Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Dorothy Del Rosario

  • PTA showcases rising taekwondo talents as 2,000 Jins set for National Poomsae Championships 

    PTA showcases rising taekwondo talents as 2,000 Jins set for National Poomsae Championships 

    More than 2,000 taekwondo jins from across the Philippines are expected to converge at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on July 5 for the SMART/MVPSF National Taekwondo Poomsae Championships, a one-day tournament that serves as one of the Philippine Taekwondo Association’s (PTA) premier talent identification events.


    Led by Grandmaster Sung-Chon Hong, the association believes the annual meet will not only crown national champions but also uncover future members of the Philippine training pool as it continues its long-term program of building a sustainable pipeline of elite athletes.

     

    The timing of the competition comes on the heels of Team Philippines’ successful campaign in the recent Asian Taekwondo Championships in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, where the national squad collected 11 medals. 

     

    Ten of those medals came from poomsae events, highlighting the country’s continued strength in the discipline. The haul included two silver medals and nine bronze medals.

     

    Backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, SMART, MVPSF, and Milo, this year’s tournament will feature competition in two major divisions: Recognized Poomsae, consisting of individual, pair, and team events, and Freestyle Poomsae, which includes individual, mixed pair, and team competitions.

     

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    Several of the country’s most established clubs are expected to contend for top honors, including Central Gymnasium, Meta Taekwondo, and Discovery Pluz. 

     

    They will be challenged by powerhouse collegiate programs from Ateneo, Xavier School, University of Santo Tomas, the University of the Philippines Diliman, and De La Salle University.

     

    The tournament also brings together athletes representing the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and delegations from Pangasinan, Isabela, Pampanga, Cavite, Laguna, Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, Leyte, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, and General Santos, making it one of the largest national poomsae gatherings in recent years.

     

    Beyond the medals, the championships offer competitors an opportunity to showcase the precision, balance, power, and artistry that define poomsae—an event that continues to play a major role in the Philippines’ international success. 

     

    The PTA has consistently used the national championships as a platform to evaluate emerging talents who could eventually represent the country in Asian and world-level competitions.

    Competition is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m., with hundreds of matches expected throughout the day as aspiring taekwondo jins vie for national honors and a chance to catch the attention of the national coaches.

     

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  • Phoenix, Converge bank on new import moves with BJ Johnson, Jalen Hudson for PBA Governors’ Cup

    Phoenix, Converge bank on new import moves with BJ Johnson, Jalen Hudson for PBA Governors’ Cup

    Two PBA teams that fell short of deep playoff runs last conference are hoping a change—or in one case, a reunion—at the import position will provide the spark they need in the upcoming PBA Season 50 Governors’ Cup.


    Phoenix Super LPG has entrusted its campaign to former NBA guard BJ Johnson, while Converge has opted for familiarity by bringing back high-scoring American swingman Jalen Hudson as both franchises look to climb the standings in the import-laden conference.

     

    Phoenix officially unveiled Johnson as its reinforcement, adding a versatile wing with experience across the NBA, the G League, and several overseas leagues.

     

    The 6-foot-7 Johnson went undrafted in 2018 after a productive collegiate career at La Salle University in Louisiana but earned opportunities in the NBA through his athleticism and defensive versatility. 

     

    He suited up for the Atlanta Hawks, Sacramento Kings, and Orlando Magic, while also spending time in the NBA G League, where he developed a reputation as a reliable two-way player capable of defending multiple positions and contributing offensively.

     

    Beyond the NBA, Johnson has built an extensive international résumé with stints in leagues across Europe and Asia, giving him valuable experience adapting to different styles of play—an asset Phoenix hopes will translate quickly to the PBA.

     

    The Fuel Masters are looking for that veteran presence after seeing their Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup campaign end in the quarterfinals. Phoenix finished the eliminations with a 6-6 record before its playoff run was halted by eventual champion Barangay Ginebra San Miguel.

     

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    While Phoenix turns to a fresh face, Converge is welcoming back a player who already has a memorable chapter in PBA history.

     

    The FiberXers officially announced on Wednesday, July 1, that Hudson will return to the Philippines three years after his lone PBA stint.

     

    The 30-year-old first played in the league during the Season 47 Governors’ Cup, suiting up for TNT and helping the Tropang Giga post a 5-1 record during his six-game run. Despite the strong start, TNT eventually replaced him with Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, who went on to lead the franchise to the conference championship with a Finals victory over Barangay Ginebra.

     

    Hudson, however, left behind one of the most explosive individual performances of that conference.

     

    Ironically, his finest outing came against the very team he will now represent. He erupted for 56 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists as TNT defeated Converge, 128-122, showcasing the offensive firepower that convinced the FiberXers to bring him back.

     

    Since his previous PBA stint, Hudson has continued his professional career overseas, most recently playing for the Hefei Storm in China. He has also suited up for clubs in Türkiye, Italy, Israel, Greece, and Germany.

     

    Before taking his talents abroad, Hudson spent the 2019-20 season with the NBA G League’s Capital City Go-Go, after going undrafted.

     

    He now joins a revamped Converge roster featuring Juan Gomez de Liaño, Justine Baltazar, Calvin Abueva, and Mikey Williams as the FiberXers aim to return to playoff contention.

    Converge is coming off a disappointing Commissioner’s Cup campaign after finishing with a 5-7 record, a mark that left the team outside the postseason picture.

     

    With Johnson providing Phoenix a new weapon and Hudson returning to a familiar stage, both clubs are hoping their import decisions will translate into improved results when the Governors’ Cup tips off.

     

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  • Malick Diouf, Elizabeth Means officially receive Philippine passports after naturalization 

    Malick Diouf, Elizabeth Means officially receive Philippine passports after naturalization 

    The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) has taken another major step toward strengthening its 3×3 national basketball program after Malick Diouf and Elizabeth Means officially received their Philippine passports on Wednesday.


    The federation marked the milestone by sharing photos of both players taking their oath of allegiance to the Philippines at the House of Representatives before completing passport processing at the Department of Foreign Affairs Office of Consular Affairs.

     

    Their passports formally complete the final stage of a journey that began when they became Filipino citizens on May 18. Diouf and Means were granted Philippine citizenship under Republic Act 12318 and Republic Act 12319, respectively, after the measures lapsed into law without the signature of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

     

    Celebrating the occasion, the SBP welcomed its newest Filipino athletes.

     

    “Filipinos, finally! Maodo Malick Diouf and Beth [Means] have secured their Philippine passports and are now officially Filipino citizens.”

     

    The federation also acknowledged the Office of the President and members of Congress for supporting the naturalization process that made the development possible.

     

    With their Philippine passports now secured, both players are officially eligible to represent the country in international 3×3 competitions under Gilas Pilipinas, adding valuable depth to the national pool ahead of future tournaments.

     

    “This is an important step in the right direction for Gilas Pilipinas 3×3,” SBP stated.

     

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    For Means, the milestone brings an opportunity she has long anticipated. Having competed in several local tournaments, including the inaugural Cebu Hustle 3×3, she is eager to finally wear the Philippine colors on the international stage.

     

    “Oh my gosh, it has been a process, and I’m so excited.”

     

    Means played collegiate basketball for Westminster University in NCAA Division II and traces her Filipino roots to Naga City in Camarines Sur.

     

    Diouf, meanwhile, already has an established basketball résumé in the Philippines. During his stint with the University of the Philippines in the UAAP, he emerged as one of the league’s most dominant players, capturing both the UAAP Finals MVP award and the season’s Most Valuable Player honors in 2022.

     

    While celebrating the completion of Diouf’s and Means’ citizenship process, the SBP has already turned its attention to another key target.

     

    The federation remains hopeful that Bennie Boatwright’s naturalization will be finalized before the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, scheduled from September 19 to October 4.

     

    Boatwright’s naturalization bill was approved on third and final reading on June 17 and, like those of Diouf and Means, could become law without the President’s signature after 30 days from receipt.

     

    Should Boatwright complete the process in time and secure his Philippine passport, the SBP could enter the continental competition with another significant reinforcement as it continues to build a more competitive Gilas Pilipinas program.

     

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  • FIFA World Cup preview: England eyes strong finish, Belgium targets progression, USA fights for knockout stage survival 

    FIFA World Cup preview: England eyes strong finish, Belgium targets progression, USA fights for knockout stage survival 

    The FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage continues with three intriguing Round of 32 clashes on Thursday, as England, Belgium, and co-host United States look to avoid the fate of several tournament favorites already eliminated. With no second chances from this point forward, every match carries added significance as teams battle for a place in the Round of 16.


    England vs Congo DR

     

    12:00 AM (PHT)

     

    England advanced as Group L winners after collecting seven points in the group stage. The Three Lions opened their campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia before being held to a goalless draw by Ghana, then wrapped up the first round with a 2-0 win over Panama. Despite topping the group, Thomas Tuchel’s side has been searching for greater consistency heading into the knockout stage.

     

    DR Congo enters the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s surprise teams after qualifying as a third-placed finisher from Group K. The Leopards earned a valuable 1-1 draw against Portugal, suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia, and secured qualification with a 3-1 victory over Uzbekistan to reach the nation’s first-ever World Cup knockout stage.

     

    Key Player: 

    Harry Kane (England)

     

    Belgium vs Senegal

     

    4:00 AM (PHT)

     

    Belgium finished first in Group G after overcoming a slow start in the tournament. The Red Devils drew their opening two matches against Egypt and Iran before exploding for a 5-1 victory over New Zealand to secure top spot and carry momentum into the knockout phase.

     

    Senegal advanced as one of the best third-placed teams from Group I. The Lions of Teranga dropped close contests against France (3-1) and Norway (3-2) before responding emphatically with a 5-0 rout of Iraq to book their place in the Round of 32. Coach Pape Bouna Thiaw believes the knockout rounds present a fresh opportunity for his squad.

     

    Key Player: 

    Leandro Trossard (Belgium)

     

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    United States vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

     

    8:00 AM (PHT)

     

    Co-host United States topped Group D to secure a favorable Round of 32 matchup. The Americans advanced after victories over Paraguay and Australia despite falling to Turkiye in their group finale, finishing first in the standings under Mauricio Pochettino. Confidence remains high, but the hosts are wary after seeing several traditional powers fall earlier in the knockout stage.

     

    Bosnia and Herzegovina qualified as a third-placed team from Group B after defeating Qatar, losing to Switzerland, and earning a crucial draw against Canada to keep their World Cup campaign alive. The Europeans will rely on a disciplined defensive approach as they attempt to pull off another upset.

     

    Key Player: 

    Folarin Balogun (United States)

     

    With a mix of established contenders and emerging challengers taking the field, Wednesday’s Round of 32 fixtures promise compelling storylines. England and Belgium will aim to justify their status as favorites, while the United States looks to capitalize on home support and continue its run. Meanwhile, DR Congo, Senegal, and Bosnia and Herzegovina will seek to extend their World Cup journeys by adding another upset to an already unpredictable knockout stage.

     

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  • Olympic boxing medalists lead ABAP’s charge for Asian Games redemption in Nagoya 

    Olympic boxing medalists lead ABAP’s charge for Asian Games redemption in Nagoya 

    Experience will be at the heart of the Philippine boxing team’s campaign in the 20th Asian Games as the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) turns to its Olympic medalists to lead the country’s bid for podium finishes in Nagoya, Japan from September 19 to October 4. 

     

    Leading the Philippine boxing team for the September 19 to October 4 continental meet in Nagoya, Japan are Olympic medalists Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam, Eumir Marcial, and Aira Villegas, whom ABAP believes possess the experience needed to contend against Asia’s best.

     

    For ABAP president Marcus Manalo, the Asian Games is not a tournament for athletes who are still learning the ropes. Instead, it is a competition reserved for boxers who have already proven they can compete on the international stage.

     

    “You’re there to get to the podium, to win medals, kung developmental ka pa hindi Asian Games ‘yong exposure, dapat ‘yong competition exposure ide-depende mo rin sa (competition level) ng athlete,” he added.

     

    Manalo stressed that earning a place on the national team requires meeting a high competitive standard rather than simply gaining experience.

     

    “Sa amin kasi you have to be at a specific level before you get to compete in the Asian Game. Sinasabi ko sa mga coaches ‘yong Asian Games hindi ‘yan pwedeng pang-exposure,” said Manalo.

     

    That philosophy explains why the federation is leaning on proven performers with Olympic success.

     

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    Petecio headlines the squad after becoming the first Filipina boxer to win an Olympic medal when she captured silver at the Tokyo Olympics before adding a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Games.

     

    Although the 34-year-old is still recovering from eye surgery following an injury, ABAP remains confident she will be ready in time for Nagoya.

     

    “May mga restrictions pa, pero she’s been preparing for the Asian Games, so, I think we’re going to get clearance naman kasi may several months pa naman,” Manalo said.

     

    Joining Petecio are Tokyo Olympic silver medalist Carlo Paalam, Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial, and Paris Olympic bronze medalist Aira Villegas, giving the Philippines one of its most experienced boxing lineups in recent years.

     

    ABAP is also exploring the possibility of adding professional boxer Weljon Mindoro as it seeks to field a deeper and more competitive delegation capable of challenging for multiple medals.

     

    While the federation continues to develop its younger talents, Manalo believes exposing them too early to one of Asia’s toughest sporting events could do more harm than good.

     

    “Mayroon naman tayo mga up-and-coming pero ‘yong Asian Games, it could be overwhelming rin din kasi for them, not all experience is good experience sa gantong level,” he added.

     

    Instead, ABAP plans to continue giving its emerging boxers international exposure through other competitions before entrusting them with the demands of the Asian Games.

     

    With a roster built around Olympic-tested veterans, the Philippine boxing federation is aiming to turn lessons from Hangzhou into a stronger medal campaign in Nagoya.

     

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  • Philippine Muay Thai makes global statement with 32-medal haul at IFMA Muaythai World Championships 

    Philippine Muay Thai makes global statement with 32-medal haul at IFMA Muaythai World Championships 

    The Philippines proved it belongs among the world’s best in Muay Thai after producing a breakthrough performance at the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA) Muaythai World Championships 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.


    Competing against nearly 1,500 athletes representing five continents, the Philippine delegation collected 32 medals across Muaythai Combat, Wai Kru, and Mai Muay events during the June 16-26 tournament.

     

    The impressive haul was built through the combined efforts of the national junior and senior teams, with both squads making their presence felt on the international stage.

     

    Before the seniors stepped into the spotlight, the Philippine National Junior Muaythai Team, known as Team Bagsik, provided the early spark by collecting 19 medals composed of 11 gold, 3 silver, and 5 bronze.

     

    Athaliah Sarmiento emerged as one of the biggest highlights of the youth campaign after making history as the first Filipino athlete to capture three gold medals in a single IFMA World Championships. She ruled the U16 Female Division in Combat (36kg), Solo Wai Kru, and Duo Mai Muay.

     

    The junior gold medal haul was also powered by Salko Velic (Wai Kru), Antonia Elizabeth Lantaya (U18 42kg Combat), Risha Althea Amoguis (U18 Wai Kru), Royeth Rosa (U16 Wai Kru and U16 Mai Muay Duo), Ivan Nathan Buencasejo (U16 Mai Muay Duo), Dick Saking Jr. (U18 45kg Combat), Katnis Caasi (U16 Mai Muay), and Juan Miguel Delarmino (U10 Wai Kru).

     

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    The momentum created by Team Bagsik carried into the senior division, where the Philippine National Senior Muay Thai Team delivered a 13-medal performance highlighted by six gold medals, two silver medals, and five bronze medals to rank third overall.

     

    Filipino fighter Leo Pangsadan opened the senior gold medal tally after dominating the U24 45kg Muaythai Combat division. The national team also found success in technical events, with Jan Brix Ramiscal and Tyron Jamborillo winning Duo Mai Muay, while Islay Erika Bomogao claimed gold in Elite Wai Kru.

     

    The country added more gold through Xian Denis Robillos and Jasmine Dagame in U24 Duo Mai Muay, Kylie Mallari and Rhichein Yosorez in Elite Duo Mai Muay, and Ariel Lee Lampacan and Phillip Delarmino in Elite Mai Muay.

     

    The silver medals for the senior team came from Larstephen Canedo in U24 54kg Muaythai Combat and Samantha Audrey Ananias in U24 Wai Kru. Bronze medalists included Rudzma Abubakar, Tyron Jamborillo, Eunicka Kaye Costales, Pangsadan, and Kim Ryan Asense.

     

    Beyond the medal standings, the tournament also became a crucial stepping stone for the next generation of Filipino fighters. The athletes who earned podium finishes secured qualification opportunities for the upcoming IFMA Youth World Championships scheduled for November 2026.

     

    With the junior squad setting the tone and the seniors finishing among the world’s top nations, Philippine Muay Thai continues to strengthen its reputation as a rising force in international competition.

     

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  • Ramil De Jesus sees big boost in La Salle seniors’ return ahead of UAAP Season 89 

    Ramil De Jesus sees big boost in La Salle seniors’ return ahead of UAAP Season 89 

    After rewriting the record books in UAAP Season 88, De La Salle University head coach Ramil De Jesus believes the biggest boost heading into the next chapter came not from a new recruit, but from his veteran players choosing to stay.


    The decorated Lady Spikers mentor expressed his appreciation after Shevana Laput, Angel Canino, Amie Provido, and Lyka De Leon decided to return for UAAP Season 89, giving La Salle the continuity and leadership it needs as it tries to defend its throne.

     

    The decision carries extra weight after the Lady Spikers produced one of the most dominant campaigns in league history last season. La Salle went unbeaten through all 16 assignments, eventually completing its championship run by sweeping defending champions National University in the Finals.

     

    For De Jesus, seeing his seniors prioritize the team over turning professional immediately was a meaningful reward.

     

    “Ayun ‘yung pinakaswerteng natanggap ko na regalo ng mga seniors ko, na nag-stay sila for the team, and hindi kaagad nagmadaling mag-pro,” Ramil said.

     

    However, the veteran coach understands that repeating a perfect season will be a much bigger challenge. With La Salle now carrying the target on its back, De Jesus knows every opponent will enter games against the Lady Spikers with extra motivation.

     

    “‘Yung bawat games naman dumadaan eh, so kung ano ‘yung kahinatnan ng games, kung kulang ‘yung preparation mo, eh maghabol ka. Pero kung nandoon ka sa itaas, edi ikaw ‘yung habulin. Ganon kasimple,” he said.

     

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    Despite the pressure that comes with success, De Jesus remains committed to the sport and the program that he has built over the years.

     

    “Sa akin kasi, siguro, ‘yung passion kasi hindi nawawala ‘yun eh. Hanggang siguro binibigyan ako ng pagkakataon, ng chance, at mayroong naniniwala sa akin so tuloy tuloy lang siguro ‘yun.”

     

    Aside from their impact on La Salle, the returning seniors are also earning recognition on the national stage. De Jesus welcomed the inclusion of Canino and Provido in the Alas Pilipinas women’s volleyball training pool that will prepare for the 20th Asian Games in Japan this coming September. Finals MVP Laput is also part of the group.

     

    The veteran mentor believes their selection reflects the quality and potential they have shown.

    “Deserving sila, nakita nila ‘yong potentials ng mga bata, nakita nila talagang makakatulong (sa team),” veteran coach said.

     

    Canino and Provido were among the country’s top hitters named to the Philippine Olympic Committee-released training pool. They join national team standouts including captain Jia De Guzman, Belen, Eya Laure, Fifi Sharma, Shai Nitura, Alyssa Solomon, Vanie Gandler, and Erika Santos under new head coach Taka Minowa.

     

    For De Jesus, the challenge is clear, maintain the hunger that produced perfection while preparing for a league determined to stop La Salle’s reign.

     

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  • PESO turns focus to Nagoya as SIBOL secures six Asian Games berths 

    PESO turns focus to Nagoya as SIBOL secures six Asian Games berths 

    SIBOL, Philippine national esports team emerged with six coveted berths for Nagoya, Japan, giving the country entries in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Honor of Kings, Naraka: Bladepoint, Puyo Puyo Champions, Pokémon UNITE, and Identity V.


    The lone setback came in PUBG Mobile, where the Philippine squad came agonizingly close to completing a perfect qualification campaign. Competing in Vietnam, SIBOL missed the final qualifying spot by just a single point after Jordan edged them out for the last berth.

     

    Despite falling one point short of a clean sweep, the overall campaign was widely viewed as a major success after the national team navigated qualifiers held simultaneously in Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

     

    The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang squad led the way with an impressive 6-1 record to finish atop the qualifiers in Singapore and secure its place in Nagoya. Honor of Kings also punched its ticket after finishing among the successful qualifiers in Malaysia, while the country’s representatives in Naraka: Bladepoint, Puyo Puyo Champions, Pokémon UNITE, and Identity V likewise earned their respective Asian Games slots.

     

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    Behind the scenes, the Philippine Esports Organization (PESO) coordinated three separate national team delegations to support the simultaneous campaigns. Each contingent had its own head of delegation along with dedicated personnel tasked with overseeing the athletes’ needs throughout the qualification period.

     

    PESO Executive Director Marlon Marcelo credited the organization’s leadership for making the ambitious operation possible.

     

    “We were able to manage it naman with the support of our executives. May mga lumipad din na PESO executives to reinforce the campaigns ng ating mga SIBOL national teams,” Marcelo said.

     

    Managing multiple international campaigns presented its share of obstacles, particularly in travel and accommodations, but Marcelo said the federation successfully handled the challenges without significant disruptions.

     

    “Logistically, there were challenges with hotels and flights, but overall, everything went smoothly. We didn’t encounter any major incidents,” he said.

     

    Marcelo also acknowledged the collective effort behind the campaign, thanking everyone involved in coordinating the athletes’ travel, accommodations, and competition uniforms to ensure every team could focus on competing at the highest level.

     

    He likewise recognized the support extended by the Philippine Olympic Committee, the Philippine Sports Commission, along with PESO’s partners and sponsors, noting that their contributions played a vital role in helping SIBOL secure six qualifications for the 2026 Asian Games.

     

    With the qualification stage now complete, SIBOL is entering the next phase of its campaign. Instead of chasing slots, the national esports program will now focus on preparing its qualified teams for Nagoya, where the goal shifts from earning places in the tournament to competing for medals on the Asian Games stage.

     

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  • Jimmy Alapag reunites with trusted ally Jamike Jarin as NLEX coaching staff takes shape 

    Jimmy Alapag reunites with trusted ally Jamike Jarin as NLEX coaching staff takes shape 

    Jimmy Alapag is wasting little time surrounding himself with familiar faces as he begins a new chapter with NLEX, tapping longtime coaching associate Jamike Jarin to join his staff for the upcoming PBA season.


    Among the Road Warriors’ coaching group, Jarin stands out as the lone addition personally selected by the newly appointed head coach, highlighting the trust and chemistry the two have developed through years of working together.

     

    Their partnership dates back to their successful stint with TNT, where Jarin served as an assistant coach from 2010 to 2013 while Alapag starred as the team’s floor general. 

     

    The connection continued at Meralco after Jarin joined Norman Black’s coaching staff, with both sharing the bench during Alapag’s final season as a professional player in 2015.

     

    Now, that long-standing relationship will continue at NLEX as Alapag assembles a staff he believes can help establish the culture he wants with the Road Warriors.

     

    Jarin is no stranger to head coaching responsibilities. He most recently handled Phoenix Super LPG before Charles Tiu took over the franchise last year. 

     

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    Prior to that, he also coached the Phoenix Fuel Masters before stepping away ahead of the PBA Season 50. The veteran mentor likewise built his résumé as a former national youth coach.

     

    His arrival adds another experienced voice to an already established NLEX coaching staff that includes Borgie Hermida, Emman Monfort, Melo Lim, Anton Escolin, Jorge Sison, Woody Co, and veteran Adonis Tierra. 

     

    Aside from Jarin’s appointment, the rest of the Road Warriors’ coaching lineup remains unchanged.

     

    Fans got an early glimpse of the revamped coaching staff on Tuesday when both Alapag and Jarin were seen together on the sidelines during NLEX’s tuneup game against Blackwater at the Epsilon Chi Center inside the University of the Philippines grounds.

     

    The appointment also marks Jarin’s return to the MVP Group after a nine-year absence, bringing him back to an organization where he previously enjoyed some of the most significant chapters of his coaching career.

     

    Alapag, 48, was officially named NLEX’s new head coach on Monday night, and his first major personnel move reflects a preference for continuity, familiarity, and trusted experience as he begins building the Road Warriors in his own image.

     

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  • FIFA World Cup preview: Norway, France, Mexico headline major Round of 32 showdowns 

    FIFA World Cup preview: Norway, France, Mexico headline major Round of 32 showdowns 

    The FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage continues with three exciting matchups as Ivory Coast battles Norway, France takes on Sweden, and host nation Mexico faces Ecuador. Teams will look to extend their campaigns as the tournament enters the high-pressure rounds.


    Ivory Coast vs Norway 

     

    1:00 AM (PHT)

     

    Ivory Coast enters its clash against Norway after making history by reaching the knockout stage for the first time. The Elephants finished second in Group E behind Germany, collecting two wins and one defeat. They opened with a 1-0 victory over Ecuador, suffered a 2-1 loss to Germany, and closed the group stage with a 2-0 win over Curacao.

     

    Norway, meanwhile, advanced after a strong group campaign that saw them collect six points and reach the knockout rounds for the first time since 1998. The Norwegians recorded wins over Iraq and Senegal before falling to France in their final group match.

     

    Erling Haaland has been Norway’s biggest attacking threat, scoring four goals in two matches and providing the finishing power that makes them dangerous in the final third.

     

    Key player to watch: 

    Erling Haaland (Norway)

     

    France vs Sweden 

     

    5:00 AM (PHT)

     

    France heads into the matchup as one of the tournament’s strongest teams after a perfect group-stage run. Les Bleus won all three matches and showed their attacking quality while controlling games against their opponents.

     

    Sweden reached the knockout stage as one of the best third-place teams after a mixed group campaign. The Swedes started with a dominant 5-1 win over Tunisia, suffered a 5-1 defeat against the Netherlands, and secured qualification with a 1-1 draw against Japan.

     

    Kylian Mbappe remains France’s main attacking weapon, leading a forward line that has helped Les Bleus become one of the tournament’s most dangerous sides.

     

    Key player to watch: 

    Kylian Mbappe (France)

     

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    Mexico vs Ecuador 

     

    9:00 AM

     

    Mexico returns to action against Ecuador in a matchup featuring two teams looking to continue their World Cup journey. The hosts will rely on home support as they face an Ecuador side that battled through a difficult group stage.

     

    Ecuador struggled early in the tournament but recovered with a crucial win over Germany to secure a place in the knockout round. The South American side previously lost to Ivory Coast and drew with Curaçao before producing a strong finish.

     

    Mexico enters the match aiming to take advantage of its experience and momentum as a host nation, while Ecuador hopes its defensive discipline and young core can push them deeper into the tournament.

     

    The Chelsea midfielder, Moises Caicedo has become Ecuador’s leader in midfield and was recently named captain, giving La Tri a key figure in both attack and defense.

     

    Key player to watch: 

    Moisés Caicedo (Ecuador)

     

    With the tournament reaching its crucial stages, every match carries bigger stakes as teams fight to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Ivory Coast, France, Sweden, Mexico, and Ecuador will all look to rely on their key players and recent form as they chase a place deeper into the FIFA World Cup 2026. 

     

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