All news tagged PhilippineSportsCommission

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is ramping up its advocacy for youth empowerment through sports, as Chairman Patrick Gregorio is appointed Philippine National Network (PNN) Convenor for the Southeast Asia Sports and Youth Crime Prevention (SEA-SYCP) initiative.

The appointment by SEA-SYCP leaders James Mapstone and Vongthep Arthakaivalvatee recognizes the PSC’s key role in advancing sports-driven youth programs across the region

Mr. Edward Hayco will support Gregorio as Vice-Convenor, ensuring the roll-out of effective, sustainable programs under the SEA-SYCP umbrella.

In a recent meeting with the PSC, SEA-SYCP, and partner government and private agencies, it was agreed that the Philippines will lead program planning and resource mobilization. 

The national steering group will align its efforts with the ASEAN Work Plan, focusing on youth development, community engagement, and crime prevention through sports.

This partnership underscores sports as a powerful tool for social change—promoting discipline, teamwork, and positive youth engagement throughout Southeast Asia.

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.

Talks now are underway for the country’s potential hosting of a WTA event, a move that could mark a major milestone for Philippine tennis.

The proposed WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open is being targeted for January 26 to February 1 next year, following initial discussions between the Philippine Lawn Tennis Association (Philta), the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco.

Also discussed was opening the historic Rizal Memorial Tennis Courts to the public, aiming to expand grassroots access to the sport.

“Our partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission paves the way for a new chapter in Philippine tennis,” said Tiangco, who also serves as Philta secretary general. “From pursuing the hosting of the WTA 125 Philippine Women’s Open and ITF J30 to opening Rizal Memorial courts to the public and building the Philippine Tennis Center in New Clark City, we are bringing world-class opportunities closer to home. Tennis transforms lives, and with PSC’s support, we are determined to help Filipinos rise and shine on the world stage.”

If the plan materializes, fans may even witness Filipina star Alex Eala competing on home soil—a potential highlight as she continues her climb in the global rankings.

For PSC Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, the initiative goes beyond hosting a single tournament.

“This is more than a tournament. This is about giving our athletes the chance to test themselves against the world’s best, inspiring the next generation, and placing the Philippines firmly on the global tennis map. The greatest champions began their journeys on public courts. By opening access and investing in world-class events, we are giving Filipinos the same chance to dream big and achieve greatness.” Gregorio stressed. 

Beyond the WTA discussions, the Philippines is also set to host the ITF J30 Tournament later this year, featuring promising players aged 13 to 18.

With both grassroots development and elite competitions in play, Philippine tennis is gearing up for a future that blends accessibility, international exposure, and the dream of producing more homegrown champions.

Despite missing out on the Paris Olympics in 2024, Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo remains undeterred. The country’s first Olympic gold medalist is now focused on the 33rd Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand, where she will compete in the women’s 58-kilogram division.

“I’m preparing for the SEA Games. Maglalaro po ako ngayong December. Again, depende sa Philippine delegation, pero maglalaro po ako,” Diaz-Naranjo shared, her determination unwavering.

For the Filipina weightlifting icon, representing the nation remains central to her career. “Bumabalik ako parati sa why. It’s always to represent my country and doing my best for the Philippines in weightlifting and also to inspire young Filipinos,” she said.

Diaz-Naranjo already boasts two SEA Games gold medals in the 55kg category and two silvers in the 58kg class, but she knows each competition demands renewed commitment.

Balancing Acts: Training, Coaching, and Inspiring the Youth

While preparing for the SEA Games, Diaz-Naranjo juggles multiple roles: mentoring young lifters for Batang Pinoy, giving motivational talks, and pushing grassroots development in weightlifting.

“Yes, [I’m] very busy. Pero ayun nga, kung may tinatarget ka, you prioritize training kahit saan ka man. Kaya tinatanong ko talaga sa hotel kung may gym ba sila. Baka pwede akong mag-training doon,” she explained.

She often trains before or after coaching sessions to maintain her own focus. “Hindi ko sinasabayan na training and coaching… minsan nag-training ako before or after nila para makapag-focus ako,” she added.

Building Back Discipline and Focus

With less than three months before the SEA Games, Diaz-Naranjo admitted she’s still finding her rhythm. “How prepared? Sorry to say, nasa 70 pa lang. So, restart ako. Nag-training ako, pero iba yung talagang from mag-start ako sa anong ginawa ko nung sa Olympics,” she shared.

Her preparation is both physical and mental, with renewed emphasis on mindset and weekly mental training. She’s also prioritizing injury prevention and diet as she balances her demanding schedule with consistent workouts.

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.

Alas Pilipinas’s impressive performance at the FIVB Men’s World Championship has been seen as a key moment for Philippine volleyball, securing the nation’s spot on the global stage. 

“It was a dream come true,” said Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, after the Philippines defeated world No. 21 Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

Tolentino stressed that this victory was more than just a win—it was a moment in history. “These men have made their mark in volleyball history, and their success will inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps as role models,” he said. 

The POC chief acknowledged that Alas Pilipinas exceeded all expectations. “It was a long shot. We never aimed that high for Alas Pilipinas in this world championship, but they did better than we hoped. I commend the PNVF and the entire sports community for this success.” 

From supposed token participants to giant slayers, Alas Pilipinas delivered a performance that forever etched their place in the country’s sporting history.

On a magical Tuesday night, the 82nd-ranked Nationals shocked the volleyball world, stunning African champions and world No. 21 Egypt with a 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21 victory at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.

What was once thought impossible—winning even a set against the world’s top teams—turned into a breakthrough triumph that shook Pool A standings and gave the Filipinos (1-1) a fighting chance to reach the Round of 16.

“This is history, and I am so proud to be part of it,” said Bryan Bagunas, who spearheaded the attack with 25 points on 23 kills. “We came into this game with a ‘nothing to lose’ mentality, but we showed what we are made of. It’s just a proud moment for us and the country.”

Bagunas found support from Marck Espejo and Leo Ordiales, who atoned for his tough debut against Tunisia with 21 points in the bounce-back win. Espejo capped his 13-point performance with the game-winning block that sealed the victory.

“It was all instinct on my part,” Espejo said in Filipino. “After we won the first set, I felt that it was already an achievement. But we knew we could still do better.”

For Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, the victory was more than just a number in the standings.

“I am very happy—not because we won, but because we were able to show that we can play well on this stage. They gave us an opportunity to win the match and we took it,” he said.

The win sets up a pivotal clash with world No. 16 Iran on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena. Iran, Asia’s top-ranked squad, is coming off a rebound victory over Tunisia but had previously lost to Egypt—making the duel against the Philippines even more intriguing.

From doubted hosts to history-makers, Alas Pilipinas has proven it belongs among the world’s best—and now, the dream of advancing is suddenly within reach.

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.

Veteran spikers Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo will headline Alas Pilipinas Men as the team makes its first-ever appearance at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025. 

“Ito, big tournament talaga. Lahat naman po kami talaga ready. Pero siyempre as a team, malayo pa. Malayo pa yung kailangan gawin. Pero malayo na rin ang in-improve ng team since nagsama-sama kami before training camp sa Europe,” said Espejo. 

The duo will lead a roster featuring Leo Ordiales, Michaelo Buddin, Jade Disquitado, Louie Ramirez, setter Owa Retamar, and backup Eco Adajar.

The middle blockers are Kim Malabunga, Peng Taguibolos, and Lloyd Josafat, with defensive duties handled by Josh Ybañez, Jack Kalingking, and Vince Lorenzo. 

“It’s a big challenge for us middle blockers because we have to protect the team through our blocking,” said Malabunga. 

“That’s why we need to apply everything coach Angiolino [Frigoni] is teaching us so we can help the team. So far, our training has been really good. Our transitions are improving,” he added. 

Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni will steer the squad, who prepared with a European training camp.

“Coach Angiolino [Frigoni] always reminds us that it doesn’t have to be a complete block. What matters is at least getting a touch on the ball, slowing it down — that’s the goal. That will help our team,” echoed Josafat.

“I know it’s going to be difficult for me because of the height disparity. Our opponents will be much taller for sure. But if we can’t score on the attack or get a clean block, we’ll find other ways to contribute to the team,” Taguibolos said.

And if the middle blockers form the wall at the net, the liberos are the shield on the floor — the last line of defense, keeping rallies alive with every dig and reception.

Jack Kalingking and Vince Lorenzo, along with Josh Ybañez, take on the responsibility of keeping rallies alive, knowing their steadiness could make all the difference in the nation’s World Championship debut.

“I’ll just apply what we learned in Europe, what our coaches taught us, and of course, it feels great that if I manage to dig or receive the ball, it’s already a big accomplishment. It means I’ve done my role,” Lorenzo said.

Veteran Kalingking, who was also part of the national team that claimed silver in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, serves as an anchor not only on the floor but also in the minds of his younger teammates.

“The most important thing is probably guiding them the right way — showing the right character, how to help the team, and of course, building their confidence so they can show they’re not afraid on the court,” he said.

Meanwhile, with the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship looming from September 12-28 Alas Pilipinas’ defenders are preparing for the toughest challenge of their careers. 

Knowing that every dig, reception, and block could be decisive against taller, more experienced opponents, Alas Pilipinas’ backline is sharpening its discipline and resilience ahead of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. 

The Philippines opens its campaign against Tunisia this Friday, September 12 at the Mall of Asia Arena, determined to hold their own against the world’s best.

Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala powered into the quarterfinals of the 2025 São Paulo Open with a dominant 6-1, 6-4 win over Argentina’s Julia Riera. 

Eala broke early to take the first set and weathered a tougher challenge in the second before sealing victory in one hour and 25 minutes.

The match marked their third career meeting, with Eala and Riera now tied in head-to-head encounters on hard courts. 

With this win, Eala sets up a quarterfinal clash against Indonesia’s Janice Tjen, who has enjoyed a strong season with a 59–11 record and a career-high WTA ranking of No. 130.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has filed Senate Resolution No. 117, commending Filipina tennis star Alex Eala for her maiden Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) title at the Guadalajara 125 Open. 

Senator Go highlighted Eala’s victory as a testament to discipline, resilience, and excellence—qualities that uplift national pride and inspire young Filipino athletes.

Go’s resolution emphasized that Eala’s triumph goes beyond personal achievement, reflecting the capacity of Filipinos to excel globally when given support and opportunity. 

He anchored the resolution on the Philippine Constitution’s mandate to promote sports, citing Article XIV, Section 19.

In his remarks, Go praised Eala’s come-from-behind win over Hungary’s Panna Udvardy, 1-6, 7-5, 6-3, and her consistent display of the “indomitable Filipino competitive spirit.” 

He said Eala’s feat is both a career milestone and a rallying point for national pride.

Go further underscored the need for sustained investment in sports. He spotlighted the National Academy of Sports (NAS), established under Republic Act No. 11470, which he authored and co-sponsored, and pushed for its regional expansion through Senate Bill No. 171. 

He also filed bills to enhance incentives for para-athletes, institutionalize grassroots and collegiate sports competitions, and improve sports facilities nationwide.

Since becoming Senate Committee on Sports chair in 2019, Go has championed Philippine sports, supporting facility improvements and athlete development. 

He noted this era has seen historic achievements, including the country’s first Olympic gold and twin golds at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

By filing the resolution, Go seeks to honor Eala and reaffirm the vital role of sports in national development, situating her triumph within the broader context of Philippine athletic progress.

Alex Eala continued her hot streak, advancing to the second round of the São Paulo Open with a commanding 6-0, 6-2 win over French qualifier Yasmine Mansouri. 

The Filipina, fresh off her first WTA title, needed just one hour and 10 minutes to dominate the match, winning 34 service points and 31 return points against Mansouri’s 15.

“I did not expect so many people to come out and watch me play. I guess I was a bit lucky to be sandwiched in between two great Brazilians so I’m now just happy to be here and to be able to play well,” Eala said. 

Eala, ranked 61st in the world, expressed her delight at the support from local fans in her first visit to Brazil. 

She now faces World No. 188 Julia Riera in the round of 16, with their match scheduled for early Thursday morning (Manila time).

Filipina wushu standout Agatha Wong captured bronze in the women’s taijijian at the 17th World Wushu Championships in Brasilia, Brazil, after delivering a strong performance that earned her 9.703 points. 

Wong, one of the country’s most decorated wushu athletes, placed behind Japan’s Shino Saito, who took home the gold, and Singapore’s Zeanne Law, who captured silver. 

The medal also marks a significant comeback for the five-time Southeast Asian Games champion who was eager to bounce back following her earlier setback at the Chengdu World Games.

Meanwhile, the Philippines also celebrated other medalists: Carlos Baylon Jr. (silver, men’s sanda 56kg) and bronze medalists Russel Diaz (men’s sanda 52kg), Gideon Fred Padua (men’s sanda 60kg), Xander Alipio (men’s sanda 65kg), Jenifer Kilapio (women’s sanda 52kg), and Krisna Malecdan (women’s sanda 56kg).

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.

Alex Eala has finally captured her first WTA singles crown—making tennis history for the Philippines—at the WTA 125 Guadalajara Open.

The 20-year-old Filipina rallied from a shaky start to defeat Hungary’s Panna Udvardy, 1-6, 7-5, 6-3, in a thrilling two-hour, 30-minute final at Mexico’s Panamerican Tennis Center. Seeded No. 2,  

The win catapulted her to No. 61 in the WTA live rankings, marking another milestone in her young career.

“First title,” Eala posted on social media, offering thanks to her Filipino supporters: “Mga kababayan, maraming salamat.”

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praised Eala for “writing history” and pledged stronger government backing for grassroots sports. 

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal, whose academy helped develop Eala’s game, also congratulated her and expressed his pride in her achievement.

With this breakthrough, Eala now owns five titles—adding a WTA crown to her junior Grand Slam triumphs—and continues to raise the Philippine flag on the global tennis stage.

A 14-strong Philippine delegation is set to compete at the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in Canfranc, Spain, from September 23 to 28.

Led by veteran captain Arnie Macarenas, the team will see action in long trail, short trail, U23, and U20 events. The squad departs for Spain on September 10 for training and acclimatization.

Philippine Trail Running Association (Philtra) Vice President and Secretary-General Tin Ferrera said expectations are measured, as nearly half the team will make their international debut. “Based on training, we expect Top 20 to Top 30 finishes,” Ferrera said. 

Macarenas, a silver medalist at the Asia Pacific Trail Running Championships, will lead the long trail team with Larry Apolinario, Joebert Elmaguin, Elizabeth Dangadang, and Angelie Cabalo. The short trail team features Randolf Gonzales, Romnick Tongkaling, John Ray Onifa, Joy Beltran, and Noime Fernandez.

In the youth divisions, Ken Olver Libo-on and Evan Dian Sitoy will compete in the mountain classic-junior (U20), while Samuel Manuel and Charlotte Muyco represent the Philippines in the mountain classic-senior (U23).

Joy Beltran and Charlotte Muyco, both set for their first international competition, shared their excitement and determination ahead of the event.

“I’m excited to go there because after four months of training, we know we are ready to compete,” said Beltran.

“I feel nervous, but I know I can do it,” added Muyco.

Muyco also hopes to inspire young athletes to try trail running, a sport she believes offers a unique experience compared to others.

“I will really do my best to reach the podium and become an inspiration, especially for our youth (U23). We should encourage kids to start young and explore the outdoors, especially the mountains. Trail running is amazing and truly different from other sports—that’s why we love it.”

The delegation also includes officials and support staff, with the team set to test themselves against powerhouse squads from 75 countries— including the US, France, Italy, Germany, and host Spain. Top Asian rivals include China, Japan, South Korea, and Nepal.

Following a 12th-place finish last year in Austria, the Philippine team is eager to build on that performance at this year’s global showcase.

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.”

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.

Olympian weightlifter Vanessa Sarno will be sidelined indefinitely after accepting a two-year ban from the International Testing Agency (ITA) for an alleged anti-doping rule violation, combined with personal circumstances including her pregnancy.

Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP) president Monico Puentevella confirmed that the 20-year-old Asian champion and SEA Games gold medalist is currently on leave from the national team. 

“She got pregnant,” Puentevella shared, adding that Sarno has been away from the squad for months.

According to the ITA, Sarno’s suspension began on August 4, 2025, and runs until August 3, 2027, following three whereabouts failures in a 12-month period. She did not contest the sanction.

Puentevella emphasized that Sarno’s absence is primarily due to her failure to report and her personal situation, declining further comment on the doping issue.

“She’s out for failure to report,” Puentevella added.

Sarno, long regarded as the heir apparent to Olympic champion Hidilyn Diaz, was expected to spearhead the Philippines’ weightlifting campaign in upcoming international events. With her absence, the country faces a significant gap in its medal hopes.

Puentevella declined to comment further on the doping issue but reiterated that Sarno’s absence from the national team was primarily due to failure to report and her personal situation.

Sarno, widely seen as the heir apparent to Olympic champion Hidilyn Diaz, was expected to lead the country’s weightlifting campaign in upcoming international tournaments. 

With her sidelined, Philippine weightlifting faces a significant gap in its medal hopes.