The final 10 players added to the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) 50 Greatest list were officially announced on Wednesday, April 2.Nelson Asaytono, long expected to be part of earlier announcements for the Top 25 and Top 40 lists, has finally secured his place among the PBA’s greatest. He leads the latest batch of players included in this prestigious group.Joining Asaytono in the final 10 are: Jeffrey Cariaso, Rene “Bong” Hawkins Jr., June Mar Fajardo, Abraham Columbus “Abe” King Jr., Daniel Charles “Danny” Seigle, Earl Scottie Thompson, Arnulfo “Arnie” Tuadles, Manuel “Manny” Victorino, and Elpidio “Yoyoy” Villamin.

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is set to deliver a more dynamic and inclusive grassroots sports program with the upcoming Batang Pinoy 2025, scheduled to take place from October 25 to 30 in General Santos City.This year’s edition of Batang Pinoy aims to further encourage Filipino youth to engage in sports, develop their athletic potential, and embrace the values of discipline, sportsmanship, and teamwork.According to PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann, the 2025 Batang Pinoy will showcase competitions in 27 sports disciplines, including Aquatics (Swimming), Archery, Arnis, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball (3×3), Boxing, Chess, Cycling, Dancesport, Futsal, Gymnastics, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Kickboxing, Karate, Muay Thai, Pencak Silat, Soft Tennis, Tennis, Sepak Takraw, Table Tennis, Weightlifting, Wrestling and Wushu. Chairman Bachmann also emphasized that this year’s event will be grander and more organized, with modern equipment and facilities, and better logistics and accommodations for all participating athletes.“Our main objective for this year’s Batang Pinoy is to provide the delegates an excellent experience as if they are already competing in a global level of competition they usually see in televisions and social media,” Bachman said. In addition to upgrading the overall competition experience, the PSC is committed to expanding participation from regions across the country, ensuring that young athletes from various provinces have the opportunity to compete and grow.“Batang Pinoy is not just about discovering future champions,  It’s also about instilling values that shape character—discipline, hard work, and sportsmanship.” Bachman added.

Alex Pagulayan began his billiards journey in 2002 when he made a stunning run to the finals of the US Open Nine-ball Championship, only to fall short against Ralf Souquet, 11–13. Three years later, he returned to the same stage with renewed fire and captured the title, defeating fellow Filipino Jose Parica, 11–6.Though raised in Canada, Pagulayan represented the Philippines in the mid-2000s and again in 2012. In recent years, however, he has returned to carrying the Canadian flag in international tournaments.His biggest career breakthrough came in 2004 when he won the World Pool Championship in Taipei. After his victory, he paid a courtesy call to the Philippine president, accompanied by his close family friend Andrew Lee, who recalled the moment with a hint of surprise. “We didn’t know what was inside the envelope,” Lee said, referring to a modest incentive from the government for winning the world title.Later that year, Pagulayan helped the Filipino team secure the Snooker gold medal at the 2005 Southeast Asian Games in Manila, alongside Joven Alba and Leonardo Andam. After a 3–2 win over Thailand at the Makati Coliseum, he emerged as a triple gold medalist — a testament to his skill and his dedication to the flag he once proudly bore.

Baguio City surged to the top of the Batang Pinoy 2025 medal standings after dominating the archery events on Tuesday, bagging 10 gold medals to boost its overall haul.As of posting time, Baguio has collected 23 gold medals, with most coming from its stellar archers Jianna Rae Delos Reyes and Jephtha Caleb Fernandez, who swept all three titles in their respective divisions — Delos Reyes in the girls compound (12 years old) and Fernandez in the boys compound (14-under).Additional golds came from Kester RJ Delos Reyes (boys compound 17-under, first distance), Jan Precious Laking (boys compound 14-under, second distance), Ryzen Keith Viduya, and Jalorrae Cxethreen Lictao (male recurve division 14-under, second distance).Aside from the 23 golds, Baguio also holds 11 silver and 15 bronze medals, underscoring its dominance in the national youth sports competition.Manila, which led the tally in the first two days, slipped to second with 15 golds, 15 silvers, and 13 bronzes, while defending overall champion Quezon City — listed as 14 golds, 10 silvers, and 22 bronzes — currently sits in third place.With several events still underway, the race for overall supremacy in Batang Pinoy 2025 remains tight — but for now, Baguio City stands tall atop the leaderboard.

In the continuation of our Profile Series, we shine the spotlight on the first-ever four-time Most Valuable Player in the Philippine Basketball Association — and arguably the league’s greatest of all time — the legendary “El Presidente,” Ramon Fernandez.Known for his elegant hook shot and unparalleled court vision, Fernandez took the league by storm with MVP wins in 1982, 1984, 1986, and 1988. Beyond individual accolades, he secured 19 championship titles in an illustrious career that spanned two decades.Born on October 3, 1953, in Maasin, Leyte, Fernandez stood 6-foot-4 and played the center/forward position, but his game defied traditional roles. With the ball-handling of a guard and the mind of a tactician, he was the prototype of the modern big man — long before the game evolved to demand it.

 The De La Salle Green Archers have tapped the services of Fil-Am big man Dominic Sarmiento as its newest center.The ex-Irvine Valley College freshman was announced to be heading to Taft after a US-based Filipino basketball org, Tumakbo United, posted about Sarmiento’s next big move.A report from Tiebreaker Times showed that the 6-foot-8 center played in the States as part of the Orange Empire Conference of the California Community College Athletic Association. Sarmiento played 15 games for the Irvine Valley Lasers in the league’s 2023-2024 season, averaging 1 point and 1 rebound in five minutes of playing time. However, it will take some time before the Archers will tap its newest big man, as Sarmiento will need to fulfill a one-year residency period before he becomes eligible to play starting UAAP Season 88.Sarmiento joins a star-studded transfer class to DLSU, which also includes Mason Amos, Luis Pablo, and Kean Baclaan. (PB)

Carlo "THE BLACK TIGER" Biado is a Filipino professional pool player. His highest-profile wins include the World Nine-ball Championship and the World Ten-ball Championship in 2017 and 2024.He started playing pool at age 13 and worked as a caddie at the Villamor Air Base golf course while still a student.Biado became a professional pool player in 2004 but failed to win any major world title in his first ten years.In 2015, he reached the final of the WPA World Ten-ball Championship, defeating David Alcaide and Nikos Ekonomopoulos in the knockout rounds.In 2017, Biado defeated Jayson Shaw of the UK, 11–7, to win the men's 9-ball event at the World Games. In 2019, he also reached the final of the WPA Players Championship, narrowly losing to Kevin Cheng, 12–11.In 2021, Biado defeated Aloysius Yapp, 13–8, to win the U.S. Open Pool Championship. With the win, he joined Alex Pagulayan and Efren Reyes as one of the few Filipino players to have won the prestigious tournament.He went on to defeat fellow Filipino cue artist Johann Chua, 9–3, to win the men's Ten-ball singles gold medal at the 31st Southeast Asian Games held at the Ha Dong Gymnasium in Vietnam.In 2022, the trio of Johann Chua, Carlo Biado, and Rubilen Amit triumphed in the WPA World Teams Championship, sweeping Great Britain—composed of Jayson Shaw, Kelly Fisher, and Darren Appleton—3–0 in the final held in Klagenfurt, Austria.With the win, they delivered the Philippines its first world team ten-ball title after runner-up finishes in 2010 and 2014, the last time the tournament was held before being revived in 2022.

It’s a bold move, but one with vision: the Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers are placing their chips on youth and promise as they aim to rewrite their narrative in NCAA Season 101. After a disappointing 4–14 finish in Season 100 (10th place), JRU is undergoing a rebuild, one that hinges not on veterans past their primes, but on raw talent, energy, and a new coaching direction.While most of the roster is fresh, the Bombers retain some anchors: Shawn Argente, Vince Sarmiento, Justin Lozano, and returning floor general Nani Epondulan, himself now installed as head coach. Epondulan is no stranger to JRU lore: a former MVP in NCAA history, he returns with the ambition of ending the program’s Final Four drought and reviving its identity. Joining them are new faces such as Sanlea Peñaverde, a standout from the San Sebastian Staglets who made waves in the juniors division, and Sean Salvador, a seasoned transfer from Mapúa. Also in the mix is Paul Enal, fresh off a Defensive Player of the Year distinction in the JRU juniors league. Rounding out their young core are John Canoza, Franzen Casinillo, Benedict Catapang, Gyllie Esguerra, Jay Garupil, Harry Herrera, Ivan Panapanaan, and Rasa Soleimani.The gamble is clear: let these young pieces grow under pressure, accelerate their development, and perhaps surprise a field that may be overlooking JRU’s potential. If the chemistry clicks, the Heavy Bombers could awaken as one of the season’s dark horses.

As we continue our Player Profile series highlighting the icons of Philippine basketball, we now shine the spotlight on one of the league’s most underrated yet highly decorated players—Alfredo “Freddie” Hubalde, the 1977 PBA Most Valuable Player. Known as a silent operator, Hubalde built a legacy not through fanfare but through consistent excellence, smart plays, and championship-caliber performance across 16 seasons in the PBA.

When François Gautier first laced up his skates more than three decades ago, he never imagined that a Hollywood film would spark a lifelong passion that would eventually take root thousands of miles away—in the Philippines.Like many of the country’s first-generation hockey players, Gautier discovered the sport through the classic Mighty Ducks movie.“I tried several sports when I was a kid, and when I tried hockey, I just fell in love with it,” he recalled. “Never looked back.”Today, the 41-year-old goaltender proudly wears the Philippine colors on the international stage, a role he describes as both honor and a privilege. “It’s something special,” he said. “When you wear the flag, you just want to do your best for your country.”Gautier returned to the Philippines in 2005 after finishing high school and college in France, and quickly became part of the small but passionate hockey community. He says the national team's culture is built on unity amid diversity.“We have a lot of different backgrounds,” he explained. “Some are half French, half Swiss, half Swedish. But when we step on the ice, we’re all family. We have each other’s backs.”Despite varying ages and careers, some players are students, others are working professionals or parents, the bond among teammates remains strong. “When we are at the rink, it is like we leave everything else behind. It is just us and the game,” he added.Outside of hockey, Gautier enjoys spending time with his family. “Nowadays, I just like to stay home with my kids,” he said. “Our schedule is pretty demanding, especially with two big tournaments coming up, so downtime is precious.”With three international championships on the horizon, Gautier balances his on-ice duties with his responsibilities as a father. A testament to the dedication shared by many Filipino ice hockey players who juggle passion and personal life.Ask Gautier what makes hockey special, and his eyes light up. “It is the greatest sport in the world,” he declared. “You’ve got speed, intensity, and heart. It’s like three or four sports combined.”The Lycée Saint-Charles product also draws an amusing comparison to basketball, the Philippines’ national obsession.“I know Filipinos love basketball,” he said, smiling. “But in hockey, we’ve got blades on our feet, and I’m stopping pucks going a hundred miles an hour, sometimes hitting my head.”For Gautier, hockey players are “warriors.” Unlike other sports, he says, “We pretend not to hurt just to keep playing.”His message to aspiring players? “Come by, give it a try. Whether you are young or older, we will teach you. Put on a pair of skates, we will show you how to fly out there.”Now guarding the net for the Philippine Men’s National Ice Hockey Team, Gautier has come full circle in his athletic journey. “I used to be a defenseman for 30 years,” he said. “Now, I am a goalie and [I’m] loving it.”Gautier has spent the last two decades helping grow the sport in his home. His story is one of passion, perseverance, and pride. A reflection of how far Philippine ice hockey has come, and how much further it can go.

PBA legend Roger Yap was known as “The Predator” during his time in the pro league, a moniker he carried with pride every time he stepped on the court.But this time, Yap will take on a new role as “The Director” of the Pinoy Masters Pilipinas Basketball team, which is set to compete in the World Masters tournament from May 17-30 in Taiwan.In an exclusive interview with Scoreline.ph, the four-time PBA champion shared his contributions to the team as they represent the country on the hardcourt. 

The Philippines will field its largest-ever delegation for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, sending 1,600 athletes, coaches, and officials to compete in 50 sports at the biennial meet during the 33rd 2025 send-off at Rizal Memorial Coliseum held last November 28.Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio said the decision to send a record-sized team was rooted in prioritizing exposure and athlete development over immediate results“When you send a delegation, they learn. When you send a big delegation, they gain confidence and experience,” Gregorio said. “We want our athletes’ mindset and skills to toughen up so they can compete at the Asian Games and the Olympics.”The 2025 SEA Games will feature 574 medal events, three demonstration sports—air sports, flying disc, and tug of war—and MMA as a value-added sport.Gregorio emphasized that investing in athletes’ experience now lays the groundwork for future success. “We’re giving our athletes the exposure they need to compete better in the future,” he said.The Philippines will target podium finishes in medal-rich sports including basketball, esports, boxing, weightlifting, jiu-jitsu, and athletics when the SEA Games open on December 9.

On Friday, March 28, 2025, Islay Erika Bomogao is set to make her return at ONE Friday Fights 102 in Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok, Thailand.The pride of Baguio City will once again put her undefeated record on the line against Spain’s Nerea Rubio in 103-pound Muay Thai action.Bomogao has endeared herself to fans abroad, particularly the Thai crowd at Lumpinee, after showcasing her carefree “Pinoy style” Muay Thai.She dazzled in her two matches last year, defeating Ran Longshu and Fuu in convincing fashion to make a strong impression in the promotion.In her social media post, Bomogao called for support for her fight along with her fellow Filipino fighters who will also compete on Friday.“Please support me and my team, including my fellow Filipinos Jean Claude Saclag and Marwin Quirante, who will be opening the show,” said Bomogao in her post.The main event features a 130-pound Muay Thai bout between Rambong Sor Therapat and his Thai compatriot Pompet Panthonggym, with major implications. Rambong is riding a seven-fight winning streak ahead of this clash, while Pompet, having lost back-to-back fights, has nothing to lose and everything to gain.Additionally, Scotland’s Rudy Da Silva, Japan’s Takuma Ota, and Russia’s Torepchi Dongak all return to action.Meanwhile, multiple SEA Games kickboxing gold medalist Jean Claude “The Dynamite” Saclag of Team Lakay makes his MMA return alongside his Filipino compatriot, rising MMA star Marwin "Green Goblin" Quirante, who will also showcase his skills at ONE Friday Fights 102."Green Goblin" secured two first-round finishes in ONE Friday Fights, while Saclag earned two TKO wins over Lee Jun Young and Fajar. He looks to follow in the footsteps of Carlo Bumina-ang as a winner.

The International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and Volleyball icon legend Senator Leila Barros have officially announced that the Philippines has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship. “Hello everybody! The World Championship 2029 will be in the Philippines! Mahal ko kayo!” Barros declared.This will mark the very first time the prestigious tournament takes place in the country.Currently hosting the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025, the Philippines has impressed the international volleyball community with its organizational excellence, world-class venues, and the electric energy of Filipino fans.By 2027 Women’s World Championship – To be co-hosted by the United States and Canada, marking the first-ever women’s world championship in North America.And, by 2029 Men’s World Championship has been awarded to Qatar, bringing the men’s tournament to the Middle East for the very first time.Two groundbreaking milestones that reflect volleyball’s growing global reach and expanding legacy.The event, which concludes today, has showcased the nation’s passion for the sport and its ability to host competitions at the highest level.Looking ahead to 2029, the Women’s World Championship is seen as a historic opportunity to further strengthen volleyball’s legacy in the Philippines and across Asia. Beyond the competition itself, the event is expected to inspire future generations of athletes and cement the country’s status as one of the sport’s global hubs.

Joshua Yerro, the 6’1” versatile forward and former Adamson University captain, has officially declared for the 2025 PBA Rookie Draft, bringing a wealth of experience and proven clutch ability to the professional ranks.Yerro’s basketball journey began in grassroots competitions with the UV Baby Lancers (CESAFI Juniors) before he made his mark with Team Cebu (NBTC).Transitioning to the UAAP, he became a key contributor for the Adamson Soaring Falcons, earning the captaincy and showcasing leadership on and off the floor. One of his most memorable collegiate moments came last year when he executed a buzzer-eating alley-oop against the National University, a play that highlighted his timing, composure, and ability to perform under pressure.

Francisco “Django” Bustamante is now in his twilight years and ready to pass the torch to the country’s rising billiards talents, including Rubilen Amit and Chezka Centeno, with whom he shared the pool table in a friendly doubles match.Although he never completed his studies, his dedication, determination, and passion for the sport he loved brought him to the pinnacle of success. He helped his family earn a living to survive. His father made a living by building toilets and planting rice, and Bustamante also worked alongside him. He spent time in his sister's pool hall, racking and spotting balls on the tables, and practiced alone after the hall had closed.As one of the pioneers who helped elevate billiards to one of the most beloved sports in the Philippines, Bustamante has encouraged aspiring players to persevere, train diligently, and avoid vices that could derail their potential.“Many young people are playing now, especially in Cebu, where I think there are more young players than anywhere else. But they should finish their studies first before focusing on billiards. If they truly want to excel, they need to be disciplined, practice tirelessly, and stay away from drugs,” Bustamante said.He may no longer be at the peak of his playing days, but his legacy remains unparalleled. His passion for the sport is still strong, now channeled into mentoring the next generation of Filipino billiards stars.He has not lost his magic, effortlessly showcasing the trick shots that once made him a global icon of the sport—especially last February, when he continued to cement his status as one of the greatest players in billiards history.

The Gilas Pilipinas has released its list of 15 players who will compete in the 2025 FIBA ​​Asia Cup Qualifiers on November 21 and 25 to be held at the Mall of Asia Arena.Among of those were: June Mar Fajardo, Ange Kouame, Jamie Malonzo, Chris Newsome, Japeth Aguilar, Mason Amos, Justin Brownlee, Aj Edu, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, Kevin Quiambao, Dwight Ramos, Kai Sotto, Carl Tamayo and Scottie Thompson.Ange Kouame has been included in Gilas Pilipinas after the Samahan ng Basketbol ng Pilipinas confirmed it.According to SBP executive director Erika Dy, Kouame will also participate in the Gilas camp at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba City Laguna starting November 15.Dy also said that having multiple naturalized players in the first pool submitted to FIBA is allowed, until the eve of the game where a technical meeting will be held to finalize the roster.“The night before [a game], there’s a technical meeting. You have to have only one naturalized [player],” Dy said.

The 2025 IRONMAN-branded race season in the Philippines is set to kick off on March 2 with the IRONMAN 70.3 returning to Puerto Princesa, Palawan.The event promises a thrilling triathlon experience for athletes and fans alike, with around 64 countries taking part in the meet. New race categories will be added as part of the demand of athletes participating in the event including a sprint distance option along the iconic IRONMAN 70.3 distance race.The shorter sprint category consists of a 750-meter swim, 20-kilometer bike ride, and 5-kilometer run, providing athletes with a more manageable yet still challenging course. This addition aims to entice local athletes and make the event more accessible for a wider range of participants.