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Tag: Philippines

  • Tagaytay Velodrome to host 10th Senior Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships

    Tagaytay Velodrome to host 10th Senior Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships

    The Tagaytay City Velodrome is preparing for a remarkable transformation as the country’s only velodrome temporarily trades cycling for gymnastics to host the 10th Senior Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships from August 4 to 7.

     

    The four-day continental competition will bring together more than 400 athletes, coaches, officials, and delegates from 11 Asian nations, making it one of the biggest international sporting events ever staged in Tagaytay City.

     

    While the venue is traditionally home to cycling competitions, organizers have converted the facility into a world-class gymnastics arena capable of accommodating around 3,000 spectators. The makeover underscores the Philippines’ growing capability to host major international sporting events in a variety of disciplines.

     

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    Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) President Cynthia Carrion said the decision to hold the championships at the Tagaytay City Velodrome came after Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who also served as Tagaytay mayor, offered the venue for the prestigious event.

     

    “Philippine Olympic Committee President and former Tagaytay Mayor Abraham Tolentino graciously offered us the Tagaytay City Velodrome for our event. After inspecting it, we gratefully accepted his offer,” Carrion said during a media briefing.

     

    The championship will feature elite aerobic gymnasts from Cambodia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Mongolia, Thailand, Vietnam, and host nation Philippines as they compete for continental honors.

     

    The event is expected to showcase some of Asia’s finest aerobic gymnastics talent, with athletes competing in various individual, mixed pair, trio, group, and aerobic dance categories. It also provides Filipino gymnasts with the rare opportunity to compete against world-class opposition on home soil while enjoying the support of local fans.

    Carrion expressed her gratitude to the local government of Tagaytay for its unwavering support, emphasizing that staging an event of this magnitude would not have been possible without the cooperation of both national and local officials.

     

    “We would like to thank POC President Bambol, Mayor Brent, and Vice Mayor Agnes for their all-out support in the hosting of this big international gymnastics event,” she said.

     

    Beyond the competition itself, the championships are also expected to provide a significant boost to tourism and the local economy. Hundreds of international visitors are expected to spend several days in Tagaytay, one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations known for its cool climate, scenic views of Taal Volcano, and vibrant dining scene.

     

    Carrion noted that visiting athletes and officials will have plenty of opportunities to experience the city’s attractions outside of competition, adding that the local government has encouraged businesses to warmly welcome the international delegation.

     

    “There is a variety of opportunities that our athletes and delegates for the 10th Senior Aerobic Championships can choose from when they visit Tagaytay, a beautiful and inspiring environment where they will return home with wonderful memories of their visit. The Tagaytay City government has also instructed commercial establishments like restaurants and cafes to give our participants discounts and other privileges,” she said.

     

    The event also aligns with the Philippine Sports Commission’s long-term vision of positioning the country as a premier destination for international sporting events in Southeast Asia. By successfully hosting continental and global competitions, the PSC hopes to further elevate the Philippines’ reputation as a capable organizer while generating economic activity through sports tourism.

     

    PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio praised the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines for once again taking on the challenge of organizing a major international tournament, citing the federation’s proven track record in delivering world-class events.

     

    “This is another noteworthy project hosted by GAP under the leadership of Tita Cynthia. The association has already shown its superb ability in hosting and organizing international events. We can expect GAP to raise the bar higher with its hosting of the 10th Senior Aerobic Gymnastics Asian Championships,” Gregorio said.

     

    With the Tagaytay City Velodrome set to welcome Asia’s top aerobic gymnasts, the Philippines will once again find itself on the international sporting stage, showcasing not only its organizational capabilities but also its commitment to promoting gymnastics and strengthening sports tourism through world-class events.

     

     

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  • Ferdinand Marcos hails Alex Eala, Filipinas as inspirations for Filipinos in SONA

    Ferdinand Marcos hails Alex Eala, Filipinas as inspirations for Filipinos in SONA

    Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underscored the growing importance of sports in nation-building during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), highlighting the achievements of tennis star Alex Eala and the Philippine women’s national football team while reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening sports development across the country.

     

    Speaking before a joint session of Congress at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City on Monday, July 27, Marcos pointed to the accomplishments of Filipino athletes on the international stage as proof that the country can compete with the world’s best when provided with the necessary support and opportunities.

     

    Among those singled out by the President was tennis sensation Alex Eala, whose rapid rise has made her one of the country’s most recognizable sporting figures and an inspiration to aspiring Filipino athletes.

     

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    Marcos expressed hope that Eala’s success would encourage more young Filipinos to participate not only in tennis but in sports in general, emphasizing the role athletics plays in promoting both excellence and healthy lifestyles.

     

    “Sa nag-uumapaw nating suporta kay Alex Eala, sana ay marami ang ma-engganyo para matuto at maglaro hindi lamang ng tennis, kundi ng iba pang sport. Mahalaga rin sa atin ang sports. Itinaas natin nang triple ang suporta natin dito. Hindi lamang dahil sa aliw na hatid nito, kundi para sa kalusugan,” Marcos said during his address.

     

    The President also revealed that government support for sports has tripled under his administration, reiterating that investment in athletics goes beyond producing champions and also contributes to improving the overall health and well-being of Filipinos.

     

    Eala has become one of Philippine sports’ brightest stars following a series of breakthrough performances on the international stage. Widely regarded as Southeast Asia’s top young tennis player, the 21-year-old continues to raise the country’s profile in world tennis through her historic achievements.

    Her most recent milestone came at Wimbledon 2026, where she became the first Filipino in the Open Era to reach both the third and fourth rounds of the prestigious Grand Slam tournament. The achievement further cemented her status as one of the country’s premier athletes and strengthened hopes that she can continue making history on the WTA Tour.

     

    Marcos also reserved special praise for the Philippine women’s national football team, popularly known as the Filipinas, after the squad secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

     

    The achievement marks the second consecutive edition of the tournament in which the Philippines has earned a place, following the country’s historic debut at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup—a landmark moment that significantly elevated the profile of women’s football in the nation.

     

    “Sa halimbawa ng Filipinas women’s football team, sana rin ay mas sumikat pa ang football sa ating bansa at marami ang maglaro. Balang-araw, baka makasali na ang Pilipinas sa World Cup,” Marcos added.

     

    The President expressed hope that the Filipinas’ continued success would inspire more young Filipinos to embrace football, with the long-term dream of seeing the country become a regular participant in football’s biggest international competitions.

     

    Following the President’s remarks, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) issued a statement thanking Marcos for recognizing the achievements of Philippine football on one of the country’s biggest political stages.

     

    “Lubos na nagpapasalamat ang Philippine Football Federation sa paghirang ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa Philippine football sa kanyang State of the Nation Address. Sama-sama nating iangat ang Pilipinas sa global stage ng football! Tayo naman, Pilipinas,” the federation said.

     

    The Filipinas are now preparing for another major international challenge as they turn their attention to the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. Drawn into a difficult Group G, the Philippines will face regional powerhouse China, as well as Uzbekistan and Hong Kong, as they seek another memorable campaign on the continental stage.

     

    Marcos’ recognition of both Eala and the Filipinas reflects the growing prominence of Philippine sports in recent years. From tennis courts to football pitches, Filipino athletes continue to make significant strides internationally, and their achievements have increasingly become a source of national pride. With government support for sports receiving greater emphasis, the hope is that more young Filipinos will be inspired to pursue athletic excellence and carry the country’s flag onto the global stage.

     

     

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  • Aiden Lazaro becomes first homegrown Filipino to join IMG Academy baseball pathway

    Aiden Lazaro becomes first homegrown Filipino to join IMG Academy baseball pathway

    Philippine junior baseball standout Aiden Lazaro is taking another major step in his development after earning a place at the prestigious IMG Academy, where he will train at the world-renowned sports education and athletic development center in Bradenton, Florida.


    The 13-year-old pitcher becomes the first homegrown Filipino baseball player to be selected for IMG Academy’s elite baseball pathway, a significant milestone for Philippine baseball as Lazaro continues his pursuit of becoming the first player developed in the Philippines to reach Major League Baseball (MLB).


    IMG Academy is recognized globally for producing elite athletes across multiple sports, combining high-level coaching with advanced performance programs designed to develop both athletic ability and personal growth. Through the academy, Lazaro will have access to a comprehensive training environment focused not only on baseball skills but also on long-term athlete development.

     

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    As part of his program, Lazaro will work with IMG’s Performance & Sports Science Center, where specialists will oversee key areas of his development, including strength and conditioning, speed and agility, mobility, injury prevention, recovery, sports science, nutrition, and mental performance.


    The opportunity marks a significant chapter in Lazaro’s young career, as he looks to sharpen his skills against some of the best young baseball talents from around the world while learning from coaches and experts who have helped shape future professional athletes.

    “I’m excited to immerse myself in a new training environment and learn from everyone at IMG Academy who helped develop some of the top athletes and professional players. I look forward to bringing home everything I gain from this so I could contribute more to my teams in the Philippines,” Lazaro said during a media interaction.


    The young pitcher also expressed his gratitude to IMG Academy for providing him with an opportunity to pursue his ambitions while continuing to represent the Philippines.


    “I’m very thankful to IMG Academy for welcoming me into its baseball and holistic athletic training program and for working closely with my mom over the past few months to help create exciting opportunities for my future. I’m humbled by this privilege and I’m ready to work hard to make the most of it,” he added.


    Lazaro’s move to IMG Academy draws parallels with another young Filipino athlete who pursued an international development pathway at the same age. Philippine tennis star Alex Eala committed to elite overseas training when she was 13 years old, joining the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain, where she developed her skills before making history as one of the country’s most successful tennis players.


    IMG Academy’s sister brand, IMG Tennis Management, currently represents Eala, further highlighting the organization’s connection to Filipino athletes seeking opportunities on the global stage.


    While training in Florida will provide Lazaro with access to world-class facilities and competition, he will continue his commitments in the Philippines. The young pitcher remains a member of the Ateneo Blue Eagles baseball program and will travel between the Philippines and the United States as he balances his education and athletic development.


    Currently a Grade 8 student at Ateneo, Lazaro also serves as team captain of the school’s Baseball Pony Division, where he continues to build his leadership skills alongside his growth as a player.


    With his selection to IMG Academy, Lazaro becomes one of the brightest young prospects in Philippine baseball. His journey represents not only a personal ambition but also a significant opportunity for the sport in the country, as he aims to inspire the next generation of Filipino baseball players and potentially break new ground on the international stage.

     

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  • Carles Cuadrat trusts young Philippine squad ahead of ASEAN Hyundai Cup opener

    Carles Cuadrat trusts young Philippine squad ahead of ASEAN Hyundai Cup opener

    The Philippine men’s national football team is set to begin its ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 campaign on Tuesday, July 28, as the Young Azkals take on Myanmar in their Group B opener at New Clark City.

     

    Led by Spanish head coach Carles Cuadrat, the Philippines enters the regional tournament with renewed optimism after an encouraging run of performances in recent months. Although the squad features several promising young talents, Cuadrat believes his players are ready to embrace the challenge of competing against some of Southeast Asia’s strongest football nations.

     

    The Philippines heads into the tournament after recording an emphatic 5-1 victory over Myanmar in an international friendly in June. However, Cuadrat insists that result offers little advantage heading into Tuesday’s encounter, particularly with Myanmar now under the guidance of new head coach Jorn Andersen.

     

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    Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Cuadrat acknowledged that Myanmar has undergone tactical changes under its new manager but noted that much of the squad remains familiar to his coaching staff.

     

    “We have analysed the opposition. Myanmar’s new coach has introduced some different ideas, but the core group of players is quite similar to the team we faced previously. We can therefore draw on that experience,” Cuadrat said.

     

    While confident in his team’s preparations, the former FC Barcelona assistant highlighted that this Philippine squad is even younger than the one that competed in the recent Tri-Nations Tournament.

    “We will field an even younger team than the one that played in the Tri-Nations tournament. At that time, we had experienced players such as Randy Schneider and Patrick Reichelt helping the group,” he said.

     

    The youthful composition of the squad is one of the defining features of the Philippines’ campaign, with Cuadrat revealing that only two players on the roster are over the age of 30.

     

    “We now have only two players over the age of 30, while the rest of the squad is very young. It will be a good test for us. The players have trained very well and understand the ideas we want to implement on the pitch. We hope to produce a good performance,” he added.

     

    Despite the inexperience of several members of the squad, Cuadrat believes the team’s energy, discipline, and willingness to learn can help offset the lack of veteran presence as the Philippines seeks a positive start to the competition.

     

    The Philippines and Myanmar share a long-standing rivalry in Southeast Asian football, having met nine times over the history of the regional championship. Their most recent meeting in the tournament came in 2024 and ended in a draw, while the June friendly demonstrated the attacking quality the Filipinos are capable of producing. Nevertheless, Cuadrat expects a much tougher challenge this time around given Myanmar’s tactical evolution under Andersen.

     

    The opening fixture could prove crucial in shaping the Philippines’ hopes of advancing from a highly competitive Group B, which also features regional heavyweights Thailand and Malaysia, as well as Laos. Every point will be valuable in the race for a place in the knockout stage, making a winning start all the more important.

     

    For the Young Azkals, the ASEAN Hyundai Cup represents another opportunity to continue the development of a new generation of Filipino footballers while competing against the region’s best. 

     

    With a youthful squad eager to make its mark and a coach confident in the team’s preparation, the Philippines will be aiming to open its campaign with a statement victory before turning its attention to the remaining group-stage fixtures.

     

     

     

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  • PSC confirms 100-day renovation plan for Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

    PSC confirms 100-day renovation plan for Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

    The Philippines’ growing presence in Southeast Asian baseball has sparked renewed calls for greater investment, development, and promotion of the sport, with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) taking steps to provide the game with a facility capable of matching the country’s ambitions.


    PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio confirmed that a major renovation project for the historic Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium is already underway, with the goal of transforming the iconic venue into an international-standard facility. During a media interaction on Sunday, July 26, Gregorio said the stadium’s complete “facelift” and “renovation” remains on schedule for completion by the end of October.

     

    First opened to the public in 1934, the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium has long served as one of the most important venues in Philippine baseball history. The PSC now hopes to restore the facility to its former glory while equipping it with modern amenities that can support the continued growth of the sport.

     

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    The renovation project is expected to include a retrofitted 10,000-seat grandstand, an international-grade artificial turf surface, and a digital scoreboard installed on the stadium’s iconic outfield wall. These upgrades are designed to bring the venue closer to global standards and provide Filipino athletes with a facility capable of hosting major international competitions.


    “Our objective is to finish the facelift in 100 days and bring the stadium to global standards. This is about giving Filipino baseball a true home worthy of its history and future,” Gregorio said.


    The timing of the renovation comes as Philippine baseball continues to gain momentum in the region. The national team has shown significant progress against some of Asia’s strongest programs, including Japan, South Korea, and Chinese Taipei, while the country’s performances have highlighted the potential of Filipino players when given the right resources and opportunities.

    Once completed, the upgraded Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium is expected to host the East Asia Cup from November 26 to December 6. The tournament will be organized by the Philippine Amateur Baseball Association (PABA) and presented by the PSC, marking a significant milestone for the country’s baseball development efforts.


    PABA secretary-general Mike Asuncion believes the revamped facility can serve as a catalyst for the sport’s continued growth and provide Filipino players with a stage to showcase their abilities.


    “This renovation is a turning point for Philippine baseball. Hosting the East Asia Cup in a world-class stadium will inspire our athletes and show the region that we are serious about competing at the highest level,” Asuncion said.


    For Philippine national baseball coach Orlando Binarao, the renovation addresses one of the biggest challenges facing the country’s baseball program: the lack of proper facilities and resources despite the abundance of local talent.


    Binarao emphasized that Filipino players have the ability to compete against the region’s top teams but need stronger support systems, including better training facilities, equipment, and long-term development programs.


    “I believe the renovation of the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium will help us finally see a Filipino baseball player compete professionally at the international level. We have very good players. If we have the facilities, equipment, support and a good program, our team will be really successful,” Binarao said.


    The national team coach also pointed to the competitiveness of previous encounters against baseball powerhouses in Asia, noting that the Philippines has already shown it can challenge established programs.


    “Our previous games against Japan, Korea, and Taipei could have gone either way because the scores were very close. The goal now is to beat them. The renovation of the baseball stadium is a really big help for us to accomplish our goals,” he added.


    With the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium undergoing a significant transformation, Philippine baseball hopes to enter a new era—one built on improved infrastructure, stronger grassroots development, and increased opportunities for Filipino athletes to compete on the international stage.

     

     

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  • Bong Go files Senate resolution honoring Joshua Pacio after successful ONE strawweight title defense

    Bong Go files Senate resolution honoring Joshua Pacio after successful ONE strawweight title defense

    Joshua Pacio’s impressive reign atop the ONE Championship strawweight division continues to earn recognition both inside and outside the cage.

     

    Fresh off a dominant title defense at ONE Friday Fights 121: Inner Circle 21, the reigning ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion received praise from Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who filed Senate Resolution No. 528 commending the Filipino mixed martial artist for another successful defense of his world title.

     

    Pacio retained his championship in emphatic fashion after submitting previously once-beaten Russian contender Mansur Malachiev via first-round rear-naked choke at the historic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on Thursday, July 10.

     

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    Facing one of the division’s most dangerous challengers, the Team Lakay standout showcased the evolution of his all-around game by neutralizing Malachiev’s vaunted wrestling before securing the fight-ending submission. The victory further solidified Pacio’s place among the greatest Filipino mixed martial artists and reinforced his grip on the ONE Championship strawweight crown.

     

    The performance also caught the attention of Go, who hailed Pacio’s achievement as another shining example of Filipino excellence on the international stage.

    “Joshua Pacio’s victory is yet another proof that Filipino athletes can compete and prevail at the highest level of international competition. His dedication, discipline, and love for the country truly inspire our countrymen,” Go said.

     

    “It was not an easy fight against an undefeated opponent. But Joshua showed his skill, courage, and determination to bring home victory for our country once again. He deserves to be recognized for his unique achievement,” he added.

     

    As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, Go reiterated his commitment to supporting Filipino athletes through initiatives aimed at strengthening sports development and creating more opportunities for local talents to succeed on the global stage.

     

    “We will continue to support our athletes through programs that will strengthen sports development in the country. We believe that if we care for and support our athletes, we will achieve more success in various international competitions,” Go said.

     

    Go also pointed to the country’s recent success in major international competitions as evidence of the continued growth of Philippine sports, highlighting Hidilyn Diaz’s historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics and Carlos Yulo’s two-gold performance at the Paris Olympics as milestones that have inspired a new generation of Filipino athletes.

     

    Pacio’s latest triumph adds another chapter to the Philippines’ growing list of international sporting achievements. With another successful title defense under his belt, the 30-year-old continues to establish himself as one of the country’s premier combat sports athletes while keeping the ONE Championship strawweight title firmly in Filipino hands.

     

    “Congratulations, Joshua Pacio. The Filipino people are proud of you. Thank you very much for your dedication and for the honor you brought home for our country once again. Long live you and long live the Filipino athlete!” Go concluded.

     

    This version adopts a cleaner sports-writing style by leading with Pacio’s achievement, reducing repetitive praise, improving transitions, and positioning the Senate resolution as the news development rather than the primary focus.

     

     

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  • Taka Minowa embraces tough Asian Games draw as Alas Pilipinas faces China, Kazakhstan

    Taka Minowa embraces tough Asian Games draw as Alas Pilipinas faces China, Kazakhstan

    The Philippine women’s national volleyball team faces one of its toughest assignments in recent memory after being drawn into a daunting Group B for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.


    Alas Pilipinas will open its campaign against two of Asia’s traditional powerhouses—defending champion China, a nine-time Asian Games gold medalist, and Kazakhstan, the runner-up in the 2024 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Nations Cup. With only the top teams advancing, the Filipinas will need to produce their best volleyball against elite opposition in what many consider the tournament’s “Group of Death.”


    Despite the difficult draw, newly appointed Alas Pilipinas head coach Taka Minowa believes the challenge presents an invaluable opportunity for the national program as it continues its long-term rebuilding process.

     

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    Rather than focusing solely on immediate results, the Japanese tactician sees the Asian Games as an important measuring stick for where the Philippines currently stands against the continent’s best teams.

     

    “This will be a big challenge for us because we will be facing some of the tallest teams in Asia,” Minowa said during a media interaction.


    “But if we think about the 2029 World Championship, this tournament is a great opportunity to see where we are, what we already do well, and what we need to improve over the next two years.”


    The Philippines is hoping to build a competitive program capable of consistently challenging Asia’s top volleyball nations, and Minowa believes competing against world-class opponents is a necessary part of that process.


    China remains one of the continent’s premier volleyball powers, boasting an impressive international pedigree that includes multiple Asian Games titles, Olympic medals, and World Championship success. Kazakhstan, meanwhile, has also emerged as one of Asia’s more consistent contenders after finishing runner-up in the 2024 AVC Nations Cup.


    For Minowa, however, the focus is less on the reputation of the opposition and more on how his players respond to the challenge.


    The Japanese coach officially took over the Alas Pilipinas women’s program earlier this year and has wasted little time immersing himself in Philippine volleyball. He is joined in the national team setup by his wife, former Alas Pilipinas standout Jaja Santiago, whose extensive experience representing the country has proven invaluable during the transition.

    Santiago, who was the cornerstone of the Philippine squad during its last Asian Games appearance in 2018, has been helping Minowa familiarize himself with the players, the team’s culture, and the expectations surrounding the national program.


    Among the athletes who competed in Jakarta eight years ago, only team captain Jia De Guzman and Dawn Catindig remain in the current national team pool. The rest of the roster has undergone a significant transformation, with a new generation of talent now taking center stage.


    Leading that youthful core are reigning collegiate stars Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon, who are expected to play key roles as Alas Pilipinas continues its transition toward a younger lineup capable of competing internationally for years to come.


    Minowa admitted that preparing the team has not been without challenges.


    The national squad only began formal training on July 6, leaving the coaching staff with less than three weeks to prepare before the Southeast Asian Volleyball Cup (SEA V.League), which serves as an important tune-up ahead of the Asian Games.


    Adding to the challenge is the condition of the players upon reporting to camp, with several athletes returning from injuries while others arrived at varying levels of fitness following their club commitments.


    “We only started training on July 6, and we will compete in the SEA V.Cup at the end of this month. That gives us only about 20 days to prepare,” Minowa said.


    “The players also came into training in different physical conditions. Some are returning from injuries, so our priority has been managing their health while gradually building our level as a team.”


    Despite the limited preparation time, Minowa has been encouraged by the attitude shown by his players during training.


    “Despite the short preparation, we are making good progress. The players are working hard, enjoying the process, and playing the sport they love,” he added.


    While expectations remain tempered given the caliber of competition awaiting the Philippines in Aichi-Nagoya, Minowa believes the experience of facing Asia’s elite will be instrumental in accelerating the development of the national team.


    For the Japanese mentor, success at the 2026 Asian Games will not be measured solely by wins and losses, but by the lessons learned against some of the continent’s strongest volleyball programs as Alas Pilipinas continues its journey toward becoming a consistent force in Asian volleyball.

     

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  • SEA Games gold medalist Dines Dumaan hospitalized after motorcycle crash, Pencak Silat star needs financial aid

    SEA Games gold medalist Dines Dumaan hospitalized after motorcycle crash, Pencak Silat star needs financial aid

    One of the Philippines’ most accomplished pencak silat athletes is now facing the toughest battle of his life—not on the competition mat, but in his recovery.


    Dines Dumaan, a decorated member of the Philippine national pencak silat team and one of the country’s most successful practitioners of the sport, is seeking financial assistance after suffering serious injuries in a motorcycle accident that required emergency brain surgery.


    The Philsilat Sports Association confirmed the incident in an official statement, revealing that the 31-year-old was rushed to Capiz Doctors’ Hospital, where he underwent a critical operation on Thursday, July 23. While the surgery was successfully performed, Dumaan’s family continues to face mounting medical expenses as he begins his recovery.

     

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    “Dines needs financial assistance. He was brought to Capiz Doctors’ Hospital yesterday morning. At this time, only Dines knows exactly what happened, as the family was informed only after he had already been brought to the hospital yesterday morning,” the association said.


    The governing body also appealed to the sporting community and the public for support as one of the country’s decorated athletes continues to receive medical care.


    Dumaan has long been regarded as one of the Philippines’ finest pencak silat competitors, representing the nation in multiple editions of the Southeast Asian Games and the Asian Games while consistently delivering podium finishes on the international stage.

    His biggest breakthrough came at the 2017 Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, where he captured the gold medal in the men’s tanding Class B (50-55 kilograms) division, giving the Philippines one of its memorable victories in the regional meet.


    He followed that performance by winning a silver medal at the 2018 Asian Games, further cementing his status among Asia’s elite in the discipline. Dumaan also added a bronze medal at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, showcasing remarkable consistency as one of the country’s top martial artists.


    Over the years, Dumaan has become a respected figure within the local pencak silat community, inspiring younger athletes through his achievements and dedication to representing the Philippines on the international stage.


    Following news of the accident, fellow Filipino pencak silat athlete Ian Christopher Calo took to social media to rally support for Dumaan and his family, emphasizing the urgent financial burden brought about by the emergency surgery.


    According to Calo, Dumaan’s family initially needed around ₱100,000 as a down payment for the life-saving operation, with additional expenses expected as the national athlete continues his treatment and rehabilitation.


    “Dines is a Filipino athlete who wholeheartedly brought honor to our country through the medals he won. Now, he is the one who needs our support in the most important battle of his life. Any amount or help you can give will be a great help to him and his family,” Calo wrote on Facebook.


    The appeal has since drawn support from fellow athletes, coaches, and members of the Philippine martial arts community, many of whom have expressed hope for Dumaan’s full recovery while encouraging the public to extend assistance to one of the country’s decorated national team veterans.


    After spending years fighting for medals and bringing pride to the Philippines in international competitions, Dumaan now finds himself in a different kind of fight—one for recovery. As the national athlete begins what is expected to be a long rehabilitation process, the Philippine sporting community is once again being called upon to stand beside one of its own.

     

     

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  • Japan B.League Manila Games: Okamoto highlights PBA respect, Filipino basketball culture

    Japan B.League Manila Games: Okamoto highlights PBA respect, Filipino basketball culture

    The Japan B.League is set to make history with the B.League Manila Games 2026, a two-game preseason exhibition that will mark the first time the Japanese professional basketball league stages official games outside Japan. Scheduled for September 9 and 10 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, the landmark event is expected to further strengthen the growing basketball ties between Japan and the Philippines.


    Headlining the showcase are Levanga Hokkaido and the Gunma Crane Thunders, with Filipino standouts Dwight Ramos and AJ Edu set to represent their respective B.League clubs. Ramos, one of the league’s most recognizable international stars, will suit up for Levanga Hokkaido, while Edu will take the floor for Gunma, giving Filipino fans a rare opportunity to watch two members of the Gilas Pilipinas pool compete on home soil in Japanese club colors.


    More than just an exhibition series, the B.League Manila Games symbolize the league’s continued international expansion and its commitment to engaging one of the world’s most passionate basketball fanbases. Since its establishment in 2016, the B.League has experienced rapid growth, attracting top talent from across Asia and beyond while steadily increasing its global footprint.

     

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    Speaking during a media interaction, B.League Executive Officer Nao Okamoto emphasized the importance of the support extended by both the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) in making the historic event possible.

     

    “We have full respect towards the PBA as the longest-standing basketball league in Asia,” Okamoto said. “We really respect the PBA—its history, its mindset, and the country’s love for basketball. We are still a young league, only 10 years old, and we have so many things to learn from them.”


    Okamoto noted that the Philippines’ deeply rooted basketball culture made collaboration with the country’s basketball stakeholders essential.

    “They have built this huge basketball culture here in the Philippines. We really needed the support of the PBA and the SBP. We have always been talking to both organizations because this is the biggest event we have ever organized in Manila,” he explained.

     

    Beyond the games themselves, the B.League has been laying the groundwork for a stronger presence in the country through various community and cultural initiatives, including fan engagement activities, pop-up events, and Japanese food festivals.


    “Even before these games, we held different events like pop-up activities and food festivals because we believe it’s important not only to bring basketball but also to contribute to the local community,” Okamoto added. “Since we are still a foreign league, building relationships with fans and giving back are very important to us.”


    The Manila Games will also serve as a showcase of what has become one of the B.League’s defining characteristics—its game-day entertainment experience. While the quality of basketball remains the centerpiece, the league has earned a reputation for blending professional sports with high-energy production, interactive fan experiences, and nonstop entertainment throughout each game.


    “Our uniqueness is the entertainment during the games,” Okamoto said. “During halftime, quarter breaks, and throughout the event, we try to provide nonstop entertainment. We want to bring that same atmosphere from Japan to Manila.”


    “We want people to experience what the B.League truly is—not only the quality of the players and the basketball, but also the quality of the entertainment. That is another aspect of our league that we are excited to introduce to Filipino fans.”


    The event also carries broader cultural significance as it coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan. Organizers see the Manila Games as more than a basketball spectacle, viewing it as a celebration of the enduring friendship between the two nations through their shared passion for the sport.


    With two of Japan’s premier clubs, two Filipino stars returning home, and a full B.League game-day experience on display, the B.League Manila Games 2026 promise to deliver a unique basketball event for local fans. As the league takes its first official games beyond Japanese borders, Manila becomes the starting point of what could be a new chapter in the B.League’s international growth and its deepening connection with Philippine basketball.

     

     

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  • Joaquin Torres, Praj Dela Cruz set Philippine climbing records at World Youth Championship

    Joaquin Torres, Praj Dela Cruz set Philippine climbing records at World Youth Championship

    Filipino sport climbers Joaquin Torres and Praj Dela Cruz delivered record-breaking performances on the international stage after rewriting Philippine speed climbing marks at the 2026 World Climbing Youth Championship in Arco, Italy, on Tuesday, July 21.

     

    The two young athletes showcased the continued rise of Philippine climbing by setting new national records against some of the best youth climbers in the world, highlighting the country’s growing presence in the sport.

     

    Torres made history in the men’s Under-19 speed climbing qualification round, clocking an impressive time of 5.97 seconds to break the previous Philippine record of 6.08 seconds set by John Forones during the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, in April.

     

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    The performance marked a significant milestone for the young climber, who became the first Filipino to dip below the six-second mark in the event. However, despite his record-setting run, Torres narrowly missed advancing further in the competition, finishing 23rd among 56 climbers in the qualification stage.

     

    Dela Cruz also delivered a memorable performance, breaking her own national record not once but twice in the women’s speed climbing event.

     

    The 15-year-old first surpassed her previous benchmark of 9.390 seconds, which she established during the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, before lowering the mark further with times of 8.982 seconds and 9.169 seconds at the world championship.

    Her achievement marked another breakthrough for one of the Philippines’ most promising young climbing talents, who continues to push the limits of the sport while gaining valuable international experience.

     

    Following her historic performance, Dela Cruz expressed her gratitude to everyone who supported her journey and described the achievement as a meaningful milestone in her development as an athlete.

     

    “It took me seven months to officially beat my previous personal best, and finally joining the Sub-9 club is something I have worked toward for a long time. I’m grateful to see that hard work pay off. At the same time, I know there’s still so much room to grow. This isn’t the destination – it’s another step in the journey. We will keep learning, keep training, and keep representing our country with pride,” Dela Cruz wrote in an Instagram post.

     

     

    Despite setting a new national record, Dela Cruz faced a highly competitive field and finished 24th out of 39 climbers in the Under-17 women’s speed climbing event.

     

    She also competed in the Under-17 women’s lead climbing category, where she placed 52nd among 103 participants, gaining additional experience against top young climbers from around the world.

     

    The performances of Torres and Dela Cruz continue the upward trajectory of Philippine sport climbing, a discipline that has gained increased attention in the country following major international achievements in recent years.

     

    While their campaigns in Arco ended without podium finishes, the national records serve as a strong indication of the potential of the Philippines’ next generation of climbers.

     

    The 2026 World Climbing Youth Championship will continue until Saturday, July 25, with young athletes from across the globe competing in speed, lead, and bouldering events.

     

     

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