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Tag: Philippines

  • “Everybody knows how she behaves around players”: Ira Pablo fires shots at Apple David over viral relationship controversy 

    “Everybody knows how she behaves around players”: Ira Pablo fires shots at Apple David over viral relationship controversy 

    Veteran Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) courtside reporter Apple David has become the center of widespread public discussion after confirming that she is in a relationship with National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) basketball player Chad Gammad.

     

    The revelation quickly sparked strong reactions online, with much of the conversation centered on the significant age gap between the two. David is currently 33 years old, while Gammad, a rising player for the Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights, is 18 years old.

     

    The longtime sports media personality publicly addressed the relationship through a video posted on social media, where she acknowledged the criticism and scrutiny surrounding their situation. David described the relationship as “risky,” while appealing for understanding and respect from the public.

     

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    “I know it’s a very risky relationship because of the age gap, but it’s a risk we are both taking and I hope people can be kind enough to allow us to do that in peace. Sa mga tao po na nakakaintindi, sa mga tao po na sumusuporta and nag nagpahatid ng mga mensahe nila, maraming maraming salamat po sa inyo. Again, sa mga na offend, we’re sorry but we just ask for respect as this should be a happy time for us,” David said.

     

    The issue rapidly gained traction across social media platforms, with fans, sports personalities, and members of the local basketball community weighing in on the matter. While some expressed support for the couple and emphasized that both individuals are adults, others questioned the optics of the relationship given David’s role as a veteran media figure covering athletes and sports organizations.

    Among those who publicly criticized the situation was former courtside reporter Ira Pablo, who openly questioned David’s professionalism in a series of social media posts.

     

    “Everybody knows how Apple David behaves around players. Wag na tayo maglokohan dito. Panahon palang ng daddy ko, she’s been around. I’m so surprised ngayon lang to lumabas after all these years and ironically, because she exposed herself again,” Pablo wrote.

     

    Pablo went further by criticizing what she described as deeper issues within the local sports media environment, suggesting that problematic behavior has long been tolerated within the industry.

     

    “This woman is the sports journalist networks choose to put on television to represent the league. She’s a product of a broken system that keeps rewarding the wrong behavior. Here’s your most valued and longest-running PBA courtside reporter. Professionalism left the group chat,” she added.

     

    The public exchange has also reignited discussions surrounding the history between David and Pablo. The two personalities were previously involved in controversy after Pablo accused David of bullying in 2025, allegations that fueled tension between the pair and drew attention within Philippine sports media circles at the time.

     

    As discussions continue online, the controversy has expanded beyond the relationship itself, touching on broader conversations regarding professionalism, ethics in sports media, personal boundaries, and public scrutiny faced by personalities working in the industry.

     

    Neither the PBA nor Letran has issued an official statement regarding the matter as of writing.

     

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  • Danrex Tapadasan makes history as the first Filipino elected to the IBF Board of Directors

    Danrex Tapadasan makes history as the first Filipino elected to the IBF Board of Directors

    Atty. Danrex Tapadasan, one of the Philippines’ most respected international boxing referees and judges, has added another historic milestone to his already impressive career after being elected to the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Board of Directors.


    The seasoned official, widely regarded as one of the finest in-ring arbiters the country has produced, made history as the first Filipino ever to earn a seat on the IBF Board. The election took place during the 41st IBF Annual Convention held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where Tapadasan emerged with strong support from the global boxing community, securing 51 votes out of 59 cast.


    His election marks a significant breakthrough not only for his personal career but also for Philippine representation in international boxing governance, placing a Filipino official in a key decision-making body of one of the sport’s major organizations.


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    “I am deeply honored and humbled to have been elected as a member of the IBF Board of Directors. My sincere gratitude to all the delegates, officers, and members of the IBF family for your trust and confidence, reflected by the overwhelming support of 51 votes out of the total 59 votes cast,” Tapadasan said.


    Tapadasan’s rise in the sport has been shaped by years of dedication both inside and outside the ring. A former litigation lawyer and law professor, he transitioned into boxing officiating and steadily built a reputation for fairness, discipline, and strong command of high-level international bouts. His appointment to the IBF Board is seen as a continuation of his long-standing commitment to integrity and professionalism in the sport.


    In his new role, Tapadasan will be involved in shaping the IBF’s long-term direction, including oversight of its constitution, bylaws, and ethical framework. He will also take part in strengthening administrative systems, regulatory standards, and policies that guide the federation’s global boxing operations.


    Beyond governance, his presence on the board is expected to contribute to the development and education of boxing officials worldwide, an area he has consistently advocated for throughout his career.


    “As the first ever Filipino elected to the Board, I carry this responsibility with great pride, humility, and commitment. I remain dedicated to promoting integrity in officiating, education and development of boxing officials, and unity within the global boxing community. This victory is not mine alone – it is shared with the Philippines and everyone who continues to believe in fair, credible, and honorable boxing,” he concluded.


    With this landmark achievement, Tapadasan not only elevates his own standing in the international boxing community but also places the Philippines firmly on the map in global boxing administration, marking a proud moment for the country’s sporting officials.


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  • Bella Belen named Rookie of the Year after stellar PVL debut campaign 

    Bella Belen named Rookie of the Year after stellar PVL debut campaign 

    Former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout Bella Belen continues to elevate her status as one of the brightest rising stars in Philippine volleyball, further strengthening her growing reputation as the sport’s next major cornerstone.

     

    Now starring for the Capital1 Solar Spikers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), Belen capped off an impressive campaign by being named Rookie of the Year, a recognition that underscores her immediate impact at the professional level after a decorated collegiate career. The award will be formally presented during the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night on Saturday, May 30, at Novotel Manila Araneta City in Cubao, Quezon City.

     

    Belen dominated the voting process, collecting 69 media votes and 26 team votes, along with 91.284 statistical points for a total of 186.284 points. Her all-around brilliance placed her well ahead of her fellow 2025 PVL Draft classmates, including AC Miner (85 points), Jean Asis (83.89), and Riza Nogales (64.47), in a decisive win that highlighted her immediate rise as a professional force.

     

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    Beyond her Rookie of the Year recognition, Belen also secured a spot in the league’s elite Mythical Team and was named Best Outside Spiker, further cementing her status as one of the most complete young players in the league today.

    Her performance throughout the season reflected both offensive firepower and defensive consistency. Belen finished third overall in the PVL scoring charts during the preliminary round with 218 total points, posting a 35.16% spiking success rate. She also proved her versatility on the defensive end, finishing second overall in reception with an impressive 40.84% efficiency rating, showcasing her ability to contribute in all phases of the game.

     

    The recognition places Belen among an elite group of PVL standouts honored for their performances throughout the season. Other major awardees include Savannah Davison of the PLDT High Speed Hitters and Creamline Cool Smashers veteran Pangs Panaga, both of whom were also recognized as Best Outside Spikers and Best Middle Blocker, respectively.

     

    Cignal Super Spikers playmaker Gel Cayuna was named Best Setter, while PLDT’s defensive anchor Kath Arado took home Best Libero honors. Farm Fresh Foxies standout Trisha Tubu earned Best Opposite Spiker, and PLDT’s Ralf Ricafort was recognized as Coach of the Year for his leadership throughout the campaign.

     

    Creamline Cool Smashers, meanwhile, were named Team of the Year following another dominant season, further solidifying their status as one of the league’s premier dynasties.

     

    Other individual recognitions included Erika Santos of Cignal Super Spikers as Most Improved Player, Kim Kianna Dy of PLDT High Speed Hitters as Comeback Player of the Year, and Alyssa Valdez of Creamline Cool Smashers receiving the Miss Quality Minutes award.

     

    With her latest accolades, Belen’s rapid ascent from collegiate standout to professional star continues to draw attention, as she further establishes herself as one of the key figures expected to shape the future of Philippine volleyball.

     

     

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  • Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirms full government support for Philippine sports at 2026 Palarong Pambansa

    Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirms full government support for Philippine sports at 2026 Palarong Pambansa

    The 2026 Palarong Pambansa officially opened on Sunday, May 24, in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, marking the start of the country’s biggest annual multi-sport youth competition. The opening ceremony brought together student-athletes from 20 athletic delegations representing the 18 regions of the Philippines, along with contingents from the National Academy of Sports and the Philippine Schools Overseas, all set to compete across various disciplines throughout the week-long event.

     

    This year’s edition is being held at the newly refurbished Lipus Makapandong Democrito O. Plaza Sports Complex in Prosperidad Town, which will serve as the main hub for the competitions. Organizers expect a highly competitive tournament featuring around 10,718 student-athletes, underscoring the continued growth and nationwide reach of grassroots sports development in the country.

     

    The event was formally opened with national government representation, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was represented by Special Assistant Antonio Ernesto F. Lagdameo Jr. In his message delivered through his representative, Marcos reaffirmed the administration’s strong commitment to supporting Philippine sports development at all levels, particularly among the youth.

     

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    Marcos emphasized that sports play a vital role not only in building physical strength but also in shaping character and discipline among young athletes. He highlighted how competition serves as a platform to instill values such as teamwork, respect, perseverance, and self-confidence—qualities that extend beyond the playing field and into everyday life.

    “Hindi lang para sa paligsahan, kundi upang ipagdiwang ang galing, talento, at sipag ng mga kabataang Pilipino. Kayo ang mga pinakamagagaling na student-athletes sa inyong mga paaralan,” Marcos said in a statement.

     

    The president also pointed to ongoing government initiatives aimed at strengthening the country’s sports development pipeline. Among these is the “Grassroots to Gold” program, implemented through the Department of Education (DepEd) in coordination with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), which is designed to identify and nurture young athletic talent from the grassroots level all the way to elite competition.

     

    Marcos stressed that sustained investment in youth sports is essential to building a stronger national sports program in the future, noting that early development and proper training environments are key to producing world-class Filipino athletes.

     

    He further urged all participating student-athletes to embrace the values of sportsmanship, humility, and respect throughout the competition. Beyond winning medals, he emphasized that the Palarong Pambansa serves as a formative experience where young athletes can grow, learn, and build lasting memories.

     

    “Sa ating mga kabataang atleta, ito ang hiling ko sa inyo: Mag-enjoy kayo sa paligsahang ito. Ibigay ninyo ang buong puso sa paglalaro. Lumaban nang may dangal at igalang ang kapwa ninyong atleta,” he concluded.

     

    With thousands of young athletes now gathered in Agusan del Sur, the 2026 Palarong Pambansa is expected to showcase not only athletic excellence but also the enduring spirit of Filipino youth sports, as competitors aim to shine while representing their respective regions and institutions on one of the country’s biggest sporting stages.

     

     

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  • Scottie Thompson powers Barangay Ginebra past Rain or Shine for 2-1 PBA semis lead

    Scottie Thompson powers Barangay Ginebra past Rain or Shine for 2-1 PBA semis lead

    Barangay Ginebra San Miguel moved a step closer to the Commissioner’s Cup Finals after carving out a hard-fought 103-98 victory over Rain or Shine in Game 3 of their best-of-seven semifinal series on Sunday, May 24, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. The Gin Kings now hold a crucial 2-1 advantage in the series heading into the pivotal fourth game.

     

    As expected, resident import Justin Brownlee once again delivered in the biggest moments, finishing with 24 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds while orchestrating Ginebra’s offense with his trademark composure and efficiency. Rookie guard RJ Abarrientos also continued his impressive playoff run, contributing 17 points, five assists, and three rebounds to provide additional firepower for the crowd favorites.

     

    But on a night loaded with standout performances, it was veteran guard Scottie Thompson who stole the spotlight.

     

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    Thompson produced another all-around masterpiece, tallying 25 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and three steals while knocking down five three-pointers to help Ginebra fend off repeated comeback attempts from the Elasto Painters. Time and again, Thompson delivered timely baskets and hustle plays that energized both his teammates and the sea of Ginebra supporters inside the arena.

     

    Despite his stellar outing, Thompson remained humble after the victory and immediately shifted the credit toward the team’s system and preparation under head coach Tim Cone.

    “Yung flow ng offense namin yun, and we move well without the ball, so maraming nao-open. Honestly, I don’t know what to say. I’m just overwhelmed and blessed,” Thompson said after the game.

     

    The victory highlighted Ginebra’s balanced attack and championship experience, particularly in crunch time where the team executed with poise on both ends of the floor. Rain or Shine stayed within striking distance for most of the contest, but the Gin Kings leaned on their veteran core and disciplined execution to preserve the win late in the fourth quarter.

     

    Cone, who has coached Thompson since selecting him fifth overall in the 2015 PBA Rookie Draft, was full of admiration for the former league MVP’s relentless work ethic and consistency over the years.

     

    “There’s nobody better than a guy who comes out and does his job literally every game and every practice. He does all the stuff that no one else wants to do, and it’s just amazing to watch that day in and day out for 10 years now. He just comes to work every game and every day, and he does that day in and day out,” Cone added.

     

    For Cone, Thompson’s performance was hardly surprising. Over the years, the hardworking guard has built a reputation as one of the league’s most dependable stars — a player capable of impacting games far beyond the scoring column through rebounding, defense, hustle plays, and leadership.

     

    With momentum now on their side, Barangay Ginebra will look to tighten its grip on the series when the two squads meet again in Game 4 on Wednesday, May 27, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Meanwhile, Rain or Shine faces mounting pressure as it attempts to level the series against a Ginebra side that appears to be finding its rhythm at the perfect time.

     

     

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  • “We don’t want the teams to be less”: Alyssa Valdez disappointed by PVL team withdrawals 

    “We don’t want the teams to be less”: Alyssa Valdez disappointed by PVL team withdrawals 

    The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) has cemented its status as the Philippines’ premier women’s volleyball competition since its rebranding in 2017, evolving into a highly competitive professional league that continues to attract top local talent and strong fan support across the country.

     

    However, despite its growth and rising profile, the PVL has recently been rocked by a series of franchise withdrawals, raising concerns about league stability even as the level of on-court competition continues to rise. The latest development came with the Cignal Super Spikers announcing their departure from the league, a move that surprised many given the timing of their exit.

     

    Cignal’s withdrawal was particularly striking as it came just days after the franchise completed its most successful campaign to date, finishing runners-up in the PVL 2026 All-Filipino Conference and reaching the Finals for the first time in team history. Their deep playoff run had been viewed as a breakthrough moment for the organization, making their sudden exit all the more unexpected within the volleyball community.

     

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    The Super Spikers now join a growing list of teams that have stepped away from the PVL in recent seasons, following previous exits by franchises such as the Chery Tiggo Crossovers and the Petro Gazz Angels. The pattern of withdrawals has sparked broader conversations about team sustainability, resource allocation, and the evolving structure of professional volleyball in the country.

     

    One of the sport’s biggest stars, Alyssa Valdez, recently addressed the issue, acknowledging both the disappointment and the potential implications of having fewer teams in the league. Valdez, widely regarded as the face of Philippine volleyball, emphasized her desire for continued growth and expansion rather than contraction in the PVL landscape.

    “Honestly, I think if there is one thing that’s sad, we don’t want the teams to be less in the PVL. We want to welcome other teams and clubs that want to join,” Valdez said in a media interaction.

     

    At the same time, the veteran outside hitter also noted that a smaller league could inadvertently lead to a higher level of competition, as remaining teams become more concentrated with elite talent and deeper rosters. She suggested that while the reduction in franchises is concerning from a structural standpoint, it may also raise the overall quality and intensity of matches moving forward.

     

    “But I think if there’s pros and cons, the competition is getting smaller and the teams are more beefed up,” she added.

     

    Valdez’s comments come at a time when the PVL is experiencing both heightened competitiveness and increased scrutiny over its long-term expansion model. With fewer teams in the fold, player distribution, roster depth, and competitive parity are expected to become even more critical factors in upcoming conferences.

     

    Despite the league’s off-court challenges, Creamline once again asserted its dominance in the most recent conference, adding another championship to its already decorated history. The Cool Smashers continue to set the benchmark for consistency and excellence, further strengthening their status as the league’s most successful franchise in the modern PVL era.

     

    However, Valdez acknowledged that sustaining that level of success will only become more difficult moving forward, especially as rival teams continue to strengthen their lineups in response to Creamline’s sustained dominance.

     

    “So, we really need to prepare the team so that we can defend the title,” Valdez concluded.

    As the PVL looks ahead to its next conference, the league finds itself at a crossroads—balancing the challenge of franchise stability with the growing competitiveness on the court, while star players like Valdez prepare for an increasingly demanding title defense.

     

     

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  • Respect over rivalry: MMA star Lito Adiwang explains reluctance to face fellow Filipino Joshua Pacio 

    Respect over rivalry: MMA star Lito Adiwang explains reluctance to face fellow Filipino Joshua Pacio 

    Filipino MMA standout Lito Adiwang continues to strengthen his reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most explosive mixed martial arts prospects, powered by his relentless forward pressure, sharp striking arsenal, and a fan-friendly fighting style that has made him a consistent highlight-reel presence in ONE Championship.

     

    Known widely by his moniker “Thunder Kid,” Adiwang once again delivered a statement performance on the global stage after dismantling Indonesia’s multi-time national wrestling champion Eko Roni Saputra via first-round TKO in just 34 seconds during their bantamweight clash on Friday, May 15, at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

     

    The emphatic finish underscored Adiwang’s growing evolution as a dangerous finisher inside the cage, further cementing his status as one of the most electrifying strikers on the ONE Championship roster. Competing in the bantamweight division for this bout, the 33-year-old Filipino star showcased composure, precision, and killer instinct, ending the contest almost immediately and sending a strong message to the rest of the division.

     

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    Beyond the highlight-reel victory, Adiwang’s career trajectory remains a major talking point as he continues to explore a full-time return to the flyweight MMA division—where he believes his championship aspirations are most realistic. The Filipino contender has openly expressed confidence that a move back down in weight will position him for a deeper title run in ONE Championship’s highly competitive flyweight ranks.

    Following his latest win, Adiwang already has his sights set on potential future matchups, naming Chinese standout “Wolf Warrior” Hu Yong as his preferred next opponent.

     

    “I think for now the number one is Hu Yong,” Adiwang said in a media interaction.

     

    Adiwang’s decision to shift his focus back to flyweight also effectively cools long-standing fan discussions surrounding a potential all-Filipino showdown with reigning strawweight champion Joshua Pacio, a matchup that has generated significant interest due to their shared history.

     

    “Yeah, at least yeah, because in strawweight they keep calling, yeah, people want to see me fight Joshua, and that sucks. And now that I’m at flyweight, at least now there’s no more just like Filipino versus Filipino fights to happen, so yeah,” he added.

     

    Adiwang and Pacio were former teammates at the renowned Team Lakay camp, and both fighters have previously expressed mutual respect, with reports suggesting that they have been reluctant to entertain the idea of facing each other in competition.

     

    As Adiwang continues to rebuild momentum and refine his path toward a potential title opportunity, his latest victory serves as another reminder of his finishing ability and growing ambition within ONE Championship’s stacked roster.

     

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  • Ian Umali pushes for youth golf development after NCAA Golf Tournament win 

    Ian Umali pushes for youth golf development after NCAA Golf Tournament win 

    The inaugural National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Golf Tournament recently teed off at the historic Wack Wack Golf and Country Club, marking a significant step in the league’s efforts to broaden its sporting landscape beyond traditional mainstream events.

     

    Emerging victorious in the Guest Division was Filipino entrepreneur and fitness industry figure Ian Tantoco Umali, who clinched the championship title in dramatic fashion after finishing with a score of 80, equivalent to 28 points. Umali ultimately secured the crown via tiebreak after finishing level with Mark Ronquillo, who also carded an identical 80 for 28 points.

     

    The championship was decided by a narrow margin in the final stretch, where Umali proved superior under pressure. He tallied 16 points in the closing nine holes, edging Ronquillo, who managed 15 points in the same stretch, to seal the victory in one of the closest finishes of the tournament.

     

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    Despite walking away as champion, Umali admitted that he was far from satisfied with his overall performance during the competition, describing it as an unexpected triumph given his struggles on the course.

     

    “Actually, medyo nagulat ako because I actually felt like I didn’t play so well,” Umali said in a media interaction.

     

    Beyond his individual achievement, Umali emphasized the broader significance of the NCAA Golf Tournament, highlighting its potential role in developing young Filipino golfers and strengthening grassroots participation in the sport.

    “For me kasi this is really about just the younger generation. We are really trying to help them grow. Because golf for the NCAA is very, very good. It’s actually the first year we are doing the NCAA golf tournament. We were talking to the San Beda golf team nga. And we were telling them na we will support them, we will do training with them, they can go play with us also,” he added.

     

    Umali underscored that the long-term goal of initiatives like the NCAA Golf Tournament is to make golf more accessible to student-athletes, especially at a time when basketball continues to dominate the Philippine sporting landscape. Through his company, Quantum Golf, he aims to help bridge that gap by providing training opportunities and access to facilities for aspiring players.

     

    “So for me, I was telling the San Beda team and probably other teams in the future that they can use my facility for free in order to be able to train,” Umali continued.

     

    The entrepreneur also lauded Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio for supporting initiatives that allow golfers aged 18 and under to access public golf courses free of charge, a policy he believes could significantly boost grassroots development.

     

    “Nung panahon ko, grabe. I always had to ask money from my dad for me to be able to play. But now, because of the PSC and their initiatives, grabe, libre na ang 18 and below to play. So hopefully, we can produce great talent and more individuals to be interested in golf,” Umali stated.

     

    In addition to his growing profile in sports development, Umali has also recently been in the public eye following his attendance at Creamline Cool Smashers games in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, where he has been linked to Philippine volleyball star Alyssa Valdez.

     

    Despite the attention, Umali kept his focus on supporting athletes and local sports programs, expressing enthusiasm for being part of the broader sporting community.

     

    “I’m so excited to just be part of the journey and watch and support all the teams, and especially Alyssa,” he concluded.

     

     

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  • Four senators throw their support behind Bennie Boatwright’s Philippine naturalization process 

    Four senators throw their support behind Bennie Boatwright’s Philippine naturalization process 

    The Philippine naturalization bid of Bennie Boatwright has gained significant momentum after receiving formal backing from key lawmakers, marking another important step in his potential eligibility to represent the Philippines in major international competitions.

     

    The San Miguel Beermen standout forward is currently undergoing the naturalization process, which was recently boosted by the co-sponsorship of four Philippine senators during plenary discussions held on Tuesday, May 19. Senators Francis Pangilinan, Jinggoy Estrada, Pia Cayetano, and Bong Go voiced their support for House Bill 6639, which seeks to grant Philippine citizenship to Boatwright. A parallel measure, House Bill 6644, also includes Filipino-American wrestler Matthew James Ramos in its proposed naturalization provisions.

     

    Boatwright was present during the Senate session, underscoring his personal commitment to completing the process as he eyes potential eligibility in time for future international tournaments, including the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. His attendance was seen as a strong signal of intent, reflecting both his desire to represent the country and the seriousness with which lawmakers are treating his application.

     

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    Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights chair Francis Pangilinan, who presided over the hearing, emphasized the broader sporting significance of Boatwright’s naturalization, framing it as a boost not only for Philippine basketball but for the country’s international sporting ambitions.

     

    “By embracing the Philippines and choosing to stand with Filipino athletes, Bennie Boatwright strengthens not only our basketball program but also our hopes of excelling on the international stage, defending our Asian Games title, and one day returning to the Olympics,” Pangilinan said.

    Senator Jinggoy Estrada echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of strengthening national teams across multiple sports disciplines.

     

    “As a staunch advocate of basketball and sports in general, this representation has been continuously supporting measures that will improve the conditions of Filipino athletes and to make them globally competitive, dahil sama-sama tayong nangangarap na makita ang Philippine sports, basketball man o wrestling, na umangat sa buong mundo,” Estrada added.

     

    The naturalization journey of Boatwright began in 2024 when former Senator Sonny Angara filed Senate Bill No. 2646 during the 19th Congress, formally proposing the granting of Philippine citizenship. However, progress was temporarily slowed after Boatwright suffered an Achilles injury in August 2024, which sidelined him for an extended period and delayed the momentum of the application.

     

    On the court, Boatwright made an immediate and lasting impact during his stint in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, where he joined San Miguel as a mid-conference import. His presence proved transformative, helping power the Beermen to a championship run marked by consistent scoring, versatility, and leadership in high-pressure situations.

     

    He averaged 30.3 points, 12 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game during the conference, culminating in a pivotal role in San Miguel’s 104–102 title-clinching victory over the Magnolia Hotshots in Game 6 of the finals held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on February 14. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the most productive imports in recent PBA history.

     

    While Boatwright’s potential inclusion in the national program is widely seen as a major boost for future campaigns, immediate participation with Gilas Pilipinas remains uncertain. The national team is expected to rely on established naturalized player Justin Brownlee for its upcoming assignments, including the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers scheduled for November.

     

    Despite the timeline, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas continues to pursue the completion of Boatwright’s citizenship process, viewing him as a valuable long-term addition to the national team pool as the Philippines looks to strengthen its competitiveness on the global stage.

     

     

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  • Jaja Maraguinot eager to rebuild career after signing with Capital1 Solar Spikers 

    Jaja Maraguinot eager to rebuild career after signing with Capital1 Solar Spikers 

    The Capital1 Solar Spikers made one of the most aggressive roster overhauls in recent Premier Volleyball League history on Thursday, May 14, signaling a decisive shift in identity as the franchise moves from rebuilding project to legitimate title contender ahead of the upcoming season.

     

    After previously positioning themselves as a developing squad focused on growth and chemistry, Capital1’s latest moves suggest a dramatic change in direction. The organization has now assembled a significantly strengthened core headlined by the acquisitions of former Cignal HD Spikers standouts Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos, both of whom are expected to immediately elevate the team’s offensive firepower.

     

    The Solar Spikers further reinforced their lineup with veteran setter Jaja Santiago, a move that significantly strengthens their playmaking stability and leadership presence on the court. The addition of high-level experience across multiple positions underscores Capital1’s intent to compete right away with the PVL’s established powerhouses rather than gradually building toward contention.

     

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    Another key acquisition that flew under the radar amid the headline signings was former Nxled Chameleons playmaker Jaja Maraguinot, who officially joined the Solar Spikers after parting ways with Nxled earlier in January. While not expected to carry a starting role immediately, Maraguinot adds valuable depth and experience to a stacked roster already loaded with versatile attacking options.

    For Maraguinot, the move represents both a fresh start and an opportunity to revive her career in a competitive environment. She also expressed gratitude toward Capital1 co-owners Milka and Mandy Romero for the opportunity to return to top-level action.

     

    “It was not easy but I’m really thankful for everyone in Capital1, they gave me this opportunity. It’s a process. I have been away from the game for a while. So, it won’t be easy. But we are in the process of making it happen with me in the team. And, I’m very thankful that I was given with this right timing to do that. And, it’s not gonna be easy. But, I’m ready to face the challenges,” Maraguinot said in a media interaction.

     

    Beyond the emotional significance of her return, Maraguinot’s arrival also creates an intriguing reunion scenario within the squad. She will once again share the court with former Ateneo teammates Vanie Gandler, middle blocker Pauline Gaston, and libero Roma Mae Doromal, adding familiarity and chemistry to a rapidly evolving roster.

     

    However, competition for minutes is expected to be intense. Capital1’s wing positions are particularly crowded following the arrivals of Gandler and Santos, alongside emerging talent Bella Belen, which may see Maraguinot initially deployed in a backup or rotational role as she works her way back into peak form.

     

    “In our terms, I will just dish it out to whoever has the hot hands,” she concluded.

     

    With a retooled roster, strengthened depth across all positions, and a clear shift in competitive ambition, the Solar Spikers are now positioning themselves as one of the most intriguing teams to watch heading into the new PVL season — a squad no longer content with development alone, but one ready to challenge the league’s established hierarchy.

     

     

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