Sports PH News | JS DEV Site

Author: Andre Sotelo

  • Korea halts Alas Pilipinas rally, sends Filipinas into must-win situation against Chinese-Taipei 

    Korea halts Alas Pilipinas rally, sends Filipinas into must-win situation against Chinese-Taipei 

    South Korea proved too much for Alas Pilipinas on Tuesday afternoon, handing the host nation a 25-16, 25-18, 25-22 defeat in Pool A of the 2026 AVC Women’s Nations Cup at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur.

     

    The loss dropped the Filipinas to a 2-2 record in the tournament, putting them in a precarious position heading into their final pool-stage assignment against unbeaten Chinese Taipei.

     

    After splitting the opening two sets, Alas showed signs of mounting a serious challenge in the third frame. The Filipinas briefly seized momentum and built a 20-18 advantage behind the steady play of their young middle blockers and a more aggressive attack.

     

    However, the experienced Koreans responded when it mattered most.

     

    South Korea unleashed a decisive 5-0 run to turn a two-point deficit into a commanding lead, silencing the home crowd and taking control of the match down the stretch. Alas Pilipinas struggled to regain its footing as the visitors completed the sweep and secured another crucial victory in the tournament.


    The Koreans held the edge in most statistical categories, finishing with a 46-36 advantage in attack points while also dominating at the net with seven blocks compared to the Philippines’ four.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Thea Gagate paced the Filipinas with nine points built on five attacks, three blocks, and one ace. Nina Ytang continued her impressive tournament run with eight points on seven attacks and one block.


    South Korea was powered by team captain Kang So-hwi, who delivered a match-high 19 points anchored on 15 attacks, three aces, and one block. Her timely scoring helped spark the crucial third-set comeback that ultimately sealed the contest.

     

    Despite the defeat, Alas Pilipinas showed flashes of competitiveness against one of Asia’s traditional volleyball powers, particularly in the third set where they pushed the Koreans before running out of answers late.


    The Filipinas now face a must-win scenario against Chinese Taipei in their final Pool A match on Thursday. Even with a victory, Alas may still need favorable results from other matches to secure a semifinal berth, with their fate no longer entirely in their hands.


    For now, the focus shifts to regrouping quickly and delivering their strongest performance of the tournament against the pool leaders as they fight to keep their medal hopes alive.


    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • RJ Abarrientos laughs off BPC talk, keeps eyes on Ginebra’s title chase 

    RJ Abarrientos laughs off BPC talk, keeps eyes on Ginebra’s title chase 

    For a player sitting atop the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Best Player of the Conference race, RJ Abarrientos seemed far more interested in cracking jokes than talking about individual accolades.

     

    As the league prepares to hand out its conference awards ahead of Game 4 of the Finals, the Barangay Ginebra guard found himself at the center of conversations surrounding the BPC plum. But rather than embracing the spotlight, Abarrientos quickly redirected attention to the only race he believes matters right now — the one for the championship.

     

    “Siyempre thankful ako, grateful ako,” Abarrientos said when asked about being the frontrunner for the award.

     

    Then came a response only he could deliver.

     

    “Nag-number one ako dati sa school, noisy lang,” he said with a laugh. “Number one noisy ako tapos pinapalabas ako ng teacher.”

     

    The room erupted in laughter as the 25-year-old continued the story.

     

    “Ngayon may pagkakataon na mag-number one, tapos ngayon sa basketball,” he added. “Dati kasi pinapalabas lang ako pag maingay sa school.”

     

    The lighthearted exchange reflected the personality that has made Abarrientos one of the league’s most relatable young stars. But beneath the humor lies a player fully locked in on Ginebra’s quest for another title.

     

    The sophomore guard made it clear that personal recognition takes a backseat to the bigger objective.

     

    “Game goes on,” he said.

     

    “Hindi ko tinitingnan yung individual awards. Kailangan na namin makuha yung Game 4, masarado namin at magtuloy-tuloy yung Finals.”

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    That mindset has helped fuel another breakout conference for Abarrientos.

     

    After capturing Rookie of the Year honors last season, the former Korean Basketball League standout has elevated his game further, becoming one of Ginebra’s most dependable weapons throughout the Commissioner’s Cup campaign.

     

    His impact was once again evident in Game 3 against TNT, where he delivered 15 points, six assists, and five rebounds while knocking down key baskets that helped preserve the Gin Kings’ lead during a late Tropang 5G rally.

     

    Those performances have pushed him to the top of the BPC standings, putting him in line to add another individual achievement to an already growing list of accomplishments.

     

    Still, Abarrientos remains amused more than anything by the attention.

     

    “Yun nga,” he said. “Nagulat din ako kasi dati talaga number one sa noisy.”

     

    “Hindi lang sa academics.”

     

    Despite Ginebra holding a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven Finals, Abarrientos knows the series is far from over.

     

    The former Far Eastern University standout expects TNT to come back with adjustments and believes Ginebra must be ready to respond if it hopes to move closer to the championship.

     

    “Malayo pa,” he said. “Makakapag-adjust sila. Let’s see kung ano yung maia-adjust namin.”

     

    For now, discussions about trophies and awards can wait.

     

    Abarrientos may be leading the BPC race, but as far as he is concerned, the most important number is still four — the number of wins needed to bring another championship to Barangay Ginebra.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Jaylen Johnson makes PBA Finals appearance as Chris McCullough’s supporter 

    Jaylen Johnson makes PBA Finals appearance as Chris McCullough’s supporter 

    For the first time in months, Jaylen Johnson experienced a PBA game without the pressure of carrying a team on his shoulders.

     

    Instead of battling inside the paint or leading a playoff charge, the former Rain or Shine import found himself sitting among thousands of fans at the Mall of Asia Arena, watching the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals from the stands.

     

    Johnson became part of the record crowd of 18,607 spectators who packed the venue for Game 3 between TNT Tropang 5G and Barangay Ginebra San Miguel on Sunday. But while many came to witness another chapter of the league’s biggest rivalry, Johnson had a more personal reason for being there.

     

    On the floor was Chris McCullough, a longtime friend whose basketball journey has intertwined with Johnson’s for years.

     

    “That’s my brother. I have known him since I was younger and in high school. Just came to support him while I was here,” Johnson told reporters.

     

    The sight of Johnson courtside served as a reminder that basketball’s relationships often extend far beyond team colors and league affiliations. Although Rain or Shine’s campaign ended at the hands of Ginebra in the semifinals, Johnson chose to stay connected to the Finals by supporting someone he considers family.

     

    McCullough delivered one of the most explosive performances of the championship series, pouring in 44 points, grabbing 13 rebounds, and adding four assists in an effort to keep TNT afloat. But even that offensive outburst was not enough as Justin Brownlee answered with 41 points to lift Ginebra to a commanding 116-102 victory and a 2-1 series lead.

     

    After the final buzzer, Johnson made his way to McCullough, sharing a brief conversation with the TNT import following the loss.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    For Johnson, it was another example of the support system he has maintained throughout his basketball career. Earlier in the playoffs, he also made efforts to encourage former TNT reinforcement Bol Bol after the latter suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.

     

    “I’m just here supporting him like I was with Bol, which is my brother too,” Johnson said.

     

    While Johnson’s immediate future remains uncertain, his name continues to surface whenever discussions about returning imports arise. The athletic forward has previously expressed openness to returning to the PBA, potentially rejoining Rain or Shine if the opportunity presents itself.

     

    For now, though, he was simply another basketball fan soaking in one of the league’s biggest stages.

     

    And like everyone inside the arena, Johnson left impressed by the atmosphere surrounding the Finals.

     

    “It was lit. That’s the atmosphere you’ve asked for. Everybody came up and showed out, and it just shows how PBA fans really came to support,” he added.

     

    For one night, Johnson was no longer an import carrying playoff expectations. He was a friend, a supporter, and a witness to the kind of Finals environment every player hopes to be part of.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Sandy Arespacochaga credits Sophia Dignadice for setting the tone for Gilas Girls after sweeping SEABA qualifiers 

    Sandy Arespacochaga credits Sophia Dignadice for setting the tone for Gilas Girls after sweeping SEABA qualifiers 

    Championship teams are often remembered for their stars, but the strongest programs are usually built around something less visible.

     

    For Gilas Pilipinas Girls, that foundation may have emerged in the form of Sophia Dignadice.

    The numbers certainly tell part of the story. 

     

    Dignadice averaged 12.0 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds during the FIBA U-18 Women’s Asia Cup SEABA Qualifiers, helping the Philippines complete a flawless 4-0 campaign and secure a berth in next year’s Division A tournament in Malaysia.

     

    Yet for head coach Sandy Arespacochaga, her greatest contribution was not measured in points, assists, or rebounds.

     

    It was the example she set for everyone around her.

     

    “It helps that your best player, your most veteran player in Sophia Dignadice, is unselfish as the last person,” Arespacochaga told reporters following Gilas Girls’ qualification campaign.

     

    The veteran coach believes that attitude became one of the driving forces behind the team’s dominant run.

     

    “She’s also the biggest cheerleader. Kahit na starter siya or nasa bench siya, she cheers on the last player of the bench,” he added.

     

    That leadership was on full display throughout the tournament.

     

    Whether directing traffic on offense, setting up teammates, or encouraging players from the sidelines, Dignadice became a stabilizing presence for a young national team learning how to win together.

     

    She closed out the qualifiers with another productive outing, tallying 14 points, four rebounds, and four assists in an 88-62 victory over Indonesia, a result that completed the Philippines’ unbeaten campaign.

     

    But while Dignadice provided the leadership, she was hardly alone in carrying the load. 

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Tournament MVP Rhiane Perez delivered dominant performances throughout the competition, while Tiffany Reyes and co-captain Brianna Katigbak played major roles in a squad that overwhelmed opponents by an average margin of 36.3 points.

     

    Together, they helped establish an identity that extended beyond talent alone.

     

    “Our girls really played well. Each and every game, they played well defensively and we shared the ball a lot. It’s very important to us to build an identity moving forward for this program,” Arespacochaga said.

     

    That identity, according to the coach, was one of the biggest victories of the tournament.

     

    Beyond securing qualification, the campaign offered an opportunity to lay the groundwork for the future of the Gilas Girls program — one built on teamwork, discipline, and collective sacrifice.

     

    “The girls were a pleasure to coach. They’re good and fearless. It was a collaboration of all the girls and a concentrated effort, and I’d like to commend the girls for that,” he said.

     

    For Dignadice, the qualifiers reinforced why she has become one of the most trusted leaders in the youth national team setup.

     

    The daughter of former PBA star Yves Dignadice and already a Southeast Asian Games gold medalist, she entered the tournament as one of the squad’s most experienced players. She leaves it having helped shape the culture of a group hoping to compete with Asia’s elite.

    The next challenge will be significantly tougher.

     

    With Division A competition awaiting in Malaysia, Gilas Girls will soon face the continent’s strongest programs. But after dominating Southeast Asia and establishing a clear identity, the Filipinas believe they have taken an important first step.

     

    And much of that foundation was built by a leader whose influence reached far beyond the box score.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Ateneo Basketball mourns loss of Divine Adili, Rene Baterbonia after Aurora tragedy 

    Ateneo Basketball mourns loss of Divine Adili, Rene Baterbonia after Aurora tragedy 

    What was meant to strengthen bonds ahead of a new season instead left the Ateneo basketball community grieving the loss of two young athletes whose journeys were only beginning.

     

    The Ateneo de Manila University community was struck by tragedy on Monday after the school confirmed the deaths of men’s basketball players Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia following an incident during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

     

    The deaths have cast a shadow over a program preparing for the future, with one player already carving out a role for the Blue Eagles and another still waiting for his opportunity to make his mark in the UAAP.

     

    “The entire Ateneo community mourns the loss of Rene and Divine. The University extends its heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, teammates, coaches, and loved ones. We ask the community to keep them in their prayers during this most difficult time,” the school wrote.

     

    According to the Police Regional Office 3, initial reports indicated that the two players were swimming when they were reportedly carried by strong currents into deeper waters.

     

    Authorities have since appealed to the public to avoid speculation regarding the incident while the investigation remains ongoing.

     

    For Ateneo, the tragedy represents the loss of two athletes at different stages of their basketball careers but united by a shared dream of representing the Blue Eagles.

     

    Adili, 21, had already begun establishing himself in the collegiate ranks. During UAAP Season 88, he appeared in 11 games and averaged 8.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists, emerging as one of Ateneo’s promising young frontcourt players.

     

    Baterbonia, meanwhile, was still preparing for his first opportunity to suit up in the UAAP. The 19-year-old recently represented Davao in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa in Agusan del Sur and was expected to join Ateneo’s roster for UAAP Season 89 later this year.

     

    Their deaths sent shockwaves throughout the Philippine basketball community, prompting an outpouring of condolences from organizations and individuals across the sport.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas expressed its sympathy and offered support to those affected by the tragedy.

     

    “As the National Sports Association for basketball, the SBP has been in communication with the University’s basketball officials to determine what assistance may be needed, with particular attention given to those most affected by this tragic incident,” the SBP said in a statement.

     

    The University Athletic Association of the Philippines also paid tribute to the two student-athletes.

     

    “Rest in peace, Rene and Divine,” the league wrote.

     

    Beyond the statistics, accolades, and future potential, the tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how quickly lives can change. For Ateneo, the focus now shifts from basketball to mourning two young men remembered not only as athletes, but as teammates, classmates, friends, and members of a community left searching for answers and healing.

     

    As investigations continue, the Philippine basketball world stands united in remembering Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia, two young lives lost far too soon.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Thea Gagate steps up as Alas Pilipinas finds its footing again

    Thea Gagate steps up as Alas Pilipinas finds its footing again

    For a young national team still searching for consistency, leadership often reveals itself in the moments immediately after disappointment.

     

    That was exactly the situation facing Alas Pilipinas following its painful five-set collapse against Australia, a match that slipped away after the Filipinas held a two-sets-to-one advantage. Less than 24 hours later, the squad returned to the floor with little time to dwell on what could have been.

     

    What followed was a statement performance.

     

    Powered by one of her strongest outings of the tournament, Thea Gagate helped steer Alas Pilipinas to a convincing 25-9, 25-11, 25-17 victory over Kyrgyzstan on Monday at the Candon City Arena, lifting the host nation to a 2-1 record in Pool A of the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup.

     

    The victory was more than just another mark in the win column. It was a response from a team determined not to let one difficult night define its campaign.

     

    At the center of that response was Gagate.

     

    After being limited to seven points against Australia, the 6-foot-2 middle blocker reasserted her presence on both ends of the floor. She controlled the middle with timely blocks, finished attacks efficiently, and provided stability to a lineup looking to regain its confidence.

     

    Gagate finished with 11 points on eight attacks, two blocks, and one ace, leading a balanced Alas attack that overwhelmed Kyrgyzstan from the opening whistle.

     

    Yet the former top overall PVL Draft pick viewed the performance less as an individual breakthrough and more as a reflection of the team’s ability to learn from adversity.

     

    “Inisip lang namin ‘yung mga lapses namin nung last game, and ginawan lang namin ng paraan para maka-recover and mabalik ‘yung kumpyansa ng bawat isa,” said Gagate.

     

    “Well, iniisip lang talaga namin ‘yung sarili namin, ‘yung teammates namin. Siyempre, nandoon din ‘yung tiwala ng bawat isa and especially sa coaches. Malaking bagay kasi sila rin ‘yung naghe-help sa amin maging buo as a team.”

     

    While much of the current roster is still building chemistry on the international stage, Gagate occupies a unique position within the program.

     

    She is one of only two remaining players from the Alas Pilipinas squad that competed in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, joining fellow holdover Alyssa Solomon. That experience has naturally elevated her role within a roster blending veterans, collegiate standouts, and first-time national team players. 

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Alongside team captain Alyssa Valdez, veteran hitters Jovelyn Gonzaga and Ces Molina, Gagate has quietly become one of the pillars helping guide the new-look national team through the demands of international competition.

     

    The responsibility is something she has embraced.

     

    “For me, gusto ko lang talaga ibigay ‘yung best ko and gusto ko lang din ma-apply ‘yung mga natutunan ko nga in the past tournaments sa national team. And hopefully, mas marami pa akong maipakita, especially sa upcoming games since important din ‘yung games na ‘yun,” she said.

     

    “Well, siguro puwede kong ibigay sa kanila ‘yung mga natutunan ko in the past leagues sa national team, lalo na sa mga bata. And siyempre tina-try ko rin ‘yung best ko na ibigay lahat.”

     

    The timing of Gagate’s performance could not have been better.

     

    With South Korea looming as the next challenge, Alas Pilipinas enters one of its most important matches of the preliminary round carrying renewed momentum and confidence. And as the tournament progresses, the Filipinas will continue to rely on players who can help transform difficult lessons into immediate growth.

     

    Against Kyrgyzstan, Gagate showed exactly what that looks like. One day after a heartbreaking defeat, she helped lead a team that looked ready to move forward.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Alas Pilipinas storms past Kyrgyzstan, bounces back with dominant AVC Nations Cup win 

    Alas Pilipinas storms past Kyrgyzstan, bounces back with dominant AVC Nations Cup win 

    It took only an hour for Alas Pilipinas to put its disappointing five-set loss to Australia behind and return to winning form.

     

    The Filipinas delivered a commanding performance from start to finish, sweeping Kyrgyzstan, 25-9, 25-11, 25-17, to secure their second victory in the AVC Women’s Nations Cup at the Candon City Arena.

     

    After being pushed to the limit by Australia a day earlier, Alas left no room for drama this time, overwhelming Kyrgyzstan with superior attacking, disciplined floor defense, and a balanced offensive attack.

     

    The Philippines seized control immediately in the opening set, racing to an 11-3 advantage behind relentless pressure at the net. A block by Thea Gagate extended the lead to 18-8 before a service ace from Kyle Negrito pushed the margin to 19-8.

     

    Alas continued to pile on the points with a 5-0 run that stretched the lead to 20-8, leaving Kyrgyzstan with no answers. Veteran wing spiker Cess Molina eventually closed out the frame with a powerful attack to seal a lopsided 25-9 opening-set victory.

     

    The numbers reflected the domination, with Alas converting 16 attack points while Kyrgyzstan managed just one attack point in the set.

     

    The momentum carried into the second frame as young middle blocker Niña Ytang emerged as a key contributor on both ends of the floor. Her defensive presence and timely attacks helped the Filipinas establish a 10-4 lead, highlighted by a setup that led to an Alyssa Valdez kill.

     

    Alas never looked back, building a 15-5 cushion midway through the set before stretching the advantage to 18-6. Ytang continued her strong outing with another point that made it 21-7.

     

    Molina once again helped bring the Philippines to the brink, scoring for a 24-10 lead before Cla Loresco finished the set with a quick attack to hand Alas a comfortable 25-11 win.

     

    The Filipinas capitalized on 14 attack points and took full advantage of eight Kyrgyzstan errors in the second set.

     

    Determined to finish the match quickly, Alas opened the third set with a 5-0 run fueled by back-to-back points from Jovelyn Gonzaga.

     

    Gonzaga remained aggressive early, scoring three of the team’s first seven points as the Filipinas established control. Kyrgyzstan attempted to mount a response with three consecutive points, but Ytang quickly halted the rally with another attack that restored an eight-point lead at 14-6.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    Alas continued to dictate the pace, eventually stretching the margin to 20-10 as victory came into sight.

     

    To its credit, Kyrgyzstan showed more resistance late in the third set and managed to surpass the 15-point mark for the first time in the match. However, the comeback attempt never seriously threatened the Filipinas.

     

    A Kyrgyzstan error brought Alas to match point before Loresco delivered the final blow, hammering down the match-winning spike to complete the straight-sets triumph.

     

    Gagate led the balanced offensive effort with 11 points built on eight attacks, two blocks, and one ace. Gonzaga added 10 points, while team captain Alyssa Valdez chipped in nine.

     

    Ytang and Loresco combined for 10 points, but their impact extended far beyond the scoresheet. Both young middle blockers anchored the defensive effort with timely blocks and strong floor coverage that repeatedly disrupted Kyrgyzstan’s attack.

     

    Meanwhile, Alyssa Solomon, who erupted for 23 points against Australia, was limited to three points as Alas spread the offense among multiple scorers.

     

    For Kyrgyzstan, Aiturgan Aitbekova finished as the team’s top scorer with four points.

     

    The biggest difference, however, came in attack production. The Philippines dominated the category, 48-12, showcasing the offensive firepower that fueled one of its most convincing victories of the tournament.

     

    With the bounce-back win, Alas Pilipinas regained momentum and strengthened its position in Pool A as it continues its campaign in the AVC Women’s Nations Cup.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • “This public declaration is premature,” says Tony Boy Liao after PNVF board withdraws support 

    “This public declaration is premature,” says Tony Boy Liao after PNVF board withdraws support 

    With pressure mounting from both within and outside Philippine volleyball, embattled Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Anthony “Tony Boy” Liao is refusing to step aside without a fight.

     

    Days after a majority of the federation’s executive board publicly withdrew support for his leadership, Liao issued a firm response Monday, arguing that the ongoing controversy surrounding the PNVF remains far from settled and should undergo proper review before any conclusions are reached.

     

    Rather than treating the latest statement from federation officials as a final verdict, Liao framed it as a development occurring in the middle of a process that is still unfolding. The federation is currently preparing formal submissions and appeals to international volleyball authorities following the suspension imposed by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) late last month.

     

    “We take serious exception to the public statement issued by several members of the PNVF Board withdrawing support from President Anthony ‘Tonyboy’ Liao,” the statement read.

     

    “At a time when the Philippine National Volleyball Federation is preparing to pursue the proper appeal process and submit its formal response to the appropriate international bodies, this public declaration is premature, damaging, and risks prejudicing proceedings that have yet to be fully heard, reviewed, and decided.”

     

    The latest dispute comes amid one of the most turbulent periods in Philippine volleyball governance in recent memory.

     

    Liao assumed the PNVF presidency on January 1, 2026, after winning the federation’s elections in November last year. Less than six months into his term, however, the administration found itself at the center of a growing controversy that eventually led to the FIVB suspending the federation on May 29.

     

    The fallout was immediate. The Philippine Sports Commission announced the withdrawal of financial support for the federation, while the Asian Volleyball Confederation publicly reiterated its backing of AVC president Tats Suzara. Philippine Olympic Committee president Bambol Tolentino also signaled that the POC would respect the FIVB’s ruling during its next general assembly meeting.

     

    The pressure intensified further on June 6 when several top federation officials, including chairman Arnel Hajan, vice president Yul Benosa, secretary-general Otie Camangian, auditor Roger Banzuela, and multiple board members, announced that they had lost trust and confidence in Liao’s leadership.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    For Liao, however, the public withdrawal of support does not automatically settle the matter.

     

    “Most concerning is that the statement itself admits that the merits of the allegations remain subject to investigation and proper determination,” the statement said.

     

    “Despite this admission, its signatories chose to publicly pre-judge the matter, undermine the federation’s appeal, and create the impression that a conclusion has already been reached before the full facts, records, and circumstances have been examined.”

     

    The federation’s response also sought to provide context behind several of the issues currently being scrutinized.

     

    According to Liao’s camp, the current administration inherited multiple operational, financial, contractual, governance, and administrative concerns when it took over leadership at the start of the year. The statement argued that many of those issues were inherited from the previous administration and were compounded by what it described as the absence of a comprehensive transition process.

     

    The PNVF likewise defended its handling of national team matters, particularly decisions involving player selection and roster composition.

     

    “National team coaches must be afforded the independence to evaluate talent and make decisions based on performance, preparation, and the best interests of the national team, free from political pressure, commercial considerations, external influence, or demands from any individual stakeholder group,” the statement added.

     

    Liao also addressed another issue that has surfaced amid the controversy, clarifying that he does not serve as chairman of the Premier Volleyball League despite claims and discussions linking him to the professional league.

     

    While acknowledging the board members’ decision to withdraw support, the federation stressed that such a move does not constitute a formal removal from office. Liao maintained that his mandate came through a democratic election process recognized by the FIVB, PSC, POC, and the broader volleyball community.

     

    “Therefore, while we respect the public statement, this does not qualify as a legal and proper reversal of that election,” the statement said.

     

    “A change of the administration and President of PNVF must be done through the proper process and not left to the whimsies and passions of its officers and members.”

     

    For now, Liao insists he will remain in office while the federation pursues its appeals and responds to the allegations raised against his administration.

     

    With Philippine volleyball facing uncertainty at both the domestic and international levels, the battle for control of the PNVF appears far from over.

     

    “Accountability must proceed,” the statement concluded.

     

    “But it must proceed properly.”

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons take another step forward with AVC Beach Tour Silver finish 

    Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons take another step forward with AVC Beach Tour Silver finish 

    he result may not have ended with a gold medal, but it offered another encouraging sign that their partnership is heading in the right direction.

     

    The Alas Pilipinas beach volleyball tandem continued its steady rise on the Asian circuit after securing a runner-up finish in the AVC Beach Tour Pingtung Open, marking the best AVC tournament result of their careers together.

     

    Facing Australian Olympian Taliqua Clancy and partner Stefie Fejes in the championship match on Sunday in Chinese Taipei, Rondina and Pons showed flashes of the form that has made them one of Southeast Asia’s top beach volleyball pairs. However, the experience and firepower of the Australians eventually prevailed in a 21-19, 21-12 victory.

     

    Despite the defeat, the silver medal represented a significant achievement for the Filipino duo, who have spent much of 2026 focusing on international competition in preparation for the Asian Games later this year.

     

    The tournament showcased the growth of the pair beyond their dominance in the Southeast Asian region.

     

    Before reaching the final, Rondina and Pons survived a pair of demanding knockout matches that highlighted both their resilience and chemistry.

     

    They first outlasted Australians Jasmine Fleming and Elizabeth Achin in a marathon quarterfinal battle, escaping with a hard-earned 21-18, 33-31 victory. The win tested their composure and endurance, with the second set turning into one of the most fiercely contested stretches of their campaign.

     

    The following day, the Filipinas renewed a familiar rivalry against Thailand’s Kongphopsarutawadee Worapeerachayakorn and Taravadee Naraphornrapat.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    The matchup carried memories of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games gold-medal match, where Rondina and Pons delivered a historic championship for the Philippines. Once again, the Thai pair struggled to solve the Filipinas, who completed a 21-17, 26-24 semifinal triumph to book a spot in the gold-medal showdown.

     

    Although Clancy and Fejes ultimately denied them the title, Rondina and Pons left Chinese Taipei with valuable momentum.

     

    Their silver-medal finish comes at a crucial stage of their preparation as the pair continues to prioritize international competition ahead of the Asian Games in Japan this September. The duo has temporarily stepped away from PVL action to focus entirely on beach volleyball, a commitment that has already begun producing encouraging results.

     

    From their SEA Games breakthrough to their recent appearances on the Beach Pro Tour and now their strongest AVC finish to date, Rondina and Pons continue to build a resume that suggests they are capable of competing with some of Asia’s best.

     

    The gold medal may have slipped away in Pingtung, but the bigger picture remains promising. For SiPons, the journey toward the Asian Games appears to be gaining momentum at exactly the right time.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.

  • Chot Reyes shifts focus to TNT’s mistakes after Game 3 Finals loss 

    Chot Reyes shifts focus to TNT’s mistakes after Game 3 Finals loss 

    The conversation after Game 3 could have easily centered on the whistles.

     

    Instead, TNT head coach Chot Reyes found himself discussing two battles that have become intertwined throughout the PBA Season 50 Commissioner’s Cup Finals — the one against Barangay Ginebra and the one surrounding officiating.

     

    For the third straight game in the championship series, refereeing became a major talking point. But while Reyes delivered comments that immediately drew attention, the veteran coach ultimately acknowledged that TNT’s problems ran deeper than any call or non-call.

     

    After the Tropang 5G absorbed a 116-102 defeat before a packed crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena, Reyes was asked about the officiating crew’s performance.

     

    “Excellent, excellent officiating today,” said Reyes with a straight face. “I have to commend the officiating crew. Excellent officiating.”

     

    Whether the statement was genuine praise or a pointed remark was left open to interpretation.

     

    The issue has followed the series from the opening game.

     

    Reyes questioned the final sequence of Game 1, believing Justin Brownlee committed a foul on Calvin Oftana during TNT’s last-second attempt to force overtime. In Game 2, it was Ginebra coach Tim Cone who publicly expressed frustration, describing the officiating as “terrible” after his team’s defeat.

     

    By Game 3, the spotlight once again drifted toward the referees after Reyes was assessed a technical foul in the third quarter while repeatedly voicing his displeasure over several calls.

     

    Yet despite the attention generated by his comments, Reyes was careful not to pin the loss solely on officiating.

     

    The veteran mentor instead pointed to the areas where TNT failed to help itself.

     

    “We gave up 20 turnover points,” Reyes noted.

     

    OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

    For a team that thrives on discipline and execution, that number proved costly.

     

    TNT committed mistakes that Ginebra consistently converted into easy scoring opportunities, creating a gap that became difficult to overcome despite several comeback attempts.

     

    The Kings were also significantly more efficient offensively.

     

    Ginebra connected on 51.9 percent of its field-goal attempts, while TNT shot just 43.9 percent from the floor. The disparity was especially glaring in the opening quarter, when the crowd favorites shot a blistering 77.8 percent and raced to a commanding 35-16 lead.

     

    That explosive start allowed Ginebra to dictate the pace throughout the night and prevented TNT from ever fully settling into its preferred rhythm.

     

    “And they (Kings) shot extremely well,” Reyes added.

     

    In many ways, Game 3 reflected the delicate balance that has defined the Finals so far. Discussions about officiating continue to dominate headlines, but the outcomes have largely been determined by execution on the floor.

     

    For TNT, the challenge now is finding solutions before the series slips further away.

     

    Because regardless of how the whistles are perceived, Reyes knows the Tropang 5G cannot afford another night where turnovers pile up and Ginebra gets comfortable offensively.

     

    As the Finals move forward, the debate over officiating may continue. But for TNT, correcting its own mistakes may ultimately prove more important than any call made by the referees.

     

    👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

    📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports PH News today and join the community of passionate sports fans.