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Category: Pinoy Sports Pulse

  • Syrian Yousef Ibrahiem Alrefai seizes spotlight as foreign riders dominate Tour of Luzon Stage 1

    Syrian Yousef Ibrahiem Alrefai seizes spotlight as foreign riders dominate Tour of Luzon Stage 1

    Stage 1 of the MPTC Tour of Luzon opened with a demanding 143.7-kilometer ride from Calatagan, Batangas to the highlands of Tagaytay City, and by the time the peloton reached the summit, it was clear that the visiting squads came prepared to take control.


    At the center of it all was 19-year-old Yousef Ibrahiem Alrefai, who turned a calculated chase into a statement victory, clocking in at 3:36:35 to secure the stage win—and with it, the coveted yellow jersey.

     

    Beyond claiming the stage win and yellow jersey, Alrefai swept the honors by taking the King of the Mountain (polka dot) jersey and best young rider award. 

     

    But Alrefai’s triumph wasn’t a solo act. It was the finishing touch to a well-executed team effort by Dubai-based LCW UAE Cycling, which orchestrated a decisive late push.

     

    Alongside him at the finish was Russian teammate Nikita Shulchenko, completing a 1-2 finish with identical times, separated only by bonus seconds. Alrefai’s stage victory earned him a 10-second cushion, placing him four seconds ahead of Shulchenko in the general classification.

     

    Alrefai and Shulchenko reel in defending champion Joo Daeyeong, who had earlier attempted a solo escape.

     

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    Joo, last year’s champion, ultimately faded into the peloton and settled for 15th place, which is an early stumble in his title defense.

     

    Behind the leading duo, Britain’s Douglas Tyler Hannay delivered a strong ride for local squad Excellent Noodles, finishing third at 1:56 back. 

     

    He edged out Filipino riders Jericho Jay Lucero and Rench Michael Bondoc of Go for Gold Philippines, who both crossed at 2:06 behind the leader—the best finishes among the local contingent.

     

    Still, the day belonged to Alrefai, who not only claimed the stage but swept all individual jerseys on offer—an emphatic introduction in his first race on Philippine roads.

     

    “It’s my first time in the Philippines. I have no idea about the levels of the riders. So I was just chasing today. I’m really happy. Let’s complete it until Baguio. I was amazed by my local teammates. They really supported us, and so glad to get our first ever stage victory here in the Philippines,” Alrefai said.

     

    Despite identical finishing times, the bonus system shuffled the standings, Hannay sits 2:02 off the lead, while Lucero and Bondoc trail by 2:06. Joo, aided by time bonuses, remains within striking distance at sixth overall, 2:17 behind, with a larger group at back.

     

    The race now shifts gears from climbing strength to team precision as the tour heads north to Clark, Pampanga for Stage 2 on April 30 wherein a 43-kilometer team time trial culminates in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac.

     

    After one stage, the road to Luzon’s summit runs through a tightly knit foreign squad firing on all cylinders.

     

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  • PATAFA hopes to feature EJ Obiena in Cebu’s hosting of the 2028 Asian Beach Games 

    PATAFA hopes to feature EJ Obiena in Cebu’s hosting of the 2028 Asian Beach Games 

    Team Philippines is enjoying a strong campaign in the 2026 Asian Beach Games, positioning itself among the top-performing nations as the competition unfolds. With a current haul of eight medals—three golds, three silvers, and two bronzes—the country sits fourth overall in the medal standings, underscoring a productive showing across multiple disciplines despite a relatively modest delegation.

     

    The solid performance not only reflects the steady progress of Philippine beach sports but also serves as a timely boost as the country begins preparations for a much larger undertaking: hosting the 2028 edition of the Asian Beach Games in Cebu City. With the spotlight set to shine on home soil, Philippine sports officials are already exploring ways to elevate the event and maximize both competitive success and fan engagement.

     

    Among those leading the charge is the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association, which is pushing to expand the athletics program for 2028. A key proposal includes the introduction of pole vault—an event rarely associated with beach competitions but one that could become a marquee attraction for Filipino fans.

     

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    The inclusion of pole vault could pave the way for the country’s biggest track and field star, EJ Obiena, to compete in front of a home crowd in a unique setting. Obiena, widely regarded as Asia’s top pole vaulter, would undoubtedly be a major draw should the event be approved.

     

    “Nag-uusap na kami ng mga officials. I think yung isang way na maganda is yung pole vault event which is ginagawa na ito sa Busan na nasa sand. May runway lang yung pole vault. Maganda ito kasi tayo yung No. 1 in Asia sa pole vault in the name of EJ Obiena so it’s good na mapanood din. So hopefully. I’m not saying na mayroon ka agad pero tayo ang host so we will see,” said PATAFA secretary general Jasper Tanhueco during a media interaction.

    While plans for 2028 are already taking shape, the current campaign continues to deliver encouraging results. Despite fielding just a seven-athlete contingent in athletics, Team Philippines has managed to punch above its weight, emerging as the second-best performing national sports association in the discipline during the Games.

     

    Leading the charge is Leonard Grospe, who clinched the gold medal in the men’s high jump with an impressive performance on the sand-based setup. On the track, Jessica Laurance added to the medal tally with a silver finish in the women’s 60-meter race, showcasing both speed and adaptability in the unconventional beach environment. The women’s sprint relay team also delivered, capturing silver in the 4×60-meter event to further highlight the country’s depth in short-distance running.

     

    These results are particularly noteworthy given the unique challenges of beach athletics, where athletes must adjust to competing on sand—a surface that significantly alters speed, balance, and technique. For many Filipino athletes, the current edition marks their first exposure to this format, making their success even more commendable.

     

    Looking ahead, Tanhueco emphasized that the Philippines is committed to building a deeper and more competitive roster by the time it hosts the Games in 2028. With the advantage of home support and more structured preparations, the delegation is expected to grow significantly in both size and strength.

     

    “Definitely we will have more participants prior to our hosting. We will have our own qualifying as well. Siyempre mas paghahandaan natin medyo challenging kasi karamihan actually first time nila magcompete sa beach. Mas paghahandaan pa natin,” he concluded.

     

    As the 2026 campaign continues, Team Philippines is not only chasing medals but also laying the groundwork for a potentially historic hosting stint in Cebu. With momentum on their side and ambitious plans in motion, the country is positioning itself to make an even bigger impact when it welcomes Asia’s best beach sport athletes in 2028.

     

     

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  • “We won’t learn if we don’t make any mistakes”: Mervin Corpuz eyes redemption with new team in MPTC Tour of Luzon

    “We won’t learn if we don’t make any mistakes”: Mervin Corpuz eyes redemption with new team in MPTC Tour of Luzon

    For Mervin Corpuz, the road back to redemption begins on familiar but unforgiving terrain. The Pangasinan rider returns to the MPTC Tour of Luzon not just as a former sprint champion, but as a rider still chasing closure after a painful collapse in last year’s final stage. 


    For Mervin Corpuz, the road back begins with a lesson he refuses to forget. “We won’t learn if we don’t make any mistakes,” Corpuz said during the opening ceremony at CaSobe Resort.

     

    Now racing under 7-Eleven Cliqq Roadbike Philippines, he enters a deeper, more competitive field where experience, endurance, and recovery matter as much as raw speed.

     

    The 2026 edition of the Tour of Luzon is its most ambitious yet—stretching across 14 stages and more than 1,800 kilometers of racing from Calatagan, Batangas to Baguio City, cutting through provinces such as Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan before finishing in the high-altitude climb of Camp John Hay.

     

    A total of 91 cyclists from 13 teams (7 local, 6 foreign) are competing, making it one of the most internationally diverse fields in Philippine cycling history. 

     

    The lineup includes powerhouse local squads like MPT DriveHub, Standard Insurance, Go For Gold, and 7-Eleven Cliqq, alongside international teams from South Korea, UAE, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.

     

    This year’s race carries the theme “A Heritage in Motion,” emphasizing not just competition but the cultural significance of the Tour as it passes through towns that treat each stage like a festival on wheels.

     

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    For Corpuz, however, the focus is personal. Last season, he helped MPT DriveHub Cycling Team secure the overall team crown and earned the Sprint King title, but the individual glory slipped away on the brutal Kennon Road climb—where fatigue erased what had been a promising breakaway. 

     

    That 38th-place finish remains a painful reminder of how quickly mountain stages can overturn a race.

     

    Now riding for 7-Eleven Cliqq, he joins a roster that includes Jonel Carcueva, Ronald Oranza, Rustom Lim, and Joseph Javiniar.

     

    “It will be a good race tomorrow because of the climb. Let’s just wait for the results and let’s see what happens,” Corpuz said.

     

    The stakes this year are higher than ever. Organizers have confirmed a ₱12 million total prize pool, the biggest in Philippine cycling history, with ₱1 million for the individual champion and ₱2 million for the winning team. 

     

    Early signs already show how intense the race will be. In Stage 1 (Calatagan–Tagaytay), foreign squads quickly made their presence felt, with Egypt’s Yousif Ibrahiem and Russia’s Nikita Shulchenko taking the opening honors for LCW UAE Cycling, signaling that international contenders are ready to challenge local dominance.

     

    Beyond competition, the race is also a test of survival. Riders will endure scorching coastal roads, rolling inland climbs, and punishing mountain ascents that have historically defined the Tour of Luzon as the country’s ultimate endurance event.

     

    For Corpuz, the challenge is no longer just about chasing breakaways—it’s about lasting all 14 stages, managing energy, and finally converting experience into a complete finish.

     

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  • Philippine Sports Commission awards ₱11.2M in incentives to 2026 ASEAN Para Games medalists 

    Philippine Sports Commission awards ₱11.2M in incentives to 2026 ASEAN Para Games medalists 

    The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) paid tribute to the country’s para athletes on Tuesday, April 28, honoring their outstanding achievements at the 2026 ASEAN Para Games held in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The recognition ceremony celebrated not only medal-winning performances but also the resilience and dedication of Filipino athletes who continue to elevate the nation’s standing in international para sports.

     

    Led by PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio and Senator Christopher Lawrence Bong Go, the commission distributed a total of ₱11.2 million in incentives and cash rewards to 96 athletes and 52 coaches. The financial recognition comes on the heels of what has been widely regarded as one of Team Philippines’ most successful campaigns in the history of the Games.

     

    Competing against the region’s best, the Philippine contingent delivered a historic medal haul of 45 golds, 37 silvers, and 52 bronzes for a total of 134 medals—an achievement that underscores the steady growth of the country’s para sports program. The performance marked the Philippines’ finest showing since joining the ASEAN Para Games in 2001, further solidifying its place among Southeast Asia’s emerging para sports powers.

     

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    Under the provisions of Republic Act No. 10699, athletes were awarded ₱150,000 for every gold medal, ₱75,000 for silver, and ₱30,000 for bronze. Coaches also received corresponding incentives for their roles in guiding the athletes to podium finishes. However, it remains a point of discussion within the sporting community that these amounts are currently set at half the incentives granted to able-bodied athletes, who receive ₱300,000, ₱150,000, and ₱60,000 for gold, silver, and bronze medals, respectively.

     

    During the ceremony, Senator Go emphasized the importance of sustained investment and collaboration in Philippine sports:

    “We went from zero gold medals to three in the Olympics. With the PSC leading the way and the private sector partnering with the government, I am confident that we can earn more gold,” Go said on the occasion.

     

    Also present at the event was Michael Barredo, president of the International Blind Sports Federation and founding chief of the Paralympic Committee of the Philippines. Barredo commended the athletes for their perseverance and for bringing pride to the nation despite various challenges.

     

    “Despite the times of the energy crisis and all, today is the day that we celebrate the honor and glory of all athletes, and the pride that you gave to all Filipinos. This is the first time after so many years that we placed fourth after years of fifth and sixth placed finishes,” Barredo added.

     

    A total of 75 para athletes attended the ceremony, highlighted by standout swimmer Angel Mae Otom, who emerged as one of the brightest stars of the campaign. Otom delivered a dominant performance in the pool, capturing five individual gold medals and adding a silver medal in the mixed 4×50-meter freestyle relay—an achievement that further cemented her status as one of the country’s premier para athletes.

     

    Beyond recognition and rewards, the PSC reiterated its commitment to long-term development. Chairman Gregorio revealed ongoing efforts to upgrade and modernize training facilities to better support both able-bodied and para athletes. Among the initiatives are the establishment of a dedicated office at the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City, as well as enhancements to infrastructure and athlete services at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila and its counterpart facilities in Baguio City.

     

    In addition, the PSC is working closely with various national sports associations to advocate for policy reforms that promote equality in athlete compensation. Central to this effort is Senate Bill No. 1743, sponsored by Senator Go, which seeks to grant equal financial incentives to both para athletes and able-bodied athletes competing in international events.

     

    As the Philippines continues to build momentum in para sports, the achievements in 2025 ASEAN Para Games serve as both a milestone and a stepping stone—highlighting not only the country’s growing competitiveness but also the ongoing push toward inclusivity, recognition, and sustained excellence on the global stage.

     

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  • Dhenver Castillo bags silver in Asian Beach Games windsurfing, PH still third in medal tally 

    Dhenver Castillo bags silver in Asian Beach Games windsurfing, PH still third in medal tally 

    Battling both the elements and Asia’s best, Dhenver John Castillo proved that consistency and composure can carry just as much weight as speed on open water.

     

    The Filipino windsurfer delivered a hard-earned silver medal in the boys’ foil event of the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, navigating through a grueling 13-heat contest that tested endurance as much as skill.

     

    Castillo finished with 39 net points, tying Thailand’s Wachirawit Thonup after the long series of races. The final result, however, came down to the last sail, where the Thai bet edged ahead to claim gold, leaving Castillo with silver after placing second in the decisive race. A planned 14th heat was eventually scrapped due to unfavorable weather, sealing the final standings.

     

    Despite falling just short of the top podium, the result marked another strong showing for Castillo, who entered the competition as a gold medalist from the previous Southeast Asian Games. Competing on a bigger stage against tougher opposition, the Batangas native embraced the challenge.

     

    “Of course, during training, it’s really hard. You have to persevere,” Castillo said. “You really put all your heart into these competitions. My family told me to always be careful, do your best, while my coaches, they said, always stay focused.”

     

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    “The competition here in China is a bit tough because it’s not just the SEA Games but you are competing against the best in Asia,” he added.

     

    China’s Wang Yiguo dominated the event with a near-flawless performance, taking gold with just 12 net points, underlining the level of competition present in the field.

     

    Castillo’s podium finish contributed to Team Philippines’ steady medal haul in the Games, where the country currently sits among the top performers in the regional meet. The campaign has been highlighted by victories from jiu-jitsu standouts and athletics, reinforcing a balanced showing across multiple disciplines.

     

    More importantly, Castillo’s silver tells a story beyond numbers. It reflects the grind behind the sport—long hours of training, adapting to shifting winds, and making split-second decisions in unpredictable conditions.

     

    With the Asian Beach Games returning after a decade-long hiatus and the Philippines set to host the 2028 edition in Cebu, performances like Castillo’s offer both momentum and promise.

    For now, the young windsurfer leaves Sanya not just with a medal, but with proof that he can compete—and thrive—against the best the continent has to offer.

     

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  • Philippines locks in Cebu as host of 7th Asian Beach Games 2028 after contract signing

    Philippines locks in Cebu as host of 7th Asian Beach Games 2028 after contract signing

    The Philippines officially locked in its role as host of the 7th Asian Beach Games in 2028, with Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino formalizing the agreement during a contract signing at the Conifer Resort in Sanya. 


    Standing alongside him was His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, representing the Olympic Council of Asia and signaling full confidence in Cebu as the next stage for the continental event.

     

    The moment carried more weight than a routine signing. For Tolentino, it marked the return of the Philippines to hosting a major Asian-level competition after years on the sidelines.

     

    “We would like to congratulate the Philippines for the hosting of the 7th Asian Beach Games in 2028, in Cebu. Wishing you a pleasant stay in Sanya,” said the OCA President.

     

    “That’s why we are very excited for this next edition of the Asian Beach Games so we can showcase our hospitality, friendship, culture and the beauty of Cebu City,” Tolentino said.

     

    Back home, the announcement sets in motion preparations for what is expected to be one of the country’s biggest multi-sport undertakings in recent years. And it won’t come alone.

     

    “We’re very excited for our country to host two big events — the Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games next year in December then after three months, the Asian Beach Games in March 2028,” Tolentino said. 

     

    “Its’ been a long time since hosted Olympic Council of Asia events,” he added. “It’s part of the government’s sports tourism program. So, this is it. We’re excited. Will it cause headaches? I don’t think so. We’re used to hosting big sporting events.”

     

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    Plans are already underway, with branding elements such as logos and mascots prepared for unveiling in June as part of a broader rollout strategy.

     

    “Preparations are already underway for both events. We have the logos and mascots. But we will announce it during a scheduled coordination meeting in June. It’s hitting two birds in one stone, the SEA Plus YG in Manila and then the Cebu Asian Beach Games,” Tolentino added. 

     

    The hosting push is backed by the Philippine Sports Commission under chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio and aligned with the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee, reinforcing the government’s strategy of using sports as a driver for tourism and international visibility.

     

    “The last time we hosted a similar, although different Games, was in 2019 during the Manila SEA Games. The SEA Plus YG is a bigger competition because there will be other countries aside from Southeast Asia,” Tolentino noted.

     

    Even as future plans take shape, the present campaign continues. As of Tuesday afternoon, the Philippines sits third in the medal standings of the ongoing Asian Beach Games, collecting three gold, three silver, and two bronze medals in the 45-nation meet.

     

    The gold medals came from Annie Ramirez and Alexandria Luz Enriquez in jiu-jitsu, and Leonard Grospe in athletics.

     

    Host China leads the tally with 19 gold, 13 silver, and seven bronze medals, followed by Thailand with nine gold, eight silver, and five bronze.

     

    For the Philippines, the numbers reflect a strong showing—but the bigger picture now stretches beyond Sanya. With Cebu 2028 officially secured, the country is no longer just competing on the Asian stage.

     

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  • Tour of Luzon 2026 opens in Batangas as 13 teams launch “A Heritage in Motion” cycling battle 

    Tour of Luzon 2026 opens in Batangas as 13 teams launch “A Heritage in Motion” cycling battle 

    The MPTC Tour of Luzon 2026 officially begins on Tuesday, April 28, with its opening ceremony and team presentation in Calatagan, Batangas, marking the start of a demanding two-week cycling race. 

     

    Thirteen teams, six international and seven local—will roll out their colors, jerseys, and ambitions under the banner of “A Heritage in Motion,” a race designed to test not just speed, but survival across the Philippine landscape.

     

    The evening program, set against the shores of Balayan Bay, will gather 91 riders representing different nations, alongside key figures from Philippine sports and government. 

     

    Among those addressing the peloton are Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, chairman of Tour co-presentor Philippine Sports Commission and widely recognized as the “Father of the Tour of Luzon Revival,” and MPTC Tour of Luzon chief organizer and CEO Arrey Perez.

     

    They will be joined by Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who will deliver a message to the riders as the race officially sets its tone. 

     

    The ceremony will also be opened by NLEX Corporation president and general manager Luis Reñon, and attended by Games and Amusements Board chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera, Calatagan Mayor Rico Puno, and Cardinal Santos Medical Center president and CEO Raul Pagdanganan.

     

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    Also present are MMDA General Manager Gen. Nicolas Torre III, fresh from participating in the Heritage Race for cycling executives, and members of the late cycling patron Albert Lina’s family—wife Sylvia and daughter Donna—continuing his legacy within the sport.

     

    A symbolic highlight of the program will be the handover of the MPTC Tour of Luzon Perpetual Trophy from reigning champion MPTC DriveHub back to the organizers. 

     

    The trophy, which can only be permanently claimed by a team winning the title three times, will remain in play, with DriveHub receiving a replica for their 2025 triumph.

     

    On the sporting front, the field is stacked with international and domestic firepower. Defending individual champion Joo Dae Yeong returns to lead Gapyeong Cycling Team of South Korea, one of two Korean squads joined by Seoul Cycling Team.

     

    They will be challenged by LCW UAE Cycle, Malaysia National Team, CCN Factory Racing from Hong Kong, and Ponti Wijaya Racing Team from Indonesia—adding global depth to a race already rich in competition. Philippine teams 7-Eleven Cliqq Roadbike Philippines, Go For Gold Philippines, and reigning champion MPTC DriveHub headline the local contingent.

     

    They are joined by Standard Insurance Philippines, DReyna Orion Cement Pro Cycling Team, Excellent Noodles, and Pangasinan Cycling Team, forming a deep domestic lineup ready to battle across mountains, coasts, and highways.

      

    The race will conclude with Stage 14 from Lingayen to John Hay Hotels in Baguio City—an uphill finish worthy of a champion.


    With a fireworks display set to close on opening night over Balayan Bay, the Tour of Luzon begins not just as a race, but as a full-scale test of endurance across the country’s most challenging roads. 

     

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  • Annie Ramirez wins third straight Asian Beach Games gold for team Philippines 

    Annie Ramirez wins third straight Asian Beach Games gold for team Philippines 

    Team Philippines continued its strong showing in the 2026 Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, securing its third gold medal of the competition behind another stellar performance from Annie Ramirez.

     

    The reigning Asian Games champion once again proved her dominance on the sand, capturing the gold medal in the women’s -57 kilogram division of jiu-jitsu on Friday, April 24, at the Athletes’ Village competition venue. Ramirez defeated fellow Filipina Emily Thomas via advantage in an all-Philippine final, ensuring that the country would take both the gold and silver medals in the division.

     

    The victory marked a historic milestone for Ramirez, as she clinched her third consecutive Asian Beach Games gold medal, having previously topped the podium in the 2014 and 2016 editions. Her sustained excellence across multiple cycles underscores her status as one of the Philippines’ most accomplished combat sports athletes.

     

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    Despite the lopsided result in the final, Ramirez’s road to the championship was anything but easy. She was tested in the semifinal round by Mongolia’s Shurentsetseg Ehnkhmunkh, engaging in a tightly contested bout that went the full five-minute duration. Ramirez ultimately prevailed, 5–2, using her experience and tactical discipline to pull away in the latter stages and secure her place in the gold medal match.

     

    Reflecting on her victory, Ramirez emphasized both the significance of the achievement and the unique circumstances of facing a compatriot in the final.

    “It’s a big thing that Emily and I were able to close out the division, so it helped lessen the anxiety – especially with everything that happened earlier and the delay. At least whoever won, it’s still a win for the Philippines. I’m very blessed and so happy. It’s one of the rarest things to achieve as a national athlete, so I’m grateful to everyone who helped me,” Ramirez said after winning the gold.

     

    The all-Filipino final highlighted the depth of talent within the country’s jiu-jitsu program, with both Ramirez and Thomas showcasing high-level technique and composure under pressure. While Ramirez ultimately extended her reign, Thomas’ silver medal performance signaled the emergence of another strong contender for the Philippines in future international competitions.

     

    Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino was present at the venue and witnessed firsthand the Filipinas’ dominance in the division. He praised both athletes for their efforts and competitiveness on the international stage.

     

    “Emily wanted the gold for herself and the country, and she fought like a champion. While Annie remains the queen of this mat, we believe Thomas’ time is coming. That resilience and hunger – that’s the true spirit of being a Filipino athlete,” Tolentino added.

     

    With Ramirez’s triumph, the Philippine jiu-jitsu team concluded its Asian Beach Games campaign with an impressive haul of two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze. The result further cements the country’s reputation as a rising force in the sport across Asia.

     

    Looking ahead, Ramirez is set to defend her title in the upcoming Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, later this year. With her current form and proven track record, she will once again be among the favorites to deliver gold for Team Philippines on an even bigger stage.

     

     

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  • “We will have more participants”: PATAFA sets sights on bigger athletics push for Cebu 2028 Asian Beach Games 

    “We will have more participants”: PATAFA sets sights on bigger athletics push for Cebu 2028 Asian Beach Games 

    A small but impactful campaign in Sanya may have just reshaped the long-term vision of the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association.


    Coming off a gold-silver-bronze medal haul in the 6th Asian Beach Games, the federation is already looking ahead—not just to compete, but to transform its presence when the Philippines hosts the 2028 edition in Cebu. 

     

    What began as a modest seven-athlete delegation in China is now expected to evolve into a broader, more ambitious contingent spanning multiple disciplines.

     

    “So, definitely we will have more participants. Prior to our hosting, we’ll have our own qualifying as well. Siyempre, mas paghahandaan natin,” said PATAFA Secretary General Jasper Tanhueco.

     

    The confidence stems from a campaign that exceeded expectations despite limited exposure to beach athletics. Leonard Grospe led the charge with a gold medal in men’s high jump, while Jessica Laurance added a bronze in the women’s 60m dash. 

     

    The team capped its run with a silver medal in the 4x60m relay, courtesy of Laurance, Kristina Knott, Shane Ponce, and Lianne Pama—completing a full podium set for the country.

     

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    “Nakita nyo naman, medyo challenge with the high jump also. Siyempre, mga first time din nung ibang athletes natin. Karamihan actually na first time nila to compete sa beach. Kasi last time nito was 2016, if I’m not mistaken… Mas paghahandaan pa natin na tayo yung mag-host po,” Tanhueco said.

     

    The unfamiliarity of sand-based competition didn’t stop the Filipinos from delivering, but it did highlight the importance of preparation. Early arrival in Sanya proved crucial, giving athletes valuable time to adjust—something Tanhueco credits as a decisive advantage.

     

    “Thank you rin kay PSC and POC kasi given na mas maaga po kami talaga. So, mayroon silang enough days to adjust, enough days to try yung sand. Kasi pag, siyempre, mas late tayo dumating, mas konti yung adjustment. Papasalamat po kami kay POC na maaga rin kami pinapunta dito na nag-result din po ng medal natin,” he said.

     

    With Cebu 2028 on the horizon, PATAFA is not just planning to increase numbers—it is also exploring innovation. 

     

    Among the most intriguing possibilities is the inclusion of pole vault in a beach setting, inspired by similar competitions abroad.

     

    “I think yung isang way na maganda is yung pole vault event, which is ginagawa po ito sa Busan. Sa sand, may runway lang yung pole vault. So, maganda po ito,” Tanhueco stated.

     

    Such a move could spotlight EJ Obiena, widely regarded as Asia’s top pole vaulter, while also opening doors for emerging talents to gain international exposure in a unique format.

     

    “Tayo yung number one in Asia with the name of EJ Obiena. So, it’s a good na mapanood din. Hopefully, I mean, I’m not saying na meron kagad, pero tayo yung host. Let’s see,” he added.

     

    From a seven-athlete experiment to a full-scale hosting ambition, PATAFA’s beach games journey is shifting from participation to possibility—one that could redefine how Philippine athletics embraces new terrain on home soil. 

     

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  • Philta champion AJ Lim highlights Alex Eala as a benchmark for Philippine tennis success 

    Philta champion AJ Lim highlights Alex Eala as a benchmark for Philippine tennis success 

    Alberto “AJ” Lim reinforced his status as the Philippines’ premier men’s tennis player after completing a dominant double at the inaugural Philta Men’s Open, sweeping both the singles and doubles titles at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.

     

    The top seed delivered a composed and commanding performance in the singles final on Sunday, April 26, outlasting second seed Eric Jed Olivarez Jr., 7-6, 6-1, to cap off a statement campaign. The victory earned Lim the champion’s prize of ₱350,000 along with 1,000 ranking points, while Olivarez took home ₱175,000 and 750 ranking points after finishing runner-up.

     

    The opening set proved to be a tightly contested affair, with both players holding serve and exchanging momentum in a tense tiebreak. However, Lim elevated his level at crucial junctures, tightening his shot selection and minimizing errors to edge the first set. From there, he shifted into another gear in the second set, overwhelming Olivarez with controlled aggression and superior consistency to close out the match in convincing fashion.

     

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    Reflecting on his victory, Lim credited his mindset and support system for helping him get through a challenging final.

     

    “I just really wanted it so bad. Props to Jed for making it super, super tough. I’m not really thinking about the score – just leaving it all out there, hoping I can get the win, and luckily it happened. Thanks to God. I really want to thank God, my team, and my mom. I couldn’t do this without you,” Lim said after the match.

    Beyond his triumph on the singles court, Lim also completed a successful run in the doubles competition, further underlining his dominance throughout the tournament. His consistency across both disciplines highlighted not only his physical endurance but also his growing maturity as the country’s leading tennis figure.

     

    The 26-year-old also used the moment to call for stronger support for Philippine tennis, while drawing inspiration from the rising profile of Filipino tennis standout Alex Eala, who has helped elevate the sport’s visibility in recent years.

     

    “Thank you to all who supported Jed, me, and tennis. Huwag kayo magsawa na mag-support ng tennis kasi may Alex Eala na po tayo sa babae. Sa mga youth men’s players, sana magkaroon rin tayo ng isang Alex Eala,” Lim added.

     

    Despite falling short in the final, Olivarez showed sportsmanship in defeat and acknowledged Lim’s ability to raise his level in key moments. The second seed, who pushed through a demanding draw to reach the championship match, remained positive about his overall run in the tournament.

     

    “I don’t think I did anything wrong. I think, you know, every time in the important points, he would step up one gear. Just one more good shot. I think AJ just really deserves to win this match. I’m really grateful because I had a lot of tough matches leading up to the finals. It’s been a long journey. I’m just grateful to be here. It’s not the best result – I would have wanted to win – but I’m still grateful,” Olivarez said.

     

    The final also carried added significance given the recent history between the two players. Lim and Olivarez, alongside fellow standouts Treat Huey Alcantara and Johnny Arcilla Pantino, were part of the Philippine team that secured the bronze medal in the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand. Their continued rivalry on the domestic stage is expected to further elevate the level of men’s tennis in the country.

     

    With his latest triumph, Lim not only strengthens his position at the top of Philippine tennis but also sends a clear message heading into the next international and regional competitions: he remains the benchmark for the sport locally, and a key figure in its continued growth.

     

     

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