Rebisco Volleyball Academy holds coaching clinics

Republic Biscuit Corporation (Rebisco) remains committed towards supporting volleyball in the Philippines, with an eye on getting the country to compete an elite level worldwide.

To achieve such feat, they acknowledge the need to develop the sport on a grassroots-level, particularly in the aspect of coaching and officiating. They believe that improving those particular aspects would allow them to better develop volleyball athletes, especially at the school-level.

As such, Rebisco established the Rebisco Volleyball academy, to train coaches and game officials to get them up to par with their regional and global counterparts with regards to coaching and refereeing standards, specifically with regards to the latest concepts, skills, and modern scientific approaches.

A pilot run of five-day courses took place in Naga, Tacloban, and Cagayan de Oro back in March and April, with additional courses taking place at Numancia, Aklan, Dauis, Bohol, Infanta, Quezon, and Morong, Rizal last October and November, at the behest of the different LGUs.

Volleyball experts taught over two hundred coaches and two hundred referees, with strict adherence to health and safety protocols.

For the coaches., they specifically were taught theory courses highlighting scientific research, game trends, and new philosophies and concepts, based on a unified system on how volleyball coaches train globally. In addition, coaches were also allowed to exchange views and experiences with their fellow coaches and trainers.

As for referees, they participated in drills and on-court activities that allowed them to improve their technical abilities, perceptive responses, and judgment decisions, as well as being given the most comprehensive interpretation of game rules.

"We learned new skills, new tactics and new rules that will help us a lot in handling our players and in refereeing the game. All that we learned from Day 1 to Day 5 we will take to heart and put into practice when we go back to our schools. We thank Rebisco for this opportunity. This is only the beginning,” said Coach Lutchina Tabuso of Timoteo Reyes Memorial School in Morong, Rizal.

"We are happy that the Rebisco Volleyball Academy is now a reality. It is the fulfillment of a grassroots program approved by the Philippine Sports Commission that aims to, among other things, develop a pool of people with technical volleyball know-how who can teach and improve the level of competition in their respective areas,” explained Noric Ng, Business Unit Head of Rebisco.

Ng adds, "The Academy will fire up volleyball enthusiasm in the provinces after the long hiatus from the pandemic. Ultimately, we hope to attain our long-term goal of being able to compete at a higher level locally and abroad."

Kyle Tolentino sparks Marikina over Laguna

Kyle Tolentino

Marikina could have a new star on its squad, as Kyle Tolentino stood out in their 79-73 victory over Laguna-Krah Asia on Monday night at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Kyle, the twenty-year-old son of head coach Elvis Tolentino, led all scorers with 24 points, while adding nine rebounds and three assists.

The elder Tolentino shared post-match, "Ako I never doubted naman e, nakita ko naman yung talent. Sabi ko nga sa kaniya, 'di ko siya gagamitin dahil anak ko siya. Kailangan makatulong siya kaya siya ginagamit." He also adds, "Nakita namin maganda yung schedule, nakita namin yung mga games na ahead e. Maganda kasi nga napanood namin yung iba."

The Shoemasters had to fend off the Heroes late, after MJ Dela Virgen and Edgar Charcos nailed consecutive triples to reduce the deficit with 77-73 with 83 seconds left. But Ato Ular's putback off a Joshua Gonzales miss sealed the win for Marikina.

Ular finished with sixteen points and twelve rebounds, with Raynel Casajeros adding eight points and four rebounds.

Dela Virgen led Laguna with seventeen points, seven rebounds, and three assists. AJ Coronel added fourteen points, eight rebounds, and four assists, with Christian Fajarito netted ten points and ten rebounds before fouling out.

Marikina seeks to make it back-to-back victories against Makati on Tuesday at 5pm, with Laguna seeking to end their two-game skid also against the Blazers at 930am on Friday.

The Scores:

Marikina (79) - Tolentino 24, Ular 16, Casajeros 8, Palattao 7, Gonzales 7, Tambeling 6, Carurucan 6, Mendoza 3, Española 2, Gines 0, Sumalacay 0, Pascual 0

Laguna (73) - Dela Virgen 17, Coronel 14, Fajarito 10, Charcos 6, Serios 6, Aurin 6, Fuentes 5, Rivera 5, Saguiguit 2, Laban 2, Guiab 0, Anonuevo 0

Quarterscores: 14-21, 38-36, 66-55, 79-73.

San Juan pounces on Sarangani in MPBL Invitational

Jason Melano

San Juan-Go for Gold AICC snatched its second win at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM on Monday night, defeating Sarangani, 91-72 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The duo of Jhonard Clarito and Jason Melano dominated for the Knights, as they combined for 28 points and 27 rebounds against the Marlins.

San Juan broke the game open in the second half, establishing a ten-point lead at the end of the third quarter, then extending it to as much as nineteen in the final period.

Head coach Randy Alcantara shared afterwards, "Number one is our defense plus naexecute namin yung offense saka yung mga beterano na leader namin napupush talaga yung mga bata na alam mo yung pag sinabing San Juan basketball talagang dapat dikdikin mo sa depensa plus yung offense mo darating 'yan 'wag mo hanapin so ayun yung nangyari ngayon."

He adds, "Nung first quarter kasi parang gigil lahat umiscore e, tumira so nung second half nabago namin. Nung start ng second quarter nabago namin. Gumana yung depensa namin sa poste, transition, mismatches lahat yun nakita namin."

Arvin Gamboa added twelve points and seven rebounds, whilst Rhenz Abando contributing five rebounds and four blocks to add to his ten free throws.

Orlan Wamar, who starred in their opener with 27 points, only netted five this time around, but he did notch three assists alongside five boards.

As for Sarangani, the trio of Marvin Lee, Gabby Espinas, and Macky Acosta each scored fourteen points.

Both teams will be facing Muntinlupa next, with the Marlins seeking to end their skid on Wednesday and the Knights hoping to maintain their undefeated record on Friday.

The Scores:

San Juan (91) - Melano 14, Clarito 14, Gamboa 12, Abando 10, Wamar 9, Hernandez 8, Isit 7, Rodriguez 6, Calma 6, Abundo 5, Manzo 0, Buñag 0

Sarangani (72) - Espinas 14, Acosta 14, Lee 14, Ludovice 11, Sanga 7, Sta. Ana 6, Basibas 3, Munsayac 3, Sarangay 0, Marilao 0, Monteclaro 0, Bautista 0

Quarterscores: 19-20, 35-28, 62-52, 91-72

Yu, Costelo impress in Pasig-Sta Lucia debut

Fran Yu

Pasig-Sta. Lucia opened their Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League powered by TM campaign with a 90-69 victory over Iloilo on Monday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Realtors needed a strong second half to dispatch the Royals. After a third quarter to allowed them to establish a 69-59 lead, Fran Yu led a 19-6 run in the final period to break the game open at 88-65 with four minutes left.

The Letran playmaker finished with eleven points, three rebounds, and five assists in almost 26.5 minutes, while Ryan Costelo added a game-high fifteen points off the bench, as well as five rebounds and two assists.

Justin Arana almost produced a double-double with fourteen points and nine boards. Ced Ablaza netted thirteen markers for Pasig, which joins Bacoor and Bacolod with spotless records in Pool A.

Head coach Bong Dela Cruz shared post-match, "Yung first half kasi ang nakita ko siyempre first game, medyo gigil yung mga players, gigil sa basketball ulit so doon kami nawala sa wisyo." 

He adds, "Pag dating ng second half sa dugout kinausap namin na tapos na yung first half. Now, itong 'pag dating ng third quarter start na natin yung ginagawa natin sa practices which is na-execute nila yung game plan namin."

Levi Hernandez led Iloilo with fourteen points and three rebounds, while Aaron Jeruta added twelve points and four rebounds. The Royals will have a chance to bounce back on Wednesday when they face Bacolod at 130pm.

Later that same day, the Realtors will face off against the Strikers at 730pm.

The Scores:

Pasig (90) - Costelo 15, Arana 14, Ablaza 13, Yu 11, Bautista 9, Caralipio 8, Apinan 8, Mina 7, Teng 3, Lingganay 2, Ambohot 0

Iloilo (69) - Hernandez 14, Jeruta 12, Mahari 11, Maguliano 9, Taywan 8, Jaime 5, Vito 4, Iñigo 2, Santiago 2, Bederi 2, Javelosa 0, Gumaru 0

Quarterscores: 24-21, 46-40, 69-59, 90-69

Bacoor spoils Caloocan debut in MPBL Invitational

Jerome Garcia

Bacoor took advantage of a sizzling Jerome Garcia to secure a win in the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM, dispatching Caloocan, 72-50.

Garcia scored nineteen of his 26 points in the first half, after going scoreless in just four minutes during their opener against Bacolod. The EAC alum also nailed six triples, falling just one point short of matching the tournament-high 27 points set by Orlan Wamar last Thursday.

His explosion, coupled with their defense limited the Excellence to just five points in the second period allowed the Strikers to establish a 40-21 advantage. The lead would eventually reach as high as 35 points during the fourth quarter at 65-30, thanks to a Salvador Galit jumper.

Head coach Aldrin Morante shared afterwards, "Siguro adjustments namin ano, first game talagang ni wala kaming tune up game. Yung game namin talagang yun lang after three weeks of practicing kaya medyo nangangapa. Ngayon yung practice namin kahapon ano e, bale move on na. Natuto na lang kami sa pagkatalo namin."

Richard Albo registered a double-double for Bacoor with thirteen points and twelve rebounds, while Paolo Castro added nine points and three assists.

Pao Javillonar led Caloocan with seventeen points and fourteen rebounds, with Mon Mabayo almost securing a double-double of his own with thirteen points and nine boards. Cedric Labing-isa provided six points, four rebounds, and six assists.

The Strikers will try to net their second win in Pool A against Pasig at 730pm on Wednesday, with Caloocan and Negros will duke it out at noon on Tuesday to see who gets their first win of the tournament.

The Scores: 

Bacoor (72) - Garcia 26, Albo 13, Castro 9, Doligon 6, Acidre 6, Canon 5, Galicia 3, Galit 2, Raymundo 2, Quilatan 0, Acuña 0, Malabag 0

Caloocan (50) - Javillonar 17, Mabayo 13, Peñaredondo 9, Labing-isa 6, Matias 3, Abastillas 2, Pacquiao 0, Gil 0, Lasco 0, Raflores 0, Santos 0, Rosagas 0

Quarterscores: 17-16, 40-21, 60-30, 72-50

Manila tramples Rizal in MPBL Invitational

It did not take long for Manila to bounce back from their opening round matchup in the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, as they took down EMKAI-Rizal Xentro Mall, 89-59 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

It was a dominant encounter, as the Stars established an 24-11 lead after the first quarter after Dan Sara and Brent Paraiso each scoring eight points in the period.

Sara continued his burst in the second quarter to make it 47-24 at the half, with the lead ballooning to as high as 34 points.

The former Red Lion eventually finished with sixteen points. He noted afterwards, "We just set our composure. With Carlo Lastimosa out, we need to have the next man up para makuha namin yung goal namin today." Lastimosa missed the game due to a knee issue that remains day-to-day.

He adds, "We also had to make a statement."

Acknowledging their 77-80 defeat to Mindoro, head coach Cholo Villanueva reminded his team focus more on the positives. He shares, "It's a relatively young team and siguro everybody was excited yesterday. We had a chance to win yesterday but we were able to build momentum from yesterday."

He also adds, "It's a short tournament so we need to look at the film and see the mistakes that we are making. It's a different animal each game, so we have to study them and be ready to compete."

Paraiso would finish with thirteen points, while John Rey Villanueva contributing fourteen points, five rebounds, four assists and a couple of steals. Mark Neil Cruz netted a double-double with twelve points and thirteen rebounds.

Laurenz Victoria led the Golden Coolers with thirteen points, while Andrian Celada added ten points on 4/12 shooting.

Manila hopes to net back-to-back wins in the invitational when they face GenSan on Wednesday, 5PM.

The Scores:

Manila 89 - Sara 16, Villanueva 14, Paraiso 13, Cruz 12, Mangahas 11, Dyke 8, Ambulodto 6, Battaller 5, Asuncion 2, Importante 2, Baltazar 0, Lopez 0.

Rizal 59 - Victoria 13, Celada 10, Serrano 8, Benitez 6, Sunga 5, Acibar 5, Rios 4, Pretta 3, Dela Cruz 3, Melegrito 1, Vasallo 1, Saret 0.

Quarterscores: 24-11, 47-24, 58-50, 89-59.

Bacolod outshines Negros in MPBL Invitiational derby

JK Casino

Bacolod held on in the endgame to preserve a 68-67 victory over Negros to cap off the second day of action at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM inside the Mall of Asia Arena.

Ichie Altamirano converted two free throws to allow Bacolod to take a 68-67 lead with twelve seconds remaining. He would finish with thirteen points and four rebounds.

The Muscovados, who had been down by as much as twelve in the final period, managed to take the lead after four straight points from Jonathan Gantalao at 67-66. They had a chance to snatch away the win, but Ralph Dinolan lost the ball to Kraniel Villoria as time expired.

Bacolod head coach Alex Angeles praised their opposition, "Hats off ako doon sa team ng Negros kasi despite na controlled nga natin yung laro nandun pa rin sila bumabalik balik." He also added, "Pero sa part namin, oo hindi masaya pero sa positive side a win is a win. Tapos ito magpapatibay lalo samin yung mga ganitong klaseng sitwasyon."

JK Casino led the Ballers with fifteen points, with John Pastias and Arben Dionson adding a combined seventeen markers.

Jaycee Adjei led Negros with thirteen points and six rebounds, with Jafet Claridad and Dinonal each notching ten markers.

Bacolod seeks to make it three straight victories in the tournament with a win against Iloilo on Wednesday at 230pm, while Negros looks to prevent a three-game skid against Caloocan on Tuesday at noon.

The Scores:

Bacolod (68) - Casiño 15, Altamirano 13, Pastias 9, Dionson 8, Viloria 6, Montuano 5, Baiquin 5, Tulipas 4, Soriano 3, Gonzales 0, Colonia 0, Comia 0

Negros (67) - Adjei 13, Gantalao 11, Claridad 10, Dinolan 10, Macion 8, Geolingo 7, Yulo 4, Calma 3, Santillan 1, Maestre 0, Menguez 0, Gadon 0

Quarterscores: 22-11, 39-30, 53-44, 68-67.

Mindoro fends off Manila in MPBL Invitational

James Castro

Mindoro-EOG Burlington rode on an inspired performance from Ryusei Koga to fend off Manila, 80-77, in their opening match at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM, Sunday afternoon at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Koga nailed a three-pointer with 106 seconds left in the game to extend the Tamaraws' lead to 78-73. He would finish with seventeen points, three rebounds, and four assists.

Manila would eventually manage to cut down the deficit to a couple of points after Brent Paraiso secured a couple of free throws, but James Castro would ice the game with a couple of his own to preserve the victory for Mindoro.

Tamaraws head coach Britt Reroma credits the team's chemistry in the win. He said post-game, "If you notice yung mga players namin they're more familiar with each other. So kasi maigsi nga lang yung preparation, so we formed a team na kilala talaga namin."

For Koga, it was a special win, dedicating it to his late grandfather Antonio Geralao, who passed away last November 3. He shared afterwards, "It's my lolo's 40th day today so before the game talagang pinuntahan ko yung puntod niya, nag dasal ako. Super fan ko siya, every game ko noon nanonood siya kaya sabi ko yung game na 'to para sa kaniya."

Castro finished with seventeen points in the win, with Alvin Baetiong adding thirteen and six rebounds, while Jeymark Mallari and Jeramer Cabanag combining for seventeen points as well.

John Ambulodto and Paraiso led the way for Manila with 14 points apiece.

Mindoro hopes for back-to-back victories against Bulacan on Tuesday at 930am, with Manila seeking an immediate bounce back against Rizal on Monday, also at 930am.

The Scores:

Mindoro (80) - Castro 17, Koga 17, Baetiong 13, Mallari 9, Cabanag 8, Mariano 8, Matias 3, Villapando 3, Cosejo 2, Liwag 0, Saldana 0, Caldozo 0

Manila (77) - Ambulodto 14, Paraiso 14, Cruz 11, Sara 9, Villanueva 9, Dyke 8, Bataller 5, Mangahas 4, Importante 3, Lopez 0, Asuncion 0, Baltazar 0

Quarterscores: 22-17, 45-38, 65-55, 80-77

Tallo stars for Bicol in Chooks MPBL Invitational

Mac Tallo

Bicol didn't take long in bouncing back from their opening day defeat at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League powered by TM.

The Volcanoes snagged an 80-68 victory over Laguna-Krah asia on Sunday, with Mac Tallo leading the way with eighteen points, seven rebounds, and a couple of assists.

Head coach Aldin Ayo shared post-match, "We played well today compared to our performance yesterday, but based on what we've seen, although we are in the tournament already, we are still a work in progress." He added, "If you noticed, yesterday we shot 50 three-point shots and we made only 11. That means trigger happy lahat eh. Everybody wants to score although we've discussed that already pero siyempre first game, excited."

After a narrow 65-70 loss to Basilan, Bicol put up a much better effort against the Heroes, eventually erecting a 71-52 lead in the fourth quarter.

Kent Lao nailed three triples on his way to fourteen points, with Ralph Tansingco adding ten markers, three rebounds, and a couple of assists. Dennis Santos followed up his 22-point outing with eight in the win.

Kim Aurin led Laguna with thirteen points, six rebounds, and three assists in their opening match of the invitational. MJ Dela Virgen and AJ Coronel each added eleven markers.

Bicol hopes to secure back-to-back wins as they face Makati on Wednesday at noon, whilst Laguna gets a quick turnaround against Marikina on Monday at 730pm.

The Scores:

Bicol-LCC Malls 80 - Tallo 18, Lao 14, Tansingco 10, Santos 8, Marcelino 7, Cruz 5, Huang 4, Lanete 4, Yee 4, Pericas 2, Luib 2, Gabawan 2

Laguna-Krah Asia 68 - Aurin 13, Coronel 11, Dela Virgen 11, Fajarito 10, Serios 7, Rivera 5, Guiab 4, Fuentes 3, Charcos 2, Laban 2, Anonuevo 0, Saguiguit 0

Quarterscores: 14-12, 36-23, 54-39, 80-68

Rizal shackles GenSan in MPBL Invitational

Andrian Celada

EMKAI-Rizal Xentromall relied on their defense to hold off GenSan, 73-66, in Pool D action at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Warriors shot just 32.8% from the field against the Golden Coolers, who only had a couple of weeks of preparation for the competition.

However, they had a chance to make game out of it after being down by as much as sixteen late in the third. From a 39-55 deficit, the duo of Ronjay Buenafe and Felix Apreku sparked a 16-2 rally to make it a one-possession game, 55-57 with 6:41 left.

Fortunately for Rizal, Andrian Celada and Jordan Rios made sure Rodney Santos' coaching debut with the team will be a victorious one, each scoring seven points down the stretch to preserve the victory.

Celada would finish with 23 points, seven rebounds, three steals, and a couple of blocks. Rios added sixteen points and nine rebounds.

Mark Benitez added ten rebounds, while Kurt Sunga dished out eight assists.

Santos shared afterwards, "Nagso-sorry nga ako sa mga players because I had to squeeze in my schemes and system in just two weeks. Pagdating lang sa game, dumepensa lang ang gusto ko. Puwede sila magkamali sa opensa pero hindi sa depensa. At the end of the day, yung offense bonus na lang yan." He adds, "Mixed emotion ako kasi going into game, kasi nandun yung pressure. Sabi ko nga sa kanila sa dugout, yung pinakaimportante in a short tournament is win the first game."

Buenafe led GenSan with twenty points, with Apreku netting ten markers. RJ Ramirez added eleven in the defeat.

Team stalwarts Pamboy Raymundo and Gerald Anderson were limited in today's action, with the former restricted to four points and committing three turnovers, and the latter scoring a couple of free throws in just three minutes of action.

Rizal joins Imus atop Pool D and will face Manila on Monday.

The Scores:

EMKAI-Rizal 73 - Celada 23, Rios 16, Serrano 9, Victoria 8, Acibar 8, Benitez 4, Sunga 2, Melegrito 2, Pretta 1, Dela Cruz 0, Villanueva 0.

GenSan 66 - Buenafe 20, Ramirez 11, Apreku 10, Masaglang 9, Raymundo 4, Galoran 4, Saldua 4, Anderson 2, Ongteco 2, Mondragon 1, Nakpil 0, Pangilinan 0.

Quarterscores: 17-11, 35-29, 57-43, 73-66.

Nueva Ecija showcases depth against Sarangani

Nueva Ecija showed why they are one of the favorites in the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational, securing a 99-92 win over Sarangani on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

At the same time, head coach Carlo Tan expressed disappointment with their defensive performance. He shares, post-match, "I feel the players played not so good in general but offensively, we were really good,. There are some things that we need to clean up defensively."

Tan also adds, "We really had 10 days to work with this team. It's still a work in progress."

The Rice Vanguards flaunted their depth in this one, with the trio of Michael Mabulac, JP Sarao, and Byron Villarias anchoring the offense in the first three quarters, with Roi Sumang, Renz Palma, and Diego Dario chipping in late to preserve the victory.

Mabulac finished with seventeen points and six rebounds, with Sarao adding fifteen and five. Villarias added four triples on his way to fourteen points, while Sumang netted eight points, three rebounds, five assists, and a couple of steals.

Macky Acosta led the Marlins in scoring with seventeen points, with Marvin Lee adding fifteen markers and also contributing six rebounds, four assists, and a steal. Paul Sanga and Gabby Espinas combined for 24 points as well for Sarangani, who shot 47% from the field in this matchup.

The win puts Nueva Ecija alongside San Juan atop Pool C, with Sarangani joins Val City at the bottom.

The Marlins face off against the Knights tomorrow, with the Nueva Ecija having a little bit of a break before facing Val City on Thursday.

The Scores:

Nueva Ecija 99  - Mabulac 17, Sarao 15, Villarias 14, Gutang 10, Bitoon 10, Gozum 8, Sumang 8, Palma 8, Dario 6, Balucanag 3, Belgica 0.

Sarangani 92 - Acosta 17, Lee, 15, Sanga 13, Espinas 11, Sarangay 9, Marilao 8, Munsayac 7, Basibas 4, Monteclaro 3, Bautista 3, Ludovice 2, Sta. Ana 0.

Quarterscores: 22-13, 49-38, 75-65, 99-92.

Basilan caps MPBL Invitational opener with Bicol win

Michael Juico

The much-anticipated matchup between Basilan and Bicol lived up to the hype on Saturday night, as former held off the latter, 70-65, in Pool B action at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM inside the Mall of Asia Arena.

Basilan head coach Jerson Cabiltes shared post-match, "It was a hard-fought game from start to finish."

He adds, "They built a big lead at the start between the first and second quarter we were down by 15. I just told the boys not to give up and to stay with our system and to keep the pressure on. Ayun nga, buti na lang nag bunga nung dulo."

Bicol led 26-11 at that point, and Jumbo Plastic-backed side battled back to overcome the deficit.

After drawing Mark Yee's fifth foul, JR Taganas secured a split of his free throws to establish a 67-65 lead with 47.2 seconds remaining.

Another split from the from the charity stripe, this time from Jay Collado, made it a three-point game with 11.4 seconds left.

Bicol had a chance to tie the game, but Dennis Santos misfires on his three-pointer. Ernesto Bondoc would then convert on a fastbreak layup to cap scoring in the game.

Michael Juico topped Basilan with 24 points on 7/13 shooting, with six rebounds, four assists, and three steals in the victory. Collado added fifteen points and seven rebounds, with team skipper Jonathan Uyloan contributing eleven markers, a couple of boards, and three steals.

Santos led the Volcanoes in scoring with 22 points and four rebounds, while Ralph Tansingco netted thirteen markers. Top-ranked 3x3 baller Mac Tallo finished with twelve points, three rebounds, and five assists.

It will not take long for Bicol to try to give Aldin Ayo a win in his return to five-on-five coaching, as they face Laguna on Sunday at 1pm, while Basilan takes an uncharacteristic four-day break before returning to the court on Thursday against Marikina at 5pm.

The Scores: 

Basilan (70) - Juico 24, Collado 15, Uyloan 11, Serrano 6, Reyes 4, Bondoc 4, Siruma 3, Bringas 2, Taganas 1, Gabo 0, Gimpayan 0, Manalang 0

Bicol (65) - Santos 22, Tansingco 13, Tallo 12, Cruz 5, Yee 5, Marcelino 3, Huang 3, Luib 2, Lao 0, Gabawan 0

Quarterscores: 11-20, 35-35, 51-47, 70-65.

Imus claims Chooks MPBL Invitational opener

Imus-Buracai De Laiya kickstarted their participation in the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League powered by TM with a 75-65 victory over Bulacan on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Bandera blew the game wide open in the third quarter, with Leo Najorda's jumper to make it a 56-38 ballgame.

Bulacan managed to cut that deficit to 51-61 through a Oneal Arim bucket, but Najorda led a rally to restore a seventeen-point advantage at 75-58 with 88 seconds remaining.

Imus head coach Manny Torralba shared after the game, "Thankful, thankful sa Lord na nagkaroon tayo ng trabaho. Before the game, I entered the arena pumunta ako [kay] Jesus Christ and I surrendered all my anxiety, yung takot ko... Bigyan niya ako ng mind na aangkop sa malinis paglalaro ng basketball."

Adi Santos led the way for Imus with a double-double, contributing twelve points and thirteen rebounds, as well as adding three assists. Ian Melecio added a team-high fifteen points to go with three rebounds and five assists.

Najorda finished with twelve points, three rebounds, and four assists, while Jhaymo Eguilos added thirteen points, five rebounds, five assists, and a couple of steals.

Jovit dela Cruz led the Kuyas with sixteen points on 7/9 shooting. Bryan Faundo added eleven points and eight rebounds, while Kyle Neypes netted seven markers, five rebounds, and a couple of assists.

Imus will try to get its second victory of the invitational against GenSan on Tuesday at 730pm, while Bulacan attempts to bounce back against Mindoro earlier that day at 930am.

The Scores:

Imus-Buracai De Laiya (75) - Melencio 15, Eguilos 13, Najorda 12, Santos 12, Rogado 11, Reyson 5, Mangalinon3, Llagas 2, Tan 2, Bragais 0, Fuentes 0, Medalla 0

Bulacan (65) - Dela Cruz 16, Faundo 11, Neypes 7, Hoyohoy 7, Caspe 7, Arim 6, Escosio 5, Iñigo 4, De Mesa 2, Martinez 0, Teodoro 0, Marquez 0, Bacay 0

Quarterscores: 18-20, 39-31 61-48, 75-65

All-Star Bacolod completes comeback over Bacoor

Ichie Altamirano

Bacolod nipped Bacoor, 73-71, in their respective Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM openers on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

JK Casino converted an and-one off a Paolo Castro to give them a 72-71 lead with 28.4 seconds remaining, with the Centro Escolar University alumnus adding a split from an ensuring foul with 6.8 seconds remaining to make it 73-71. He would finish with eight points and nine assists.

The Strikers had a chance to either force an extension of clinch the victory, but Rocky Acidre missed a triple and Mark Doligon was unable to convert a jumper as time expired.

Bacolod head coach Alex Angeles shared after the game, "Ang pini-preach ko naman sa kanila hindi 'man kami maganda sa papel, pero we make sure magtatrabaho kami sa practice." He adds, "Kumbaga suklian lang namin yung grupo na nagpabalik sa amin sa game. Susuklian namin ng depensa kasi kung nakita niyo may run kami, may run sila pero at the end of the day kung sino yung dedepensa sila yung mananalo. Dun kami nag focus especially nung crunch time."

Ichie Altamirano led the team in scoring with twelve points, whilst adding five rebounds and three steals, all coming off the bench. Kenneth Tulipas netted eight points, while Nhomer Gonzales tacking five points and eleven rebounds, as they snatched a win in a game that saw them trail by sixteen in the third period.

Leading the way for Bacoor in the loss is Richard Albo, who topped all scorers with twenty points, while adding five rebounds, three assists, two steals, and a block. Doligon also provided nineteen points and eleven rebounds, with Acidre contributing thirteen points, four boards, and three dimes.

Bacolod joins Iloilo atop Pool A with a win on their slate, while Bacoor joins Negros at the bottom with their respecitve lone defeats.

Bacolod faces off against Negros at 630pm on Sunday, while Bacoor faces Caloocan on Monday at noon.

The Scores: 

Bacolod (73) - Altamirano 12, Casiño 9, Tulipas 8, Viloria 7, Dionson 6, Montuano 6, Baiquin 6, Gonzales 5, Pastias 4, Soriano 3, Dela Cruz 0

Bacoor (71) - Albo 20, Doligon 19, Acidre 13, Castro 9, Canon 6, Galit 4, Taladua 0, Quilatan 0, Acuña 0, Garcia 0

Quarterscores: 11-20, 31-43, 58-55, 73-71

San Juan takes down Val City in MPBL Invitational opener

Orlan Wamar

San Juan-Go for Gold AICC rode on the hot shooting of Orlan Wamar to secure a 97-64 victory over Val City -MJAS Zenith to kick off their campaign at the Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League Invitational powered by TM on Saturday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Wamar dropped seventeen of his game-high 27 points in the first half, including five triples to help the Knights erect a 47-26 lead into the break. The team eventually finished with 50.7% shooting, with 29 of the 35 field goal conversions being assisted.

Tagged as one of the favorites, San Juan head coach Randy Alcantara played down the expectations. He shared to the media after the game, "Hindi naman kami favorite, siguro na-hype lang. Ayaw namin lagay sa ulo namin 'yun at kailangan namin trabahuin namin yun."

He adds, "Tulad dito sa Valenzuela, nakauna lang kami pero kung hindi, may paglalagyan kami."

Supporting Wamar are Arvin Gamboa and Jason Melano, who each contributed eleven points. The latter also added eight rebounds, while Mon Abudo chipped in six points and eight dimes.

Val City struggled against the Knights from the tip, limited to just eight points in the first quarter. They would finish with just 37.5 percent shooting. Kevin Villafranca and Patrick Cabahug combined to go 12/29 from the field and 27 points. Andrey Armenion dished out eleven assists and Reeve Ugsang grabbed eleven boards.

San Juan looks to make it back-to-back wins in the Invitational against Sarangani on Monday at 5pm, while Val City gets a couple of days off before facing Muntinlupa on Tuesday at 230pm.

Alcantara notes, "Sa format ng liga na ito, kailangan ready talaga yung mga players para umabot sa dulo. Walang mahina na grupo at hindi mo alam sino mananalo kada game. Sa amin, kailangan namin magpakondisyon at i-ready namin yung mga players sa mga susunod-sunod na laro."

The Scores:

San Juan-Go for Gold 97 - Wamar 27, Gamboa 11, Melano 11, Rodriguez 9, Clarito 7, Hernandez 6, Isit 6, Abundo 6, Nocum 4, Bunag 4, Calma 4.

Val City-MJAS Zenith 64 - Villafranca 14, Cabahug 13, Armenion 8, Mojica 8, Moralde 5, Bauzon 5, Ugsang 4, Cachuela 3, Darang 2, Elmejrab 2, Cahigas 0, Delator 0.

Quarterscores: 24-8, 47-26, 71-44, 97-64.

Simple ceremonies mark Chooks MPBL Invitational opener

 

After a couple of years, the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League is back, with milestones on tap for its return.

The league is set to have its first games since its bubble experience in Subic to close out the Rajah Cup, and with their official transition as a professional league, they will be the first league to officially open its doors to fans since the pandemic began to take root.

Bounty Agro Ventures, Inc. president Ronald Mascarinas highlighted these when he addressed the crowd inside the Mall of Asia Arena.

He shares, "Ang aming munting kumpanya dahil sa wakas ay makakalaro na rin tayo sa wakas sa harap ng ating basketball fans. Kami nila Senador Manny Pacquiao, Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes, ay tapos pusong nagpapasalamat sa kagalang-galang na mayor ng Pasay City. Mayor Calixto Rubiano na pinaunlakan ang kagustuhan ng mga fans ng live basketball action."

The Chooks-to-Go boss continues, "Sa tulong ng ating chairman ng GAB Baham Mitra, ang ating liga ngayon ay propesyonal na. Magbibigay ito ng mas maayos na kabuhayan sa ating mga manlalaro at game officials." He also notes, "Pero may kaakibat ito na malaking responsibilidad dahil kayo ngayon ay tumatayong ehemplo ng kabataan upang ipakita ang totoong diwa ng sportsmanship. Play hard but most importantly play fair."

League founder Manny Pacquiao graced the proceedings as the guest of honor, and highlighted the MPBL's newfound status alongside the Games and Amusements Board in curbing the threat of game-fixing.

"Sa kabila ng ating pinagdadaanan, narito ako sa inyong harapan upang muling buksan ang mahal nating Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League," said the senator. "Ang pagsasanib pwersa ng Chooks-to-Go at MPBL upang muling buhayin at itaas ang antas ng Philippine basketball. At sa mga susunod na buwan, mag-iikot kami sa mga kapuluan upang mas mailapit sa inyo ang tunay na liga ng bawat Pilipino."

"Bago pa ang lahat, muli akong nagpapaalala na walang lugar o puwang ang game-fixing dito sa liga ng bawat Pilipino. Sa mga nagtatangka na pumasok o pasukan ng game-fixing, huwag niyo kong subukan. Masyadong mataas ang aking respeto sa larong basketball at sa sports. Pahalagahan natin ang laro na nagbibigay saya at kabuhayan sa mas maraming Pilipino."

The simple ceremonies featured the parade of the 22 teams participating in the tournament, as well as an appearance by Tokyo 2020 bronze medalist Eumir Marcial and a performance by Aicelle Santos-Zambrano.

Chooks MPBL Invitational set for opener, fans allowed

Saturday schedule:

9:30 am - Iloilo vs Negros (Pool A)

12:00 nn - Opening Ceremony

1:30 pm - San Juan vs Val City (Pool C)

4:00 pm - Bacolod vs Bacoor (Pool A)

6:30 pm - Bulacan vs Imus (Pool D)

9:00 pm - Bicol vs Basilan (Pool B)

The Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League is set to reignite and make history once again.

Both the local government of Pasay City and the Games and Amusements Board have given their consent to have the SM Mall of Asia Arena host fans during the 2021 Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League powered by TM.

The first couple of days will see a maximum of 1400 fans, but that will eventually lead to a fifty-percent audience capacity of 7500 afterwards.

Each of the ten teams scheduled to play tomorrow and Sunday will receive a hundred tickets for their allocation, with the league also giving away 300 tickets on a first-come, first-serve basis. Fans are expected to be fully vaccinated and must furnish a valid ID.

Interested fans can head to the Coral Way entrance to take advantage of this deal.

Chooks-to-Go president Ronald Mascariñas shares, "We all know that the fans are excited to be allowed back inside the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The first two days though will be our test on how we can fully bring the fans back at the MOA Arena. If our protocols prove to be safe, we will gradually bring more fans in and, hopefully, have 7,500 fully-vaccinated fans inside the venue come the playoffs."

The Chooks MPBL Invitiational will also hold a brief opening ceremony with both Mascariñas and league founder Manny Pacquiao set to grace the occasion.

Aicelle Santos and all-girl band Rogue will serve as performers, with all 22 teams set to parade themselves alongside their respective muses.

The five-game slate will feature the much-anticipated matchup between the Bicol Volcanoes-LCC Malls against Basilan-Jumbo Plastic Medical Depot at 9pm.

Serving as the appetizer just before the opening ceremonies are the Iloilo United Royals and league newcomers Negros Muscovados at 930am, with the Lakan Cup runners-up San Juan Knights-Go for Gold AICC facing off against Val City-MJAS Zenith at 130pm.

The other matchups of the day feature All-Star Bacolod Ballers against Bacoor Strikers at 4pm, followed by the Bulacan Kuyas and the Imus Bandera - Buracai de Laiya at 630pm.

Matches will be streamed LIVE on the Facebook pages of Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas and the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, with one game per day set to be aired on IBC 13. Sundays are the exception in the elimination round with two games set for broadcast.

The league also shared its broadcast component, with Noli Eala, Benjie Paras, Anton Roxas, Christian Luanzon, Potit de Vera, Mikee Reyes, Javi Palana, and Mark Zambrano on the call, whilst serving as courtside reporters are Mica Abesamis, Makyla Chavez, Christiana Dimaunahan, Gianna Llanes, Yani Mayo, and Aiyana Perlas.

SKY to offer special Pinoy boxing bundle

SKY is set to satisfy the taste of boxing fans with a slate of quality fights, including top Filipino prizefighters, with SKY PPV's Filipino Boxing Bundle.

This coming December 12 in Dubai, John Riel Casimero (31-4) defends his WBO bantamweight belt against Paul Butler (33-2) in the main event of Probellum: Revolution, with Jayson Mama challenging fellow 16-0 undefeated fighter Sunny Edwards for the IBF flyweight strap.

Also fighting in that event is Donnie Nietes (43-1-5), who will face Norbelto Jimenez (30-9-5) in a title eliminator for the WBA super flyweight division.

Ten days later, Victorio Saludar (21-4) heads the Dominican Republic to defend his WBA minimumweight title against Eric Rosa Pacheco (4-0).

Both boxing events within the Filipino boxing bundle will have same day and next day replays.

The bundle is available for PhP 200, with commercial-free bouts coming in high-definition.

To subscribe to the bundle, one can check out mysky.com.ph/skyppv or text SKY PPV <Accout No.> to 23662.

For more details, follow SKY on Facebook (fb.com/myskyupdates), Twitter, and Instagram (@myskyupdates).

MPBL secures GAB nod as a professional league

Chooks-to-Go Sports and Marketing Director Mel Macasaquit, Games and Amusements Board Chairman Abraham Mitra, and Chooks-to-Go MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes

The Games and Amusements Board has given its approval on Thursday for the newest professional league in the country, the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.

GAB Chairman Abraham Mitra says, "It's such an honor for all of us to have you. Madaming nangyari sa GAB over the past few years pero this is one of the biggest. Madami nagsasabi na masarap sa pakiramdam na magpropro na kami. Maraming nananaginip na maging professional players at makakamit na nila ito sa MPBL."

The league had maintained an amateur status since its inception in 2017, but with the recent decision by GAB and the Philippine Sports Commission regarding the status of professional and amateur leagues, as well as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced it to rethink its position.

League commissioner Kenneth Duremdes shares, "Over the last two years, the players have been praying for the league to resume. During those two years, the league had a time to re-assess our direction. Through perseverence and patience, nandito na tayo. We are back with the help of our partner Chooks-to-Go and the guidance of GAB."

With the announcement, the upcoming Chooks-to-Go MPBL Invitational Tournament this coming December 11-23 will be its first as a professional.

In the run-up towards the start of the competition on  December 11, the 22 participating teams also secured their accreditation as professional teams, which came with the refresher on what the benefits are available in holding a GAB professional license.

They were also reminded of the efforts GAB has in place against game-fixing and point-shaving.

Mitra shares, "Because of Chooks-to-Go, the MPBL is turning professional. GAB will be here in making this tough path of restarting in a pandemic with you. We always believe in self-regulation. Kung ano yung pangangalakad nila, we will respect that." He continues, "We just want to remind everybody that we will not allow any game-fixing. Alam natin na yan nakakasira sa ating laro. Sa ating code of conduct, nakalagay dun na you have to disassociate yourself from game-fixing and point-shaving."

Duremdes adds, "We are now a pro league. With GAB with us, yung mga players na may binabalak, magisip-isip na sila. Once na magkaroon kayo ng bad image, it will be hard to get back."

TAP Go set for Probellum broadcast featuring Casimero, Mama

 

TAP DMV has snapped up another sporting event, as they secured the broadcast rights for Probellum: Revolution.

The boxing event will take place at the Coca Cola Arena in Dubai on December 12, with the broadcast set to start at midnight, live on Tap Go. Those who prefer to watch it on television can check out Tap Sports on their cable provider at 9pm for a same day telecast.

The main event features a WBO bantamweight title matchup between the champion John Riel Casimero (31-4) and the challenger Paul Butler (33-2). Also featured is the IBF flyweight title fight between two 16-0 fighters in the form of champion Jayson Mama and challenger Sunny Edwards.

Butler makes his first foray outside the United Kingdom as he tries to snatch away the belt from Casimero, who is not fazed by the need to travel overseas. The Brit is fresh from claiming the WBO International Bantamweight title from Willibaldo Garcia back in June via split decision.

The champ is also fresh from a split decision victory last August at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

As for the co-main, this matchup is fresh from a three-month postponement due to Edwards incurring an injury. Mama hopes to claim his first title with a victory.

In addition, Donnie Nietes is set to make his return to the ring against Norbelto Jimenez in a WBA Super Flyweight title eliminator.

The 39-year-old four-division champion will be facing a 30-year-old smarting from two missed title opportunities, drawing against Aliu Bamidele Lasisi for the WBC International Super Flyweight title and a defeat to Khalid Yafai for the WBA World Super Flyweight title.

Tap Sports snags AFF Suzuki Cup broadcast rights

The premier regional competition in ASEAN is headed to TapGo.

Tap Digital Media Ventures (Tap DMV) recently revealed their media acquisition on their social media, followed by the official announcement by the ASEAN Football Federation.

The deal ensure TAP has exclusive rights to the competition in the Philippines, broadcasting all the matches of the tournament, including the semifinals and finals.

AFF President Major General Khiev Sameth says, "We are pleased that... TAP DMV have come on board to further expand the coverage of the AFF Suzuki Cup to reach more fans and new audiences in Asia. Few sporting events in Asia come close to the level of popularity and interest that the AFF Suzuki Cup garner, and we are glad that our fans in... Philippines are now able to catch all the best football action from the comforts of their homes."

SPORTFIVE SEAsia Managing Director Malcolm Thorpe adds, "We are delighted to welcome... TAP DMV as official broadcasters of the AFF Suzuki Cup 2020 for... the Philippines.... The continued interest in the event from major broadcast partners clearly demonstrates the attractiveness of the AFF Suzuki Cup across Asia, and not just in the ASEAN region. We are certain that fans in all these countries will be enthralled with the exhilarating football action and we look forward to working with these experienced media partners to deliver one of the most highly anticipated editions of the AFF Suzuki Cup to all our football fans in these regions."

Of course, Filipinos are very much excited for the chance to watch the Philippines compete in the twice-postponed tournament, although the road towards a return trip to the semifinals is very much complicated.

They kick things off against hosts and three-time champions Singapore on December 8, followed by Timor Leste on the 11th and five-time champions Thailand on the 14th, all of which take place at the Singapore National Stadium.

The Azkals close out against Myanmar at Bishan Stadium on the 18th.

Under Scott Cooper, the Azkals will be led by team captain Stephan Schroeck, with vice captain Patrick Reichelt, Martin Steuble, and Amani Aguinaldo getting the chance to participate in their fourth AFF Suzuki Cup.

Leading the way for the newcomers is newly naturalized striker Bienvenido Maranon, alongside Malaysia League standout Kevin Ray Mendoza (Hansen) of Kuala Lumpur City FC and the much anticipated senior debut of Jesper Nyholm of Djurgardens IF.

Also present is Jefferson Tabinas of Japanese side Mito Hollyrock, whose stint in the dual World Cup/Asian Cup qualifying earned praise and plaudits from fans and analysts alike.

TAP DMV is expected to show its games on Premier Football on television, which is available on the major cable networks. For those who have the TapGo app, one can watch the games with at least the TapGo Premium plans, which are available for just PhP 299/monthly.

MPBL Invitational set for IBC-13 broadcast

IBC-13 Chairman Arturo Alejandrino and MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes

The Chooks-to-Go Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League's Invitational Tournament will be shown on television.

International Broadcast Corporation (IBC-13) will be showing select matches of the December tournament when it starts this weekend, after both sides entered into an agreement on Wednesday night at the Harbor View Restaurant in Manila.

The Chooks MPBL Invitational marks the league's return to action after a nine-month hiatus as a result of the pandemic.

IBC-13 chairman Arturo Alejandrino believes that having sports on the government channel is a means of helping things return to normalcy. He shares, "You know we are very excited partnering with the MPBL because we are going to go back to where we came from. We were in basketball before and for a while, we became very quiet and you know partnering with them is really a milestone also for IBC and we are excited as they are."

Alejandrino continues, "You know last year we have started partnering with Department of Education to bring classrooms into their homes via television, and because of that our viewership got up tremendously and I am glad that because of this viewership base you know the broadcast of the games of MPBL is going to be viewed by Filipinos all over the country."

He adds, "Ang reach natin is from north up to Mindanao, so the basketball flag can go forward and be able to see basketball once again in their television sets. And we will develop more and more partnerships together, but again as I said we have decided in Channel 13 to be able to develop and contribute and one of them is to develop sports. And we are all excited and looking forward to December 11 for the launch."

"We are glad that the MPBL has found a home in IBC 13 and that basketball is back there," said Chooks-to-Go president Ronald Mascariñas. "With the reach of IBC 13 and our social media pages, we are confident that we can bring the league into many homes and be an inspiration to the Filipino youth."

MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes is just glad that the league will be ushering in the return of sports to IBC-13, as it was the channel that once showcased the sport back when he was in his pro playing days.

"Ito na ‘yung masasabi natin ‘yung IBC na home for basketball eh, oo, ito ‘yung inabutan natin noon. ‘Yung IBC sort of reviving of basketball on IBC 13," he shares. "So masaya tayo na nagkaroon tayo ng partnership. Alam naman natin ngayon na restricted pa ang audience so mapapanuod tayo ng mga kababayan natin mga MPBL fans all over the country with IBC on us."

Aside from Alejandrino, gracing the event are IBC 13 on-air Operations Manager Joey Ramos, IBC 13 Sales and Marketing Head Roy Gonzales, MPBL Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes, MPBL legal counsel Atty. Glenn Gacal, and Chooks-to-Go legal counsel Atty. Oliver Correa.

With the entire Invitational already being streamed live on the Facebook pages of Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas and the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, the agreement sees IBC-13 showcase select games in pool play, then followed by a couple quarterfinal matches on December 21. They will then show both semifinal games the next day and the title decider on the 23rd.

The confirmed list of televised pool play matches are as follows:

December 11: Bicol vs Basilan (9pm)

December 12: Manila vs Mindoro and Negros vs Bacolod (4pm onwards)

December 13: Laguna vs Marikina (730pm)

December 14: GenSan vs Imus (730pm)

December 15: Pasig vs Bacoor (730pm)

December 16: Bulacan vs Rizal (730pm)

December 17: San Juan vs Muntinlupa (730pm)

December 18: Sarangani vs Val City (730pm)

December 19: Iloilo vs Caloocan and Nueva Ecija vs San Juan (4pm onwards)

December 20: Makati vs Basilan (730pm)

Two million pesos awaits the champion of this short competition.