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Tag: Philippines

  • Francisco Rivero confirms GAB investigation into Israel Romero Fernandez’s attack on Nick Demusis

    Francisco Rivero confirms GAB investigation into Israel Romero Fernandez’s attack on Nick Demusis

    Al Ahli Tripoli import Israel Romero Fernandez has found himself at the center of controversy following a shocking on-court incident during the Dubai International Basketball Invitational.

     

    The Cuban-Puerto Rican forward was caught on video kicking Zamboanga Valientes guard Nick Demusis twice after a collision during their January 28 matchup. The footage quickly circulated on social media, drawing widespread criticism and raising serious questions about sportsmanship and accountability in international competition.

     

    Romero Fernandez’s actions prompted immediate reaction from the Philippine Games and Amusements Board (GAB). Chairman Atty. Francisco Rivero confirmed that the agency’s sports division has launched an investigation into the incident.

     

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    “All our professional athletes are bound by the code of ethics, one of the provisions of which is for them to respect their fellow players. And respect could mean not to inflict physical injuries on your fellow player,” Rivero said during a media interaction.

     

    “If this is proven that there is an infraction, then we can discipline the players and disciplining the players could mean suspension or if the offense is grave enough – revocation of license,” he added.

     

    Rivero explained that the GAB maintains jurisdiction over licensed players even if incidents occur overseas.

     

    “The principle of territoriality will not apply here because, the person is under our jurisdiction, so they have a license with us. So, regardless of the place of the commission of the offense, we have a say on that – of course, that’s subject to us knowing the facts,” Rivera continued.

    However, the GAB intends to allow the league to act first. Rivero said the board will wait for the PBA’s recommendation and evaluation before imposing any sanctions.

     

    “If this is already brought to their attention, then the expectation is that they will impose disciplinary sanction on players. They have done that in the past, they suspend players, they ban players. They should have the first crack.

     

    “League pa rin dapat ang unang mag-decide. Number one, that player has a contract with the team, and the team has a contract with the league and it has provisions regarding the discipline of the players.

     

    “But of course, it will not prevent us from looking into the case. At present, we are not informed of the facts. Para kasi kaming appellate court, mauuna muna yung trial court for the trial court to gather all the facts para pagdating sa amin, kumpleto. Right now, we are doing our own diligence and investigation,” Rivera concluded.

     

    The Zamboanga Valientes have since filed a police complaint in Dubai, signaling their intent to pursue formal action over the incident. As of this writing, Romero Fernandez has yet to issue a public statement or apology, further intensifying scrutiny from fans, coaches, and analysts.

     

    The controversy comes at a crucial time, with the East Asia Super League (EASL) set for its next slate of games. Attention now turns to whether Romero Fernandez will face disciplinary action from the leagues involved—and whether the Meralco Bolts will field him in their upcoming EASL assignment.

     

    Beyond the immediate fallout, the episode has reignited discussions about player conduct, league governance, and the responsibilities carried by imports competing in professional basketball. As international tournaments continue to grow in prominence for Filipino teams and players, the incident underscores the importance of upholding strict codes of conduct and safeguarding player welfare.

     

    For Demusis, the priority is recovery after what could have been a far more serious situation. For the broader basketball community, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between competitive intensity and unacceptable behavior on the court.

     

     

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  • “Crying out for respect”: SEA Games medalist’s family calls out Alubijid LGU for lack of recognition

    “Crying out for respect”: SEA Games medalist’s family calls out Alubijid LGU for lack of recognition

    The Philippine contingent capped off a highly successful campaign at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, delivering one of its strongest performances in recent memory and reaffirming the country’s growing stature in regional sport.

     

    Team Philippines collected an impressive 277 medals—50 gold, 73 silver, and 154 bronze—to place sixth overall in the medal standings. The tally underscored the depth, versatility, and competitiveness of Filipino athletes across a wide range of disciplines.

     

    From established strongholds to emerging sports, the national team consistently rose to the occasion, displaying exceptional skill, resilience, and determination on the Southeast Asian stage. Their collective achievement reflected months—if not years—of preparation and sacrifice, while also highlighting the steady progress of Philippine sports development amid increasingly intense regional competition.

     

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    Among those who brought pride to the country was Lianne Abellanosa Pama, a native of Alubijid, Misamis Oriental, and a member of the women’s 4×100-meter relay team that clinched the bronze medal.

     

    However, even as Pama celebrated success on the track, her family expressed disappointment over what they described as a lack of recognition from their hometown. Her older sister, Mariel Arnel Pama, took to social media to call out the Alubijid local government unit (LGU) and the provincial government of Misamis Oriental, noting the absence of acknowledgment or local incentives for Lianne’s achievement.

    Pama compared the situation to other provinces and cities that have publicly honored and rewarded their SEA Games medalists with motorcades, plaques, and financial incentives.

     

    “As many of you know, Lianne is a national athlete. Every time she competes abroad, our hearts swell with pride seeing our kinamanghuran carry the Philippine flag. But what makes us even prouder is that she never forgets where she came from. In every interview and awarding ceremony, she carries the names of the places that raised her: Alubijid and Misamis Oriental,” Mariel Arnel wrote.

     

    She emphasized that their appeal was not about financial gain, but about acknowledgment.

     

    “It’s not about the money. Lianne is well-supported by the Philippine team and her school. We are not begging for a paycheck. But we are crying out for respect – a simple acknowledgment, a gesture of appreciation, or even a ‘well done’ from her own leaders,” she added.

     

    The post quickly went viral, garnering thousands of shares and drawing widespread attention on social media—attention that is likely to reach local officials in Alubijid and Misamis Oriental.

     

    At the national level, recognition has already been extended. Last month, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. personally honored the country’s SEA Games medalists and distributed cash incentives in accordance with Republic Act 10699, or the National Athletes and Coaches Incentives Act. Under the law, athletes receive P300,000 for a gold medal, P150,000 for silver, and P60,000 for bronze. The Office of the President also announced that these amounts would be doubled for each medalist, while every athlete who represented the country at the SEA Games received an additional P10,000.

     

    Still, national incentives are separate from the cash rewards and recognition programs traditionally granted by local government units—gestures that, for many athletes, symbolize hometown pride as much as financial support.

     

     

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  • Comeback season: Filipino MMA star Jeremy Miado aims to reclaim flyweight contender status in ONE Championship

    Comeback season: Filipino MMA star Jeremy Miado aims to reclaim flyweight contender status in ONE Championship

    Jeremy Miado, widely recognized as one of the Philippines’ premier Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters, has steadily built a reputation as a skilled and resilient competitor. From his early rise in Blaze FC, where he showcased his striking precision and grappling prowess, to competing on the global stage in ONE Championship, Miado has consistently faced some of the toughest opponents in the sport, earning respect for his technique and tenacity inside the Circle.

     

    However, the 33-year-old fighter is currently navigating a challenging stretch in his career. Miado has dropped four of his last five bouts, including his most recent fight against Uzbekistan’s Avazbek Kholmirzaev, which ended in a second-round TKO at ONE Fight Night 38 on December 6, 2025, at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.

     

    Now, Miado is eager to demonstrate that he remains a top contender in the flyweight division. He is set to face South African striker Willie van Rooyen at ONE Fight Night 41 on March 14, once again at Lumpinee Stadium, with the goal of making a decisive statement and reclaiming his momentum.

     

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    The upcoming clash promises fireworks, as both fighters share similar styles—explosive striking, precise counters, and tactical acumen capable of producing instant knockouts. Miado believes that, in this matchup, conditioning, composure, and experience will ultimately determine the winner.

     

    “We basically have the same style, so I think this comes down to heart, conditioning, and who wants it more. Fights are not determined by strength alone. I believe fight IQ and being calm and collected are bigger factors. I believe my experience and patience will make the difference,” Miado said during a media session.

    Experience clearly works in Miado’s favor. With roughly a decade more inside the MMA cage than Van Rooyen, he is confident that the lessons learned from both victories and defeats will give him an edge.

     

    “Age is just a number in MMA. Yes, he is young and hungry, but I have been through many battles inside ONE Championship. I have learned a lot from every win and every loss. That experience gives me maturity and confidence inside the Circle, and I believe that will help me a lot in this fight,” Miado added.

     

    Looking ahead, Miado has set ambitious goals for 2026. “My goal for 2026 is to stay active, keep winning, and climb to the top of the division. I want bigger fights and stronger performances. I will take it step by step, but I’m focused on making this my comeback year and getting closer to title contention,” he said.

     

    For Jeremy Miado, the matchup against Van Rooyen represents more than just another fight. It is an opportunity to reclaim momentum, reassert his position among the Philippines’ elite MMA athletes, and demonstrate that setbacks are only temporary. Analysts and fans alike will be watching closely to see whether his combination of experience, resilience, and technical skill translates into a victorious return.

     

    Miado’s journey in MMA has always been about growth and adaptation. Every fight, win or loss, has shaped him into the fighter he is today—a competitor who approaches each bout with focus, patience, and a deep understanding of the sport he has dedicated his life to mastering.

     

    As March 14 approaches, anticipation builds at Lumpinee Stadium, with the MMA community eager to witness whether Jeremy Miado can convert his preparation, hunger, and veteran savvy into a comeback victory—one that could reignite his path toward flyweight title contention and further cement his legacy in the sport.

     

     

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  • PFF signs landmark partnership with Ekkono Method to modernize Philippine football

    PFF signs landmark partnership with Ekkono Method to modernize Philippine football

    The Philippines has firmly etched its name into the annals of football history by successfully hosting the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, a landmark event that not only elevated the global profile of the sport but also underscored the country’s growing credibility as a host of major international sporting competitions.

     

    From the opening ceremony to the final whistle, the tournament was widely hailed as a resounding success. Fans flocked to the venues in impressive numbers, filling arenas with energy, enthusiasm, and passion for the game. The atmosphere was electric, reflecting a nation increasingly eager to embrace football in all its forms—not just as a spectator sport, but as a cultural phenomenon that unites communities. Meanwhile, organizers delivered a world-class event, meeting FIFA’s rigorous standards with efficient logistics, well-prepared facilities, and smooth tournament operations that left both players and officials impressed.

     

    Beyond the spectacle on the court, the tournament sent a clear message: the Philippines is capable of staging elite sporting events outside its traditional strongholds of basketball and volleyball. More importantly, the World Cup reignited conversations about the future of football development in the country, especially in disciplines such as futsal, which are particularly suited to urban spaces, school gyms, and community courts. Analysts and stakeholders have noted that futsal can serve as a crucial tool for nurturing technical skills, tactical awareness, and creativity among young Filipino players, creating a stronger foundation for the nation’s long-term football ambitions.

     

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    Determined to build on the momentum generated by the World Cup, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) moved swiftly to translate inspiration into action. In a major announcement, the PFF signed a landmark partnership with global football consultancy Ekkono Method, a collaboration aimed at raising the country’s football development system to international standards. The initiative promises to be a turning point for Philippine football, with programs spanning grassroots participation, talent identification, coaching education, academy development, game-model alignment, and elite player pathways.

     

    PFF President John Anthony Gutierrez described the partnership as a historic step forward for the nation’s football ecosystem.

    “This partnership represents a significant step forward for Philippine football. By working with Ekkono Method, we are bringing internationally recognized expertise to support our vision of developing a uniquely Filipino approach to the game. This collaboration will benefit our players, coaches, and the entire football family across the nation,” Gutierrez said in a statement.

     

    Under the agreement, the PFF and Ekkono Method will jointly design a football and futsal model tailored specifically to the Philippines’ unique football culture. The collaboration will focus on creating clear pathways for young talent, enhancing coaching standards, and aligning the country’s player development systems with international best practices.

     

    Ekkono Method CEO Miquel Farrerons expressed excitement over the partnership, highlighting the Philippines’ potential on the global football stage.

     

    “We are honored to partner with the Philippine Football Federation. The Philippines has tremendous football potential, and we are committed to supporting the PFF in building a development model that honors Filipino football culture while achieving international standards,” Farrerons said.

     

    With this agreement, the Philippines joins an elite network of national associations and clubs that utilize the Ekkono Method, including football powerhouses such as Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Milan, the Japan Football Association, the Thailand Football Association, and numerous clubs across Europe and Asia. Football analysts have noted that this partnership positions the Philippines to close the gap with some of the world’s leading football nations, providing a structured pathway for homegrown talent to compete at the highest levels.

     

    As the country reflects on the successful hosting of the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, the collaboration with Ekkono Method ensures that the event’s legacy will extend far beyond the games themselves. From grassroots programs in urban communities to elite development initiatives for the next generation of Filipino stars, the Philippines is laying the groundwork for a football future that is both ambitious and sustainable.

     

    The message is clear: the Philippines is not just ready to host world-class tournaments—it is preparing to compete, develop, and thrive on the global football stage.

     

     

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  • Philippine chess legend and five-time Asian Games gold medalist Sander Severino passes away at 40

    Philippine chess legend and five-time Asian Games gold medalist Sander Severino passes away at 40

    The Philippine sports community is in mourning following the passing of chess legend and five-time Asian Games gold medalist Sander Severino. Severino, one of the most decorated chess players to emerge from the Philippines, died on Saturday, February 7, at the age of 40 in his hometown of Silay, Negros Occidental, due to heart failure.

     

    Severino’s death came as a profound shock to many, particularly as it followed his recent triumphs at the 2026 ASEAN Para Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, in January. Despite his lifelong battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Severino had just clinched three gold medals and one silver at the games, demonstrating that his competitive fire remained undiminished. He captured gold in the Men’s Individual Standard P1 and Men’s Individual Blitz P1 events and contributed to the Men’s Team Standard P1 squad that also secured the gold. Across four editions of the ASEAN Para Games, Severino amassed an extraordinary total of 12 golds, two silvers, and two bronzes, cementing his status as one of the country’s greatest para athletes.

     

    Born on June 30, 1985, Severino was diagnosed with ALS at the age of eight and spent much of his life confined to a wheelchair. Yet his physical limitations never hindered his ambitions or his love for the game. In 2020, he earned international acclaim by winning the International Physically Disabled Chess Association Online World Championship, officially becoming a world chess champion and further solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in para chess.

     

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    Severino’s passing has sent ripples through the Philippine chess and para sports communities, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from teammates, coaches, and fellow athletes.

    “You will forever live in our hearts — in every move we make, in every fight we continue, and in every victory we dedicate to the team you loved so dearly. His courage, dedication, and love for the game live on in every move we make and every battle we face for the country. He may be gone, but his legacy remains — guiding us, strengthening us, and reminding us why we play,” wrote Philippine para chess team head coach James Infiesto, capturing the collective grief and admiration of the team.

     

    Severino’s longtime chess teammate Henry Lopez also shared his grief, recalling decades of memories together. “Gone too soon. I can’t believe that you are gone, Sander Severino. Too many memories together in more than 25 years of being my teammate since the year 2000. You are the best teammate ever. Thanks for the memories. Rest in the arms of the Almighty,” Lopez said.

     

    Paralympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan added his tribute, highlighting Severino’s impact beyond chess. “Thank you, kuya Sander Severino. It’s an honor to be part of the national team with you. I didn’t know that the ASEAN Para Games would be the last time we would meet. RIP kuya,” Gawilan wrote.

     

    Severino’s life and career were a testament to resilience, determination, and the unbreakable human spirit. Despite living with a debilitating condition, he became an icon of Philippine para sports and a source of inspiration for athletes across disciplines. His contributions went beyond his medal tally; he helped elevate para chess in the country, inspired younger players, and showed that limitations do not define one’s potential.

     

    In recognition of his achievements and enduring legacy, Severino will be posthumously honored at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards Night, scheduled for February 16 at the Diamond Hotel in Manila. The tribute will celebrate not only his exceptional career but also his profound influence on Philippine sports and the para-athlete community.

     

    As the nation mourns, Sander Severino leaves behind a legacy that transcends chess — one of courage, perseverance, and inspiration that will continue to guide future generations of Filipino athletes.

     

     

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  • Senator Bong Go is confident that the Philippines will become a “sports powerhouse in Asia”

    Senator Bong Go is confident that the Philippines will become a “sports powerhouse in Asia”

    The Philippine contingent wrapped up a highly successful campaign at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, delivering one of the country’s strongest performances in recent history and reaffirming its growing stature in regional sports. Team Philippines hauled in an impressive total of 277 medals—50 gold, 73 silver, and 154 bronze—to finish sixth overall in the medal standings, a testament to the depth, versatility, and competitiveness of Filipino athletes across a wide range of disciplines.

     

    From traditional strongholds to emerging sports, Filipino athletes consistently rose to the challenge, showcasing exceptional skill, resilience, and determination on the Southeast Asian stage. Their collective effort not only reflected months—if not years—of preparation and sacrifice, but also highlighted the steady progress of Philippine sports development amid increasingly tough regional competition.

     

    Philippine Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go recently sponsored Senate Resolution 227 honoring the country’s athletes for its brilliant showing at the 2025 SEA Games and expressed confidence that the Philippines will become a “sports powerhouse in Asia” in the future.

     

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    “I am quite sure that our country will become a strong contender in future competitions and we we will be dubbed as a “sports powerhouse in Asia,” Go said.

    The 50-year-old senator has long been a proponent of increased support and benefits for all athletes across the country and also lauded the co-operation of different sports entities in the country along with the private sector.

     

    “This achievement also highlights the importance of bringing together all of our sports agencies, like the Philippine Sports Commission, Philippine Olympic Committee, and the private stakeholders, for the welfare and success of our athletes.

     

    “We must unite and support a strong and effective system for our athletes. To our athletes, you have to become a symbol of strength and a great source of inspiration to our fellow countrymen, who continue to give us hope in the face of adversity. Our Filipino athletes have proven time and again their undying devotion and have even unified the country through sports. Thus, upholding the true spirit of patriotism,” he added.

     

    Go reiterated his support for pushing programs for sports and welfare development, as he believes sports helps in encouraging youngsters to stay away from activities not in their interest.

    “As your Senate committee chairman on sports, rest assured, I will continue to pursue sports development programs and initiatives that will promote the welfare of our athletes, to help restore our rightful place in the world of sports,” Go concluded.

     

    As the curtain falls on the 2025 SEA Games, the Philippines’ medal haul and overall performance stand as both a cause for celebration and a reminder of what sustained investment and strategic planning can achieve. With continued support and commitment, Philippine sports appears poised to build on this momentum and aim even higher in future international competitions.

     

     

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  • Filipino MMA world champion Jackie Buntan aiming for redemption against Stella Hemetsberger at ONE Fight Night 40

    Filipino MMA world champion Jackie Buntan aiming for redemption against Stella Hemetsberger at ONE Fight Night 40

    Filipino-American kickboxing sensation Jackie Buntan has firmly established herself as one of the premier Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters to emerge from the Philippines. Her rise to prominence was cemented on November 9, when she made history by capturing the inaugural ONE Women’s Strawweight Kickboxing World Title at the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand—a feat that highlighted her technical prowess, grit, and dedication to her craft.

     

    Buntan is now preparing for what promises to be a highly anticipated showdown as she defends her Strawweight Kickboxing World Title against Austria’s Stella Hemetsberger in the main event of ONE Fight Night 40 on Friday, February 13, also at Lumpinee Stadium. The matchup carries an added layer of intensity, as it serves as a rematch of their previous encounter at ONE Fight Night 35 in September 2025, where Buntan narrowly fell short in the fight for the vacant ONE Women’s Strawweight Muay Thai World Title.

     

    In that contest, Buntan suffered a unanimous decision defeat in the fifth round, a fight she describes as both challenging and instructive. Despite the loss, the 28-year-old fighter remained steadfast, confident that she had landed the more effective exchanges even if the scorecards told a different story.

     

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    “That night was a big night for me—obviously, trying to chase double gold, two-sport World Champ status. It didn’t go my way. I lost the fight by a point. I think I had the better exchanges, but on the scorecards, mathematically, she was the one who was able to pick it up,” Buntan said.

    The defeat marked just the second loss in her ONE Championship career across nine fights, but Buntan remains focused on the positives, particularly her resilience in overcoming early adversity in the bout.

     

    “That specific loss, especially how it happened—getting knocked down twice in the first round but staying in it and picking it up in rounds two through five—I think that’s the definition of me as a fighter, as an athlete. There’s no quit in me,” she added.

     

    Buntan has studied her Austrian rival extensively and believes she has identified vulnerabilities in Hemetsberger’s striking game that she can exploit in the rematch. Her strategy will combine superior movement, tactical awareness, and precision striking to capitalize on the gaps she has observed.

     

    “I think she has holes. I see the holes she leaves open as she strikes, both punching and kicking. I think I’m better with movement. I’m able to cut her off, whether that’s going backwards, left, right, circling, or going forward. If she wants to stand in front of me, I think it’s a dangerous game,” Buntan concluded.

     

    As the fight approaches, anticipation is building among fans in both the Philippines and the global MMA community. A victory would not only allow Buntan to avenge her previous defeat but also solidify her status as one of the most complete and versatile female fighters in the sport today. With her combination of skill, heart, and determination, Buntan is eager to prove that her reign in the ONE Championship ring is far from over.

     

     

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  • “To another level higher”: Mark Torcaso lifts Filipinas’ intensity ahead of AFC Cup

    “To another level higher”: Mark Torcaso lifts Filipinas’ intensity ahead of AFC Cup

    The Philippine women’s national football team, popularly known as the Filipinas, is preparing for its next major international challenge—the prestigious Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup in Perth, Australia. Coming off a historic campaign at the Southeast Asian Games, where the team captured widespread attention for its skill, resilience, and tactical discipline, the Filipinas are eager to build on that momentum and further establish themselves as a competitive force on the continental stage.

     

    The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has confirmed that the team will undertake a three-week training program, designed to refine their tactical cohesion, enhance fitness levels, and test themselves against high-quality opposition. The training will span multiple venues, starting with sessions at the Mall of Asia Sky Pitch in Manila from February 1 to 5, followed by the Rizal Memorial Stadium from February 17 to 22. In between, the squad will conduct a closed camp at Balesin Island in Quezon from February 6 to 15. Balesin boasts a FIFA-certified pitch and world-class facilities, providing an ideal environment for high-level preparation and recovery.

     

    During their time in Manila and Balesin, the Filipinas will face a combination of international competition and professional club sides, giving the coaching staff opportunities to test tactical variations and evaluate players under match-like conditions. This approach is aimed at ensuring the squad arrives in Australia fully prepared, both mentally and physically, for the rigors of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

     

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    Head coach Mark Torcaso expressed optimism about the team’s preparation and highlighted the importance of raising standards after the SEA Games. He recently announced a 26-woman training pool, which includes seasoned veterans such as Hali Long, Sara Eggesvik, and Olivia McDaniel, alongside promising young talents eager to make an impact.

    “The players understand that we are obviously going to a competition that is much tougher than the SEA Games. So now it’s about lifting our intensity, our quality, our fitness levels, our speed to be of another level higher than that and obviously to achieve the opportunity to go to another World Cup,” Torcaso said in a media interaction.

     

    However, the Filipinas will be without the country’s all-time highest goalscorer, Sarina Bolden, in the training pool for now. Bolden is currently recovering from an injury, and while she has made significant progress, the coaching staff is taking a cautious approach to ensure she has enough time to regain full fitness.

     

    “We are going to give her every single chance to be part of it. We aim to get her on the field. She’s got a very special presence in our team all the time,” Torcaso added.

     

    The rigorous training program is designed to balance intensity with recovery, ensuring that the players remain sharp while avoiding burnout. With world-class facilities at Balesin Island and careful management of workloads, the Filipinas will have the perfect environment to prepare for one of Asia’s most competitive tournaments.

     

    After completing their camps in Manila and Balesin, the team will fly to Perth, Australia, where they will compete against some of the continent’s top national teams in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The tournament represents both a test and an opportunity: a chance to measure themselves against Asia’s elite and to further stake the Philippines’ claim as an emerging football nation in the region.

     

    With the combination of experienced leaders, rising stars, and a structured preparation plan, the Filipinas are determined to build on their SEA Games success and make a strong showing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. Fans and supporters will be watching closely as the team embarks on this next chapter in its journey, aiming to inspire a new generation of footballers across the country.

     

     

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  • Philippine Senate honors Filipino athletes for strong 2025 SEA Games showing

    Philippine Senate honors Filipino athletes for strong 2025 SEA Games showing

    The Philippine contingent wrapped up a highly successful campaign at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, delivering one of the country’s strongest performances in recent history and reaffirming its growing stature in regional sports. Team Philippines hauled in an impressive total of 277 medals—50 gold, 73 silver, and 154 bronze—to finish sixth overall in the medal standings, a testament to the depth, versatility, and competitiveness of Filipino athletes across a wide range of disciplines.

     

    From traditional strongholds to emerging sports, Filipino athletes consistently rose to the challenge, showcasing exceptional skill, resilience, and determination on the Southeast Asian stage. Their collective effort not only reflected months—if not years—of preparation and sacrifice, but also highlighted the steady progress of Philippine sports development amid increasingly tough regional competition.

     

    In recognition of these achievements, Filipino medalists were honored by Senator Pia S. Cayetano, who co-sponsored Senate Resolution No. 210. The resolution, which was adopted by the Senate, formally commended and congratulated the athletes for their outstanding performances and their role in bringing pride and honor to the country during the biennial sporting event.

     

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    Cayetano, a former national athlete herself, personally traveled to Bangkok to witness the competitions, lending further significance to the recognition. She described the experience as deeply moving, noting that the moments on the podium were the culmination of years of discipline, sacrifice, and perseverance that often go unseen by the public.

     

    “Behind every medal is a story of perseverance – early mornings, missed family moments, injuries endured, and the quiet determination to represent the country with honor,” Cayetano said.

    The 59-year-old lawmaker also highlighted the strong presence and success of women athletes throughout the Games, pointing to their achievements as clear evidence of the positive impact of providing equal opportunities in sports. Filipino women delivered standout performances in several events, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a growing force in women’s athletics in Southeast Asia.

     

    “When young girls see Filipinas excelling on the international stage, it expands their sense of what is possible,” she added.

     

    Beyond celebration, Cayetano used the occasion to renew her call for stronger and more sustained government support for sports development. She emphasized the need for increased funding in grassroots programs, improved access to quality coaching, and the establishment of world-class training facilities to ensure that promising young athletes—especially those from underserved regions—are properly identified and nurtured.

     

    The Senator stressed that long-term success on the international stage requires a comprehensive system that supports athletes at every stage of their development, from early discovery to elite competition.

     

    “Excellence in sports does not happen by chance. It requires long-term planning, consistent funding, and a system that supports athletes from the grassroots to the elite level,” Cayetano concluded.

     

    As the curtain falls on the 2025 SEA Games, the Philippines’ medal haul and overall performance stand as both a cause for celebration and a reminder of what sustained investment and strategic planning can achieve. With continued support and commitment, Philippine sports appears poised to build on this momentum and aim even higher in future international competitions.

     

     

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  • Manny Pacquiao joins Team Boxing League as team captain, ambassador, and potential owner

    Manny Pacquiao joins Team Boxing League as team captain, ambassador, and potential owner

    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 an extraordinary 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.

     

    Even at 47 years old, Pacquiao has shown no signs of completely stepping away from the sport that made him a global icon. The Filipino legend returned to professional boxing last year at the age of 46, challenging World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight champion Mario Barrios in a bout that captured international attention. The contest went the full 12 rounds and ended in a controversial majority draw, with two judges scoring the fight 114–114 and a third awarding a narrow 115–113 decision in favor of Barrios. Despite the outcome, Pacquiao’s performance reinforced his enduring competitiveness and remarkable longevity inside the ring.

     

    Pacquiao’s involvement in boxing is now set to enter a new chapter. On Wednesday, February 4, the Team Boxing League (TBL) officially announced that Pacquiao will join the organization as a team captain, league ambassador, and potential owner. He will serve as Team Captain and active fighter for the San Diego TJ’s, one of TBL’s expansion franchises, further cementing his hands-on role in the league’s growth.

     

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    Initially, Pacquiao’s participation will focus on serving as a League Ambassador in Season 4, after which he is expected to formally join the league’s ownership group in 2027. His multifaceted role underscores not only his commitment to staying connected to competition, but also his growing influence behind the scenes as a boxing executive and visionary.

     

    “I believe in the vision of TBL and what this league is building for the future of boxing,” Pacquiao said during the announcement. “Team boxing brings a new level of excitement, strategy, and opportunity for fighters and fans. I’m proud to be part of TBL and look forward to contributing both inside and outside the ring.”

    The Team Boxing League was first announced in 2022 and officially launched in 2023, introducing a team-based ownership and competition model designed to modernize professional boxing. The league currently features franchises such as LA Elite, NYC Attitude, and Philadelphia Smoke, with the addition of the San Diego TJ’s marking a significant step in its expansion.

     

    TBL executives were quick to emphasize the significance of Pacquiao’s arrival, calling it a transformative moment for the league.

     

    “Manny Pacquiao is one of the most respected champions in the history of boxing, and his decision to join TBL is a defining moment for our league,” said Kevin Cassidy, CEO of Team Boxing League. “From ambassador to owner to active competitor, Manny embodies everything TBL stands for—elite competition, innovation, and a team-first mindset. His involvement accelerates our mission to reshape the future of professional boxing.”

     

    Pacquiao’s business team echoed those sentiments, highlighting how closely the league aligns with his long-standing goals for the sport.

     

    “Manny’s involvement with TBL goes far beyond his initial ambassador role,” said Jas Mathur, CEO of Pacquiao Promotions. “This league aligns with Manny’s passion for innovation, competition, and elevating the sport of boxing. Joining TBL as an owner, team captain, and active fighter reflects his belief in the league’s model and its potential to change boxing.”

     

    While Pacquiao’s competitive debut for the San Diego TJ’s has yet to be scheduled, league officials confirmed that additional details are expected to be announced in the coming months. Whether inside the ring or in the boardroom, Pacquiao’s continued presence ensures that his impact on boxing—both in competition and in shaping its future—remains as powerful as ever.

     

    For fans and fighters alike, Pacquiao’s move to TBL represents more than another chapter in an already storied career. It is a statement that even after decades at the pinnacle of the sport, the Filipino icon remains driven to innovate, inspire, and push boxing forward on a global stage.

     

     

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