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Tag: Philippines

  • EJ Obiena shifts training base to Greece, begins new chapter toward LA 2028 Olympics

    EJ Obiena shifts training base to Greece, begins new chapter toward LA 2028 Olympics

    Filipino pole vault star Ernest John “EJ” Obiena continues to solidify his place among the world’s elite in athletics, further strengthening a legacy that has already made him one of the greatest athletes the Philippines has produced.

     

    At just 30 years old, Obiena owns an extensive international résumé highlighted by multiple podium finishes on the global stage, consistent Diamond League performances, and a career-high ranking as World No. 2 in men’s pole vault. His achievements have not only elevated Philippine athletics but have also established him as one of Asia’s premier competitors in the discipline.

     

    Now, Obiena is entering a pivotal new phase in his career as he relocates his training base to Athens, Greece—a strategic move aimed at refining his preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The decision also places him in closer proximity to top-level competition, including current World No. 2 Emmanuel Karalis, with whom he will share training environments under the guidance of coach Marcin Szczepański.

     

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    For Obiena, the shift represents both a competitive and developmental opportunity as he seeks to push his limits further in pursuit of Olympic glory.

     

    “Training with Emmanuel and his group is definitely a big thing. We have a bunch of different vaulters there, different strengths and weaknesses. I’m not really great at the gym, so I’m not the strongest athlete out there. Having someone that’s actually pretty good and strong pulls me to that direction. Training with someone has always been helpful. That’s how I got to World No. 2,” Obiena said in a media interaction.

     

    The move to Greece followed a brief 10-day training stint in Athens, during which Obiena evaluated his long-term direction before ultimately deciding to establish the country as his new base. The transition also marks the end of a highly successful 12-year coaching partnership with legendary Italian mentor Vitaly Petrov, under whom Obiena developed into a world-class pole vaulter.

    Petrov played a central role in shaping Obiena’s career, guiding him from a promising prospect into a consistent international medal contender. Under his mentorship, Obiena became the Asian champion, a World Championships medalist, an Olympic finalist, and notably, the first Asian athlete to clear the elite six-meter mark in pole vault history.

     

    Reflecting on their long-standing partnership, Obiena expressed deep gratitude for the impact Petrov had on both his athletic development and personal growth.

     

    “The more days that came, the more positive I felt about the decision I made. Vitaly has been more than just a coach for me. He’s been a mentor. Probably a second father or grandfather you can say. I owe the guy a lot. I really respect him. I love him,” he added.

     

    He further credited Petrov for expanding his ambitions beyond what he initially envisioned when he first began training in Formia, Italy.

     

    “I wouldn’t be here. My vision when I went to Formia the first year was to jump over five meters outdoors. Maybe at the end of my career, jump 5.20m. That was my vision. This guy, not knowing me, had a bigger vision for my career,” Obiena continued.

     

    Now fully focused on the next chapter, Obiena is driven by one remaining goal that continues to motivate his pursuit of excellence on the global stage: an Olympic medal at the Los Angeles 2028 Games—the one major accolade still missing from his decorated career.

     

    “That’s the medal I am missing. That’s the medal I want to get,” he concluded.

     

    Obiena is expected to continue his competitive campaign on the Diamond League circuit, with his next appearance scheduled in Doha, where he will look to maintain form and momentum as he builds toward the next Olympic cycle.

     

     

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  • PPF targets strong showing for the Philippines in inaugural Pickleball World Cup

    PPF targets strong showing for the Philippines in inaugural Pickleball World Cup

    Pickleball continues its rapid rise in the Philippines, with the sport gaining steady traction across local communities, recreational circuits, and competitive tournaments. What was once considered a niche pastime has now evolved into one of the country’s fastest-growing sports, fueled by increasing participation, structured competitions, and the emergence of Filipino athletes capable of competing at an international level.


    This growing momentum has positioned the Philippines as a nation to watch in the global pickleball scene, particularly with the inaugural Pickleball World Cup set to take place in Da Nang, Vietnam from August 30 to September 6. More than 80 countries are expected to participate in the landmark event, marking the first edition of the sport’s premier international competition.


    At the forefront of the country’s preparations is Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF) president Sherry Anne Cu, who expressed confidence that the Philippines can make a strong impact on the world stage given the depth of talent currently emerging in the local scene.


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    “More than 80 countries are expected to participate. I personally believe, and many coaches, high-performance coaches, athletes, and professionals from other countries agree, that the Philippines has a strong chance to perform well and become one of the top nations in pickleball on the world stage,” Cu said in a media interaction.


    The federation is currently in the process of assembling its national delegation, carefully evaluating athletes based on performance, consistency, and international readiness. The Philippines is set to field a competitive roster in the Open Category, which features no age or skill restrictions and brings together the country’s top elite players.


    According to Cu, the national team will consist of a balanced lineup of male and female athletes, with five players selected per gender to represent the country in Vietnam.


    “We have an Open Category, which has no age or skill restrictions and features the country’s best elite players. We are sending five female and five male athletes,” she added.


    While selection is ongoing, the PPF continues to emphasize merit-based evaluation, drawing from athletes who have consistently performed in both local and international tournaments as well as those who have actively participated in federation-sanctioned events. However, Cu noted that the roster is not yet final, with several spots still open and tryouts continuing through an invitation-only system.


    “These players were selected based on their consistent performances in local and international tournaments, their participation in federation events, and their eligibility to represent the Philippines. We still have open spots, and tryouts are ongoing through an invitation-only process.”


    Cu also underscored the importance of support for the national program as the federation prepares to send a sizable delegation to Vietnam, with hopes of delivering a strong showing in the sport’s global debut tournament.


    “Our roster is still being finalized, which is why we need support. We are sending a large delegation to Vietnam and hope to make a strong showing for Philippine pickleball,” Cu concluded.


    The continued rise of pickleball in the Philippines has been reflected in the increasing number of grassroots and competitive events being organized nationwide. Tournaments such as the recent 1st KaTribu Pickleball Tournament highlight the sport’s expanding footprint and growing appeal among Filipino athletes of all ages.


    As the country builds toward its World Cup debut, expectations are steadily rising. With a developing talent pool and strong institutional backing from the PPF, the Philippines is aiming not only to participate but to establish itself as a legitimate contender in the global pickleball landscape.


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  • Eumir Marcial shifts focus to professional boxing, begins training camp in Japan

    Eumir Marcial shifts focus to professional boxing, begins training camp in Japan

    Eumir Marcial continues to strengthen his legacy as one of the most accomplished Filipino boxers of his generation, adding another milestone to an already decorated amateur and professional career that has spanned Olympic, world, and regional success.

     

    The 30-year-old middleweight standout recently captured his fifth Southeast Asian Games gold medal at the 2025 SEA Games in Bangkok, Thailand, further cementing his dominance in the regional circuit. Marcial delivered another composed and clinical performance en route to the title, extending his remarkable consistency in a competition where he has long been regarded as the Philippines’ most reliable gold-medal source in boxing.

     

    Beyond his SEA Games success, Marcial’s résumé includes a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal at the 2019 AIBA World Boxing Championships, achievements that have placed him among the elite names in Philippine boxing history. His transition from amateur standout to professional contender has only added to his growing reputation as a fighter capable of excelling on multiple stages.

     

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    Despite his continued success in the amateur ranks, Marcial is now placing greater emphasis on his professional boxing career. He has opted to shift focus away from potential participation in future multi-sport events such as the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, choosing instead to fully prepare for high-level professional bouts in the middleweight division.

     

    A key part of this transition involves relocating portions of his training camp to Tokyo, Japan, where he believes he can access stronger sparring opportunities and a more competitive training environment.

     

    “As a Filipino middleweight boxer, it is difficult to get the proper training and preparation in the Philippines because there are very few natural middleweight fighters available for quality sparring. That’s why, in order to have the best possible preparation, we need to look abroad and train in a country where we can find the right level of training environment,” Marcial said in a media interaction.

    Marcial emphasized that the move is not a reflection of local training standards but rather a strategic decision to enhance his readiness against international-level opposition, particularly in a division where physical matchups and sparring depth are crucial for development.

     

    He also acknowledged the strong support system behind his decision, expressing gratitude to his team, promoters, and national sporting institutions that continue to back his professional ambitions.

     

    “I would like to thank my support system and my promoter, Sean Gibbons, for arranging this training camp. I would also like to thank my Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) family for their continued support, as well as the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), and B-Steel for their invaluable assistance,” he added.

     

    Marcial currently holds the World Boxing Council (WBC) International middleweight title, a regional championship he secured with a hard-fought victory over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares during the 50th anniversary commemoration of the “Thrilla in Manila” at the Araneta Coliseum in October 2025. The win preserved his perfect professional record, improving him to 7-0 with four knockouts and further signaling his readiness for bigger international opportunities.

     

    With his career entering a critical phase, Marcial views his current training camp in Japan as the foundation for what he hopes will be breakthrough opportunities in the global middleweight scene.

     

    “This is the beginning of my preparations for the big fights ahead, God willing. Our training camp starts here. Let’s go Tokyo, Japan,” Marcial concluded.

     

    As he balances a decorated amateur legacy with an increasingly ambitious professional path, Marcial remains one of the most closely watched Filipino athletes on the international boxing stage.

     

     

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  • “Part ng boxing yan”: Filipino boxer Kenneth Llover remains positive after his first pro loss to Michael Angeletti

    “Part ng boxing yan”: Filipino boxer Kenneth Llover remains positive after his first pro loss to Michael Angeletti

    Kenneth Llover’s rise in Philippine boxing has been steady and promising, with the Cavite native carving out a reputation as one of the country’s brightest young fighters. The 23-year-old entered Saturday’s bout as the reigning Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) bantamweight champion, carrying both momentum and expectation into his most significant test to date.

     

    However, Llover’s unbeaten professional record came to an end on Saturday, June 6, after he dropped a closely contested split-decision loss to undefeated American prospect Michael Angeletti in their International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight title eliminator held at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname, Japan.

     

    The fight proved to be a tactical and hard-fought encounter from the opening bell, with both fighters trading momentum across the rounds. In the end, two judges scored the bout in favor of Angeletti, 116-111 and 115-112, while the third judge saw it differently, scoring it 115-112 for Llover. The split decision underscored how tightly contested the matchup was, with little separating the two fighters over the course of the fight.

     

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    Despite the setback, Llover absorbed the result with maturity, framing it as part of the natural progression of a professional boxing career rather than a defining moment of defeat. The young champion emphasized that adversity is an essential part of building resilience and long-term success in the sport.

     

    “Sa’kin naman po, yung pagkatalo is part ng boxing yan. Kumbaga yung pagkatalo natural yan sa champion, natural na pagdadaanan yang mga bagay. Diyan ka magiging matibay,” Llover said after the loss.

    He further reflected on the importance of perseverance, noting that setbacks do not define a fighter’s journey and should not deter long-term ambition or commitment to the sport.

     

    “Hindi naman lahat pagdadaanan kailangan tagumpay. Darating sa point ng buhay mo na mararanasan mong matalo. Pero di naman dahil doon, na matatalo ka, doon mo na itiigil yung career mo. Tuloy lang,” he added.

     

    Llover also took time to acknowledge his supporters, expressing gratitude to his camp, fans, and sponsors who have backed him throughout his career, including his OPBF title run and his climb through the professional ranks.

     

    “Sa mga kababayan namin sa Pilipinas at sa ArenaPlus family, maraming, maraming salamat sa inyo, sa patuloy na suporta. Hindi lang hanggang dito boxing career natin. Mas pag-iigihan pa natin. Laban lang, Pilipinas,” Llover concluded.

     

    The defeat marked the first blemish on Llover’s professional record, which now stands at 17 wins, including 12 knockouts, against one loss. Despite the setback, he remains firmly positioned among the Philippines’ top bantamweight prospects, with his performance against Angeletti demonstrating his ability to compete at an elite international level.

     

    For Angeletti, meanwhile, the victory preserved his unbeaten record at 15-0 and strengthened his position as a rising contender in the IBF bantamweight division, inching him closer to a potential world title opportunity.

     

    While the result was not what Llover and his camp had hoped for, the experience in Japan is expected to serve as a crucial learning point as he regroups, recovers, and evaluates the next steps in his career trajectory. For a young fighter still in the early stages of his professional journey, the loss may ultimately become a catalyst for further growth rather than a setback.

     

     

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  • Alas Pilipinas rookie Niña Ytang earns praise from South Korea captain after standout showing

    Alas Pilipinas rookie Niña Ytang earns praise from South Korea captain after standout showing

    Alas Pilipinas absorbed its second straight defeat in the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Volleyball Cup after falling to continental powerhouse South Korea, 25-16, 25-18, 25-22, at the Candon City Arena on Tuesday, June 9.

     

    Despite the straight-sets result, the national team showed flashes of competitiveness—particularly in the third set—before ultimately succumbing to South Korea’s depth, discipline, and superior execution on both ends of the floor.

     

    For Alas Pilipinas, however, the match also served as another showcase of rising middle blocker Niña Ytang, who continued to build her reputation as one of the team’s most promising young standouts in her debut international campaign.

     

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    The former University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons star finished as the second-leading scorer for the Philippines with eight points, tallying seven attacks and one block. While the numbers may not fully capture her impact, Ytang’s presence at the net provided consistent resistance against South Korea’s high-powered offense and quick-tempo system.

    Her performance did not go unnoticed.

     

    South Korea captain Kang Sohwi singled out the young middle blocker when asked which Alas Pilipinas player stood out during the match, offering rare praise from one of Asia’s elite competitors.

     

    “Number 9, the middle blocker,” Sohwi said when asked which Alas Pilipinas player impressed her the most.

     

    For Ytang, the recognition from a top-tier international opponent served as validation of her rapid adjustment to the demands of international volleyball, though she remained grounded in her response.

    “I must be doing something right kaya siguro ganun. Pero for me naman I’m just doing my best, doing everything I can para sa bayan,” Ytang stated.

     

    Ytang has quietly emerged as one of the bright spots for Alas Pilipinas in the tournament, showcasing both offensive efficiency and defensive timing in the middle. In the team’s opening win over Uzbekistan, she delivered a strong debut performance with 12 points built on eight attacks and four kill blocks, immediately establishing herself as a reliable presence in the rotation.

     

    She followed that up with an even more dynamic outing against Australia, where she produced 13 points highlighted by nine attacks, three service aces, and a block, demonstrating her expanding skill set and growing confidence against higher-level competition.

     

    Across three matches, Ytang has shown steady improvement in adapting to international pace, with her ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game becoming a valuable asset for Alas Pilipinas as it continues its campaign in the AVC tournament.

     

    Her emergence has also drawn attention beyond the national team setup, particularly given the significant decision she made prior to the competition. Ytang opted to withdraw her application for the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft, choosing instead to commit fully to Alas Pilipinas Women and her development within the national team program.

     

    The decision underscored her long-term focus on international experience and national team duty, prioritizing exposure against elite Asian opposition over immediate professional league opportunities.

     

    While Alas Pilipinas continues to navigate a challenging tournament against some of Asia’s strongest programs, performances like Ytang’s offer a glimpse of a developing core that could anchor the national team in future international competitions.

     

    As the AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup progresses, the Philippines will look to regroup and build on its competitive moments, while Ytang’s steady rise remains one of the most encouraging storylines in the campaign.

     

     

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  • Karl Fernandez Legazpi calls for congressional probe into Ateneo student-athlete drowning incident

    Karl Fernandez Legazpi calls for congressional probe into Ateneo student-athlete drowning incident

    The Ateneo de Manila University community and the Philippine basketball fraternity are in mourning following the tragic deaths of two promising Blue Eagles student-athletes, Divine Adili and Rene Clert Baterbonia, during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

     

    The heartbreaking incident, which occurred on Monday, June 8, has sent shockwaves throughout collegiate sports, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from teammates, coaches, alumni, sports officials, and basketball organizations across the country.

     

    What was intended to be a team-bonding activity ahead of another challenging UAAP campaign instead turned into a tragedy that has left one of the country’s most storied collegiate basketball programs grieving the loss of two young lives filled with promise and potential.

     

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    According to the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO-3), initial reports indicated that Adili and Baterbonia were swimming when they were reportedly carried by strong currents into deeper waters. Rescue efforts were immediately undertaken, but both players ultimately lost their lives.

     

    Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and have urged the public to avoid speculation while the fact-finding process remains ongoing.

     

    The tragedy has also reached the halls of Congress.

     

    Pinoy Workers party-list Representative Karl Fernandez Legazpi confirmed that he intends to file a House Resolution calling for a congressional inquiry into the drowning incident, with the goal of reviewing existing safety measures governing school-sponsored athletic activities and team events.

     

    “In light of these events, I will be filing a House Resolution urging the House Committee on Youth and Sports Development to conduct an inquiry, in aid of legislation, on the adequacy of existing policies, safety standards, and accountability mechanisms governing school-sponsored athletic programs, with the end in view of strengthening the protection and welfare of student-athletes,” Legazpi said in a statement.

     

    The lawmaker emphasized that while athletic programs play an essential role in shaping young people through competition and discipline, educational institutions must ensure that student-athletes are protected both on and off the playing field.

     

    “This tragedy reminds us that while sports cultivates discipline, resilience, and excellence, institutions entrusted with the development of young athletes must likewise be held to the highest standards of safety, care, and accountability.

     

    “The goal is not merely to determine the circumstances of this particular tragedy, but to ensure that no other family has to endure the same loss. If this tragedy can happen in one of the country’s most respected educational institutions, then it is incumbent upon us to examine whether sufficient protections exist for student-athletes nationwide,” he concluded.

     

    For Ateneo, the loss extends far beyond basketball.

     

    The Blue Eagles program has long prided itself on developing student-athletes not only into elite competitors but also into leaders and role models. The passing of Adili and Baterbonia has left a void that teammates, coaches, and supporters will undoubtedly struggle to fill.

    The tragedy is particularly painful because both players represented different chapters of Ateneo’s future.

     

    Adili, 21, had already begun establishing himself as an important member of the Blue Eagles rotation and was viewed as one of the program’s most promising young frontcourt players.

     

    During UAAP Season 88, the athletic forward appeared in 11 games and averaged 8.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per contest. Beyond the numbers, Adili’s relentless effort, physical presence, and willingness to do the dirty work made him a valuable contributor for a team seeking to reclaim its place among the league’s elite programs.

     

    His development over the past several seasons had not gone unnoticed. Coaches praised his work ethic and commitment to improvement, while teammates relied on his energy and competitiveness. As Ateneo continued its rebuilding process following the departure of several championship-era stars, Adili was widely regarded as a cornerstone piece capable of helping lead the next generation of Blue Eagles.

     

    Many within the Ateneo community believed he possessed the talent and determination to eventually emerge as one of the premier big men in the UAAP.

     

    Baterbonia, meanwhile, represented the excitement and optimism that comes with a young player on the verge of beginning his collegiate career.

     

    At just 19 years old, he had yet to make his official UAAP debut, but his arrival had generated considerable anticipation among coaches and supporters eager to see his potential translate to the collegiate level.

     

    The young prospect recently showcased his abilities on a national stage by representing Davao in the 2026 Palarong Pambansa held in Agusan del Sur. His performances further strengthened the belief that he was among the country’s rising basketball talents and a player capable of making an impact for Ateneo in the years ahead.

     

    Baterbonia had been expected to join the Blue Eagles’ active lineup for UAAP Season 89 later this year, making his passing all the more heartbreaking. For a player whose collegiate journey was only beginning, countless opportunities and memories remained ahead of him.

     

    While Adili and Baterbonia were at different stages of their basketball careers, both shared a common dream: to proudly represent Ateneo and contribute to the continued success of one of Philippine collegiate basketball’s most celebrated programs.

     

    Their deaths serve as a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be, even for young athletes seemingly on the verge of bright futures.

     

    As the Ateneo community continues to grieve, tributes have poured in from across the Philippine sports landscape, with many remembering not only the players they were becoming but also the individuals they were away from the court.

     

    For now, a university, a basketball program, and an entire sporting community mourn the loss of two young men whose lives ended far too soon.

     

    Though their journeys were tragically cut short, the memories they created and the impact they made on teammates, friends, coaches, and loved ones will endure long after the final buzzer.

     

     

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  • ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships to feature nearly 1,000 athletes in New Clark City

    ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships to feature nearly 1,000 athletes in New Clark City

    The ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships are set to return to the world-class New Clark Athletics Stadium in Capas, Tarlac, with nearly 1,000 athletes expected to compete in what is shaping up to be one of the most significant track and field events in the country this year.

     

    The national championship will bring together the Philippines’ top track and field talent, with a strong mix of established national pool athletes, rising grassroots standouts, and international competitors adding depth and intensity to the meet. As of the latest tally, 870 Filipino athletes from the national team pool and various local clubs have already confirmed their participation, with the number expected to rise as final entries are completed.

     

    Joining the local contingent is a growing international field featuring athletes from Chinese-Taipei, Canada, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Samoa, South Korea, and the United States of America, further elevating the level of competition and giving the event a more global stage.

     

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    South Korea leads the international delegations in terms of numbers, sending 15 athletes who will compete across multiple disciplines, including the highly competitive Under-18 and Under-20 divisions. Papua New Guinea follows with 12 athletes, while Indonesia and Singapore will each field 10 representatives, underscoring the regional interest in the Philippine-hosted meet.

     

    “So far, we already had 945 registered athletes for the competition and we could hit 1,000 once the complete list is in,” Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association Secretary General Jasper Tanhueco said in a media interaction.

     

    The expected milestone of nearly 1,000 participants reflects the continued growth of the sport in the country and the increasing appeal of the championships as a regional competitive hub. Officials believe the surge in participation is a strong indicator of the event’s rising stature within Asian athletics.

    For the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA), the championship serves a dual purpose—serving as the country’s premier national meet while also functioning as a developmental platform for both elite and emerging athletes.

     

    PATAFA president Terry Capistrano emphasized the broader significance of the event beyond medals and records, highlighting its role in strengthening the sport’s foundation in the country.

     

    “The ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championship is more than just a premier showcase of talent, it is a vital ecosystem for the growth of Philippine track and field. Gathering our nation’s finest athletes alongside international contenders at a world-class venue like New Clark City raises the competitive bar for everyone.

     

    “This championship provides a crucial platform for our elite athletes to sharpen their form, while simultaneously opening doors for grassroots discoveries to step into the spotlight and prove they belong on the big stage,” Capistrano added.

     

    The New Clark Athletics Stadium, a World Athletics-certified facility, will once again host the event for the second consecutive year, reinforcing its status as the country’s premier venue for international-standard track and field competition. Its state-of-the-art facilities and regulation-compliant track have made it a preferred destination for major athletics meets in the region.

     

    Beyond national pride, the championships also carry added significance as part of the qualification pathway for major international competitions, including the 20th Asian Games. Performances here are expected to play a key role in shaping the Philippine national team roster moving forward.

     

    With a growing international presence, a deep local field, and high stakes across multiple divisions, the ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championships promise to be a defining moment for Philippine track and field as it continues to push toward regional competitiveness and global relevance.

     

     

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  • PSC, Manila secure presidential backing for Rizal Memorial Stadium rehabilitation

    PSC, Manila secure presidential backing for Rizal Memorial Stadium rehabilitation

    Philippine sports officials have received a significant boost in their long-term infrastructure plans after Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio and Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Rizal Memorial Stadium on June 3 to discuss the ongoing rehabilitation and transformation of the historic sports complex.

     

    The high-level meeting focused on the modernization of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, one of the country’s most iconic sporting venues, with the government reaffirming its commitment to upgrading facilities to meet international standards. According to Gregorio, President Marcos Jr. has already given his approval for the project, which is now targeted for completion by 2028.

     

    “Kahit busy si Pangulong Bongbong Marcos, nabigyan pa din po si chairlam Pato at Mayor Isko ng pagkakataon na magbahagi ng updates sa joint efforts ng PSC at Manila tungkol sa transformation ng Rizal Memorial Sports Complex,” Gregorio said to the media, highlighting the President’s willingness to engage despite a packed schedule.

     

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    He added that the President expressed enthusiasm for the project and emphasized the importance of delivering a modern, world-class sporting hub for Filipino athletes and fans alike.

    “The president is very excited. Looking forward to finishing this transformation by 2028 – with the hard work and commitment of all,” Gregorio added.

    The planned redevelopment of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex is expected to be a major milestone in Philippine sports infrastructure. The project has also gained support from several key partners in both the public and private sectors, including SM Prime Holdings, FIFA, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), the Baseball Federation of Asia, and PABA/Philippine Baseball, signaling a broad-based collaboration aimed at elevating the country’s sporting landscape.

     

    Once completed, the upgraded complex is envisioned to serve as a premier venue for both local and international competitions, while also providing enhanced training facilities for national athletes across multiple disciplines.

     

    Beyond the Rizal Memorial project, Gregorio has also been actively working on broader sports development initiatives nationwide. Recently, he led an inspection of the proposed Antonio Ledesma Sports Center (ALC Sports Center) in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, another key infrastructure project aimed at strengthening grassroots sports programs in the country.

     

    The proposed ALC Sports Center is expected to span more than 3,000 square meters and is envisioned to function as a National Training Center. It will feature facilities designed for a range of sports, including baseball, gymnastics, archery, and potentially tennis, reflecting the PSC’s push for multi-sport accessibility and long-term athlete development.

     

    According to the PSC, the facility is also expected to play a crucial role in coach education, talent identification, and grassroots program expansion, helping to build a stronger pipeline of future Filipino sports champions.

     

    With multiple projects now moving forward under government and private sector collaboration, Philippine sports officials are hoping that these developments will mark a new era for athletic excellence and infrastructure development in the country, positioning the Philippines as a stronger contender in regional and international competitions.

     

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  • Ricky Palou does not see the suspension of PNVF affecting the PVL

    Ricky Palou does not see the suspension of PNVF affecting the PVL

    Philippine volleyball has been thrust into the spotlight amid a developing governance controversy following the International Volleyball Federation’s (FIVB) decision to suspend the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) over what it described as “serious governance concerns” and “multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.”

     

    The suspension, announced on Friday, May 29, takes immediate effect and comes at a critical juncture for the sport in the country, with the Philippines set to host the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Cup in Candon City, Ilocos Sur, from June 6 to 14—less than two weeks after the ruling was made public.

     

    The timing of the decision has raised questions regarding administrative stability and tournament oversight, especially with the FIVB confirming the formation of an ad hoc committee tasked with temporarily overseeing the affairs of the PNVF during the suspension period.

     

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    Despite the uncertainty surrounding the governing body, Premier Volleyball League (PVL) president and PNVF Treasurer Ricky Palou downplayed concerns that the situation would have any immediate impact on the professional league’s operations or its upcoming plans.

     

    “About PNVF, I only know what you guys read on social media because I only arrived today. Kasi wala naman, no inkling ako, so sabi ko totoo kaya ito?,” Palou told reporters, expressing surprise over the development.

     

    Palou added that he intends to meet with current PNVF president Ramon “Tonyboy” Liao to clarify the details of the suspension and assess its potential implications for Philippine volleyball moving forward.

    The veteran sports executive also addressed speculation regarding league expansion, hinting that new teams could be joining the PVL in the upcoming conferences, although he declined to disclose specific names at this stage.

     

    “I don’t think so. Wala naman siguro diba? I don’t know even if the suspension holds. I will find out. Meron, meron. They told me not to, I’m not at liberty to announced kung sino. Pero meron, there are two of them actually. Basta electric, alam ko power company. Di pa next conference. Pinapag-aaralan din nila. They’re asking questions, they want to join, what are the requirements,” Palou said.

     

    He further clarified that the upcoming AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City is expected to proceed as scheduled, despite the administrative shake-up at the national federation level.

     

    “I think the one in Candon, tuloy na yun diba? I think it’s too late to cancel. But I don’t know, wala pa kaming ano. We reached out to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and other agencies concerned,” he added.

     

    The broader situation continues to develop, with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) reportedly set to consider a possible suspension of the PNVF during its General Assembly in June, which could further complicate governance and international representation issues for Philippine volleyball.

     

    In response to the FIVB decision, the PNVF released an official statement on Sunday, May 31, emphasizing its commitment to continuity and athlete welfare amid the ongoing uncertainty.

    At the core of its message, the federation reiterated its priority to ensure that Filipino athletes remain supported and that the country’s participation in international volleyball events remains uninterrupted.

     

    “The Federation respects the important roles of FIVB, PSC, POC, and all relevant institutions and Philippine and international sport, and is prepared to engage constructively through the proper channels,” the statement read.

     

    As the situation unfolds, Philippine volleyball now finds itself at a critical crossroads, balancing governance challenges at the administrative level with the immediate need to maintain stability ahead of a major international tournament on home soil.

     

     

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  • Ana Bhianca Espenilla and Jerico Cadag deliver podium finishes for the Philippines at the Asian U-20 Athletics Championships

    Ana Bhianca Espenilla and Jerico Cadag deliver podium finishes for the Philippines at the Asian U-20 Athletics Championships

    The 2026 Asian Under-20 Athletics Championships recently took place in Hong Kong, bringing together some of the continent’s most promising young track and field talents in a showcase event for Asia’s rising stars.

     

    Team Philippines has once again made its presence felt on the international stage, with young athletes Ana Bhianca Espenilla and Jerico Cadag delivering breakthrough performances to secure two medals for the country at the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground.

     

    Leading the Philippine charge was 19-year-old javelin thrower Ana Bhianca Espenilla of Masbate, who produced a dramatic personal-best effort of 52.20 meters on her sixth and final attempt to clinch the silver medal in the women’s javelin event. Espenilla endured a difficult start to her series, failing to find her rhythm in her first five throws before producing a clutch final attempt when it mattered most.

     

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    Her decisive throw not only secured her place on the podium but also marked the best performance of her young career to date, signaling her rapid development as one of the country’s most promising field event athletes.

     

    “Ang mga una kong throws wala talaga kaya nagulat ako sa huling throw ko. Sabi ko lang sa sarili ko na bahala na, itatapon ko na lang ito kaya hindi ko talaga inexpect na mag-52 meters,” Espenilla said in a media interaction.

     

    Espenilla’s silver-medal finish provides a significant confidence boost ahead of the upcoming World Under-20 Athletics Championships, scheduled to take place in Oregon from August 5 to 9. She is set to compete alongside fellow Filipino standouts Jeralyn Rodriguez (400m), Naomi Cesar (800m), and Ivan Cabanda (400m), forming a promising national contingent for the global meet.

    The result also highlights Espenilla’s steady rise in international competition, as she continues to build experience against Asia’s best young throwers while sharpening her consistency ahead of bigger global assignments.

     

    Meanwhile, Jerico Cadag also delivered a strong performance in the men’s 3000-meter steeplechase, securing the bronze medal with a time of 9:35.10 in a competitive final dominated by runners from India and Japan. Cadag finished behind India’s Nikhil Chandrashekar (9:25.44) and Japan’s Yuu Kato (9:27.30), but still managed to secure a podium finish for the Philippines.

     

    Cadag’s achievement is particularly notable given his unconventional athletic journey. Originally involved in javelin, the 18-year-old made a transition to distance running and has since steadily improved in endurance events, previously earning a silver medal at the Southeast Asian Under-18 level.

     

    The young Filipino admitted that a past defeat to Vietnamese rival Luong Xuan Son in Malaysia served as a key source of motivation in his development as a steeplechase athlete.

     

    “Ayoko sayangin ang mga pagkakataon na binigay nila sa akin na lumaban para sa bansa. Ito ang pinakamalaking karera na sinalihan ko pero mas gagalingan ko pa sa mga susunod,” Cadag said.

     

    Team Philippines concluded its campaign with two medals, a result that drew praise from Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) president Terry Capistrano, who emphasized the significance of the achievement in the context of continental competition.

     

    “This is truly a remarkable feat. The Asian Under-20 Championships are, in essence, the Asian Games for athletes under 20 and a showcase of the continent’s finest young talents,” Capistrano stated.

     

    With strong performances across both track and field events, the Philippine delegation leaves Hong Kong with renewed optimism, as Espenilla and Cadag’s podium finishes signal a promising future for the country’s next generation of athletics talent on the international stage.

     

     

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