SportsPlus Celebrates Eumir Marcial’s Triumph in ‘Thrilla in Manila 2’

Eumir Marcial

Filipino boxing pride shone bright once again as Eumir Marcial captured the WBC International Middleweight Title at the recently concluded Thrilla in Manila 2. SportsPlus, a dedicated sports supporter and the Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), stood behind Marcial’s preparation and journey to this historic win – a commitment reflecting the brand’s long-standing mission to uplift local athletes and highlight Filipino excellence on the global stage. 

“I’m thankful to SportsPlus for their support. It means a lot, not just for me, but for the youth who might be inspired to stand where I am one day,” Marcial said. “Their belief in me and in Filipino sports is a huge motivation, and I thank them for standing firmly behind me every step of the way.”

Fifty years after the iconic clash between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, the Smart Araneta Coliseum witnessed another historic moment in the boxing industry. Serving as the co-main event of the Thrilla in Manila 2 fight card, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial claimed a hard-fought victory over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares. The historic Thrilla in Manila of 1975 remains etched in sports history as one of the greatest boxing matches of all time. After five decades, Marcial stepped into that same ring to continue the legacy—honoring the legends before him while ushering in a new era of Filipino boxing excellence. 

Despite being knocked down twice, Marcial’s composure and fighting spirit never wavered, proving once again why he remains one of the Philippines’ most celebrated boxers. The fight was an epic showdown and a hard-earned world title for Marcial as he won over the heavy-handed Colmenares by majority decision. The victory was made even more meaningful as it coincided with his 30th birthday, marking a milestone in both his life and career.

Marcial’s journey to the belt is built on hard work, discipline, and heart. Growing up in Zamboanga, he learned early what it meant to fight for every opportunity. When he first started boxing, he had no proper gym, limited resources, and little support—but he never lost sight of his dream.

Marcial continues to sharpen his craft and strengthen his purpose, with this win marking the start of his journey toward becoming a world champion–a dream he shares with his late brother. “This fight was my test to see if I truly have what it takes to become a world champion at middleweight,” Marcial shared. “Before my brother passed away, he always told me one thing–that he wanted to see me become a world champion.” This goal perfectly aligns with the SportsPlus mission to uplift Filipino athletes and provide the support needed to turn potential into world-class excellence. 

Throughout his preparation, SportsPlus stood firmly behind Marcial, offering support that went beyond sponsorship. The support around him keeps him grounded and reminds him that every fight, every win, is for the Filipino people.

Beyond this triumph, SportsPlus remains committed to its mission to uplift Filipino athletes through its partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).  

As Marcial continues to raise the flag for Filipino boxing, his victory stands as a reminder that the heart of a champion beats in every Filipino–undaunted, determined, and ready to fight for greatness. His victory echoes the strength of a nation that never backs down.

UAAP gets coaches, referees onto the same page heading into the second round

c/o UAAP

The UAAP held a coaches’ meeting on Monday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion’s Multimedia Room.

During the meeting, the UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office, headed by Commissioner Jai Reyes, presented to the coaches the call accuracy reports for the collegiate men’s, collegiate women’s, and junior high school boys’ basketball tournaments after the first round.

According to the report, call accuracy for the 16-and-under boys’ division was 94.7% with an average of 1.1 missed calls per game, 93.6% for the women’s division with 3.0 missed calls per game, and 92.5% for the men’s division with 8.3 missed calls per game.

Reyes also reiterated that the points of emphasis for the second round are consistency in officiating, proper bench decorum, better implementation of the cooling-off period, and fewer reviews to speed up the games.

“I have a responsibility to the board to uphold the rules also, for all eight schools,” said Reyes.

“Expect continuous referee workshops from our FIBA instructor Bong Pascual for our game to meet international standards and ensure consistency.”

Also attending the meeting were Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas’ Ryan Gregorio and Andrew Teh.

Meanwhile, the second round of the UAAP basketball tournaments will open on October 22 and will include games on November 2, as requested by the SBP to ensure six schools are available for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, scheduled from December 9–20 in Thailand.

Mark Molina, UAAP Board of Managing Directors representative of Far Eastern University, said that the teams competing on the October 22 slate were informed of the schedule ahead of time.

Molina also added that the league will continue to hold six games per gameday.

“The board feels that it is in the interest of the league and schools that all six games are played in the same venue,” said Molina.

“It’s better for our student-athletes that all six games are played in MOA or Araneta, or the best venues possible. That is why we are sticking with the six-game schedule.”

Regarding professional fees for referees, the Board of Managing Directors approved an increase in their rates to recognize their contribution and professionalism. The adjustment will apply to all games officiated and standard across all divisions of the UAAP.

In line with maintaining high-quality officiating, the Commissioner’s Office has already signed 16 of the country’s best referees to be present in all UAAP game days. The group is headlined by seven FIBA international referees—five of whom hold the highest license—while one belongs to the elite group that officiates in top-level FIBA tournaments. This move aims to ensure that the league consistently upholds international standards of fairness and accuracy.

Finally, all coaches from all sports have been provided with formal media guidelines on how to conduct themselves in front of the media.

“You are not representative of your school only. Every time you are saying something, you are speaking on behalf of the UAAP. You are part of the UAAP,” said UAAP Season 88 President Fr. Rodel Cansancio, OP.

“The referees and the media are an important part of the league. Treat everyone with utmost respect at all times.”

UAAP standouts highlight Philippine contingent in Asian U-23 Fencing Championships

The best young fencers on the continent are gathered this week in Malaysia for the 2025 edition of the Asian U-23 Fencing Championships, with the pistes inside the Arena Tan Sri Hamzah, Wisma OCM in Kuala Lumpur serving as the host venue.

It was supposed to take place in the Philippines, but the country had to bow out of having the competition and fellow ASEAN member Malaysia stepped in.

Slated to kick things off are the individual disciplines for the next three days, with team play set to conclude the competition at the weekend.

Wednesday sees the men's epee and the women's sabre on the pistes. Seven Filipinos are on tap to work on them.

On the men's side, PAREF-Southridge's Enrico Fuentes is returning to a place with good memories, having won a SEAFF gold medal in this discipline. Like Fuentes, Oscar del Castillo has achieved success in Malaysia, managing podium finishes in a couple of tournaments at the same venue. Completing the trio is Edan Ensamtan from La Salle.

As for the distaff side, it is anchored by the UE trio of Shareen Beltran, Nicol Canlas, and Shy Catantan. The latter two were key cogs to the Junior Warriors' silver medal finish at the team level, with Nicol fresh from winning a couple of titles earlier this month at the PFA and Xavier Fencing Cup. Meanwhile, Beltran has been the other individual fencer alongside former UAAP MVP Queenie Dalmacio. Completing the quartet is Ateneo standout Kaku dela Serna.

Thursday features the women's foil and men's sabre. The Filipina quartet is led by Shy's two elder sisters who happened to be named as UAAP MVPs this past season, Janna and Sophia. Sophia managed to make recent history for Philippine fencing by winning a bronze at the FIE Satellite event in Singapore. Janna was part of the Filipino contingent at the World Championships in Georgia, and is set to lead UST in a quest for back-to-back UAAP women's fencing crowns. La Salle-Zobel standout Miyake Capina and St. Jude College's Jodie Tan complete the team.

On the men's sabre side, Charles Babatio and Anthony Concepcion helped secure UE the team crown last season, with the former also snagging bronze in individual competition. Khiane Felipe is the current Boys' individual champion and helped the Junior Warriors snag the boys' team crown as well. Former Tiger Fencer Kurt Maruquez is the fourth fencer participating.

Friday features the final set of individual disciplines in men's foil and women's epee. Shawn Nicollei Felipe and Robert Ygnatius Cabaero topped the UAAP Men's Individual event, joined by Louis Shoemaker in helping lock in the Men's Team crown. Marcus Antonio Manuel completes the team.

Finally, the Women's Epee team is led by two Ormoc-based fencers in Ivy Dinoy and UAAP Season 87 Rookie of the Year Alexa Larrazabal. Andrea Matias finished runner-up to Larrazabal this past collegiate season, while Krups Ednilag is the final member of the Filipino playing delegation.

UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office Statement on Coaches' Conduct and Officiating

c/o UAAP

The UAAP released this statement in light of recent events, signed by its commissioner for basketball, Jai Reyes.

The UAAP Basketball Commissioner’s Office respects the voices of our coaches and values their right to express their thoughts freely. Constructive criticism of referees and officiating is welcomed, as it is essential for the growth and development of our game officials. Both the Commissioner’s Office and the coaches share a common goal: to elevate the quality of basketball in the UAAP and ensure that every contest is played with fairness, passion, and integrity.

Before the start of the season, we personally engaged with all participating coaches to gather their feedback and insights. These contributions remain invaluable as we continuously seek to improve the standard of basketball in our league.

We reaffirm that the line of communication with the Commissioner’s Office is always open. Every school, along with its representatives and team officials, has access to detailed game reports, including referee call accuracy grades. Accountability remains a cornerstone of our operations: suspensions and permanent bans have already been implemented to uphold the credibility and integrity of our officiating.

Infractions have been noted for unsportsmanlike behavior and violations of protocol. University of the East assistant coach RJ Argamino was cited for unsportsmanlike behavior and violating the cooling-off period. University of the Philippines head coach Paul Ramos and University of Santo Tomas head coach Haydee Ong were both cited for unsportsmanlike behavior. Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University head coach Tab Baldwin was also cited for violating the cooling-off period. Stern warnings have been given regarding comments on referees to Coach Baldwin, National University head coaches Leo Pujante and Jeff Napa, and University of the East head coach Chris Gavina. While Coach Gavina has already issued a public apology, he was directed to provide an explanation for his post-game remarks and conduct. The use of profane language and making unfounded allegations against game officials is unacceptable in the UAAP. Any future statements that demean or disrespect referees will result in sanctions.

The Commissioner’s Office remains steadfast in its mission to develop a pool of high-quality, consistent officials in alignment with FIBA standards. This season, the UAAP referee pool boasts seven of the nine active FIBA international referees in the Philippines. Five hold the highest FIBA license, and one belongs to the elite cadre authorized to officiate top-tier FIBA competitions. The remaining members are guided by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas and the country’s only FIBA-certified instructor, ensuring that our officiating is grounded in expertise and professionalism.

We recognize that both coaches and officials are adjusting to this season’s new dynamics, as nearly all referees differ from last year. The intensity and closeness of the games naturally amplify emotions, yet it is the responsibility of everyone in the UAAP to uphold sportsmanship, respect, and civility. Our collective conduct sets the example for our athletes and the student community, reminding all of the values that define varsity sports.

PBA Kicks Off Historic Golden Season With Solid Opening Weekend

Over the last five decades, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) has evolved into something far greater than just a basketball league. For generations of fans, the PBA has become a tradition, a part of everyday life. For aspiring players, it has become a dream to chase the pinnacle of basketball in the country. And for the Philippines itself, it stands as an institution, a formative and enduring part of the nation’s culture and passion for the game.

The PBA has created stars and legends, produced unforgettable moments, and built communities that transcend the court. And as it continues to thrive, the league marked a new milestone in its storied journey. Last October 4 and 5, the Philippines’ premier basketball league welcomed its historic 50th season in style, a golden celebration honoring its fans, its heroes, and its legacy.

A Thank You to the Fans

The PBA would not be where it is today without its legions of fans. Whether they’re Dugong San Miguel, a member of the Barangay, or part of the Tropa, the fans are part of the PBA family, and they’re the ones who keep the league going strong. That’s why Saturday’s Fans Day festivities were a way for the league to show its unending gratitude.

Held at the historic Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, fans were treated to a Meet and Greet with some of the PBA’s brightest stars, as well as a surprise performance from the PBA All-Star Band featuring PBA stars June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Raymond Almazan, Ricci Rivero, and Keith Datu. The day culminated in a thrilling fireworks display that lit up the Quezon City sky.

Celebrating 50 Years of Pinoy Hoops Legacy

Saturday night was a celebration of the PBA’s stars and legends, as the league’s 50 Greatest Players and Hall of Fame inductees were honored at the PBA Fellowship Night, which took place at the Meralco Theater in Ortigas.

Among the greats who graced the event were the likes of Romeo Frank, Danny Basilan, Felix Flores, Angelito “Amang” Ladores, Jimmy Manansala, Woodrow Balani, Manny Victorino, Rudolph Klutch, Danny Florencio, Marlou Aquino, Bong Hawkins, Hector Calma, Jojo Lastimosa, Gerry Esplana, and Elmer Cabahug.

Undeniable icons like Atoy Co, Benjie Paras, and Alvin Patrimonio were also some of the night’s most notable attendees.

Aside from honoring the PBA’s hardcourt heroes, the PBA Fellowship Night was also a way to recognize and give thanks to the PBA’s often unheralded stars, including former production staff, media members, and referees.

Performances by Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Bituin Escalante, and Mitoy Yonting with The Draybers made a memorable night even more special, as the event played out like a heartwarming reunion for the PBA family.

Honoring Excellence

On Sunday, the best players of the previous season got their turn in the limelight, as the annual Leo Awards honored those whose performances stood out during the PBA’s 49th Campaign.

June Mar Fajardo, who’s already considered one of the best to ever play in the league, continued to make history as he claimed his record-setting ninth PBA Most Valuable Player award. This honor placed him in a different stratosphere as the only player to win the prestigious award more than four times in his career.

While Fajardo continues to add to his legacy, freshman RJ Abarrientos is just starting to build his. The Barangay Ginebra San Miguel ace captured the first of what should be many individual accolades after being named PBA Season 49’s Rookie of the Year.

The five best players from last season were named to the PBA First Mythical Team. The marquee name, of course, was Fajardo, who was joined by Robert Bolick, CJ Perez, Arvin Tolentino, and Calvin Oftana.

Fajardo was also named to the league’s All-Defensive Team, along with Glenn Khobuntin, Zavier Lucero, Stephen Holt, and Joshua Munzon.

Speaking of Munzon, the Titan Maxx star was also named Most Improved Player, while Rain or Shine’s Gian Mamuyac took home the Sportsmanship Award.

Closing Out with a Clasico

Sunday night marked the start of PBA Season 50, and fans got to witness an opening day concert featuring the likes of Randy Santiago, K Brosas, Mitoy Yonting, Ana Ramsey, Carmela Lorzano, Mike Hanopol, Jett Pangan, Quest, Sam Coloso, and Cueshé, who performed the official theme song for the new season.

To put a bow on an incredible opening weekend and to officially get the PBA’s golden season underway, two of the league’s most decorated and most popular franchises faced off. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel took on the Magnolia Chicken Timplados Hotshots in what’s known as the Manila Clasico, the PBA’s equivalent of a rivalry game.

Under the brightest of lights and in the presence of the PBA’s Greatest Players, Hall of Famers, and the Board of Governors, Ginebra and Magnolia put on a show as always. In the end, it was Magnolia who came away with an 80-73 win for the first W of the PBA Season 50 Philippine Cup.

The PBA’s Solid Weekend wasn’t just a spectacle—it was a statement. That after fifty years, the league still knows where it comes from, and who it plays for.

Beyond the hardwood, the trophies, and the legends, the PBA has always been about the fans. And as the league steps into its next chapter, one thing remains certain: the game stays solid because of the fans whose passion never fades.

Don’t miss the solid hoops action from the PBA’s historic 50 Season! The PBA 50 Philippine Cup airs live on RPTV, PBA Rush, and Pilipinas Live every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Two shutouts highlight Filipinas U17 campaign in Tajikistan

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Under-17 Women’s National Football Team is undefeated entering the final match day of the 2026 AFC Under-17 Women’s Asian Cup (WACQ) Group A in Dushanbe on Friday, defeating Tajikistan and Syria this week for six points, with no goals conceded.

The Young Filipinas blanked the hosts, 2-0, on Wednesday, with Louraine Evangelista scoring her second goal of the qualifiers while Davaoeña pride Jilliana Dagpin finished the game with her first national team goal.

In the 11th minute, the Tuloy protege Evangelista took a shot from outside of the penalty box on her running attack for the early advantage.

After numerous attacking tries by the Philippines against the compact and physical defense of Tajikistan, Dagpin, a young talent honed by the Davao South Regional Football Association and the Makati Football Club, had a splendid sprint toward the goal off Kaida Mizzo’s through pass on the counter to close the game scoring in the 90+5 minute.

Philippines trounces Syria, 5-0

On Monday, the Young Filipinas opened its bid for a second straight AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup appearance with a commanding 5-0 victory over Syria.

Led by brace scorer Ari Enderes, the Young Filipinas displayed sharp finishing and ball distribution on buildup plays for the clinical win.

Enderes opened the scoring in the fourth minute, finishing off a counterattack initiated by Evangelista and delivered through a precise cross from Chiara Mizzo. She completed her brace just before halftime, slotting in a goal off Yurika Valdevieso’s setup in the 44th minute.

“We felt if we scored early on in the game, then we could impose our style of play and how we wanted to play,” commented head coach Pradhyum Reddy on Enderes’ early offense.

“Two goals feels great but we did it as a team and I’m glad we did it together and it feels really good to win,” said Enderes, who was named Player of the Match.

The Young Filipinas shot consecutive long bombs to start the second half, with Kaida Mizzo and former futsal national team standout Evangelista goaling from outside the penalty box in the 50th and 52nd minutes.

Beach Hut FC’s Sofhia Muros closed the game for the Philippines, tapping in a goal in front in the 73rd minute off Chiara Mizzo’s second cross from the right wing.

“I think the good thing is once we got the third goal, we could make some rotations, some substitutions, get some fresh legs. I think it’s important when you’ve got another game in 48 hours’ time that we get to rotate the players,” Reddy concluded.

With the wins, the Philippines will enter the final game on Friday against fellow undefeated team Malaysia, with the lone Asian Cup ticket on the line.

The ASEAN squads have six points each but the Young Filipinas have a +4 goal difference edge over Malaysia.

Philippines maintains tenuous lead in AFC Asian Cup Qualifying

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine men’s national football team (PMNFT) successfully completed a tense sweep of ASEAN neighbor Timor-Leste, winning its home leg, 3-1, on match day 4 of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers (ACQ) at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac on Tuesday.

The team bounced back big in the second half, scoring three goals after trailing by one in the first half.

“It was a completely different game after we scored and I think that we deserved the three points at the end,” said Philippine head coach Carles Cuadrat.

“At the moment it was hard in the first half but I am really proud of the group. We have a big mentality here and I am really proud that we could bounce back from this first half,” added PMNFT’s top forward Bjorn Kristensen, who won his second straight Player of the Match.

After misses from Jefferson Tabinas and Andre Leipold that grazed the goal in the first half, Timor-Leste found its offensive groove and scored its third goal in the past three games, with England-based winger Joao Rangel lobbing the goal from the top left area of the penalty box in the first half injury time.

But the Philippines immediately regrouped and recovered after the halftime break as Tabinas scored off the set piece in the 46th minute, with Sandro Reyes delivering the assist from a right corner kick.

As Timor-Leste dodged several Philippine shots in the ensuing plays, the visitors had a chance at regaining the lead but Marques de Carvalho skied his clear shot in front of goal in the 69th minute.

PMNFT instantly punished that miss, with Kristensen, who hauled four goals in the October 9 game, scoring the go-ahead in the 70th minute off a clinical right-wing link-up with the returning Gerritt Holtmann and assist-passer Jesper Nyholm.

Substitute forward Jarvey Gayoso then scored the finisher in the 90+1 minute off a Randy Schneider set piece for his fourth international goal for the senior squad.

Timor-Leste head coach Ze Pedro commended the Philippines, saying, “I stated right away, I’ve already analyzed the Maldives, I’ve already analyzed Tajikistan, I’ve already analyzed the Philippines, the teams that are part of our group, and I identified before the two games that the Philippines were the strongest team in the group and I continue to say that they are.”

Indeed, PMNFT remains on top of the ACQ Group A with ten points and with a +2 goal difference advantage over Tajikistan.

After absorbing two losses in the October window, both Timor-Leste and Maldives are eliminated from Asian Cup contention.

PMNFT will next face Maldives in Male on November 18 for the penultimate game, before vying for the Asian Cup finals versus Tajikistan in March 2026.