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  • PHISGOC welcomes NBI probe, insists 2019 SEA Games funds were fully liquidated

    PHISGOC welcomes NBI probe, insists 2019 SEA Games funds were fully liquidated

    The Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) has welcomed the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) probe into alleged irregularities related to the Philippines’ hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019, maintaining that all government funds allocated for the event have been fully liquidated.


    Speaking to the media on Wednesday, July 22, PHISGOC President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon Suzara said the organization is prepared to cooperate with any investigation while emphasizing that the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has already certified the complete liquidation of the funds it released for the country’s hosting of the biennial sporting event.


    “The 30th edition of the Southeast Asian Games were staged from November 30 to December 11, 2019, and although post-Games obligations and responsibilities were delayed by the pandemic, the PHISGOC, according to the PSC Chief Accountant Erik Mayores, was fully liquidated in March 2022,” Suzara said.

     

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    According to a certification issued by the PSC’s Accounting Division dated July 20, 2026, PHISGOC submitted all liquidation reports covering the financial assistance it received from the PSC for the 2019 SEA Games.


    The certification states:


    “This is to certify that based on the records of the Accounting Division of the PSC, the PHISGOC Foundation has submitted all (100%) of the liquidation reports covering the financial assistance granted by the PSC in connection with the hosting of the 30th SEA Games amounting to P2.082 billion.”

    Suzara also noted that PHISGOC’s financial records were independently audited and verified by PricewaterhouseCoopers/Isla Lipana & Co., adding that the organization remains open to answering any questions raised by investigators through the proper legal process.


    Beyond the financial aspect, Suzara pointed to the successful staging of the 2019 SEA Games as a reflection of the collaborative effort among various government agencies and stakeholders.


    “It was a multi-agency, multi-department organization whose main purpose was for a successful hosting by the Philippines. We achieved this, and the entire country rejoiced,” he said.

     

    The Philippines enjoyed its most successful SEA Games campaign during the 2019 edition, finishing atop the overall medal standings with 149 gold, 117 silver, and 121 bronze medals for a total of 387 medals—the country’s best-ever performance in the regional meet.


    Suzara also highlighted the long-term impact of the infrastructure developed for the Games, particularly the sports facilities at New Clark City, which continue to serve as a training and competition venue for Filipino athletes.


    “The NCC sports facilities was a milestone project built by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) in a record 18 months and was built for the Games,” Suzara concluded.


    PHISGOC reiterated that it is fully prepared to address any specific allegations through the appropriate legal and investigative channels while standing by the transparency and accountability of its financial records.

     

     

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  • Filipino star Charly Suarez knocks out Manuel Avila in first round to claim WBO Super Featherweight title

    Filipino star Charly Suarez knocks out Manuel Avila in first round to claim WBO Super Featherweight title

    Filipino boxing standout Charly Suarez continues to build his legacy as one of the country’s finest fighters, adding another championship belt to his growing collection.

     

    The reigning International Boxing Organization (IBO) and International Boxing Federation (IBF) Inter-Continental Super Featherweight champion claimed the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) International Super Featherweight title after stopping Manuel Avila via first-round technical knockout on July 18 at the National Orange Show Event Center in San Bernardino, California.

     

    Suarez wasted no time asserting his dominance, applying relentless pressure from the opening bell. The Filipino fighter twice trapped Avila against the ropes before delivering the decisive sequence in the final 29 seconds of the round—a clean straight right followed by a sharp left hook that sent his opponent to the canvas.

     

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    The emphatic victory prompted Suarez’s promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz, to call on the WBO to enforce its previous mandate and order a rematch with WBO and IBF junior lightweight champion Emanuel Navarrete.

     

    “By destroying Manuel Avila, Charly Suarez proved once again he is the top contender to Emanuel Navarrete, and we ask the WBO to enforce their order and direct his team to start negotiating for a rematch. Thank you to Garry Jonas and ProBoxTV for giving Charly this high-profile opportunity to show his talents and make a strong case for another title shot,” Lewkowicz said.

     

    Suarez’s manager and trainer, Delfin Boholst, echoed the call for another opportunity at a world title.

     

    “Charly’s dream is to be world champion, and we feel he deserves another shot at the title. Avila was a capable opponent, and Charly had no problem with him. We are ready for another shot at the world title,” Boholst said.

     

     

    The push for a rematch comes after Suarez’s controversial first encounter with Navarrete earlier this year. The Filipino challenger appeared to be on his way to a potential upset before the bout was stopped at the beginning of the eighth round at Pechanga Arena in San Diego after ringside doctors ruled Navarrete unable to continue because of a severe cut above his left eyebrow.

     

    With the fight ending prematurely, the judges awarded Navarrete the victory on the scorecards, 78-75, 77-76, and 77-76, allowing the Mexican champion to retain his title.

     

    However, the result sparked debate over the cause of Navarrete’s cut, with questions raised on whether it was caused by a clean punch from Suarez or an accidental clash of heads. Had the injury been ruled the result of a punch, Suarez would have been declared the winner by technical knockout.

     

    Unhappy with the outcome, Suarez’s team filed an appeal with the California State Athletic Commission, seeking a review of the controversial ending.

     

    With his dominant win over Avila, Suarez has strengthened his case for another shot at Navarrete and moved one step closer toward his ultimate goal of becoming a world champion.

     

     

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  • Mark Torcaso sets sights on Philippines reaching the knockouts of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup

    Mark Torcaso sets sights on Philippines reaching the knockouts of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup

    History is no longer a once-in-a-generation achievement for the Philippine women’s national football team—it is becoming the expectation.

     

    The Filipinas continued their ascent on the international stage with a composed 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, sealing their place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.


    The qualification marks another milestone for Philippine football and further cements the country’s emergence as one of Asia’s fastest-rising forces in women’s football. After making their historic World Cup debut in 2023, the Filipinas have proven that their breakthrough was no fluke, but the product of sustained investment in player development, consistent performances, and a long-term vision.

     

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    For head coach Mark Torcaso, however, simply qualifying is no longer enough.


    “Our objective is very clear: we are going to the World Cup to compete and not just participate. We will do what we can to get out of the group. That means our preparation has to be deliberate and aligned with that ambition,” Torcaso said during a media interaction.


    The Filipinas’ strong showing in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia also propelled them to No. 39 in the latest FIFA Women’s World Rankings, just one spot shy of their all-time best ranking of No. 38.

    “We are pretty proud of the FIFA ranking. Over the last couple of months, we have been working towards getting back in the top 40. That shows the commitment that everyone has put into this national team, not only in recent times, but over the last four to ten years. So we are really excited by constantly moving up the rankings, and we want to keep pushing more and more. No. 39 is not where we want to stop. We want to keep going,” he added.


    As preparations for Brazil intensify, Torcaso recently led the squad through an intensive training camp in San Diego, where the full 30-player pool trained together and played friendly matches against NWSL side San Diego Wave and Albion San Diego. The Australian tactician also returned to Manila to watch the opening weekend of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Women’s League, allowing him to reconnect with home-based players while continuing to evaluate potential additions to the national team.


    “From June onwards, we will maximize every FIFA window, expose the team to different styles across continents, and continuously raise our standards in both training and competition. Proper preparation is not just about playing more games; it’s about having the players in the best possible condition, physically and mentally, and ensuring they are performing consistently at their clubs. We are building a program where every detail matters,” Torcaso said.


    The road to Brazil will be demanding.


    Following the Asian Cup, the Filipinas are scheduled for a training and competition tour in South America this October before taking on additional opponents from Asia and Oceania during upcoming FIFA international windows.

     

    Their preparations will continue in Spain in February 2027 with an expected appearance at the Pinatar Cup before shifting focus to the Olympic qualifying cycle in April 2027. The final phase of the buildup will include a four-to-six-week training camp in Brazil ahead of the World Cup.


    Armed with a stronger foundation, greater international experience, and a clearly defined development pathway, the Filipinas are no longer satisfied with making history. Their goal now is to establish themselves among the world’s elite—and make a deep run when they return to football’s biggest stage in 2027.


    This version adopts a cleaner sports feature style, eliminates repetition, improves transitions, and ends with a stronger, publication-worthy closing that reinforces the team’s ambitions.

     

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  • Jordan Clarkson embraces championship role with New York as Knicks resign veteran guard for minimum 

    Jordan Clarkson embraces championship role with New York as Knicks resign veteran guard for minimum 

    Jordan Clarkson’s career has entered a new chapter—one defined less by scoring titles and more by championship basketball.

     

    Just weeks after helping the New York Knicks capture the 2026 NBA championship, the Filipino-American guard wasted little time committing to another run, re-signing with the franchise on a one-year, $3.9 million veteran’s minimum contract.

     

    For Clarkson, the move says plenty about where he is in his career.

     

    Once known as one of the league’s premier microwave scorers and the NBA Sixth Man of the Year with the Utah Jazz, the 34-year-old has fully embraced becoming a veteran presence on a title contender, sacrificing individual numbers for a chance to keep winning.

     

    The shift was evident throughout the Knicks’ championship campaign.

     

    Although his role was smaller than in previous seasons, Clarkson consistently provided valuable minutes off the bench with his experience, shot-making, and composure. One of his biggest moments came in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, where he scored 10 points to help New York secure a pivotal victory that swung momentum in the series.

     

    His timely production throughout the playoffs gave the Knicks another reliable option in the backcourt, complementing a roster built around its younger stars.

     

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    Clarkson finished the 2025-26 regular season averaging 8.6 points in 17 minutes per game, both career lows since entering the NBA. Rather than chasing a larger contract or a bigger offensive role elsewhere in free agency, he chose continuity with the reigning champions.

     

    The decision reflects a player who now values fit and winning over statistics.

     

    A little more than a month after celebrating the first NBA championship of his career, Clarkson ensured he would remain in New York as the Knicks begin preparations for their title defense.

     

    The veteran guard also continues to be one of the Philippines’ biggest basketball ambassadors, with fans closely following every step of his NBA journey while hoping to see him wear the Gilas Pilipinas jersey again in future international competitions.

     

    Now entering another season with championship expectations, Clarkson’s mission has changed. Instead of carrying the scoring load, he will once again be tasked with providing leadership, stability, and timely contributions for a Knicks team looking to build a dynasty.

     

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  • Manny Pacquiao expands boxing legacy with global gym expansion plans

    Manny Pacquiao expands boxing legacy with global gym expansion plans

    Manny Pacquiao’s impact on boxing has long extended beyond his accomplishments inside the ring.

     

    While the Philippine boxing icon and former eight-division world champion continues to remain active in his fighting career at the age of 47, the legendary Filipino has also been focused on expanding his influence through business ventures aimed at developing the next generation of fighters and bringing boxing closer to fans around the world.

     

    Pacquiao recently opened the flagship Pacquiao Prime Boxing Gym in Hollywood, California, marking a new chapter in his post-fighting career and his efforts to strengthen his presence in the global boxing industry.

     

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    The facility, which is positioned as a premium boxing and training destination, is led by an experienced coaching team featuring head trainer Marvin Somodio and former World Boxing Council (WBC) light flyweight champion Rodel Mayol. Somodio, who made history as the first Filipino mentor inducted into the U.S. National Boxing Hall of Fame, brings extensive experience in developing fighters, while Mayol adds his championship pedigree and technical knowledge to the program.

     

    The opening of the Hollywood facility is only the beginning of Pacquiao’s ambitious plans, according to MP Promotions chief executive officer (CEO) Jas Mathur. The promotion executive revealed that the organization is preparing to expand the Pacquiao Prime Boxing Gym brand into multiple locations across different countries.

     

    “This is the first of many facilities. We are planning on opening a series of them and it won’t be limited just to the United States. This first one is a flagship and of course it’s in a very prime location and it happens to be a takeover of another location before, which makes it even more interesting,” Mathur said during a press conference.

     

    The expansion project reflects Pacquiao’s goal of creating a worldwide boxing network that caters not only to professional athletes but also to aspiring fighters, fitness enthusiasts, and members of the Filipino community abroad.

     

    Mathur explained that Los Angeles was chosen as the location for the flagship facility because of the city’s deep connection to boxing, its large Filipino population, and Pacquiao’s longstanding relationship with the area.

    “First of all, we want to focus on the Filipino community in LA. I mean you know the greater Los Angeles area, out of anywhere in the U.S., it’s pretty much the greatest. Look at the population of California, of Los Angeles. Manny has a huge fanbase in LA, Manny trains in LA for his fights in the US. I live in LA. A lot of the fighters come to LA, so why not LA? Typically it’s either LA or Vegas. But LA needed this, we need this. We feel the location, having three or four million cars passing everyday it’s a no brainer,” he added.

     

    Beyond its strategic location, the gym also serves as a reflection of Pacquiao’s global appeal. Throughout his career, the Filipino superstar became one of boxing’s most recognizable figures, drawing fans from different countries and inspiring millions through his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the sport’s greatest champions.

     

    With that worldwide recognition, MP Promotions believes the Pacquiao Prime Boxing Gym brand has the potential to expand far beyond North America.

     

    The organization is reportedly exploring future locations in Vancouver and Toronto in Canada, additional cities across the United States, as well as potential markets in Europe, India, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

     

    For Mathur, Pacquiao’s international popularity provides a strong foundation for the growth of the business venture.

     

    “Boxing is international right? Manny is a household brand. There’s not one country that Manny is not known in, one city yet alone,” Mathur concluded.

     

    The gym expansion comes as Pacquiao continues to remain involved in professional boxing. The Filipino legend’s team has been working on possible future fights following the postponement of the highly anticipated “Battle of the Century” rematch against Floyd Mayweather.

     

    Although details regarding the next opponent remain uncertain, Pacquiao’s camp has continued exploring opportunities that could bring the former champion back into the spotlight.

     

    Whether inside the ring or through his growing boxing empire, Pacquiao continues to build his legacy. His latest venture represents an effort to leave a lasting impact on the sport—not only as a champion who inspired generations of fighters, but also as an ambassador working to make boxing more accessible across the globe.

     

     

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  • Mark Torcaso maps out Filipinas’ road to FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 with four-continent campaign

    History is no longer a once-in-a-generation achievement for the Philippine women’s national football team—it is quickly becoming the new standard.

     

    The Filipinas continued their remarkable rise on the international stage after delivering a composed and commanding performance against Uzbekistan, securing a 2-0 victory in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup play-in and booking their place in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.

     

    The qualification marks another historic milestone for Philippine football, reinforcing the country’s emergence as one of the fastest-growing forces in Asian women’s football. After making their maiden World Cup appearance in 2023, the Filipinas have now shown that their breakthrough was not a one-off accomplishment but the result of a program built around consistency, player development, and long-term vision.

     

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    Head coach Mark Torcaso is already looking ahead to the next global challenge, with preparations for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup well underway. The Australian mentor has outlined a four-continent preparation campaign designed to strengthen the squad, provide opportunities for players across different leagues, and help the Filipinas improve on their historic debut campaign.

     

    Torcaso recently brought the team to San Diego for an intensive training camp, where the Filipinas worked with the full 30-player pool and faced local clubs San Diego Wave and Albion San Diego as part of their preparations. The coach also made a trip to Manila to watch the opening weekend of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Women’s League, giving him an opportunity to reconnect with home-based players and continue evaluating potential national team options.

     

    With competition for places expected to intensify ahead of the World Cup, Torcaso stressed the importance of creating opportunities for every eligible player, regardless of where they currently compete.

     

    “Every camp and every opportunity we have got is strategically organized in a way so we are going to be ready for this World Cup. I want to make sure that we give everyone an opportunity to be part of this World Cup, and I don’t want to miss out on anyone. Every player, regardless if you’re in the Philippines or playing in Myanmar or playing in Europe somewhere, I want to give everyone a chance,” Torcaso said in a media interaction.

     

    The Filipinas’ next major test will come at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, scheduled for September. However, with the tournament taking place outside the FIFA international window, Torcaso acknowledged that securing the availability of overseas-based players could prove challenging.

    Despite that obstacle, the national team sees the Asian Games as an important opportunity to measure progress and assess potential World Cup contributors against elite competition.

     

    “The main objective in this Asian Games is obviously to go as far as we can, but it’s also for us as coaches and the country to test some players at a tough level to see if they will be ready for the World Cup,” he continued.

     

    Torcaso also expressed his appreciation for the support provided by the Philippine Football Federation, particularly in helping organize the team’s preferred training camps, opponents, and preparation environments ahead of the biggest challenges awaiting the Filipinas.

     

    “The Federation-through president Gutierrez and general secretary Gelix Mercader- have been very accommodating and supportive in our preparations,” Torcaso stated.

     

    Beyond training and competition, Torcaso emphasized the importance of fan support as the Filipinas continue their journey toward the World Cup. He pointed to the overwhelming backing the team received during their gold medal-winning campaign at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Chonburi, Thailand, as an example of how supporters can inspire the squad.

     

    “Any country that we go to, I just really express that if we can have as much support and fans to come out and be part of our journey – everyone here, every time we have a camp here in the Philippines, come and watch the girls. Trust me, they play so much better when they feel that love and support from everyone,” he concluded.

     

    The road to Brazil will be demanding, with the Filipinas set for a packed schedule following the Asian Cup campaign. The team is scheduled to travel to South America in October before facing additional Asia-Oceania opposition as part of its preparations.

     

    The buildup will continue in Spain in February 2027, where the Filipinas are expected to compete in the Pinatar Cup, followed by the 2028 Olympic Qualifying Tournament in April 2027.

    The final phase of preparations will see the team hold a four-to-six-week training camp in Brazil before the start of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

     

    With a stronger foundation, increased international experience, and a clear development pathway, the Filipinas are determined to prove that their rise among the world’s best is only the beginning.

     

     

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  • Alex Eala targets Asian Games gold after historic Wimbledon run

    Alex Eala targets Asian Games gold after historic Wimbledon run

    Alex Eala’s remarkable rise in international tennis has not only established her as one of Southeast Asia’s most promising young athletes but has also sparked a renewed wave of excitement for the sport in the Philippines.

     

    Following another memorable campaign at Wimbledon, Eala continues to break new ground and elevate the profile of Philippine tennis on the global stage. Her impressive performances against some of the world’s top players, along with a growing collection of career milestones, have earned admiration from fans and fellow athletes while inspiring a new generation of Filipino players to dream bigger.

     

    In a country where basketball and boxing have long dominated the sporting conversation, Eala’s success has provided tennis with a much-needed spotlight. Her achievements have encouraged more young Filipinos to pick up a racket, pursue competitive tennis, and believe that the Philippines can produce athletes capable of competing at the highest levels of the sport.

     

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    Beyond her results on the court, Eala has become a symbol of determination and possibility for aspiring Filipino athletes. Her journey through the international tennis circuit has shown the importance of long-term development, dedication, and exposure to world-class competition. As she continues to build her career, expectations surrounding her future achievements continue to grow.

     

    Now, Eala is looking to carry that momentum into another major international stage as she sets her sights on the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. The young Filipino star has expressed her desire to represent the country in the continental showcase and hopes to add another significant chapter to her growing legacy.

     

    “The Asian Games is in my plans. It’s always an honor. I think it’s different when you play in the Asian Games. The SEA Games last year was an incredible experience for me. I had so much fun, so I’m super motivated and I’m going to give my very best,” Eala said during an event in Makati, Manila.

     

    The 21-year-old has already experienced the pressure and excitement of multi-sport competition, having represented the Philippines at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. While she was able to secure two bronze medals during that edition, an Asian Games gold medal remains one of the major goals she hopes to achieve.

     

    Eala’s hunger for improvement was evident when she was asked about her ambitions for the upcoming competition.

    “You think I’m going for the first round?,” Eala added when asked about the event.

     

    Her response reflected the confidence and competitive mindset that have become trademarks of her career. Despite her young age, Eala has consistently embraced challenges and set high standards for herself as she competes against elite international players.

     

    However, while Eala has confirmed that the 2026 Asian Games is part of her plans, her participation will depend on several factors, including scheduling conflicts with the professional tennis calendar.

     

    The tennis competition at the Asian Games is scheduled to take place from September 27 to October 3, while the China Open, a prestigious WTA 1000 tournament, is set to run from September 30 to October 11. The overlap presents a potential challenge as Eala continues to balance her national team commitments with her professional career.

     

    The decision will likely require careful consideration as Eala continues to pursue success on the WTA Tour while also remaining committed to representing the Philippines in major international competitions.

     

    Regardless of the final outcome, Eala’s impact on Philippine tennis is already undeniable. With her continued progress, growing international experience, and determination to compete among the best, she remains one of the country’s brightest hopes for future sporting success.

     

    As the 2026 Asian Games approach, Filipino fans will be watching closely, hoping to see Eala once again wear the national colors and chase another historic achievement for the Philippines.

     

     

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  • Boracay to host 2026 Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships

    Boracay to host 2026 Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships

    Boracay, one of the Philippines’ most popular island destinations, is set to welcome some of Southeast Asia’s finest open water swimmers as it hosts the 2026 Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships from August 21 to 23 at Boracay Newcoast.

     

    The three-day international competition is expected to highlight the country’s growing presence in aquatic sports while combining elite-level competition with the promotion of sportsmanship, cultural exchange, and sports tourism. Organized with the support of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the event is part of a broader effort to position the Philippines as a premier destination for major sporting events in the region.

     

    The picturesque waters of Boracay will serve as the backdrop for athletes competing in the men’s and women’s 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, and 10-kilometer open water races. The championships are expected to attract around 120 to 150 swimmers from eight countries, with approximately 35 Filipino athletes representing the host nation.

     

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    Philippine Aquatics secretary-general Eric Buhain, a former national swimming standout and one of the country’s most respected figures in the sport, expressed his excitement over the opportunity to bring a major open water competition to the Philippines.

     

    Buhain emphasized that the event is not only about competition but also about elevating the profile of open water swimming in the country while showcasing the Philippines to the international sporting community.

     

    “We are very proud to host this event because water swimming is an Olympic event. We are also here to promote our country in the same breath that Balo and Pattaya hosted the event. Pagandahan. Very curious ang Philippine Aquatics to uplift open water swimming in our country” Buhain said in a media interaction.

     

    The hosting of the championships comes as Philippine Aquatics continues its efforts to expand the reach of swimming disciplines beyond traditional pool competitions. With open water swimming recognized as an Olympic event, organizers believe the tournament can inspire more Filipino athletes to participate in the sport and create a stronger development pathway for future international competitors.

    PSC commissioner Fritz Gaston also highlighted the importance of bringing international sporting events to the Philippines, particularly in strengthening the country’s reputation as a sports tourism destination.

     

    Gaston noted that events such as the Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships provide a unique opportunity to combine athletic competition with the country’s natural attractions, allowing visitors to experience both world-class sports and Filipino hospitality.

     

    “I’m also looking forward to this event because of the sports tourism aspect as well as the competition. Philippine Aquatics is on the right track promoting this,” Gaston added.

     

    Philippine Aquatics president Michael Vargas echoed the same sentiment, saying the championships will serve as a platform to promote both the growth of open water swimming in Southeast Asia and the beauty of Boracay as a global destination.

     

    “This sporting event not only advances the growth of open water swimming in Southeast Asia but also shines a spotlight on Boracay Island as a true gem of the region while reflecting the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people.”

     

    Beyond the medals and competition results, organizers are hoping the event will leave a lasting impact on Philippine sports development. The championships are expected to bring together athletes, officials, and supporters from across the region while providing valuable exposure for Filipino swimmers competing on home waters.

     

    With Boracay’s world-renowned coastline serving as the venue, the 2026 Southeast Asia Open Water Swimming Championships aims to deliver a memorable experience for athletes and spectators while reinforcing the Philippines’ growing role as a host of major sporting events in Southeast Asia.

     

     

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  • Philippines finalizes nine-athlete team for Summer Youth Olympics 

    Philippines finalizes nine-athlete team for Summer Youth Olympics 

    The Philippines will head to the 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games with a compact but promising squad, as the country’s delegation for Dakar, Senegal is now officially complete.

     

    Nine of the nation’s brightest young athletes will carry the Philippine flag when the Youth Olympics open later this year, representing six different sports in hopes of adding to the country’s modest medal history in the prestigious international event.

     

    The final pieces of the roster fell into place after the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines endorsed artistic gymnasts Tchelzy Maayo and Hillarion Palles III, completing the Philippine Olympic Committee’s nine-athlete contingent.

     

    POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino expressed confidence that the country’s next generation of athletes is ready to compete against the world’s best.

     

    “They’re the rising stars of Philippine sports. We are hoping for a podium finish and of course, we are praying for the gold. This is a fighting team and I believe they will do their best,” Tolentino said.

     

    Leading the delegation are two of the country’s most accomplished young track stars.

     

    Asian Youth Games champions Pi Durden Wangkay, who struck gold in the men’s 200 meters, and Naomi Cesar, the women’s 800-meter silver medalist, headline the athletics squad after earning their places earlier this year.

     

    Swimming will also have strong Philippine representation through Jamesray Mishael Ajido, who qualified in the men’s 100-meter butterfly, and Riannah Chantelle Coleman, who booked her spot in the women’s 100-meter breaststroke following standout performances in the Palarong Pambansa.

     

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    Joining them are windsurfer Jade Justiniane, cyclist Mariyanya Kong, who will compete in both the women’s road race and individual time trial, and wushu taolu athlete Angel Polo, who will represent the country in the women’s Taijiquan combined event.

     

    The delegation will be headed by Philippine Taekwondo Association president Rocky Samson.

     

    Despite limited participation through the years, the Philippines has produced memorable moments in Youth Olympic history.

     

    The country’s lone individual Youth Olympic medal came in Buenos Aires in 2018, when Filipino-Norwegian kiteboarder Christian Tio captured silver in the boys’ twin tip racing event.

     

    Four years earlier in Nanjing, Luis Gabriel Moreno delivered the Philippines’ first Youth Olympic gold after teaming up with China’s Li Jiaman to win the mixed international team archery competition.

     

    This year’s edition will once again provide the country’s rising stars with an opportunity to test themselves on the global stage while gaining valuable experience ahead of future senior international competitions.

     

    The 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games will take place from October 31 to November 13 in Dakar, Senegal, featuring approximately 2,700 athletes competing across 25 sports.

     

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  • “You have made the Philippines proud”: Ferdinand Marcos Jr. honors Alex Eala after historic Wimbledon run

    “You have made the Philippines proud”: Ferdinand Marcos Jr. honors Alex Eala after historic Wimbledon run

    Alex Eala’s remarkable ascent on the international tennis stage has not only cemented her status as one of Southeast Asia’s brightest young sporting talents but has also sparked renewed excitement for tennis in the Philippines.

     

    Following another historic campaign at Wimbledon, Eala continues to break barriers and raise the profile of Philippine tennis on the global stage. Her impressive performances, growing list of milestones, and ability to compete against the world’s best players have earned widespread recognition while inspiring a new generation of Filipino athletes to pursue the sport.

     

    In a country where basketball and boxing have traditionally dominated the sporting landscape, Eala’s success has created unprecedented momentum for tennis. Her achievements have encouraged more young Filipinos to pick up a racket, while giving hope that the Philippines can develop more world-class players in the years ahead.

     

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    Among those following Eala’s journey is Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who welcomed the rising tennis star to Malacañang on Monday, July 13, to recognize her contributions and celebrate the pride she has brought to the nation.

     

    Marcos openly expressed his admiration for Eala, admitting that he considers himself a genuine supporter of the young athlete’s career.

     

    “I’m a fan, so I’m gushing okay? I’m sorry. I’m a real fan of yours. And one day, I hope I will have the opportunity to watch you, even if it’s not at a Grand Slam – at any tournament. Even just watching you practice would be enough,” Marcos said.

     

    During the ceremony, Marcos presented Eala with a presidential citation honoring her historic achievements and recognizing her impact on Philippine sports.

     

    The citation acknowledged Eala “in recognition of her historic achievements as the first Filipino woman to attain unprecedented success on the international professional tennis circuit, and demonstrating exceptional talent, perseverance, and unwavering determination.”

     

    Eala attended the special event alongside her family and team, including her mother, former national swimmer Rosemarie Maniego-Eala, her father Michael Eala, and tennis agent Carter Lin. As a gesture of appreciation, the young tennis star presented President Marcos with signed caps and tennis balls.

    Marcos also highlighted the significance of Eala’s accomplishments, emphasizing how her success has united Filipinos and showcased the country’s potential on the global sporting stage.

     

    “You know, we don’t actually have a protocol for any of this. We just made it up so we would have an excuse to take a picture with you. You have made the Philippines proud. You have reminded Filipinos what a great race Filipinos are because we produced someone like you.

     

    “We, all 110 million of us Filipinos, we are all behind you, willing you on to greater success. If there is anything that we can do to help you, just say so. You will have it,” he concluded.

     

    Eala’s latest achievements have placed her among the most successful Filipino athletes in international tennis history. At Wimbledon, she made history by becoming the first Philippine tennis player to reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam tournament.

     

    Her landmark run included a stunning victory over Poland’s Iga Swiatek, the reigning Grand Slam champion and then-World No. 3, marking one of the biggest wins ever recorded by a Filipino tennis player. Eala’s impressive campaign eventually ended in the fourth round against Italian star Jasmine Paolini, but her performance further established her as a legitimate contender on the global circuit.

     

    The breakthrough also translated into a historic rise in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings, with Eala reaching a career-high World No. 28 — the highest ranking ever achieved by a Philippine tennis player.

     

    At just 21 years old, Eala has already achieved milestones that have transformed perceptions of Philippine tennis. With her continued development, international experience, and growing support from fans and institutions, she represents a new era for the sport in the country.

     

    More than just victories and rankings, Eala’s journey has become a source of national inspiration, proving that Filipino athletes can compete and succeed on the biggest stages in world sports.

     

     

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