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Tag: Philippines

  • Team Philippines para squads hit the ground running as ASEAN Para Games action opens in Thailand

    Team Philippines para squads hit the ground running as ASEAN Para Games action opens in Thailand

    Before the lights officially come on at the 13th ASEAN Para Games, the Philippines is already stepping into competition mode.

     

    The national 3×3 wheelchair basketball teams and the cerebral palsy (CP) football squad are set to open the country’s campaign in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand on Monday, a full day ahead of the opening ceremony, signaling an early test of readiness for Team Pilipinas.

     

    Wheelchair basketball takes center stage first at Terminal 21 Korat, where the men’s team clashes with Indonesia at 11:30 a.m. (Manila time), followed closely by the women’s showdown against host Thailand at noon. Both matches will be played on the mall’s fourth floor, a unique venue that presents challenges beyond the usual X’s and O’s.

     

    For Pilipinas Warriors head coach Vernon Perea, success will hinge less on scripted plays and more on adaptability once the ball is in play.

     

    “We are always hoping but no matter how hard we train. It will all boil down to the breaks of the game, how fit we are and how sharp we are during the game,” Perea said.

     

     

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    Perea pointed to the playing surfaces as one of the immediate adjustments his squads must manage, with varying court textures expected to affect movement and control.

     

    “We are making adjustments. Court 2, medyo madulas tsaka Court 1, may mga rough surfaces. But lahat naman ng players maglalaro dyan so it will be the same for everybody.”

     

    Later in the day, attention shifts to the pitch as the men’s CP football team opens its tournament at 4 p.m. at the Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University Football Stadium, adding another front to the Philippines’ early push in the regional meet.

     

    While the opening ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, and the official competition begins Wednesday, these early fixtures offer Filipino para-athletes a chance to set the tone immediately—testing their preparation, composure, and ability to respond under unfamiliar conditions.

     

    For Team Pilipinas, the journey toward podium finishes begins not with ceremony, but with action. 

     

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  • Carlos Yulo, Alex Eala share spotlight as PSA honors them with co-Athlete of Year honors 

    Carlos Yulo, Alex Eala share spotlight as PSA honors them with co-Athlete of Year honors 

    Two Filipino athletes who turned 2025 into a year of belief, brilliance, and global respect will headline the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Annual Awards Night, as Carlos Yulo and Alex Eala are named the Male and Female Athletes of the Year.

     

    In a rare decision that underscores the magnitude of their achievements, the country’s oldest media organization will honor both stars in the same year — a first in 22 years — when the PSA stages its traditional awards gala on February 16 at the Diamond Hotel Manila, in partnership with San Miguel Corp.

     

    From packed arenas in Asia to tennis courts under the brightest lights of the sport, Yulo and Eala carried the Philippine flag with poise and power, showing that Filipino excellence can thrive anywhere in the world.

     

    “This marks the first time in 22 years the PSA named a male and female co-Athletes of the Year,” with the last instance coming in 2004 when Manny Pacquiao and Jennifer Rosales shared the honor.

     

    Yulo, now 25, becomes a repeat awardee after also being recognized in 2024. Eala, just 20, earns her first PSA Athlete of the Year citation — a milestone that mirrors her rapid rise in global tennis

     

    “Their exemplary performances on the international stage, and more importantly, the way they have inspired countless young athletes to chase their own path for greatness, are enough reasons to crown both Alex and Carlos as the year’s top performers in sports,” said PSA president Francis Ochoa, sports editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

     

    Fresh off his historic double-gold performance at the Paris Olympics, Yulo refused to slow down. The gymnast from Leveriza, Manila quickly returned to competition and dominated the Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships in South Korea, capturing his fourth straight floor exercise gold while also claiming bronze medals in the parallel bars, vault, and individual all-around.

     

    Later in the year, Yulo reaffirmed his place among the world’s elite at the FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Indonesia, soaring to gold in the vault and adding another bronze in floor exercise at the 53rd edition of the meet.

     

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    While Yulo ruled the air, Eala made her own breakthrough on the ground — rewriting Philippine tennis history one tournament at a time.

     

    A product of the Rafa Nadal Academy in Spain, Eala’s 2025 surge began with a stunning run at the Miami Open, where the then world No. 140 entered as a wildcard and stunned the tennis world.

     

    She eliminated former French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko, reigning Australian Open winner Madison Keys, and five-time Grand Slam champion Iga Swiatek en route to a semifinal appearance that announced her arrival as a rising force.

     

    That run ignited a year of firsts. Eala cracked the WTA Top 50, became the first Filipino in the Open era to compete in the Wimbledon singles main draw, captured her first WTA 125 title in Guadalajara, and etched her name in Grand Slam history by winning a US Open main-draw match — another Open-era first for the Philippines.

     

    She capped her banner year with a gold medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, ending a 26-year drought in Philippine women’s singles tennis and completing a season that resonated far beyond rankings and trophies.

     

    For PSA, honoring Yulo and Eala together is not just about medals won, but about moments created — moments that reminded a nation of what is possible.

     

    As the spotlight turns to February 16, the awards night will celebrate more than individual triumphs. It will celebrate two athletes who, in different arenas, carried the same message: Filipinos belong on the world stage.

     

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  • Filipino MMA star Drex Zamboanga ready for BRAVE CF debut after injury layoff

    Filipino MMA star Drex Zamboanga ready for BRAVE CF debut after injury layoff

    Filipino Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) standout Drex “T-Rex” Zamboanga is finally set to make his long-awaited debut for BRAVE Combat Federation, more than a year after signing a multi-bout contract with the Bahrain-based promotion. His arrival has been anticipated by fans and analysts alike, as Zamboanga is considered one of the most accomplished MMA fighters to emerge from the Philippines in recent years.

     

    Zamboanga initially inked his deal in 2025 and was scheduled to compete in May of that year against Ramazan Gitinow in a lightweight bout. However, just a week out from the matchup, the 32-year-old was forced to withdraw after suffering a lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury that required immediate medical attention.

     

    The setback not only postponed his BRAVE CF debut but also pushed the Filipino fighter into a lengthy recovery process. Zamboanga underwent months of intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation, focusing on strengthening the affected knee and rebuilding stability. The journey back was demanding, but the veteran competitor stayed disciplined and patient throughout the process.

     

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    Now medically cleared and back to full-contact training, Zamboanga says he is more motivated than ever to step into the BRAVE CF cage and resume his career at the highest level.

    “I have been away long enough, and I am hungry to compete again. I signed with BRAVE CF to fight, and I want to maximize this contract. My body feels great now. The rehab was tough, but it worked. I am healthy, I am training at full intensity again, and I am starting to feel my groove come back every day,” Zamboanga said in a media interaction.

     

    Before joining BRAVE CF, Zamboanga built a formidable résumé in the Philippines’ premier MMA organization, the Universal Reality Combat Championship (URCC). Known for his explosive striking and relentless pressure, he captured the vacant bantamweight championship in 2017 by finishing countryman Rex De Lara via technical knockout. He cemented his status as one of URCC’s elite fighters two years later, successfully defending the title with a doctor’s stoppage victory against South Korea’s Seung Hyun Cho.

     

    With a professional record of 14 wins and 6 losses, including 11 finishes, Zamboanga has earned a reputation as a dynamic and dangerous competitor capable of ending fights in multiple ways. His new chapter in BRAVE CF represents not only an opportunity to compete internationally but also a chance to re-establish his presence in the global MMA scene.

     

    “This feels like a fresh start for me. I want to stay active, perform well, and rebuild momentum in 2026. BRAVE CF gives me the chance to reset, to prove myself again, and to rekindle my career in 2026. I believe my best performances are still ahead of me,” he added.

     

    With renewed health, a rejuvenated mindset, and an organization eager to showcase his talents, Zamboanga’s long-delayed debut is shaping up to be one of the most compelling storylines for Philippine MMA in 2026. As he prepares to finally enter the BRAVE CF cage, expectations are high that the fighter known as “T-Rex” will once again roar back into contention and remind the world why he has long been considered one of the Philippines’ top MMA athletes.

     

     

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  • Goody Custodio praises Team Philippines’ preparation and dedication for 13th ASEAN Para Games

    Goody Custodio praises Team Philippines’ preparation and dedication for 13th ASEAN Para Games

    The Philippines is gearing up for the 13th ASEAN Para Games, scheduled from January 20 to 26 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, with a 216-strong delegation ready to compete in the region’s most prestigious para-sports event.

     

    The first batch of athletes departed Manila early on Thursday, January 15, beginning a long travel day that includes a four-hour flight to Bangkok followed by a four-hour bus ride to Nakhon Ratchasima. The extended travel time is one of the logistical challenges the national squad must overcome as they prepare for competition.

     

    Philippines chief of mission Goody Custodio—who also serves as secretary general of the Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC)—said the early deployment was intentional, ensuring athletes have more time to adjust to the conditions ahead of opening day.

     

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    “I think the challenge there is the travel because there is about a four-hour travel time. Based on the manual, it’s around 1.5 hours for the first stopover, then around two to two-and-a-half hours going to Korat. There is really travel fatigue. That’s why we only have a few days before the opening. So, there’s really travel fatigue. That’s why we only have a few days before the opening,” Custodio explained during a media briefing, emphasizing the importance of acclimatization and recovery.

    Ahead of their departure, the para-athletes received their official Philippine team gear from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Philippine Paralympic Committee—similar to what Team Philippines received for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games last month. According to Custodio, the gesture boosted the team’s morale.

     

    “I think their strength is their high spirits and high morale because they just received these supplies, tickets, and allowances. They are very proud to be a part of the ASEAN Para Games in Thailand and of course, they are very thankful to the PPC on behalf of Sir Mike Barredo, and of course, to the PSC under chairman Patrick Gregorio, and our Commissioner-in-Charge, Commissioner Ed Hayco,” he added.

     

    Two-time Paralympic wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan will be the country’s flag bearer during the opening ceremony at Chatchai Hall. Mangliwan is expected to lead the medal charge alongside standout swimmers Angel Otom and Gary Bejino, as well as chess masters Cheyzer Mendoza and Darrey Bernardo, all of whom have consistently delivered strong performances in international competitions.

     

    Team Philippines enters the 2025 ASEAN Para Games with confidence, backed by a solid showing in 2023 where the country finished fifth overall with 33 gold, 33 silver, and 50 bronze medals—a total of 116 podium finishes.

     

    With a blend of seasoned medalists and rising stars, the delegation is aiming for a strong and inspiring performance in Thailand. Beyond the pursuit of medals, the athletes carry the mission of elevating para-sports visibility in the Philippines, motivating future generations, and demonstrating resilience and excellence on the international stage.

     

    The upcoming games provide not only a competitive platform but also an opportunity to highlight representation, empowerment, and continued growth for para-athletes nationwide. As Team Philippines steps into competition, the nation will be watching with pride and anticipation, hopeful that their hard work and dedication will translate into another memorable campaign at the ASEAN Para Games.

     

     

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  • Power Pairs: Athlete Couples Making Waves in Philippine Sports

    Power Pairs: Athlete Couples Making Waves in Philippine Sports

    Behind every buzzer-beater, clutch set, and highlight reel, some of Philippine sports’ brightest stars are also navigating something just as challenging and rewarding: relationships with fellow athletes. Here’s a closer look at some of the most compelling athlete power couples in the Philippines, where love and elite competition intersect.

     

    Harold Alarcon & Roma Mae Doromal — UP Basketball × PVL Volleyball

     

    Harold Alarcon has become one of the UAAP’s most exciting guards, starring for the UP Fighting Maroons with multiple championship runs and clutch performances in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament. A versatile shooter and scorer, Alarcon’s late-game heroics have been pivotal in UP’s quest for titles and deep playoff pushes.

     

    Standing alongside him is Roma Mae Doromal, a dynamic wing for the Capital1 Solar Spikers in the Premier Volleyball League. Doromal has transitioned smoothly from her collegiate days in Ateneo to professional volleyball competition, known for her athleticism and scoring bursts. Together, they represent a rare basketball–volleyball pairing rooted in mutual respect and shared drive — juggling the demands of UAAP basketball and PVL schedules while supporting each other’s growth in elite sport.

     

    Dwight Ramos & Kianna Dy — International Hoops × Pro Volleyball

     

    When it comes to playing on big stages, Dwight Ramos and Kianna Dy are among the country’s most recognizable names.

     

    Ramos, a Filipino-American guard now with Levanga Hokkaido in Japan’s B.League, has worn the national colors with distinction, including at the 2023 FIBA World Cup and other international tournaments. His scoring ability, athleticism, and versatility have made him a key piece for both club and Gilas Pilipinas.

     

    Dy, one of the Philippines’ premier volleyball talents, serves as an opposite hitter for the PLDT High Speed Hitters, bringing firepower and leadership to the PVL. A veteran of the national team and multiple pro seasons, Dy’s all-around game has helped elevate PLDT’s competitive profile, being one of the cornerstones for their back-to-back championships in 2025.

     

    Their relationship spans borders and sports seasons. Ramos has been known to cheer Dy courtside — even flying back from international duty to support her in standout PVL matchups. Together, they balance performance pressures and public profiles as two of Philippine sports’ most visible young talents.

     

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    Francis Escandor & Pauline Gaston — Rising Together in Basketball and Volleyball

     

    Young athletes on rapid ascents, Francis Escandor and Pauline Gaston reflect determination and growth in different arenas. Escandor has made his presence felt with the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, showing scoring potential and maturity as he adapts to the PBA’s physical demands. His emergence from supporting cast to impactful contributor highlights his development on the hardwood.

     

    Gaston, meanwhile, is carving her own path with her new team the Capital1 Solar Spikers after Chery Tiggo disbanded in late 2025, adding offensive punch and versatility to the team’s rotation. As they navigate pro careers in separate sports, Escandor and Gaston find common ground in the grind — rising through competitive systems and pushing toward personal and team goals with each season.

     

    Deanna Wong & Ivy Lacsina — Volleyball’s Dynamic Duo

     

    Two standout volleyball athletes, Deanna Wong and Ivy Lacsina, bring different strengths to their respective teams. Wong, a veteran setter for the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, is widely respected for her court vision, leadership, and ability to run complex offenses at the professional level.

    Lacsina, a powerful presence for the Akari Chargers, contributes both offense and net dominance with her attacking prowess. 

     

    Their relationship exemplifies how elite performers can support each other while still competing at the highest level — sharing insights, handling travel schedules, and celebrating milestones together amid demanding volleyball seasons.

     

    LA Revilla & Denden Lazaro — Veteran Partners in Hoops and Spikes

     

    Sometimes love takes shape through longevity and shared history in sport. LA Revilla, a former PBA ballplayer turned assistant coach for the UE Red Warriors, has transitioned from pro play to mentoring the next generation of talent, carrying his on-court savvy to the sidelines.

     

    His partner, Denden Lazaro, is a decorated libero for the Creamline Cool Smashers, known for her consistent defense, quick reads, and leadership on the court that helped Creamline secure multiple titles. Their shared journey from athlete life to evolving roles beyond active competition reflects maturity, mutual respect, and a love that’s grown with their respective careers.

     

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  • Rising tennis star Tenny Madis confirms plans to study in Hawaii after Grade 12

    Rising tennis star Tenny Madis confirms plans to study in Hawaii after Grade 12

    Manila is set to make history in Philippine tennis as it prepares to host its first-ever Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament. The Philippine Women’s Open has officially been added to the 2026 WTA calendar, placing the city on the global tennis map with a WTA 125 event.

     

    Scheduled from January 26 to 31, 2026, the tournament will be played on hard courts, featuring a 32-player singles draw and a 16-team doubles bracket, with a total prize commitment of $115,000. The event promises high-level competition and a rare opportunity for local fans to witness world-class tennis on home soil.

     

    Rising Filipino stars Tenny Madis and Alex Eala will represent the country after receiving wildcard entries as the top-ranked local players. For 18-year-old Madis, the Philippine Women’s Open will mark her WTA 125 debut. Regardless of her performance in the tournament, she plans to move to Hawaii later this year to pursue further education under a scholarship.

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    “I will be going to Hawaii in August after I finish Grade 12 here. They offered me a scholarship. I plan to attend school in September. I have yet to commit,” Madis confirmed in a media interaction.

     

    If she accepts the offer, Madis will join a growing list of Filipino athletes honing their skills abroad. Other notable athletes currently studying and competing in the United States include fencer Samantha Catantan (Penn State), golfer Rhianne Malixi (Duke University), and basketball standout Kieffer Alas (Utah Prep Academy), who scored 34 points in his debut game. Olympian Jasmine Alkhadi remains the most prominent Filipino athlete to attend the University of Hawaii.

     

    Madis enjoyed a breakout 2025, capturing the Gentry Open Women’s Singles title and the Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Championship. She also earned two bronze medals at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, solidifying her status as one of the country’s brightest tennis prospects.

     

    Currently training at the Philippine Tennis Academy under coach Bobie Angelo, Madis is focused on building her strength and preparing to face higher-ranked WTA opponents on the global stage.

     

     

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  • PHILTA eyes tennis growth in the Philippines as Manila is set to host first-ever WTA 125 event

    PHILTA eyes tennis growth in the Philippines as Manila is set to host first-ever WTA 125 event

    Manila is set to serve up a historic moment for Philippine tennis, as the city prepares to host its first-ever Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament. The Philippine Women’s Open has officially been added to the 2026 WTA calendar, elevating Manila onto the global tennis stage with a WTA 125 event.

     

    Scheduled from January 26 to 31, 2026, the tournament will be contested on hard courts, featuring a 32-player singles draw and a 16-team doubles bracket, with a total prize commitment of $115,000. Beyond the competition itself, the event signals a new chapter for Philippine tennis, giving local fans the rare opportunity to witness world-class players in action on home soil.

     

    The Philippine Women’s Open press conference took place on Tuesday, January 13, at Lanson Palace in Pasay City. Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) executive director Tonnette Mendoza highlighted that one of the primary reasons for hosting the event in Manila is to foster the growth of tennis in the Philippines, a country where basketball still dominates the sporting landscape.

     

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    “You know, just being near all these big, really good players, they are top 100 in the world, still at a different level, it’s really going to encourage them to be better at tennis. And then, of course, we really want the kids to come and watch. It’s hard to watch really world-class tennis, you have to go to another country. So it’s good that they are here,” Mendoza said.

    PHILTA also announced ticket prices for the milestone event, which were met with positive feedback for their affordability. Tickets range from P200 for the qualifying matches to P2,000 for the main draw, giving ordinary fans access to high-level competition.

     

    “Well, we really, of course we want to recover some of our expenses, but because the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is really helping us, we are able to keep our prices low. You know, at that level, and we are not thinking of making lots and lots of money. What we really want is for the people to come over,” Mendoza added, emphasizing the organization’s focus on accessibility and community engagement.

     

    Rising Filipino tennis stars Alex Eala and Tenny Madis will represent the country after securing wildcard entries as the top-ranked local players. For both athletes, competing at home offers not just a chance to gain invaluable experience against top international opponents, but also an opportunity to inspire a new generation of Filipino tennis players.

     

    The Philippine Women’s Open will be held at the historic Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Manila, promising thrilling tennis action while solidifying the Philippines’ presence on the global tennis stage. Beyond the matches, the event represents a major step forward for the sport in the country, giving fans and young athletes alike a chance to witness world-class competition without leaving home.

     

     

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  • Rising Filipina star Tenny Madis excited for WTA 125 debut at Philippine Women’s Open

    Rising Filipina star Tenny Madis excited for WTA 125 debut at Philippine Women’s Open

    Manila is set to serve up a historic moment for Philippine tennis, as the city prepares to host its first-ever Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tournament. The Philippine Women’s Open has been officially added to the 2026 WTA calendar, putting Manila on the global tennis stage with a WTA 125 event.

     

    Scheduled from January 26 to 31, 2026, the tournament will be played on hard courts, featuring a 32-player singles draw and a 16-team doubles bracket, with a total prize commitment of $115,000. The event promises high-level competition while giving local fans a rare opportunity to witness world-class tennis on home soil.

     

    Rising Filipino tennis stars Tenny Madis and Alex Eala will represent the country after securing wildcard entries as the top-ranked local players. For Madis, the Philippine Women’s Open will mark her debut at a WTA 125 tournament—an opportunity she describes as both thrilling and special.

     

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    “I’m so very grateful for the wild card. It’s a great opportunity to compete at this higher level and gain valuable experience. So I see it as an invitation to do better, to do my best. It feels so special to compete at home and I’m very excited. Super excited kasi makalaban ko yung mga higher level na players,” Madis said during the Philippine Women’s Open press conference in Pasay City.

    The 18-year-old enjoyed a breakout year in 2025, capturing the Gentry Open Women’s singles title and the Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Championship. She also secured two bronze medals at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, further establishing herself as one of the country’s brightest tennis prospects.

     

    Madis is now training intensively at the Philippine Tennis Academy under coach Bobie Angelo, focusing on improving her strength and preparing for the challenges of competing against higher-ranked WTA players.

     

    “I have been training consistently, with my team at the Philippine Tennis Academy, with coach Bobie Angelo, and my teammates as well. Yes, it’s very intensive training and mag-improve pa po yung muscles,” she shared.

     

    “The lessons po na ma-ano ko is to do my best and have fun. Palagi lang sinasabi ng coach ko, coach Bobie, laban para sa bayan and gapang talaga para sa bayan. So my goal is to compete well. And I just focus on to enjoy every match. And, yeah, to compete hard,” Madis added, highlighting her determination to represent the Philippines with pride.

     

    The Philippine Women’s Open will be held at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center in Manila, offering thrilling tennis action for fans while providing a platform for local players to gain invaluable international experience. Beyond the competition, the tournament represents a major step forward for Philippine tennis, helping the country cement its presence on the global stage and inspiring the next generation of Filipino tennis players.

     

     

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  • Philippine skaters gear up for Four Continents Championships after SEA Games success

    Philippine skaters gear up for Four Continents Championships after SEA Games success

    The Philippines closed out the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, on a strong note, finishing sixth overall in the medal tally with a total of 277 medals: 50 golds, 73 silvers, and 154 bronzes. The country’s athletes displayed grit and determination across a wide range of disciplines, proving that Filipino sports continue to grow in competitiveness at the regional level.

     

    Among the standout performances were those from the country’s skating contingent. Figure skating emerged as a bright spot for Team Philippines, with Maxine Bautista capturing a silver medal and Paolo Borromeo securing the bronze in their respective events. Their podium finishes were a testament to the growing talent and dedication in the Philippine skating scene, signaling that the country is producing skaters capable of making a mark on larger international stages.

     

    Buoyed by the success of Bautista and Borromeo at the SEA Games, Philippine Skating Union chief Nikki Cheng expressed confidence in the team’s prospects at the upcoming Four Continents Championships, which will be held in Beijing, China, from January 21 to 25. The prestigious event is considered one of the major international competitions in figure skating, attracting top athletes from across Asia, the Americas, and Oceania.

     

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    “Right after the Southeast Asian Games, Maxine and Paolo went back home and went straight away to training. The Four Continents Championships is of course a very big event. It’s considered one of the international skating championship events and we are very glad that we have Philippine representatives that qualified to this championships,” Cheng said in a media interaction, highlighting the athletes’ swift transition from regional competition to international preparation.

    The Philippines will send a total of four skaters to Beijing, with Isabella Gamez and Aleksandr Korovin joining the duo of Bautista and Borromeo. While Bautista and Borromeo gained experience at the SEA Games, Gamez and Korovin did not compete in Thailand because the program did not feature the pair skating event. However, Cheng emphasized that their absence from the SEA Games did not indicate a lack of effort or preparation.

     

    “Gamez and Korovin competed in the 2025 Golden Spin in Zagreb, Croatia, last December and finished 13th. That gave them good exposure and preparation for the challenges ahead at Four Continents,” Cheng said, noting the importance of competing against a strong international field to sharpen their skills.

     

    The pair has been training intensively in Russia over the past year, fine-tuning their routines and building consistency in their performances. Cheng highlighted their dedication and discipline, underscoring that the team is entering the Four Continents Championships in peak condition.

    “They are currently training in Russia. It’s been a few months or actually for the whole year they were there. And so they are preparing intensely for Four Continents,” Cheng added.

     

    With a mix of regional experience from the SEA Games and international exposure from competitions like the Golden Spin, the Philippines will field a competitive lineup in Beijing. Fans and officials alike will be watching closely, hoping that the country’s skaters can translate their hard work into strong performances on the Four Continents stage, setting the stage for even bigger achievements in the years to come.

     

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez reflects on her experience covering the 2025 SEA Games as a sports correspondent

    Alyssa Valdez reflects on her experience covering the 2025 SEA Games as a sports correspondent

    Alyssa Valdez, the iconic Alas Pilipinas and Creamline Cool Smashers star, is widely regarded as the most popular volleyball player in the Philippines and a key figure in bringing the sport into the national mainstream.

     

    However, Valdez was notably absent from Alas Pilipinas’ squad for the recently concluded 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, instead taking on a new challenge as a media correspondent for Cignal, the official broadcaster of the SEA Games in the Philippines.

     

    In the latest episode of her podcast, “The Transition Playbook,” the 32-year-old admitted she was initially nervous about her new role, given that it was an entirely different environment from competing on the court.

     

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    “Honestly, when I took the job, I was asking Boom Gonzales kung paano ba gagawin? Sobrang kabado talaga ako,” Valdez shared, recalling the anxiety she felt stepping into broadcasting.

    Valdez added that working alongside familiar faces added a unique layer of pressure.

    “I was once teammates with all these players, most especially sa women’s indoor volleyball, di ba? So medyo iba din talaga yung kaba,” she explained.

     

    Despite the initial awkwardness, Valdez embraced her new responsibilities, finding that covering the games gave her a fresh perspective on sports and the athletes she had once competed alongside.

     

    “I’d say, nagging iba yung relationship ko with sports. Kasi, one, as an athlete, alam mo yung pinaghirapan nung mga athlete na lumalaban to represent the country. Iba yung pag-approach ko din sa kanila. I just feel like iba yung pag-approach ko sa kanila bilang atleta pa rin. So, yun yung actually dinala ko when I went there. And yun naman yung advice din sa akin nila Boom. Iba din yung pagiging conversation when you talk parang as athletes to athletes. So, yun yung dinala ko. But siguro now, mas lumawak yung learnings about sports,” Valdez said.

     

    With a major international assignment under her belt, Valdez is now contemplating whether sports broadcasting could be a future career path after she retires from volleyball.

     

    “I think if I’m gonna do it, I really want to explore more. But if I’m gonna do it, I really have to learn and really study all the things na kasama nun. Kasi, siyempre, ibang world na yun. So, I really want to be ready if magkaroon ulit ng chance na mapunta ako sa ganong sitwasyon,” she concluded.

     

    Valdez’s experience at the SEA Games highlights her adaptability and dedication to Philippine sports, showing that her influence extends beyond the court. By embracing a role in sports media, she not only gains a new perspective but also continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.

     

    Whether she chooses to pursue broadcasting full-time or focuses on her volleyball career, Alyssa Valdez remains a trailblazer, bridging the worlds of elite competition and sports storytelling.

     

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