All news tagged NationalUniversity

The UAAP is ramping up health and safety protocols ahead of Season 88, which opens September 19, following the recent tragic deaths of two young basketball players during training.

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag stressed at Wednesday’s preseason press conference that while emergency medical services and health protocols have long been in place, the league is now doubling down on caution—especially during training sessions. 

“We already have emergency medical services in place for competitions. But we’re making sure that athletes undergo proper pre-participation medical screening and reminding schools to be even more vigilant at their training venues,” Saguisag said. 

The renewed push for athlete safety follows the deaths of National University’s Ashlyn Abong, 18, who collapsed during training on June 28, and University of the Philippines recruit Israel Friday, 19, who died after collapsing at practice on August 20.

In response, member schools have also implemented stricter protocols. At UP, the Office of Athletics and Sports Development now requires all students, including athletes, to undergo medical evaluations before enrollment. 

Student-athletes must also pass a Pre-Participation Medical Sports Evaluation (PMSE) and additional cardiovascular screenings before joining their teams.

“They have to undergo tests. Even if they’ve completed the PMSE, further clearance is needed to detect any existing medical conditions,” explained UP’s Bo Perasol.

As Season 88 approaches, the UAAP is sending a clear message: while competition is central to collegiate sports, athlete safety remains the top priority.

Bella Belen has officially taken her talents to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), inking a multi-year deal with the Capital1 Solar Spikers following her selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 PVL Rookie draft, confirming the much-anticipated move.

Co-owner Milka Romero made the official announcement of the Premier Volleyball League top rookie pick’s signing on social media.

“Welcome to the Capital1 family,” Romero posted, sealing Belen’s jump to the pros.

While Belen has been seen supporting the team courtside in recent weeks. 

Her fans will have to wait a bit before seeing the young phenom in action. Belen will only debut for Capital1 in October, as she is still committed to her national team duties with Alas Pilipinas.

It’s important to note that this amount is only a starting baseline under the PVL’s salary scale system—teams are free to negotiate and offer higher pay based on player value and contract terms.

With her official entry into the pro ranks, Belen brings her championship pedigree and MVP credentials from National University to a Capital1 squad eager to build a competitive foundation for the future. Her debut may still be a few months away, but the anticipation surrounding one of Philippine volleyball’s brightest stars continues to grow.