Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Arjun Devgan

  • Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez alleges abuse, bullying within Philippine fencing program

    Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez alleges abuse, bullying within Philippine fencing program

    A major controversy has erupted within Philippine fencing after Philippine Fencing Association (PFA) president Rene Gacuma and Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez found themselves on opposing sides of the law following an incident during the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand.

     

    Gacuma accused Gomez of physical assault and verbal abuse during a confrontation that allegedly took place on Tuesday, December 16, at the Fashion Island Shopping Mall in Bangkok, one of the competition venues for the SEA Games. The incident has since escalated into a broader dispute involving governance, athlete welfare, and leadership within the national fencing program.

     

    According to Gacuma, the confrontation stemmed from the PFA’s decision to replace national team member Alexa Larrazabal ahead of her scheduled competition. Larrazabal was reportedly dropped from the lineup due to issues related to attendance and incomplete requirements, a move that allegedly angered Gomez. Gacuma claimed that the congressman confronted him when he approached Gomez to congratulate him following his victory in a shotgun shooting event.

     

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    For his part, Gomez acknowledged that his behavior during the incident fell short of expected conduct, admitting to what he described as “ungentlemanly deeds.” However, he firmly defended his stance, insisting that the PFA’s decision to remove Larrazabal from the competition was “unjust, unwarranted, and damaging to Alexa, the team, and the country’s overall results in the SEA Games.”

     

    The controversy extended beyond Thailand and into the Philippine legislature, where Gomez addressed the issue during a regular session of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, January 27. In his privilege speech, the lawmaker doubled down on his criticism of the PFA, accusing the federation, Gacuma, and national team head coach Ronaldo Canlas of misconduct.

    Gomez alleged that the officials were “bullying” Filipino fencers and “abusing their power,” framing the Larrazabal situation as part of a broader pattern of governance issues within the association.

     

    “In my over 30 years’ experience in playing and supporting the sport of fencing in the Philippines, this had never been done. By replacing the number one player at the very last hours before the event, Mr. Gacuma and Mr. Canlas had already violated so many rules, both of the PFA and of the Philippine Olympic Committee,” Gomez said.

     

    The congressman, who also serves as a director of the PFA and second vice president of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), further revealed that formal legal steps have already been taken. He confirmed that both he and Larrazabal’s parents have filed separate complaints against Gacuma and Canlas, citing allegations of “grave abuse of authority, oppression, favoritism, serious misconduct, and conflict of interest.”

     

    Gomez warned that the dispute could expose deeper issues within the national fencing program, suggesting that the Larrazabal case may only be the beginning of broader scrutiny.

     

    “If what we have heard so far is already disturbing, let me be clear: this is only the beginning. Underneath the facade of a well-run organization, there have been a number of complaints backed by pieces of evidence, not just of bullying, but of physical, verbal, and emotional abuse of fencers, even some younger than 18-years-old,” he added.

     

    As of this writing, the PFA has yet to issue a comprehensive public response addressing the full scope of the allegations raised in Congress. The situation places Philippine fencing under intense scrutiny, with potential implications for athlete welfare, organizational leadership, and the country’s representation in international competitions.

     

    With legal complaints now filed and public statements made at the highest levels of government, the dispute between Gacuma and Gomez is expected to continue unfolding in the coming weeks, raising serious questions about accountability and governance in Philippine sports.

     

     

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  • “Opinion niyo ‘yan, i-respect ko”: Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure on dealing with public criticism

    “Opinion niyo ‘yan, i-respect ko”: Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure on dealing with public criticism

    Two of the Philippines’ brightest stars in women’s volleyball, Sisi Rondina and Eya Laure, continue to capture the attention of fans both on and off the court. With numerous individual accolades and team honors for Alas Pilipinas and their respective clubs in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), the duo has established themselves as not only top-tier athletes but also household names in the local sports scene.

     

    Being professional athletes and public figures, however, comes with intense scrutiny. Rondina and Laure have both experienced criticism from fans and the media, which they openly discussed in a recent appearance on the talk show “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda.” In the conversation, the two stars reflected on the lessons they learned from facing public backlash, highlighting the pressures of being in the spotlight.

     

    For Rondina, the most memorable instance of “bashing” came in 2024, not because of her performance on the volleyball court, but due to a social faux pas: she admitted she did not know about SB19, a popular Filipino boy band. The revelation drew a wave of criticism online, with some fans questioning her cultural awareness.

     

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    “Aminado naman ako na hindi ko naman intensyon ‘yon and at least that pangyayari is may natutunan ako and it is being more cautious kung hindi naman kilala and maging maingat na lang,” Rondina said, reflecting on the experience. She emphasized that while the criticism was initially difficult, it ultimately taught her to navigate public interactions with more awareness and care.

    For Laure, public scrutiny has been a different, yet equally valuable learning experience. The seasoned player reiterated that all forms of criticism have taught her to focus on what truly matters: self-improvement and maintaining perspective amidst external pressures.

     

    “Kung sino ‘yung nakakakita ng paghihirap mo, sila ‘yung parang may ano talaga, kung ano ‘yung kailangan ko pang i-improve sa sarili ko. Opinion niyo ‘yan. I-re-respect ko ‘yan, parang ganun na lang,” Laure said. Her reflection underscores a maturity that comes from balancing the demands of professional sports with the constant presence of social media and fan commentary.

     

    Both Rondina and Laure serve as examples of how top athletes in the Philippines handle the dual pressures of performance and public expectation. While the accolades and spotlight are often celebrated, the reality of being a professional athlete also includes navigating criticism, managing personal image, and maintaining focus on long-term goals.

     

    Their candid discussion on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” offers fans a rare glimpse into the human side of professional volleyball, showing that even the country’s most successful players encounter challenges off the court. By sharing their experiences, Rondina and Laure not only provide inspiration for young athletes but also highlight the importance of resilience, humility, and perspective in professional sports.

     

    As the PVL season continues, both stars remain focused on their teams and the next milestones in their careers. Yet, their experiences with public scrutiny will likely continue to inform how they engage with fans and handle the pressures that come with being among the Philippines’ most prominent athletes.

     

     

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  • June Mar Fajardo on track to claim record 13th Best Player of the Conference award

    June Mar Fajardo on track to claim record 13th Best Player of the Conference award

    San Miguel Beermen superstar June Mar Fajardo continues to solidify his status as one of the most dominant figures in Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) history. At 36 years old, the towering center has already claimed a record nine PBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, a feat unmatched in the modern era of the league and one that cements his legacy as a generational talent.

     

    Fajardo’s brilliance has been on full display once again during the ongoing Philippine Cup campaign. Leading the Beermen to yet another finals appearance, he has emerged as the clear frontrunner for the Best Player of the Conference (BPC) award. If he secures the honor, it would mark the 13th time he has claimed the distinction, further solidifying his place among the league’s all-time greats.

     

    The statistical race highlights Fajardo’s continued dominance. He currently leads with 44.3 statistical points (SPs), slightly down from his previous average of 45.4 SPs at the end of the quarterfinal stage. Despite the minor dip, he remains comfortably ahead of second-placed Calvin Abueva of the Titan Ultra Kings, who has accumulated 41.2 SPs. Rookie sensation Juan Gomez de Liano is in third with 37.2 SPs after a sensational debut season with the Converge FiberXers, while Justine Baltazar is fourth with 37.2 SPs. Zavier Lucero rounds out the top five with 33.8 SPs, showing that Fajardo still stands head and shoulders above the competition.

     

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    While accolades and personal milestones continue to follow him, Fajardo remains characteristically humble, emphasizing the importance of team success over individual awards.

    “Di ko iniisip yun. Sa isip ko, lagi ako walang napanalunan na championships, wala akong napanalunan na awards. Kaya yun ang nagda-drive sa akin na sana this conference, makakuha ako ng first championship ko, makakuha ako ng first award ko,” Fajardo said during a media interaction.

     

    Those words reflect the mindset that has defined Fajardo throughout his illustrious career: an unwavering focus on team achievement and a relentless drive to bring championships to San Miguel Beer. It is a mentality that has helped him maintain his dominance, even as younger stars such as Abueva, Gomez de Liano, Baltazar, and Lucero continue to rise in the league.

     

    In the Philippine Cup Finals, Fajardo has been nothing short of a force of nature. Across three appearances, he is averaging 19.0 points, 20.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, guiding the Beermen to a 2-1 series lead. His ability to control the paint, dominate the boards, and anchor the team defensively has been pivotal in keeping San Miguel in strong contention for yet another championship.

     

    Fajardo’s sustained excellence serves as a testament to both his skill and his dedication to the game. Even as the PBA continues to produce new stars and emerging talent, he remains the benchmark against which all others are measured. Whether it’s through record-breaking MVP wins, statistical dominance, or his quiet leadership on and off the court, June Mar Fajardo continues to define what it means to be one of the greatest players in PBA history.

     

    As the finals progress, all eyes will remain on Fajardo, not just for his individual performances but for the leadership and composure he brings to the Beermen. If San Miguel Beer captures the Philippine Cup, it will be another chapter in the storied career of a player whose name is already synonymous with excellence in Philippine basketball.

     

     

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  • Former UAAP MVP Kaye Ann Emana calls on Philippine tennis authorities to help young players

    Former UAAP MVP Kaye Ann Emana calls on Philippine tennis authorities to help young players

    Former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) tennis standout Kaye Ann Emana officially made her Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) debut in the inaugural Philippine Women’s Open at the historic Rizal Memorial Tennis Center, marking a significant milestone in her budding career.

     

    The 22-year-old, who rose to prominence as a collegiate star and UAAP Most Valuable Player (MVP), faced a steep challenge against Russia’s Tatiana Prozorova in a rain-delayed round of 32 match on Tuesday, January 27. Emana ultimately fell 1-6, 0-6, a scoreline that, while harsh, underscored the level of competition in an international tournament.

     

    Despite the setback, Emana expressed gratitude for the experience of competing on the WTA stage, seeing it as a valuable learning opportunity.

     

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    “Of course, I’m happy. I got the chance to play in a tournament like this—it’s international, so I’m really grateful just to be part of it. My mindset was to simply enjoy the game. Whether I win or lose, I know I will learn something. It’s just more intense now because I’m competing against international players,” she said in a media interaction.

     

    Emana’s appearance at the Philippine Women’s Open highlights both the opportunities and challenges for Filipino tennis players aspiring to compete internationally. Following her maiden international experience, she called on the Philippine tennis authorities to provide more structured support for local and collegiate athletes. She noted that not all young players have access to high-level training or resources like those available to top stars such as Alex Eala.

    “Sana po, laging magka-trainings, seminars. Kasi po, mahirap po talaga lalo na ‘pag walang money, walang budget. Tapos, ‘pag kayo-kayo lang po, mahirap po talaga mag-improve. Hindi po tulad kay Alex Eala na mayroon po silang Rafael Nadal Academy. Sana po, lagi po magka-trainings dito po sa Philippines para po may aasahan naman po na manalo po dito sa WTA event,” Emana said.

     

    In addition to her singles debut, Emana also competed in the doubles event alongside Justine Hannah Maneja, but the duo was stopped in straight sets, losing 2-6, 2-6 to Nicole Fossa Huergo and Darja Semenstaja.

     

    While Filipino fans have celebrated Eala’s early international success, other homegrown talents such as Elizabeth Abarquez, Emana herself, and Tenny Padis are still working to make their mark, which has sometimes drawn online criticism from local supporters. Emana reflected on the challenges that come with being compared to peers who have access to world-class coaching and facilities.

     

    “Kasi po, nakikita ko po ‘pag may post na may laban ‘yung ibang Filipino athletes, tulad po ni Elsie Abarquez, nakikita ko po sa comments na ibang iba daw po kami kay Alex. Kasi, siyempre po, sana po maisip po nila na may coaching staff po siya na kasama. Kami po, kami lang,” she said.

     

    Despite the hurdles, Emana remains focused on the next phase of her career, particularly defending her UAAP women’s tennis title in Season 88, set to begin this February. The experience gained from competing against international players has become a cornerstone of her preparation and motivation.

     

    “Siyempre po, defending champion. Sana po, maging champion po ulit kami this season. And, siguro, mag-improve pa po ako lalo. ‘Yan po ‘yung goal ko,” Emana concluded.

     

    For Emana, the Philippine Women’s Open was more than a debut—it was a stepping stone in a journey that seeks to elevate Filipino tennis on both the national and international stages. While the results were challenging, the experience highlighted the potential of homegrown talent and the importance of consistent support and development programs to nurture the next generation of champions.

     

     

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  • PFF holds futsal clinic in Rizal to build on historic FIFA Women’s World Cup hosting

    PFF holds futsal clinic in Rizal to build on historic FIFA Women’s World Cup hosting

    The Philippines etched its name into football history by successfully hosting the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, a landmark event that not only elevated the profile of the sport but also showcased the country’s growing credibility as a host of major international competitions.

     

    From opening day to the final whistle, the tournament was widely regarded as a resounding success. Fans turned out in impressive numbers, filling venues with energy and enthusiasm, while organizers delivered a world-class experience marked by efficient logistics, well-prepared facilities, and smooth tournament operations that met FIFA’s global standards. The atmosphere reflected a nation eager to embrace the beautiful game in all its forms.

     

    Beyond the spectacle on the court, the World Cup underscored the Philippines’ ability to stage elite sporting events outside its traditional strongholds of basketball and volleyball. More importantly, it reignited conversations about football development, particularly in disciplines such as futsal that are uniquely suited to the country’s urban spaces and community courts.

     

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    Determined to build on the momentum and ensure that the impact of the World Cup extends beyond the tournament itself, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) wasted no time in translating inspiration into action. On Sunday, January 25, the federation conducted a PFF Futsal Clinic in the province of Rizal, an initiative aimed at introducing the sport to communities and encouraging young players to take up futsal at an early age.

     

    The clinic was designed as a grassroots-driven effort to expand access to futsal in a basketball-dominated sporting landscape. By bringing structured training directly to local communities, the PFF hopes to lower barriers to entry and create sustainable pathways for aspiring futsal players across the country.

    A total of 110 youngsters, ranging from children to teenagers and representing various parts of the province, participated in the clinic. The sessions focused on fundamental skills, movement, ball control, and an understanding of futsal’s fast-paced nature. Beyond technical instruction, the clinic emphasized teamwork, discipline, and enjoyment—key elements in nurturing long-term interest in the sport.

     

    Leading the sessions was Jeffrey de Castro, assistant coach of the Philippine women’s national futsal team and Operations Manager of the PFF Coaches Education Program. He was joined by coaches from FA Rizal and members of the Filipina5 national team, including Vrendelle Nuera, Bhebhe Lemoran, and Regine Rebosura. Their presence provided young participants not only with expert instruction but also with visible role models who embody the pathway from grassroots futsal to national representation.

     

    “Hosting the first FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup gave us belief. What matters now is what we do after. This clinic is about turning inspiration into opportunity by bringing futsal to communities, engaging young players early, and creating pathways for the next generation of Filipina and Filipino futsal players,” PFF president John Anthony Gutierrez said on the occasion.

     

    Gutierrez also highlighted futsal’s accessibility as a key factor in its potential growth nationwide, particularly in densely populated areas where traditional football pitches are scarce.

     

    “Futsal can be played in covered courts and small spaces, which allows us to reach more communities. From these clinics, we hope to identify and nurture talents who can eventually represent the country,” he added.

     

    For the PFF, the Rizal clinic represents more than a single-day event. It is part of a broader strategy to capitalize on the World Cup’s legacy by investing in youth development, coach education, and regional outreach. By empowering local associations and engaging young players early, the federation aims to strengthen the foundation of futsal in the Philippines and ensure that the historic hosting of the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup becomes a starting point rather than a standalone achievement.

     

    As the Philippines continues to explore new avenues for sporting growth, initiatives like the PFF Futsal Clinic serve as a reminder that lasting success is built not only on hosting global events, but on nurturing the next generation who will carry the sport forward.

     

     

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  • Chris Ross addresses heated exchange with TNT manager Jojo Lastimosa in Game 3

    Chris Ross addresses heated exchange with TNT manager Jojo Lastimosa in Game 3

    Just when it appeared that TNT had finally wrestled control of the night, CJ Perez rose to remind everyone that the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup Finals still runs through San Miguel Beer.

     

    In a pulsating and emotionally charged Game 3 that swung wildly from quarter to quarter, Perez authored one of the most ruthless finishing acts of the series. The San Miguel guard erupted for 17 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter, repeatedly answering TNT’s rallies and closing the door on any hopes of a late comeback as the Beermen secured a hard-earned 95–89 victory Sunday night at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

     

    The win, achieved in front of a loud, energized crowd that mirrored the intensity on the floor, pushed San Miguel to a 2–1 lead in the best-of-seven Finals and once again underscored the championship DNA that has defined the franchise for years.

     

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    Perez’s late-game takeover was the defining image of the night. With the game hanging in the balance entering the final frame, the former Finals MVP attacked the defense with purpose—hitting timely jumpers, slashing to the basket, and imposing his will when San Miguel needed composure the most. Each basket felt heavier than the last, draining momentum from TNT while lifting the Beermen closer to control of the series.

     

    Yet beyond the box score and highlight reels, San Miguel’s Game 3 triumph was also shaped by a quieter, grittier narrative—one rooted in sacrifice, toughness, and the emotional toll of a championship fight.

     

    Veteran guard Chris Ross, long regarded as the Beermen’s defensive heartbeat and emotional compass, once again suited up despite dealing with pain in his Achilles tendon. At 40 years old and deep into another Finals run, Ross’ presence alone carried weight, even as his health remained a growing concern heading into the latter stages of the series.

     

    That tension spilled over into a heated exchange late in the game involving Ross and TNT team manager Jojo Lastimosa, an incident that briefly shifted attention away from the action on the court. Ross, however, was quick to downplay the confrontation, framing it as an inevitable byproduct of Finals basketball.

     

    “We are playing for a championship, so if we are not getting in the other team’s face, then what are we doing? These are two really good teams, so guys should expect that. If you don’t have that energy, you are not showing that you want to win,” Ross said in a media interaction.

    The longtime San Miguel stalwart emphasized that emotions naturally run high at this stage of the season, particularly with both teams fighting for every possession and every edge. For Ross, intensity is not just acceptable—it is necessary.

     

    Ross also clarified that the altercation did not initially involve Lastimosa, instead stemming from remarks made by individuals seated near the TNT bench while he was down on the court.

     

    “It wasn’t Jolas. It was some fans or family members who were telling me to get off the court and hurry up. If I’m hurt, I’m hurt so I think it’s disrespectful to rush a player if he is hurt. There should be a line drawn when someone’s hurt.

     

    “It was directed at the fans, but they were women, and I don’t talk down to women. Then Jolas got into it, then I got into him. He came up to me after the game and apologized,” he concluded.

     

    The incident, while tense, ultimately reflected the high emotional stakes of a Finals series where margins are thin and respect is fiercely guarded. Ross’ explanation helped diffuse the moment, and his acknowledgment of Lastimosa’s postgame apology underscored the professionalism that still exists beneath the competitive fire.

     

    For San Miguel, Ross’ leadership—both visible and behind the scenes—remains invaluable. Even as his body absorbs the wear of another grueling campaign, his willingness to play through pain embodies the urgency of the Beermen’s title push. His presence stabilizes the team defensively and emotionally, especially in games that threaten to spiral under pressure.

     

    As the series progresses, Ross’ condition will be closely monitored. His availability for Game 4 looms as a significant storyline, particularly with TNT expected to respond with renewed intensity after relinquishing momentum in Game 3.

     

    San Miguel, meanwhile, will look to build on Perez’s explosive finish and tighten its grip on the Philippine Cup crown when the two teams return to the floor on Wednesday, January 28, once again at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. TNT, fighting to level the series, faces the challenge of containing Perez late while matching San Miguel’s physicality and composure.

     

    With emotions rising, bodies aching, and the championship within reach, the Finals has fully revealed what it demands—timely brilliance, hardened resolve, and a willingness to endure everything that comes with playing for the title.

     

     

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  • “You never saw that happen with Michael Jordan”: Phil Jackson explains why he doesn’t rank LeBron James in his Top 5

    “You never saw that happen with Michael Jordan”: Phil Jackson explains why he doesn’t rank LeBron James in his Top 5

    Phil Jackson is widely regarded as the greatest head coach in National Basketball Association (NBA) history, a reputation built on an unparalleled record of success and sustained excellence. Jackson’s 11 NBA championships as a head coach remain the most in league history, a testament to his ability to manage elite talent, egos, and pressure at the highest level of the sport.

     

    Jackson famously guided the Chicago Bulls to two separate three-peat championships, first from 1991 to 1993 and again from 1996 to 1998, during the franchise’s golden era led by Michael Jordan. He later added a third three-peat to his already illustrious résumé with the Los Angeles Lakers, steering the team to consecutive titles from 2000 to 2002 behind the dominant Shaquille O’Neal–Kobe Bryant tandem. Now 80 years old, Jackson remains a towering voice in basketball discourse, with his opinions carrying significant weight due to his firsthand experience coaching many of the game’s all-time greats.

     

    When Jackson speaks about players—particularly those involved in historical debates—his words are rarely ignored. In a recent interview promoting his new book, “Masters of the Game,” the legendary coach offered a candid assessment of LeBron James, revealing why he does not rank the NBA’s all-time leading scorer among his Top 5 players of all time.

     

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    Jackson revisited the long-standing Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James debate and pointed to what he believes is a defining difference between the two superstars. While acknowledging LeBron’s immense talent and longevity, Jackson argued that James showed moments of vulnerability in pressure situations that he never saw from Jordan.

     

    “The things that were disappointing about LeBron were things that turned him into self-reflection, I would call it. Or you could see him, you know, fold a little bit in the course of a game or in the course of a series. And, you know, the number of series in the finals that he has been a losing part of are painful because I know what that’s like to have lost in the finals as a player and as a coach,” Jackson said.

    “These are the things that kind of haunt you. And I think it was kind of haunting. Those are the things that have kind of, you know, remarked about his career, where you never saw that happen with Michael Jordan, where there was a sense of quitting or a sense of defeat,” he added.

     

    LeBron’s résumé remains one of the most decorated in NBA history, highlighted by unmatched longevity, scoring records, and sustained elite performance across multiple franchises. However, Jackson maintained that individual milestones and statistical dominance alone are not enough to eclipse Jordan’s legacy in his eyes.

     

    For Jackson, championships remain the ultimate standard by which basketball greatness is measured—a belief shaped by decades of competing at the highest level.

     

    “Better is only about championships, I think that’s the only measurement that’s left for LeBron that will say he was a better ball player than Michael,” Jackson concluded.

     

    Jackson’s remarks are sure to reignite debate among fans and analysts alike, as discussions surrounding basketball’s greatest player continue to span generations. While LeBron James’ career is still ongoing, Jackson’s perspective underscores how deeply Jordan’s six NBA titles—and his unblemished Finals record—remain embedded in the sport’s definition of greatness.

     

    As one of the few figures who coached Jordan at his peak and observed LeBron’s career from afar with a critical eye, Jackson’s assessment adds another authoritative voice to one of the NBA’s most enduring and polarizing conversations.

     

     

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  • Philippines records best-ever medal haul in ASEAN Para Games history at 13th edition in Thailand

    Philippines records best-ever medal haul in ASEAN Para Games history at 13th edition in Thailand

    Team Philippines sent a 216-strong delegation to the recently concluded 13th ASEAN Para Games, which were held in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from January 20 to 26, underscoring the country’s continued commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and athlete development in international para sports.

     

    The Philippine contingent—composed of seasoned medalists, rising stars, coaches, and support staff—delivered a historic performance, posting the best medal haul in the nation’s history at the ASEAN Para Games. Team Philippines finished the competition with an impressive 45 gold medals, 37 silver medals, and 52 bronze medals, for a total of 134 medals won by 211 Filipino athletes, marking the country’s most successful showing since it first joined the Games in 2001.

     

    The achievement surpassed the country’s previous best performance at the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia in 2023, where the Philippines collected 34 gold, 33 silver, and 50 bronze medals. This significant improvement highlighted the depth and balance of the current national para-athlete pool.

     

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    Several sports led the medal charge for the Philippines, with athletics emerging as the top contributor after hauling in 16 gold medals. Swimming followed closely with 13 gold medals, while chess added another 12 gold medals, showcasing the team’s versatility across both physical and mind sports disciplines.

     

    Chief of mission Goody Custodio credited the team’s focused preparation and successful integration of young athletes as key factors behind the strong showing.

     

    “I think the key was that both our athletes and coaches were able to really focus. At the same time, we were able to integrate young para-athletes into the team,” Custodio said during a media interaction.

    Custodio emphasized that a significant portion of the medal haul came from emerging talents, particularly in classifications involving visually impaired athletes, signaling a bright future for Philippine para sports.

     

    “Most of our medalists are actually young talents. Of course, our veterans are still there and they continue to deliver, but a big portion of our success came from new talents coming from different classes, especially among visually impaired athletes. That’s where many of our medalists came from,” he added.

     

    Beyond performances on the field of play, Custodio highlighted the crucial role of institutional and community support in driving the team’s success. He credited the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC), and partners from the private sector for providing essential resources and encouragement to the athletes.

     

    “The biggest takeaway is the importance of support—from our sponsors like the PSC and MVP Sports, and also from the media. Just by releasing the results and medal tallies, the athletes already feel the support,” Custodio said.

     

    “Even their families back in the Philippines were able to follow them through videos and updates, which gives them strength. That kind of support really matters to our athletes,” he concluded.

     

    Prior to the start of the Games, PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio announced additional incentives to recognize the efforts of the country’s para-athletes and coaches. All participants were assured of a ₱6,000 bonus, on top of the standard government incentives mandated under Republic Act 10699, also known as the Expanded National Athletes and Coaches Incentives and Benefits Act.

     

    Under the incentive program, gold medalists will receive ₱150,000, silver medalists ₱75,000, and bronze medalists ₱30,000, providing tangible recognition for the athletes’ dedication, resilience, and outstanding achievements on the regional stage.

     

    With its record-breaking performance at the 13th ASEAN Para Games, Team Philippines not only reaffirmed its growing stature in para sports across Southeast Asia but also laid a strong foundation for future international competitions, driven by youth, sustained support, and a culture of inclusion and excellence.

     

     

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  • Luka Doncic and Immanuel Quickley named NBA Players of the Week for Week 14 of the 2025-26 season

    Luka Doncic and Immanuel Quickley named NBA Players of the Week for Week 14 of the 2025-26 season

    Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic and Toronto Raptors guard Immanuel Quickley have been named the National Basketball Association (NBA) Players of the Week for the Week 14 of the 2025-26 season.

     

     

    Luka Doncic (Western Conference Player of Week)

     

    The Los Angeles Lakers have enjoyed a solid start to the 2025-26 NBA season, posting a 28-17 record to sit fifth in the competitive Western Conference. At the heart of their strong campaign has been the stellar play of star guard Luka Doncic, who continues to assert himself as one of the league’s premier talents.

     

    Doncic was his usual brilliant self during Week 14, guiding the Lakers to a 2-1 record that included key road victories over the Denver Nuggets and Dallas Mavericks. Over those three games, the Slovenian superstar averaged 34.3 points on 49.2 percent shooting, along with 10.7 rebounds, 9.7 assists, and 2.0 steals per game, all in roughly 38 minutes of action per contest.

     

    This season, Doncic has already recorded four 30-point triple-doubles, making him only the fourth player in Lakers history to reach that mark in a single season—joining legends LeBron James and Magic Johnson. In addition, he surpassed 14,000 career points, becoming the youngest point guard and the fifth youngest player overall in NBA history to reach the milestone.

     

    The recognition of his Week 14 performance marks Doncic’s second Player of the Week award of the season and the 16th of his career, further cementing his status as one of the league’s elite performers.

     

    Immanuel Quickley (Eastern Conference Player of Week)

     

    In the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors have also been enjoying a remarkable season, posting a 29-19 record to claim third place in the standings. Leading the charge in Week 14 was point guard Immanuel Quickley, whose electrifying performances helped the Raptors go 4-0 over the week.

     

    Quickley averaged 25.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 2.0 steals per game, scoring 20 or more points in three contests and recording two double-doubles. The highlight came in a showdown against the Golden State Warriors, where he exploded for a career-high 40 points and 10 assists, becoming just the second player in Raptors history after Vince Carter to post a 40-point, 10-assist game.

     

    In addition to the historic franchise achievement, Quickley also became the third player in NBA history to score 40-plus points on 13 or fewer field goal attempts, joining Rolando Blackman (1986) and Shaquille O’Neal (1999).

     

    This marks the first Player of the Week honor of Quickley’s career, highlighting his emergence as a dynamic force for the Raptors and one of the league’s rising stars in the Eastern Conference.

     

     

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  • PSC chief eyes WTA 250 event after hosting inaugural Philippine Women’s Open WTA 125

    PSC chief eyes WTA 250 event after hosting inaugural Philippine Women’s Open WTA 125

    The inaugural Philippine Women’s Open is currently underway in Manila, marking a historic moment for tennis in the country as it debuts on the 2026 WTA calendar. The tournament has placed the Philippine capital firmly on the international tennis map by hosting a WTA 125-level event, attracting both rising stars and experienced tour players looking to gain momentum, match play, and valuable ranking points.

     

    The event, which runs until January 31, 2026, is being contested on hard courts and features a 32-player singles draw alongside a 16-team doubles bracket. With a total prize commitment of $115,000, the Philippine Women’s Open offers a highly competitive platform designed to nurture emerging talent while giving established players the opportunity to sharpen their game.

     

    Patrick Gregorio, chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), has been instrumental in bringing the tournament to Manila and emphasized that the country aims to host the best possible edition of the WTA 125 to pave the way for a future WTA 250 event. Hosting a higher-tier event, he believes, would give Filipino fans the chance to see local sensation Alex Eala face off against some of the world’s top players, including world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka and American star Madison Keys.

     

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    “I told the WTA vice president for global program development, Melissa Pines, that after the WTA 125, the next should be 250. If we pass this test, give us a 250 event because Alex is still developing, and I’m sure she will soon be a top 30 or even a top 20 player in the world,” Gregorio said during a media interaction.

    Gregorio added that hosting the event in the Philippines is not just about ranking points or prize money, but also about giving Filipino athletes the opportunity to succeed on the international stage. “This is what we have been waiting for. If we have Filipino athletes succeeding in the international field, on the world stage, it is a must that we organize something to host them in the Philippines,” he said.

     

    As part of his vision for Philippine tennis, Gregorio promised that if Manila secures a WTA 250 event, the PSC will collaborate with the Department of Tourism to introduce additional WTA tournaments in other cities. “With a 250, together with the Department of Tourism, we can further develop tennis and maybe introduce another WTA 125 in another city, like Cebu. This model already works—Italy has eight WTA tournaments, and China has five,” he explained.

     

    Gregorio highlighted that the push for WTA events is centered around Alex Eala, who has become a symbol of inspiration for the country’s tennis development. “That’s how we plan, and that’s how we support Philippine tennis. We are doing all of this because of one great young lady who is now at the forefront and serves as our inspiration—Alex Eala,” he concluded.

     

    The Philippines has increasingly positioned itself as a top destination in Southeast Asia for international sporting competitions, hosting world-class events across multiple disciplines. Recent highlights include the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup and the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships, among others. The arrival of the Philippine Women’s Open adds tennis to this growing list of premier events, providing both local fans and athletes with a platform to compete and excel on the global stage.

     

    With the tournament underway, all eyes are on Manila as it showcases its capacity to host world-class tennis and sets the stage for what could be a new era of Philippine tennis on the international circuit, propelled by the talent and promise of Alex Eala.

     

     

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