gregorio added.

The NCAA is planning a soft launch at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in September, followed by a grand opening in October.

Additionally, gymnastics, boxing, and weightlifting are being considered as demonstration sports for Season 101, highlighting disciplines that have brought honor to the Philippines in the Olympics, even though they will not yet be part of the official medal tally.

The Philippines is poised to make a striking impact at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, running from December 9 to 20, by assembling its largest delegation in history. With unwavering government support, a remarkable 1,600-strong contingent—predominantly athletes from a variety of team sports—will proudly represent the nation at this highly esteemed regional event.

“This is our biggest SEA Games delegation yet,” declared Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham Tolentino, signaling a bold new chapter in the country’s sporting legacy. 

This monumental team will compete in an astonishing 574 events across 50 sports, nearly doubling the 905 athletes who showcased their talents at the 2023 Phnom Penh Games. Prior to this, the largest Philippine contingent had consisted of 1,115 members during the home games in 2019.

In his inaugural event as chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, Patrick “Pato” Gregorio made a heartfelt commitment to give his all, with one clear objective: to secure more gold medals for the nation.

"There’s no dead end when it comes to dreams. And our dream is to win more gold and serve the 110 million Filipinos,” said Gregorio in Filipino.

The forum marked Gregorio's first appearance following the official turnover of the PSC flag from outgoing chairman Richard Bachmann, who had led the agency since December 2022. His official appointment was confirmed just the previous day by Malacañang.

“Am I excited? Yes. Am I happy? Yes. It’s very difficult to say no to the Republic of the Philippines. This role we’re about to take on for Philippine sports and for the people is not going to be easy,” he added.

With extensive experience in aiding various sports such as basketball, boxing, and rowing, he expressed confidence that with the collaborative support of major stakeholders, achieving these goals is entirely possible.

“I feel grateful and privileged for the chance to rise to the occasion. I am your lucky 13th chairman of the PSC. Don’t expect anything less.”

Gregorio emphasized that under his leadership, the PSC aims to empower and inspire national athletes, establish solid connections between sports and economic growth, and promote a healthy populace.

He expressed a desire for the country to build on the remarkable achievements of its athletes on the international stage, referencing the three gold medals won in the last two Olympics—one by weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz and two by gymnast Carlos Yulo.

Additionally, he stressed the importance of giving non-Olympic sports equal attention and support from government funding.

"There often seems to be a tug-of-war between Olympic and non-Olympic sports, but both are equally significant,” Gregorio asserted, suggesting establishing a foundation to support Philippine sports comprehensively. 

“This foundation would ensure continuous funding, not just when victories are achieved. It would allow all private sector supporters who wish to help to come together,” he explained, noting his intention to engage with National Sports Associations (NSAs) and athletes in the near future.

“In the next two years, I promise to give my all. That's what I conveyed to the PSC employees. But I can’t do it alone. If we perform well, the entire nation will celebrate our success.” 

When asked about the relationship between the PSC and the Philippine Olympic Committee, Gregorio’s response was succinct and decisive. “Automatic. Matic ‘yan,” he affirmed, underscoring the inherent synergy between the two organizations. 

Patrick Gregorio has officially been named the new Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), succeeding Richard Bachmann, who had held the position since early 2023.

This announcement follows a directive from President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., through Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who ordered Bachmann’s removal as part of a broader initiative to restructure leadership within key government agencies.

Before this significant appointment, Gregorio served as President of the Philippine Rowing Association, where he earned acclaim for his dedication to athlete development, grassroots participation, and elevating international competitiveness in rowing and other Olympic sports.

With extensive experience in both the private and public sectors, Gregorio is a seasoned sports executive and a respected figure in Philippine athletics. His appointment heralds a new era for the PSC, emphasizing enhanced performance, transparency, and sustainable development for Filipino athletes.

As the newly instated chairman, Gregorio is expected to bolster collaborations with national sports associations, improve athlete welfare initiatives, and lead preparations for major upcoming international competitions, including the 2025 Southeast Asian Games and the 2026 Asian Games.

The Philippine sports community now turns to Gregorio’s leadership, anticipating positive change as he navigates this pivotal chapter for Philippine sports.