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  • PFF pays tribute to Gianni Infantino on 10th year as FIFA president

    PFF pays tribute to Gianni Infantino on 10th year as FIFA president

    The Philippine Football Federation (PFF), led by president John Anthony Gutierrez and FIFA Council Member and former PFF president Mariano V. Araneta, paid tribute to Gianni Infantino as he marks his 10th anniversary as president of FIFA, lauding what they described as a transformative decade for global football and for the Philippines in particular.

     

    Over the past several years, Philippine football has experienced significant progress, both on and off the pitch. Federation officials credit much of that momentum to FIFA’s expanded development programs under Infantino’s leadership — initiatives that have provided funding, infrastructure support, and governance reforms aimed at elevating emerging football nations.

     

    The Philippines’ growing stature in international football has been underscored by its increasing role as a host of global competitions. The most notable milestone came when FIFA awarded the hosting rights of the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup to the country in 2025. The decision signaled strong confidence in the Philippines’ organizational capability and its potential to help drive the sport’s expansion across Southeast Asia.

     

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    “President Infantino’s trust in our nation to host the first-ever Women’s Futsal World Cup was a watershed moment for us. It proved that FIFA views the Philippines as a leader capable of organizing world-class events. His generous assistance throughout the hosting process underscored a deep belief in the capability of Filipino football leaders and our passionate community,” Gutierrez said in a statement.

     

    For the PFF, hosting the tournament represents more than a singular event. It is viewed as a catalyst for long-term growth — stimulating investment in facilities, strengthening domestic leagues, and inspiring greater youth participation, particularly among women and girls.

     

    Gutierrez emphasized that while recent achievements of the national teams have captured headlines, the federation’s deeper focus is on building sustainable foundations.

     

    “Behind the resurgence of our national teams with historic performances in the past years, it is the bricks and mortar – modern facilities, modernization of governance, and grassroots development support – that will define our future. President Infantino understands that for football to truly be global, every member association must have the tools to professionalize and grow. We are now better equipped than ever to nurture the next generation of talent,” he added.

    Central to that progress has been FIFA’s flagship development initiative, the FIFA Forward program, which has played a pivotal role in modernizing Philippine football infrastructure and administrative systems.

     

    Among the major milestones:

     

    World-Class Facilities: The establishment of the first-ever FIFA Arena in Balanga, Bataan — a landmark project aimed at raising training and competition standards. The initiative is expected to expand further, with plans to roll out at least 20 world-class pitches nationwide by 2026, significantly widening access to quality playing surfaces.

     

    A New Home for Football: The construction of a new five-story PFF National Headquarters and Training Center in Carmona, Cavite. Designed as a high-performance hub, the facility will serve as the central base for national teams, coaching education, and federation operations.

     

    Modernization in All Spheres: Beyond infrastructure, FIFA has extended guidance in coaching education, grassroots development, and governance reforms, helping the PFF strengthen transparency, accountability, and long-term strategic planning.

     

    Araneta highlighted the broader regional impact of Infantino’s leadership, particularly in empowering Asian member associations.

     

    “President Infantino has been a true partner for Asian football and for the Philippines in particular. His commitment to equal opportunity and global growth empowered nations like ours to accelerate football development,” Araneta added.

     

    Women’s football, in particular, has benefited from structural reforms introduced during Infantino’s tenure. FIFA’s decision to expand the FIFA Women’s World Cup from 24 teams in 2019 to 32 in 2023 created greater competitive opportunities for emerging nations and strengthened the sport’s global reach. For countries like the Philippines, expanded pathways to elite competition have provided both exposure and belief — fueling a surge of interest and participation at the grassroots level.

     

    As Infantino reaches a decade at the helm of world football’s governing body, Philippine football leaders see their country’s upward trajectory as part of a larger vision: a more inclusive, better-resourced global game where developing federations are equipped not just to participate, but to thrive.

     

     

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  • Philippines aims to uncover young talent as it hosts the inaugural ASTAF U19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship

    Philippines aims to uncover young talent as it hosts the inaugural ASTAF U19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship

    The Philippines is set to host the inaugural 2026 ASTAF Under-19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship later this year, and the Philippine Sepaktakraw Association Inc. (PSTAI) is using the event to unearth young talent while promoting sepaktakraw as a serious competitive sport.

     

    The tournament is expected to feature over 600 athletes aged 15 to 17 from 10 to 12 countries. Competitions will be held across men’s and women’s regu, quad, and mixed quadrant categories, providing a platform for the continent’s best youth players to showcase their skills.

     

    PSTAI president Karen Tanchanco-Caballero stressed that the association is leaving no stone unturned in preparing the national team. “So as we speak, we are already in motion coordinating with all the clubs and regional directors across the country to ensure that talents are all considered. So there will be a lot of inter-town, inter-barangay,” she said during a press conference at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Media Hall.

     

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    She added, “But we are also collecting the CVs of these kids. We know them from a few years ago in Palarong Pambansa, Batang Pinoy. So we already know them, but we still want to dig deeper and see more talents.”

    The Philippines secured the rights to host the championship in December 2025, marking a historic moment as the first-ever youth-focused international sepaktakraw tournament. “We had a meeting in Bangkok last December with leaders from different countries, and they are very excited that finally there is a big event specifically for youth sepak. So it wasn’t challenging for us to encourage participation and support from Asian countries,” Tanchanco-Caballero said.

     

    International Sepaktakraw Federation Deputy President and Asian Sepaktakraw Federation Deputy Secretary General Muhammad Fariq Abdul Halim believes the Philippines has the potential to become a top contender in Asia with the right training and support. “If you ask me whether the Philippines are in the top five in Asia, I say yes. And now with Quadrant, they can be the next champion if proper training and education are given to all the athletes, plus mental preparedness and readiness — that’s the most important,” he said.

     

    Abdul Halim added, “If we have a proper program with the support of the PSC, I don’t think the Filipino Sepaktakraw Association will have a problem grabbing at least a top-four medal. I’m saying a top-four medal.”

     

    For Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) president Patrick Gregorio, the event also reinforces the country’s position as a hub for international sports in Southeast Asia. Renovations are planned for the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila to accommodate the tournament, with benefits extending to other sports as well.

     

    The Philippine national team is expected to be finalized in July, with young athletes training alongside the senior squad at a regional center in Bukidnon. The 2026 ASTAF Under-19 Asian Sepaktakraw Championship is scheduled for November 18 to 24, 2026, marking a key milestone for the growth of sepaktakraw in the country and across Asia.

     


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  • “Age is just a number”: Mikee Romero is shining on the international polo stage at 53

    “Age is just a number”: Mikee Romero is shining on the international polo stage at 53

    At 53, Mikee Romero continues to defy expectations—not just in business, politics, and philanthropy, but now prominently on the global sports stage. A true renaissance figure, Romero has added another remarkable chapter to his storied life: excelling in polo at the highest international level.

     

    Romero, an avid polo player, made history in 2025 by becoming the first Filipino to break into the top 25 of the World Polo Tour amateur rankings. He remains the highest-ranked player from Southeast Asia, a testament to his dedication, skill, and competitive spirit. In recognition of this remarkable feat, the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) recently honored Romero with a special award, highlighting the global impact of his achievements in a sport traditionally dominated by elite international players.

     

    “It is unheard of and unbelievable to become a world-class athlete at this later stage of my life. Especially in such a very demanding sport,” Romero said in a media interaction, reflecting on the intensity and discipline required to compete at such a level.

     

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    Polo is a sport synonymous with prestige and athletic rigor, demanding not only strategic precision and teamwork but also remarkable physical endurance. Despite the challenges, Romero has embraced the adrenaline of competition, proving that age is no barrier to sporting excellence. His passion for the sport is evident in his relentless training and consistent performances on the field.

    As the founder of the Philippine National Federation of Polo Players, Romero has also taken a leadership role in elevating the sport nationally. Last year, he led his team, GlobalPort-Passion, through a remarkable campaign in the Gauntlet of Polo series in Wellington, Florida. The team advanced to the semifinals of the C.V. Whitney Cup, finished as runners-up in the USPA Bronze Cup, and reached the quarterfinals of the US Open Polo Championship—an extraordinary set of accomplishments for any team, let alone one led by a player from a country where polo is still emerging.

     

    “The former Deputy Speaker reiterated that age is just a number and that his major driving force is to help raise awareness and status of polo in the Philippines and across the world.

     

    “For us, it wasn’t just about winning – it was about belonging. Belonging to the world stage. And I believe we have earned that right. This is just the beginning. We are no longer just spectators – we are players in the arena,” he added, underlining the broader vision behind his pursuit: not merely personal success, but putting Filipino polo firmly on the international map.

     

    Romero’s journey underscores a powerful message: elite sports are not only about youth or privilege, but about passion, commitment, and resilience. His story is an inspiration for athletes everywhere, showing that determination, when paired with strategic vision, can shatter expectations and redefine what is possible—on the field and beyond.

     

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  • Manny Pacquiao honored as ‘Champion of Humanity’ by Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

    Manny Pacquiao honored as ‘Champion of Humanity’ by Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

    Manny Pacquiao is widely regarded as the greatest sportsperson to emerge from the Philippines and one of the finest boxers in the history of the sport. His legendary status is defined by a remarkable list of accomplishments, highlighted most notably by his unmatched feat as the only eight-division world champion in boxing history—a milestone that continues to set him apart in an era of all-time greats. Across more than two decades in the ring, Pacquiao not only captured world titles but also earned the respect of fans and fellow athletes around the globe, cementing a legacy that transcends the sport itself.

     

    Pacquiao has received countless plaudits and honors throughout his illustrious career, and on Tuesday, February 24, he was bestowed yet another prestigious recognition — this time by Ferdinand Marcos Jr..

     

    A special handover ceremony at the National Sports Museum organized by the Philippine Sports Commission, saw Pacquiao personally present Marcos with a selection of his most iconic artifacts from his storied career. These included two pairs of competition shorts, a world championship belt, and other memorabilia that symbolize the milestones and battles of a career that has inspired millions both in the Philippines and across the globe.

     

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    “What can I say about Manny Pacquiao and his boxing career that hasn’t been said before? Because lahat – all the superlatives that can possibly be used, use the praise that can possibly be had by an athlete have already been heaped upon him and well deserved,” Marcos said.

    “And today, we are given the opportunity to be in his reflected glory. Dahil alam naman natin that – there is no other boxer – nalampasan mo pa pati si Muhammad Ali eh – there is no other boxer, there is no other athlete, for that matter, who gained the plaudits all around the world and of course in the Philippines,” he added.

     

    Marcos further revealed that Pacquiao has helped numerous boxers who are no longer fighting and don’t have jobs and that this is a side of the icon that not a lot of people know about.

     

    “Lahat ‘yun tinulungan ni Manny. Hindi niya sinasabi kahit na kanino. Kung hindi nila in-announce doon sa programa na ‘yun, nobody would know about it. Ganyan ang ugali, ganyan ang pagkatao ng ating Manny Pacquiao.

     

    “So, hindi lang siya champion sa boxing. He is a champion of humanity. He is a champion as a Filipino. He is a champion as a man. And he is a champion in all our hearts and he will always be our champion. He will always be our Filipino champion,” Marcos concluded.

     

    The artifacts will be preserved in the newly established National Sports Museum, which recently underwent a major modernization and refurbishment. With Pacquiao’s items now enshrined, the museum not only safeguards the tangible history of one of the world’s greatest athletes but also allows fans, students, and aspiring boxers to connect with the story of a man whose influence extends far beyond the ring.

     

    From his meteoric rise in boxing to his charitable works and his role as a symbol of Filipino pride, Pacquiao’s legacy continues to grow. The recognition as “Champion of Humanity” underscores the full breadth of his impact — a reminder that while championships and belts define the career of a sportsman, it is the character and heart behind the athlete that truly leaves a mark for generations to come.

     

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  • Tim Cone assures cut players they remain part of Gilas’ pool

    Tim Cone assures cut players they remain part of Gilas’ pool

    The road to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 intensifies as the second window of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers looms, with Gilas Pilipinas eager to sustain the momentum of its strong opening statement in Group A.

     

    The Philippines kicked off its qualifying campaign in dominant fashion during the first window, sweeping its assignments to remain unbeaten and assert itself early in the race for a spot in the tournament proper. The early results provided a glimpse of cohesion in head coach Tim Cone’s evolving system — a blend of veteran savvy and youthful energy anchored on discipline and defensive accountability.

     

    But the climb only steepens from here.

     

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    Awaiting Gilas in the next set of fixtures are Oceania powerhouses — the Australia men’s national basketball team and the New Zealand men’s national basketball team — two programs known for their physicality, depth, and consistent presence on the global stage. Australia, a perennial medal contender in major FIBA competitions, brings size across all positions and a system honed in elite international play. New Zealand, meanwhile, counters with toughness, structure, and a tradition of disciplined execution.

     

    For Cone and Gilas, the challenge is as much about internal competition as it is about preparing for world-class opposition.

     

    The veteran American mentor has yet to finalize his 12-man roster for the second window, emphasizing that selection remains fluid and performance-based. In Cone’s program, no roster spot is guaranteed — and no player left out is truly out of the picture.

     

    “You play yourself on, you play off the team, that’s what it is, that’s the bottomline, while the other thing is, no matter who is out for this final 12, they are still very much in, in the program,” Cone said during an appearance on Power and Play.

     

    Cone underscored that last-minute changes to the lineup are part of the natural evolution of a national team program. Chemistry, form, health, and tactical needs all factor into the final decisions. What matters most, he stressed, is that every player continues to develop within the framework Gilas is building toward 2027.

    “We have seen how things have changed, Quentin Millora-Brown coming in, Japeth Aguilar retiring, this is a normal progression for a basketball team. You want to continually grow and we all see how things go, but no matter what happens, those who won’t make it are still part of the pool,” he added.

     

    Indeed, transition has already been a theme for Gilas. The entry of big man Quentin Millora-Brown adds size and defensive versatility to the frontline, while the retirement of longtime pillar Japeth Aguilar marks the end of an era. Such changes highlight Cone’s long-term vision — blending continuity with calculated renewal.

     

    As it stands, the Gilas pool features a compelling mix of established stars and emerging talents. Naturalized ace Justin Brownlee is expected to spearhead the campaign once again, providing leadership and scoring punch on the wing. He is joined by veteran cornerstone June Mar Fajardo, whose interior presence remains a focal point on both ends of the floor.

     

    The backcourt and wing rotation includes steady contributors such as Dwight Ramos, Scottie Thompson, Calvin Oftana, CJ Perez, and Chris Newsome — players capable of defending multiple positions while thriving in Cone’s read-and-react offensive sets.

     

    Meanwhile, youth and length come in the form of AJ Edu and Millora-Brown, both of whom provide mobility and rim protection crucial against the towering frontlines of Australia and New Zealand.

     

    Still, competition for the remaining spots remains fierce. RJ Abarrientos, Troy Rosario, Carl Tamayo, Juan Gomez de Liano, and Justine Baltazar are all in contention, each bringing distinct strengths — from perimeter shot creation to rebounding and floor spacing.

     

    With only 12 slots available, the final decisions will hinge on matchups, versatility, and familiarity with Cone’s system. More than individual statistics, the emphasis remains on cohesion and role clarity.

     

    For Gilas Pilipinas, the objective extends beyond merely surviving the second window. The goal is to measure progress against elite competition, refine rotations under pressure, and solidify an identity capable of carrying the program through the long qualification grind.

     

    If the first window was about setting the tone, the second will be about proving sustainability. Against Oceania’s finest, Gilas will find out just how far its early promise can carry it — and how much further it still needs to go.

     

     

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  • PPF establishes structured framework to support growth of Pickleball in Philippines

    PPF establishes structured framework to support growth of Pickleball in Philippines

    Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the Philippines, is gaining momentum at an unprecedented pace. Recognizing this surge in interest, the Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) has announced a series of initiatives aimed at sustaining the sport’s growth, creating pathways for player development, and ensuring consistency and fairness across competitions nationwide.

     

    As the governing body for pickleball in the Philippines, PPF is officially recognized by both the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Philippine Olympic Committee, giving the federation the authority to oversee the sport’s development from grassroots programs to elite-level competitions. On Monday, February 23, PPF unveiled its comprehensive framework designed to guide players, coaches, and officials at every level of the game.

     

    At the forefront of PPF’s new initiatives is the launch of the Philippine Pickleball Participant (PPP) Registry, a national database that will track the progress and participation of players, coaches, and officials across the country. According to PPF president Shery Anne Cu, this registry will serve as the official source of information on player participation, match history, and rankings.

     

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    “This will be the official national players registry, and it will be accessed through registry.pickleball.ph. This will provide a unified identification system for all players and allow us to properly track participation, match history, and rankings for players in the Philippines. This allows grassroots participation to remain accessible while supporting higher-level competition,” Cu said.

     

    The registry is designed to benefit everyone from beginners just discovering the sport to elite players competing at national and international levels. By having a centralized system, PPF ensures that data on player activity and progress is accurate, consistent, and readily accessible.

     

    The move is expected to also facilitate coaching development, tournament organization, and overall transparency in the sport.

    Alongside the PPP Registry, PPF will launch the country’s first official national rankings and leaderboards, a critical step in creating a structured competitive environment. Players will earn ranking points only through sanctioned tournaments and recognized international competitions, allowing for a fair and transparent system that rewards merit.

     

    “Players will earn ranking points only through sanctioned tournaments and recognized international competitions using a 12-month rolling system to reflect current performances. The sanctioned tournaments will allow players to earn points towards their rankings, and the 12-month rolling dashboard will reflect who the top players are in each skill category in each age group,” Cu explained.

     

    The implementation of a rolling 12-month system ensures that the rankings accurately reflect recent performances rather than historical results, keeping the leaderboard dynamic and competitive. Players of all skill levels will have a clear understanding of where they stand nationally, creating motivation for improvement and providing a pathway to international representation.

     

    To kickstart the practical application of the new framework, PPF is organizing the 1st Philippine Pickleball Amateur Nationals 2026, set to take place from March 28 to 30 in Las Piñas. The event will not only crown the country’s top amateur players but will also serve as the selection mechanism for the EPIC World Amateur Championships in Singapore, scheduled from April 30 to May 3.

     

    The Nationals will feature players across multiple age groups and skill levels, ensuring inclusivity and giving emerging talent a chance to shine. With the PPP Registry and national rankings now in place, participants will have a clear path from grassroots competitions to the international stage.

     

    PPF’s comprehensive approach highlights the federation’s commitment to structured growth, player development, and international competitiveness. By creating a unified registry, establishing national rankings, and organizing high-profile tournaments, the federation is ensuring that pickleball in the Philippines continues to thrive, providing both opportunities and recognition for players at all levels.

     

    With the sport enjoying a surge in popularity, PPF’s initiatives come at a critical juncture. The PPP Registry, official rankings, and national tournaments represent not just administrative improvements but a cultural shift in how pickleball is organized and perceived in the country. By combining accessibility for beginners with structured pathways for elite players, PPF is setting the foundation for sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

     

    As pickleball continues to attract new players and fans, the Philippine Pickleball Federation’s forward-thinking strategy ensures that the sport is ready to meet both national and international challenges, offering opportunities for players to grow, compete, and represent the country on the world stage.

     

     

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  • “If you’re here to make money, it’s the wrong place”: Tim Cone emphasizes pride over pay for Gilas Pilipinas

    “If you’re here to make money, it’s the wrong place”: Tim Cone emphasizes pride over pay for Gilas Pilipinas

    Few coaches in Philippine basketball history can match the sustained excellence of Tim Cone, whose 25 championships have cemented his status as arguably the greatest bench tactician the Philippine Basketball Association has ever seen.

     

    Over a decorated career spanning decades, Cone built dynasties, shaped generations of stars, and mastered the nuances of the pro game. But beyond his domestic success, the American mentor has also embraced the responsibility of steering the national team. Now back at the helm of Gilas Pilipinas following the conclusion of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, Cone is once again tasked with guiding the Philippines through the rigors of international competition.

     

    In a recent appearance on the Power and Play sports program, the 68-year-old coach offered insight into the culture he is determined to instill — one rooted not in financial incentives, but in national pride.

     

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    Cone revealed that from the very first team meeting, he made the program’s philosophy unmistakably clear.

     

    “We had a program from Day 1; we had it very clear to everyone, in our first Zoom meeting when we brought the original 12 guys, there is not gonna be anybody who’s gonna be making more money than somebody else, but whatever was going to be given, it was really, ‘take it or leave it,’” Cone said.

     

    The message, he explained, was deliberate and uncompromising: representing the country comes before personal gain.

     

    “Whether you join or not, it was just a philosophy that if you’re here with this group, with Gilas, if you’re there because you want to make money or a big salary whatever, it’s a wrong place for you to be,” he added.

    Cone emphasized that the privilege of wearing the Philippine jersey should be motivation enough — a belief he considers fundamental to building a cohesive and selfless national squad.

     

    “If you want to take pride, walk around the city and be able to see your family and say, ‘I will be one of the 12 guys that can say you’re on the national team,’ this is the place you wanna be in. But if you are there to make fabulous salaries, that ain’t gonna happen. We are gonna treat everybody equal. That’s what we are stuck to,” Cone continued.

     

    For Cone, equality and shared purpose form the backbone of sustained success. His approach mirrors the discipline and clarity that defined his championship runs in the PBA — clear roles, collective sacrifice, and an unwavering standard of accountability.

     

    Now, the challenge shifts to the international stage.

     

    Cone’s long-term objective is clear: secure qualification for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup and ultimately earn a berth in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles — a stage the Philippines has not graced in men’s basketball in decades. Achieving that goal will require consistency, depth, and resilience as Gilas navigates the grueling qualification windows.

     

    The immediate test comes in the second window of the FIBA qualifiers, where the Philippines will face formidable opposition. Gilas opens against New Zealand men’s national basketball team on Thursday, February 28, before squaring off with the Australia men’s national basketball team on Sunday, March 1 — two marquee matchups that could significantly influence the trajectory of their campaign.

     

    Both New Zealand and Australia bring physicality, international experience, and disciplined systems — precisely the kind of opposition that will test Cone’s structure and the players’ commitment to his philosophy. Maintaining their unbeaten record will demand poise in hostile environments, crisp execution on both ends of the floor, and leadership in pressure moments.

     

    For Cone, however, the blueprint remains simple: build a team that plays for the flag first.

    If Gilas can translate that collective pride into disciplined performances on the hardwood, the road to 2027 — and perhaps Los Angeles in 2028 — becomes clearer.

     

     

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  • Kayla Sanchez: Olympian and SEA Games champion leading Philippine swimming

    Kayla Sanchez: Olympian and SEA Games champion leading Philippine swimming

    Standing atop the podium multiple times, Kayla Sanchez emerged as the driving force behind the Philippines’ most impressive SEA Games swimming campaign in over a decade. 

     

    The Filipino-Canadian standout didn’t just collect medals, she showcased energy, confidence, and international experience into a team hungry for international dominance.

     

    Sanchez’s presence symbolized a new chapter for Philippine swimming. Her world-class pedigree, earned from competing at the Olympic level, gave the team a competitive edge, inspiring teammates and signaling that the Philippines can contend with the nation’s best. 

     

    Career Highlights Before Representing the Philippines

     

    Born in Singapore and raised in Canada to Filipino parents, Sanchez built her name on the global stage long before wearing the Philippine colors. 

     

    She claimed three gold medals at the 2017 World Junior Championships and another three gold medals at the 2021 Short Course World Championships, signaling early on that she was destined for international stardom.

     

    Sanchez was also part of Canada’s historic relay teams at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, capturing a silver medal in the women’s 4×100-meter freestyle relay and a bronze in the 4×100-meter medley relay. These podium finishes established her as one of the premier sprint freestylers of her generation.

     

    Known for her explosive starts and strong closing splits, she developed into a reliable relay anchor and a consistent individual contender on the world stage.

     

     

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    Sanchez, transitioned from representing Canada to the Philippines to carry forward her father’s dream and celebrate her Filipino heritage. Although she enjoyed success with Team Canada, including a medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she embraced the move as an opportunity to take on a new challenge while strengthening her ties to her roots. 

     

    “It was a matter of timing and a question of timing and now is a good time to bring what I do and what I love here in the Philippines,” Sanchez said in her decision to represent the Philippines last 2022 in front of the Philippine Swimming Incorporated in a press release at the PhilSports Complex in Pasig City. 

     

    She was then approved by the governing body of World Aquatics to represent the Philippines in all international competitions starting July 6, 2023 where she set her sights for the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. 

     

    The Canadian turned Filipina swimming bet failed to secure a medal finishing only fifth in the women’s 100m freestyle event. 

     

    SEA Games 2025 Record Breaking Run

     

    Sanchez made a spectacular debut for the Philippines at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand. Emerging as the most bemedalled Filipino athlete.

     

    Sanchez was the one who spearheaded a historic medal haul, three golds and five silver medals. Her performance was pivotal in lifting the Philippine swimming to heights.

     

    She anchored a thrilling 4x100m freestyle relay alongside teammates Xiandi Chua, Chloe Isleta, and Heather White, before asserting her dominance individually in both the 100m freestyle and 100m backstroke, proving she’s as lethal in relays as she is in solo.

     

    With her speed, versatility, and leadership in the water, Sanchez proved that a single athlete can change the trajectory of an entire sport—turning a collection of talented swimmers into a cohesive, medal-winning powerhouse.

     

    Making waves for future Filipino swimmers

     

    The 24-year-old swimmer’s breakout SEA Games performance didn’t just add to the Philippines’ pride but it reignited a sport that has long sought a breakthrough on the international stage. With national records falling and firsts achieved, Sanchez’s presence has helped spark renewed investment and enthusiasm in Filipino swimming. 

     

    Beyond the medals, her success also carries financial rewards under the country’s incentive laws, including a possible ₱1.2 million reward for her medal haul in recognition of the value of her contributions to Philippine sport. 

     

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  • Francis Ceccarelli promises to keep training and competing after making Winter Olympics debut

    Francis Ceccarelli promises to keep training and competing after making Winter Olympics debut

    Francis Ceccarelli etched his name into Philippine sports history by becoming the first Filipino to secure a quota spot in alpine skiing for the 2026 Winter Olympics. For a tropical nation with little winter sports tradition, this achievement alone was a monumental breakthrough.

     

    But on the slopes of Milano Cortina, the 22-year-old Filipino-Italian’s Olympic debut ended in heartbreak.

     

    Ceccarelli was unable to complete the Men’s Slalom event, registering a DNF (Did Not Finish) after crashing out of the course. He was among 52 alpine skiers who failed to finish the technically demanding race — a stark reminder of the razor-thin margins and unforgiving nature of the discipline. Even elite competitors struggled, including Giant Slalom gold medalist Lucas Pinheiro Braathen, who also did not complete the run.

     

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    Slalom, widely regarded as one of the most technical events in alpine skiing, demands rapid-fire turns, precise edge control, and split-second timing. One slight miscalculation can end an athlete’s Olympic campaign — and for Ceccarelli, that harsh reality unfolded on winter sports’ biggest stage.

     

    Despite the setback, Ceccarelli took pride in competing against the world’s best and saw the experience as an invaluable stepping stone for his future.

     

    “For me, this experience is 9 to 10 because, yeah, the sensation is good, the feel is good, only the weather was really difficult. It’s okay. The next time we can make it to the top 50 in the world,” Ceccarelli said in a media interaction.

    “This experience is like a beautiful moment, because you start, to compete with a big athlete, like top in the world. I mean, every athlete wants to participate in the Olympic Games. And it was my first time. And I’m so really happy and so really proud for my works and for my races. And such a beautiful experience,” he added.

     

    Showing remarkable resilience, Ceccarelli returned to training even before the closing ceremony, motivated to build on what he learned in Milano Cortina.

     

    “I want to continue competing because we are young. Yeah I will keep training, training, and joining races. I mean, this is work. We continue,” he said.

     

    The qualification of Ceccarelli, along with Tallulah Proulx, represents a major step forward for Philippine winter sports. The young athlete hopes his participation will inspire the next generation of Filipino athletes to pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional the path.

     

    “I mean, for the next generation of Filipinos, I want to tell them, always believe in your dreams and really never give up because it’s important. You work really, really hard to be in the moment.

     

    “I know it’s really difficult and it’s really stressful, but if you really want to reach your dreams, you know it’s real, push it, push it. And so really never give up because one day, the big events, it’s really make it to fun one day in the future,” he concluded.

     

    While Ceccarelli did not finish on the scoreboard, his historic appearance marks a turning point for Philippine winter sports — proof that with determination and perseverance, even athletes from tropical nations can compete on the world stage.

     

     

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  • PAGCOR pledges P5 million to support Filipinas ahead of AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    PAGCOR pledges P5 million to support Filipinas ahead of AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    The Philippine women’s national football team, widely known as the Filipinas, is gearing up for one of the biggest challenges in its history: the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup in Perth, Australia. Fresh off a landmark campaign at the Southeast Asian Games, where the team captured hearts with its skill, resilience, and tactical discipline, the Filipinas are now setting their sights on making a mark on the continental stage.

     

    Their preparations received a significant boost recently as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) pledged P5 million to support the team’s campaign. This funding will be channeled through the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) to aid in training, international friendlies, and other preparatory activities leading up to the prestigious tournament.

     

    Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer, reiterated the organization’s commitment to Filipino athletes.

     

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    “Our athletes carry the Philippine flag onto the world stage, and their victories inspire millions of Filipinos. When they succeed, the entire nation shares in that achievement. It is only fitting that we provide them with the support they need to train properly and compete at the highest levels,” Tengco said.

     

    He also emphasized that PAGCOR will remit five percent of its gross revenues to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) following a Supreme Court ruling, a move that will expand resources for national sports programs.

     

    “With our increased remittances to the PSC, more resources are being made available for national sports programs. Beyond compliance, we believe in actively backing Filipino athletes who bring pride and recognition to the country,” Tengco added.

    For the PFF, this support comes at a critical time. Competing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup demands extensive preparation, including high-level training camps, exposure to international competition, and the logistical costs of travel and accommodations. PFF president John Gutierrez expressed his gratitude for the timely assistance:

     

    “We are grateful to PAGCOR for stepping up at a crucial time in our preparations. Competing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup requires significant resources for high-level training and international exposure. Continued support from our partners ensures that our athletes are fully equipped to compete with Asia’s best.”

     

    The Filipinas’ squad is a blend of seasoned leaders and rising stars. Veteran players provide stability and experience, while younger talents inject energy, pace, and creativity into the team’s tactical setup. Their SEA Games success has not only given them confidence but has also inspired a surge of interest in women’s football across the Philippines.

     

    Preparations for the Asian Cup are being carefully structured. Coaches are emphasizing team cohesion, technical refinement, and exposure to different playing styles through friendly matches against top Asian teams. Strength and conditioning programs, video analysis sessions, and tactical drills form the backbone of a training schedule designed to optimize the squad’s readiness.

     

    Beyond the technical and physical aspects, mental preparation is also a priority. The coaching staff is working to instill a strong competitive mindset, resilience under pressure, and a collective sense of purpose — all essential qualities for a tournament that features the continent’s elite teams.

     

    For fans, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup represents more than just matches on the field. It is a stage where the Filipinas can showcase the progress of women’s football in the country, inspire young players, and elevate the sport’s profile nationwide. Social media engagement, fan support, and media coverage have grown exponentially, reflecting a renewed enthusiasm for the team and the sport.

     

    With PAGCOR’s support and a meticulously planned preparation program, the Filipinas are poised to build on their SEA Games momentum. Every training session, friendly match, and tactical adjustment is geared toward one goal: proving that the Philippines belongs among Asia’s top women’s football teams.

     

    As the countdown to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup continues, expectations are high, but so is the determination of the Filipinas. The team’s journey is a story of national pride, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence — one that promises to inspire a new generation of footballers across the Philippines. Fans will be watching closely as the Filipinas step onto the continental stage, ready to carry the hopes of a nation and elevate Philippine women’s football to new heights.

     

     

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