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  • PSC chairman hails Alex Eala as Philippines’ new sporting icon, compares her to Manny Pacquiao

    PSC chairman hails Alex Eala as Philippines’ new sporting icon, compares her to Manny Pacquiao

    Alex Eala’s rapid rise on the international tennis circuit continues to capture attention, with the Filipina star earning praise from some of the biggest names and influential figures in Philippine sports.

     

    At just 21 years old, Eala has already established herself as one of the brightest young talents in world tennis, combining a remarkable junior career with a steady rise on the WTA Tour.

     

    Her journey has been defined by patience, determination and a string of historic achievements, with each breakthrough further cementing her status as one of the most prominent athletes in Philippine sports today.

     

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    Eala recently reached another landmark in her young professional career when she defeated World No. 3 and top seed at the Mubadala DC Open to capture the WTA 500 title.

     

    The victory delivered Eala her first WTA 500 championship and added another significant milestone to a career that has already seen her break new ground for Philippine tennis. The achievement also propelled her into the WTA singles Top 20, making Eala the first Filipino player in history to reach that elite ranking territory.

     

    Her continued success has extended well beyond the numbers and trophies.

     

    Eala has developed a growing following around the world, with Filipino supporters turning up in significant numbers whenever she takes to the court. From the Philippines to tournaments overseas, fans have embraced the young star and followed her historic rise with pride.

     

    Her growing popularity has also caught the attention of Philippine sports officials, who believe her influence could extend far beyond tennis.

     

    Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio has likened Eala’s growing cultural impact to that of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, another Filipino athlete whose achievements transcended sport and inspired an entire generation.

     

    “Si Senator Manny Pacquiao mismo ang nagsabi niya. ‘We have a new icon and we have a new Filipino champion,’ and that is Alex Eala,” Gregorio said in a media interaction.

     

    For Gregorio, Eala’s significance lies not only in the matches she wins or the rankings she reaches, but also in the influence she is already having on young Filipinos.

    Thousands of Filipino fans have flocked to the stands to watch Eala compete, regardless of where her international schedule takes her. Her growing popularity, according to Gregorio, is also encouraging more young athletes to pick up a racket and consider tennis as a sport they can pursue seriously.

     

    That impact is already beginning to be felt at the grassroots level.

     

    “The younger generation now is picking up the tennis racket and playing as well. And LGUs are starting to build more tennis courts. Mas maraming batang nagte-tennis, mas maraming magiging Alex Eala sa lalong madaling panahon,” Gregorio added.

     

    The growing investment in tennis facilities could provide an important boost to the sport in the Philippines, giving aspiring players greater access to courts and opportunities to develop their skills.

     

    Eala’s success offers young athletes a tangible example of what can be achieved through sustained development and international competition.

     

    Her own pathway illustrates the importance of early exposure to elite training. As a teenager, Eala moved overseas to continue her development at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca, Spain, where she trained alongside some of the world’s promising young players.

     

    That experience helped prepare her for the demands of professional tennis and eventually paved the way for her breakthrough on the WTA Tour. Now, with a WTA 500 title and a place inside the world’s Top 20 already secured, Eala is no longer simply regarded as a promising prospect.

     

    She is becoming a genuine force on the international stage.

     

    Her rise has also given Philippine tennis unprecedented visibility. Every victory attracts attention at home, while her growing international fan base demonstrates the reach of her success.

     

    More importantly, Eala is beginning to inspire a new generation of Filipino players who can now see a pathway toward competing at the highest level of the sport.

     

    Her achievements have made her a source of national pride, but her influence could ultimately be measured by what comes after her.

     

    If Gregorio’s assessment proves correct, Eala’s greatest legacy may not only be the titles she wins or the rankings she reaches, but the number of young Filipinos who pick up a tennis racket because they saw what was possible.

     

    For now, Eala continues to write her own history on the WTA Tour.

     

    And with her rise showing no signs of slowing down, the Filipina star is rapidly evolving from a promising young player into one of the most recognizable sporting figures the Philippines has produced in recent years.

     

     

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  • PSC ramps up tennis development in the Philippines with focus on grassroots, facilities 

    PSC ramps up tennis development in the Philippines with focus on grassroots, facilities 

    Alex Eala’s rapid ascent on the world stage is creating an impact that extends well beyond her victories on the court.


    As the Filipina sensation continues to attract new fans through her impressive performances on the WTA Tour and her recent campaign at Wimbledon, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is moving to capitalize on the growing momentum by accelerating plans aimed at transforming the country’s tennis landscape.

     

    Rather than letting the surge in public interest fade, the PSC wants to build a stronger foundation for the sport—one that produces more players capable of following Eala’s path while giving aspiring athletes access to better facilities and higher-level competition.

     

    The commission has already taken its first major step alongside the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA), with the staging of the country’s first-ever WTA tournament, the Philippine Women’s Open, last January. 

     

    The two organizations have also expressed their intention to bring more international competitions to the country, including higher-tier events that form part of the WTA Tour.

     

    PSC chairman Pato Gregorio admitted that Eala’s success has added urgency to long-term plans that were already in motion, saying her achievements have given Philippine tennis a rare opportunity to grow.

     

    “Natataas niya (Alex) yung antas at kredibilidad ng sports sa Pilipinas. We have to make sure na katulong ng Philippine Sports Commission si Alex para mahikayat, makumbinse, ma-inspire, hindi lang ang Philippine Sports Commission but lahat ng LGUs maybe to put up tennis courts all over the country, to organize more tennis events all over the country,” Gregorio said.

     

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    For the PSC, the objective is no longer limited to supporting elite athletes. Gregorio wants tennis infrastructure to expand beyond Metro Manila through the establishment of regional training centers, allowing young players in the provinces to train closer to home while strengthening grassroots development.

     

    The continued emergence of Eala has also convinced the commission that building more competition-ready tennis facilities should become a national priority. Gregorio stressed that investments should reach key regions outside Luzon, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao, where aspiring players often have limited access to world-class venues.

     

    During a recent visit to Cebu City, Gregorio revealed that a major company is exploring plans to construct additional tennis courts in the province, a project that could further strengthen Cebu’s bid to become one of the country’s leading sports hubs capable of hosting national and international tournaments.

     

    Meanwhile, rehabilitation work is already underway at the tennis facility in Baguio City as part of the PSC’s broader effort to upgrade existing venues.

     

    “Tuloy-tuloy po yan. Ang importante lang, when we do all of these tennis courts, taas na po natin yung quality so that we can host. Dapat po, hindi lang community courts ang ambisyuin natin, gawin na natin competition courts para maka-host din tayo ng maraming national events and international events,” he said.

     

    With Eala continuing to raise the Philippines’ profile in world tennis, the PSC sees a rare opportunity to turn one athlete’s success into a nationwide movement—one that not only inspires the next generation of players but also positions the country as a regular destination for international tennis competition.

     

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  • PAGCOR chief throws support behind Patrick Gregorio’s Sports University vision

    PAGCOR chief throws support behind Patrick Gregorio’s Sports University vision

    Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick Gregorio has unveiled an ambitious proposal that could reshape the future of sports development in the country, calling for the establishment of the Philippines’ first-ever Sports University under the University of the Philippines (UP) System.

     

    Gregorio introduced the vision during his commencement address to the graduating class of the UP College of Human Kinetics at the Varsity Training Center, where he urged one of the country’s most respected academic institutions to spearhead a transformative initiative that would elevate sports beyond competition and position it as a key driver of education, research, innovation, economic development, and nation-building.

     

    The proposal reflects Gregorio’s broader vision of creating a comprehensive institution dedicated to the advancement of sports in the Philippines. Rather than focusing solely on athlete development, the Sports University would serve as a center of excellence for sports science, coaching, physical education, sports medicine, nutrition, sports psychology, sports management, biomechanics, and high-performance research. It would also provide aspiring athletes with opportunities to pursue higher education while continuing to compete at the highest level.

     

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    Addressing the graduating students, Gregorio challenged the UP community to embrace a pioneering role in shaping the future of Philippine sports, emphasizing that sustained international success requires more than talent alone. He stressed the need to develop a complete ecosystem that nurtures athletes while also producing the coaches, trainers, researchers, administrators, and sports professionals who play equally vital roles behind the scenes.

     

    The proposal has already received strong support from Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman Alejandro “Al” Tengco, whose agency remains one of the PSC’s largest funding partners through its legally mandated contribution to Philippine sports.

     

    Speaking during a recent event, Tengco endorsed the concept and expressed his willingness to work closely with the PSC to help turn the vision into reality.

     

    “It’s about time that our country creates a Sports University. Chairman Pato and I discussed how we can help each other beyond Pagcor’s monthly support to the PSC. I fully support the idea of building a sports university,” Tengco said.

     

    PAGCOR plays a crucial role in the country’s sports development program through its court-mandated five percent share of gross gaming revenues allocated to the PSC. The contribution amounts to nearly P400 million every month, translating to approximately P5 billion annually, making it the backbone of funding for national athletes, grassroots initiatives, training programs, and international competitions.

    According to Tengco, the increased financial support has helped fuel the country’s recent rise on the international sporting stage, where Filipino athletes have continued to deliver strong performances across multiple disciplines.

     

    However, he emphasized that funding alone does not guarantee success, pointing instead to the leadership and governance within the PSC as equally important factors behind the country’s sporting progress.

     

    “If you noticed, there are many Filipino athletes who have been winning lately. One reason is the funding from Pagcor – that’s our support to Philippine sports. But more than that, it’s the vision and governance of PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio. No matter how big the budget is, if you cannot allocate it well, use it efficiently, and it doesn’t reach the athletes the right way, there’s no use,” he added.

     

    Gregorio’s proposal arrives at a significant moment for Philippine sports. In recent years, the country has celebrated unprecedented achievements on the global stage, highlighted by Olympic, world championship, and continental successes across sports such as boxing, weightlifting, gymnastics, athletics, billiards, and esports. These accomplishments have underscored the growing potential of Filipino athletes while also exposing the need for stronger institutional support to sustain long-term excellence.

     

    A dedicated Sports University could address many of those needs by integrating elite athletic training with academic education and scientific research under one institution. Similar models have proven successful in countries with established high-performance sports systems, where universities serve as hubs for innovation, talent identification, athlete development, and coaching education.

     

    Beyond producing future champions, the proposed institution would also help professionalize careers in sports by developing experts in sports medicine, rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, performance analytics, event management, sports governance, and sports technology. Such a multidisciplinary approach could strengthen every level of the Philippine sporting ecosystem while creating new career opportunities for Filipinos interested in the industry.

     

    Although the proposal remains in its conceptual stage and would require extensive collaboration among the UP System, the national government, Congress, and key stakeholders, it has already sparked discussions about the future direction of Philippine sports development.

     

    For Gregorio, the vision extends far beyond medals and championships. His proposal seeks to build a lasting institution that can produce not only world-class athletes but also the educators, scientists, coaches, administrators, and innovators who will shape the country’s sporting landscape for generations to come.

     

    If realized, the establishment of a Sports University under the UP System could become one of the most significant milestones in Philippine sports history, providing a sustainable foundation for excellence while reinforcing sports as a powerful instrument for education, national pride, and inclusive development.

     

     

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  • PSC, NCFP launch grassroots chess program to develop future Filipino Grandmasters

    PSC, NCFP launch grassroots chess program to develop future Filipino Grandmasters

    The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) are joining forces to strengthen the country’s grassroots chess development and create a clearer pathway for young talents aspiring to become future Grandmasters.

     

    The two organizations have partnered to establish the Batang Pinoy Chess Henyo Grassroots Program, a long-term development initiative designed to identify, support, and train some of the Philippines’ most promising young chess players. The program aims to provide these rising talents with structured coaching, competitive exposure, and the necessary foundation to eventually represent the country at the highest levels of international chess.

     

    NCFP chief executive officer Jayson Gonzales confirmed that the program will officially begin on August 1 and will feature 36 young chess standouts from across the country. The participants—12 each from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao—earned their places through regional qualifiers and will now undergo a comprehensive training program focused on improving their skills and preparing them for future international competitions.

     

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    The initiative represents a major step in Philippine chess development, as it seeks to build a stronger pipeline of young players who can carry the country’s flag in future national and global tournaments.

     

    “It marks a historic milestone in Philippine grassroots chess development that would lay the foundation for the country’s future national athletes,” Gonzales said.

     

    The launch of the program comes after discussions involving key officials from both organizations. PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio, NCFP president Butch Pichay, and Gonzales recently met with PSC commissioner Ed Hayco to finalize the implementation details and ensure the successful rollout of the project.

    For Gonzales, who is also a Grandmaster and serves as the coach of the national women’s chess team, the program represents an important investment in the future of Philippine chess. He believes that providing young players with proper guidance and development opportunities at an early age will help them maximize their potential and eventually compete on the international stage.

     

    The Batang Pinoy Chess Henyo Grassroots Program will feature young players from the boys and girls categories in the 5-8 and 9-11 age brackets, giving them access to a structured system aimed at developing both their technical abilities and competitive mindset.

     

    From Luzon, the selected young chess talents are Aaliyan Borden, Alyiah Beltran, Hahn Tee, Gael Navarro, Mark Albert, Orion Paredes, Sofia Saludares, Althea Paredes, Kate Garcia, Marius Constante, Neil Amatorio, and Clyde Torena.

     

    Representing the Visayas region are Frexine Lim, Elisa Johansson, Frida Bernal, Ivan Icalina, Terrence Donoga, Rybarage Entia, Rhian Salud, Lyrah Villareal, Ellysa Maru, Lance Bangero, Allen Albor, and Navi Icalina.

     

    Meanwhile, the Mindanao delegation is composed of Sabella Sy, Elisha Romarate, Eu Pepito, Magnus Carlsen Sanico, Carlsen Andres Hapitan, Yoseff Prada, Roshan Templa, Scarlett Donoso, Claudiah Fabrigia, Danny Romualdez, Aidh Munsing, and Levon Reyes.

     

    With participants coming from different regions of the country, the program also aims to promote wider access to chess development opportunities and ensure that promising players outside major urban centers receive the same level of support and training.

     

    The PSC and NCFP hope that the initiative will become a foundation for producing the next generation of Filipino chess stars, following in the footsteps of the country’s elite players who have competed successfully on the international stage.

     

    By investing in young talent at an early stage, officials believe the Batang Pinoy Chess Henyo Grassroots Program can help strengthen Philippine chess and increase the country’s chances of producing more Grandmasters in the years ahead.

     

     

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  • PSC chief Patrick Gregorio pushes for first-ever Philippine Sports University under UP system

    PSC chief Patrick Gregorio pushes for first-ever Philippine Sports University under UP system

    Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick Gregorio has laid out an ambitious vision that could redefine the future of Philippine sports, proposing the establishment of the country’s first-ever Sports University under the University of the Philippines (UP) System.

     

    Gregorio unveiled the proposal during his commencement address to the graduating class of the UP College of Human Kinetics at the Varsity Training Center, where he challenged one of the country’s premier academic institutions to take the lead in transforming sports into a powerful platform for education, innovation, economic growth, and nation-building.

     

    Addressing the graduates, Gregorio shared what he described as a long-term dream not only for the University of the Philippines but for the entire Philippine sports landscape.

     

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    “My dream for Philippine sports is to build a proud nation. To this end, my dream for UP is to build a Sports University. A university that produces not only champions, but the coaches, scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, administrators, and innovators who make those champions possible,” Gregorio said.

     

    The proposal envisions a specialized institution that goes beyond producing elite athletes. Instead, it seeks to develop the entire ecosystem that supports sporting excellence by training future coaches, sports scientists, physical educators, sports psychologists, nutritionists, performance analysts, administrators, researchers, and entrepreneurs who can help elevate Philippine sports to international standards.

     

    Gregorio emphasized that sustained success in sports cannot rely solely on the talent of athletes. Rather, it requires a strong academic and scientific foundation supported by world-class education, research, and innovation. Through a dedicated Sports University, he believes the Philippines can create a sustainable pipeline of professionals capable of strengthening every level of the country’s sporting structure—from grassroots development to elite competition.

     

    To underscore the feasibility of his proposal, Gregorio pointed to several countries that have long invested in specialized sports universities as integral components of their national sports programs.

     

    Among the institutions he cited were Germany’s Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln (German Sport University Cologne), China’s Beijing Sport University, Russia’s Lesgaft National State University of Physical Education, Sport and Health, and Japan’s Nippon Sport Science University (NSSU). These universities have become globally recognized centers for sports science, coaching education, athletic performance, research, and sports management, producing generations of Olympians, coaches, and industry leaders.

    Closer to home, Gregorio also noted that neighboring Southeast Asian countries have already embraced similar models. Thailand operates the Thailand National Sports University (TNSU), while Vietnam has established the Vietnam National University of Physical Education and Sports (VNUPES), both serving as national hubs for athlete development and sports education.

     

    By highlighting these examples, Gregorio stressed that the Philippines has an opportunity to join a growing list of nations that recognize sports as a strategic investment rather than merely a recreational pursuit.

     

    According to the PSC chairman, the proposed Sports University would generate benefits that extend far beyond the playing field. It would strengthen athlete development programs, professionalize coaching and sports education, promote research in sports science and medicine, encourage innovation in sports technology, and create new career opportunities within the rapidly growing sports industry.

     

    Gregorio also believes that the institution could serve as a catalyst for economic activity by supporting sports entrepreneurship, facility management, event organization, sports tourism, and related industries, ultimately positioning sports as a significant contributor to national development.

     

    Beyond medals and championships, he emphasized the role of sports in shaping national identity, inspiring the youth, and building stronger communities.

     

    Closing his message to the graduates, Gregorio challenged them to use their education to make a lasting impact on Philippine society, reminding them that their responsibility extends well beyond the classroom.

     

    “Gawin mong masaya ang atleta, magtatagumpay ang mga Pilipino. Your diploma is not the finish line. It is your starting block. Go where you are needed. Build athletes. Build communities. Build industries. Para sa kabataan at para sa bayan,” he added.

     

    The proposal comes at a time when the Philippines continues to seek ways to build on recent international sporting successes and strengthen its long-term sports development program.

     

    While still in the conceptual stage, Gregorio’s vision of a UP-based Sports University presents a bold blueprint for institutionalizing excellence in Philippine sports—one that aims to produce not only world-class athletes but also the coaches, educators, scientists, and leaders who will shape the future of the nation’s sporting landscape for generations to come.

     

     

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  • PSC commends ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championship as turning point for grassroots sports development 

    PSC commends ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championship as turning point for grassroots sports development 

    What unfolded over five days at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium was more than a national championship—it was, for Philippine sports leaders, a blueprint for the future.

     

    Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio praised the successful staging of the ICTSI Philippine Athletics Championship.

     

    “The seamless organization of this championship shows how far Philippine athletics has come. Patafa has proven that with vision and discipline, we can stage world-class events right here at home,” PSC Chairman Gregorio said.

     

    The inclusion of an Under-20 division alongside the Under-18 and Open/Elite categories became one of the most significant developments of the meet, signaling a clearer pathway for young athletes transitioning to senior competition. 

     

    For Gregorio, the expansion represents a long-term commitment rather than a short-term adjustment.

     

    He described the addition as a “bold investment in the future of our young athletes,” emphasizing how structured age-group competition can help bridge the gap between grassroots programs and elite international participation.

     

    “Patafa has a very good, well-defined grassroots and talent identification program,” he added.

     

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    Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) president Terry Capistrano echoed that direction, stressing the importance of giving younger athletes more exposure to high-level competition. 

     

    He explained that the Under-20 category was introduced to ensure continuity in athlete development while preparing them for the demands of international competition.

     

    Capistrano revealed a verbal agreement for a dual program between PATAFA and Korea Junior Athletics Federation (KJAF), which includes an open invitation for Filipino athletes to train at world-class facilities in Yecheon, South Korea.

     

    “This partnership with Korea is a game-changer. Our athletes will gain access to world-class training environments, and in return, we strengthen ties with one of Asia’s most dynamic athletics programs,” Capistrano said. 

     

    PATAFA Secretary General Jasper Tanhueco further outlined the vision behind the collaboration, describing it as an exchange program designed to benefit both countries’ young athletes. Under the proposal, Filipino student-athletes will compete in Korea while Korean athletes are also expected to take part in competitions in the Philippines.

     

    The momentum from the championship is expected to carry forward into future international hosting duties, with PATAFA set to stage the Asian Under-18 Athletics Championships in April 2027 at the same New Clark City venue following the National Open.

     

    This year’s edition of the meet also highlighted its growing international footprint, drawing 1,015 athletes, including 95 competitors from nine countries—the United States, Canada, Samoa, Korea, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Chinese Taipei—underscoring the Philippines’ rising role as a regional hub for athletics competition.

     

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  • PSC allots P20 million for Baguio sports development initiatives

    PSC allots P20 million for Baguio sports development initiatives

    The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has granted Baguio City P20 million to support its sports development programs and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Baguio City Athletic Bowl, further strengthening the city’s efforts to nurture future national athletes.


    PSC Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio personally handed over the check, highlighting Baguio’s growing role as one of the country’s leading sports development centers. The funding will also complement plans to improve training facilities, including the proposed construction of a world-class football pitch at the Teachers’ Camp track oval within the next four months.

     

    The funding represents more than a facility upgrade. For the PSC, it is an endorsement of a city that has consistently embraced sports as a tool for community development and youth engagement.

     

    “This is not a donation because we just want to help. This is a donation because you are helping yourselves. This is a donation because you are an example of sports development in the Philippines,” Gregorio said.

     

    The commission’s support comes as Baguio continues to strengthen its position as a preferred training destination for athletes due to its high-altitude environment, which has long been utilized by elite competitors preparing for major international events.

     

    The proposed facility is envisioned as another step toward creating a comprehensive sports ecosystem in Baguio, where young athletes can access quality venues without leaving their home region.

     

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    According to Gregorio, the city’s commitment to sports development was a key factor behind the commission’s decision to provide financial assistance.

     

    “Ako po’y natutuwa kasi ang Baguio ay transformative city. The success of any transformation is conviction,” he said.

     

    The PSC chief emphasized that investments in facilities must ultimately translate into opportunities for young athletes, particularly those with aspirations of representing the country on the international stage.

     

    “Magtatag ng sports facilities para sa kabataan. Magtatag ng sports facilities para sa Olympic dream,” he said, describing what he believes is the commission’s most important role.

     

    For the PSC, the long-term goal extends beyond constructing venues. The agency hopes the funding will help establish a sustainable grassroots sports system capable of identifying and developing talent across the Cordillera region.

     

    With upgraded facilities, expanded training opportunities, and stronger local programs, Gregorio believes Baguio can play a major role in producing the next generation of national team standouts—and perhaps even future Olympians.

     

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  • PSC keeps focus on national team development amid PNVF governance issues 

    PSC keeps focus on national team development amid PNVF governance issues 

    With Philippine volleyball facing another period of institutional turmoil, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is choosing to redirect attention away from controversy and toward long-term national team development.

     

    PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio confirmed that issues surrounding the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) are now being handled at the international and Olympic governance level, effectively placing the matter under the jurisdiction of the FIVB and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC). 


    The situation surrounding the PNVF has been placed under review by the FIVB and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), following reported governance concerns and internal issues within the federation. But for Gregorio, the priority is ensuring that the noise off the court does not disrupt the progress of the athletes representing the country.

     

    At the center of that vision is Alas Pilipinas and the broader national team program, which Gregorio believes must already be shaped with a long-term lens toward the country’s hosting of the 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.

     

    “Ang sa akin po, programa. We are hosting the World Championship in 2029. Before you know it, it’s 2029. Kailangan i-focus natin ‘yung suporta natin sa development ng mga atleta,” Gregorio said.

     

    His message reflects a broader attempt to stabilize focus amid ongoing controversy surrounding the PNVF, which has recently been suspended by the FIVB over reported “serious governance concerns and multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.” 

     

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    Adding to the instability is internal friction, including the reported withdrawal of support from a majority of the federation’s executive board for its leadership under Tonyboy Liao—an issue that has intensified calls for resolution and reform.

     

    Gregorio made it clear that the PSC will not be drawn into administrative disputes, emphasizing that governance decisions are already being addressed by the appropriate bodies.

     

    “I don’t want to comment on that because nandoon na po ‘yan sa FIVB and assignment po ‘yan ng Philippine Olympic Committee. Basta sa amin lang po, kami sa Philippine Sports Commission, gusto lang namin na talagang ang focus is on the national team program,” Gregorio said.

     

    He stressed that unity and focus are essential, especially given the scale of investment from government and private stakeholders.

     

    “Pag ganitong mga hosting, gumagastos po ang pamahalaan, gumagastos ang probinsya, maraming gumagastos na sponsors. So ayaw namin ng hidwaan, lalo na kung ang hidwaan ay tungkol lang sa mga personalidad,” the PSC chairman said.

     

    Even as national-level issues continue to unfold, Gregorio pointed to encouraging developments at the grassroots and regional level, particularly the ongoing 2026 AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City, which he described as an example of strong local hosting capability.

     

    “Obviously, talaga namang expected ko na ‘to — it will be a very beautiful hosting. Candon City, sila Mayor Eric Singson, sanay na sanay mag-host ng international events,” said Gregorio.

     

    The PSC chief also reaffirmed his intention to decentralize Philippine sports hosting, pushing more international and national competitions outside Metro Manila to strengthen provincial sports ecosystems and broaden public engagement.

     

    “Kailangan maramdaman din ng taumbayan, ng mga probinsiya natin, na kaya naman talaga nila mag-host e. Kayang-kaya. Sa totoo lang, excited sila. So we have to do more sporting events outside of Metro Manila in the years to come. Pangako ko po ‘yan as PSC chairman,” he said.

     

    In the middle of governance disputes and organizational uncertainty, the PSC’s message is increasingly centered on continuity over conflict, keeping the focus on athletes, and expanding the country’s hosting footprint.

     

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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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  • PSC unveils renovated Teachers Camp Track and Field Oval in Baguio City 

    PSC unveils renovated Teachers Camp Track and Field Oval in Baguio City 

    The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) officially inaugurated the newly renovated and refurbished Teachers Camp Track and Field Oval in Baguio City on Saturday, May 16, marking a significant step forward in the country’s ongoing push to upgrade grassroots and elite sports facilities across the nation.

     

    The revitalized athletics venue is expected to serve a dual purpose—providing a safer, more modern training ground for national athletes while also reopening its doors to the local community, encouraging broader public participation in sports and physical activity in the highland city.

     

    PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio led the ceremonial opening and underscored the broader vision behind the rehabilitation project, emphasizing both elite athlete development and community engagement as central pillars of the commission’s infrastructure program.

     

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    “I’m very happy with the oval’s opening. There are two things. First, for the athletes who can run here again – the boxers, Muay Thai athletes, track and field. Second is the community. When President Marcos opened up Rizal and PhilSports, there were about two to three thousand people every night. We will do the same thing here in Baguio,” Gregorio said during the event.

     

    The reopening of the oval is particularly significant for national team members who have long dealt with limited or substandard training environments. Among them is two-time Olympic medalist and boxing standout Nesthy Petecio, who candidly recalled the difficult conditions of the facility prior to its rehabilitation and how it directly impacted athlete safety and preparation.

     

    “There were potholes, and whenever it rained, the flooding was bad, making it slippery and causing athletes to trip and get injured. I tripped here multiple times while sprinting,” Petecio said, reflecting on the challenges athletes previously faced while training at the venue.

     

    National boxing coach Reynaldo Galido also welcomed the improvements, stressing that the upgraded facility will play a key role in enhancing training quality and long-term athlete development. He noted that Baguio’s climate makes it particularly suitable as a high-altitude training hub for combat sports athletes preparing for international competition.

    “The track oval was very old back then. This change is a big help for us. It serves as an inspiration for our athletes to persevere even more in their athletic careers, while also allowing them to show the value of the support that the PSC provides.

     

    “We realized Baguio was the best place to establish a training center because of its climate. Since most of our boxing tournaments are held in Europe where it is cold, Baguio’s cold weather helps us adapt,” Galido explained.

     

    Beyond athletics and combat sports, the PSC is also advancing plans to further develop the surrounding sports complex into a more comprehensive multi-sport hub. Gregorio revealed that the commission is working in collaboration with the local government, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF), and FIFA on the construction of a “world-class” football pitch within the same facility.

     

    According to Gregorio, the proposed pitch is expected to cost between ₱25 million and ₱30 million, with the goal of completing the project before the end of the year. Once finished, the facility is expected to significantly boost grassroots football development in the region.

     

    “The target completion is before the end of the year. Once we finish the pitch here, I expect thousands of children to play,” Gregorio stated, highlighting the PSC’s vision of transforming the venue into a community-driven sports destination.

     

    The PSC chairman also reiterated his broader development strategy of establishing regional sports training centers across the Philippines, tailored to specific sports based on geographic and environmental advantages. He pointed to existing initiatives such as rowing development in Cauayan, Isabela, where natural waterways have been utilized for training purposes.

     

    “We are really pushing for the development of regional training centers across the country. Right now, if you go to Cauayan in Isabela, it is now a regional training center for rowing because of the Cagayan Rivers. My point is that provinces should no longer aim to build massive stadiums that end up unfinished. We should focus on a sport-by-sport basis instead.

     

    “Now that I have been here for 10 months, with about a year and a half left, it would be a waste of government funding if we do not fast-track this, every day or month we delay these programs and facilities, our athletes lose both confidence and skill,” he added.

     

    With the reopening of the Teachers Camp Track and Field Oval, the PSC hopes to set a model for sustainable, functional, and community-inclusive sports infrastructure—one that supports both elite athlete performance and the long-term growth of Philippine sports at the grassroots level.

     

     

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