UP, NU battle for Filoil preseason crown

Gerry Abadiano

AFTER two long weeks, it all boils down to this one final game.

University of the Philippines and National University dispute the coveted crown in the PlayTime Cares Filoil EcoOil 18th Preseason Cup presented by ABC Tile Adhesive on Sunday.

There’s no love lost between the two sides and that would certainly be the case in this one-game championship duel set at 5:30 p.m. at PlayTime Filoil Centre in San Juan.

For the Fighting Maroons, a crack at history beckons as they gun for an unprecedented third straight title in the premier preseason league which would enable them to capture the ECJ Perpetual Trophy.

But coach Goldwin Monteverde knows that winning it all won’t be easy.

“We know NU is a tough team and it’s going to be a big challenge for us when we face them,” he said.

It’s much of the same case for the Bulldogs, with coach Jeff Napa fully aware of the prowess that the opposition possesses while determined to recapture the trophy they last won back in 2022.

“Hindi magiging madali. Alam naming na underdogs kami sa laban na ito pero ang mahalaga sa amin is we just play our game,” the mentor said.

Gerry Abadiano, Harold Alarcon, and Terrence Fortea will lead the charge for UP while NU will depend on the trio of Jake Figueroa, Jolo Manansala, and Steve Nash Enriquez in the finale of this tilt which has PlayTime Cares, Filoil, EcoOil, Hanes, Bostik El Heneral, Jiang Nan Hotpot, Lamtex Pipes, Smart, and Puso Pilipinas as major sponsors, Spalding as official game ball, and Harbor Star, Wallem, Akari, BDO, Tela.com Athletics, Nature’s Spring, Reyes Barbecue, and Brothers Burger as minor sponsors.

The top gunslingers in the amateur ranks will first take the court in the last gameday of the preseason as the Hanes 3-Point Shootout serve as the appetizer at 4:30 p.m.

Fortea and NU’s Reinhard Jumamoy banner the eight-man field which also includes Adamson’s Matty Erolon, University of Santo Tomas’ Kyle Paranada, La Salle’s Mason Amos, University of the East’s John Abate, Benilde’s Ernest Daja, and Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Nico Quinal.

The winner of the competition will bag the P10,000 cash prize and a gift pack from Hanes.

Hanes 3-Point Shootout to determine outstanding shooters

EIGHT of the best shooters in the amateur ranks wage war on Sunday as they dispute who has the best touch from deep at the Hanes 3-Point Shootout.

Terrence Fortea and Reinhard Jumamoy lead the cast as they vie for the crown which will serve as the appetizer to the championship game of the PlayTime Cares Filoil EcoOil 18th Preseason Cup presented by ABC Tile Adhesive between defending champs University of the Philippines and National University.

Aside from the two, also in the mix are Adamson’s Matty Erolon, University of Santo Tomas’ Kyle Paranada, La Salle’s Mason Amos, University of the East’s John Abate, Benilde’s Ernest Daja, and Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Nico Quinal.

Daja had the best three-point percentage in the league, shooting 66-percent of his rainbow shots as he made 16 of his 24 attempts from deep, while Erolon (52-percent) isn’t that far behind.

The other contestants are the best shooters in their respective teams throughout the premier preseason league which has PlayTime Cares, Filoil, EcoOil, Hanes, Bostik El Heneral, Jiang Nan Hotpot, Lamtex Pipes, Smart, and Puso Pilipinas as major sponsors, Spalding as official game ball, and Harbor Star, Wallem, Akari, BDO, Tela.com Athletics, Nature’s Spring, Reyes Barbecue, and Brothers Burger as minor sponsors.

The winner of the competition will take home the P10,000 cash prize and a gift pack from Hanes.

TV5 to host ‘Pacquiao vs Barrios’ fight on Free TV

coming to your television screens

Filipino boxing legend Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is lacing up his gloves once again for another shot at WBC world welterweight glory – and TV5 and RPTV are in Pacquiao’s corner as they bring every round of this epic title clash to every home via free TV!

The only boxer in history to win world titles in eight weight divisions, Pacquiao will square off with WBC World Welterweight Champion Mario “Aztec Warrior” Barrios on July 20, 2025, PHT (July 19 PST) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

After a four-year break from the pro boxing scene and his last bout against Yordenis Ugás in 2021, the Philippines' boxing pride returns to the ring to prove that he still has the fire and power to dominate the fight – this time against Father Time and against all odds. With 62 wins (39 by knockout), Pacquiao’s legacy as the only boxer in history to claim world titles in eight weight divisions is already etched in stone – but the Pac-Man isn’t done making history just yet.

“This is more than a fight – it’s a national moment,” said TV5 President and CEO Guido R. Zaballero. “We are honored to bring this historic event to every Filipino home for free because Manny Pacquiao’s return to the ring is more than just a comeback – it’s a reminder of the heart, grit, and fighting spirit that we all have as Filipinos.”

Catch this historic Pacquiao vs Barrios world title showdown on July 20 for FREE on RPTV and One Sports at 10:00 AM and on TV5 at 2:15 PM. 

This landmark broadcast underscores the network’s commitment to bringing world-class sports entertainment to every home. As Manny Pacquiao returns to the global arena, Filipinos can once again rally behind the nation’s boxing champion as he battles for another world title and cements his legacy as one of the world’s greatest fighters in boxing history. 

Sama-sama sa Laban ni Pacman! The Pacquiao vs. Barrios fight will also air in high definition on One Sports+ via Cignal TV (Channel 91 SD, Channel 261 HD) for a premium viewing experience.

Galaxy Unpacked reveals the Samsung Galaxy Watch8 Series

Galaxy Watch8

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. on Wednesday, introduced Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic[1], establishing an iconic design identity across the entire Galaxy Watch lineup. Building upon the foundation of the Galaxy Watch Ultra’s cushion design, this series boasts the thinnest, most comfortable Galaxy Watch ever[2] for continuous health tracking. The Galaxy Watch8 series suits diverse lifestyles and provides advanced capabilities, setting a new standard for style and personalized health experiences.

“We are committed to empowering billions of people to live healthier lives through our innovative technology,” said TM Roh, President and Acting Head of the Device eXperience (DX) Division at Samsung Electronics. “By combining purposeful design with advanced sensor technology and an intuitive AI-powered experience, the Galaxy Watch8 series serves as a starting point for a healthier, more connected life, making it easier than ever to take meaningful steps toward users’ well-being.”

Redesigned Inside and Out for Ultimate Wellness

By reimagining both form and function, the Galaxy Watch8 series delivers unmatched comfort alongside industry-leading performance, making it the ultimate companion for everyday wellness. The distinctive cushion design, which debuted with Galaxy Watch Ultra, now defines the entire Galaxy Watch lineup. To achieve the thinnest design yet, the internal structure of Galaxy Watch8 was completely reengineered and its component mounting capability has been improved by 30%, resulting in an 11% thinner design. Combined with the Dynamic Lug system, this design moves naturally with the wrist, providing greater comfort and improved stability² for a better fit and enhanced health-tracking accuracy. 

Galaxy Watch8’s sleek profile is complemented by its exceptional performance. Even when you are outdoors under bright sunlight, the display is 50% brighter² with a peak brightness of 3,000nits for easy visibility, and the enhanced battery² ensures the watch can keep up with an active lifestyle. Moreover, the dual-frequency GPS provides more detailed and precise location results² while our most powerful 3nm processor delivers faster performance and greater power efficiency. With the groundbreaking BioActive Sensor that enables deeper and more accurate health insights, the Galaxy Watch8 series helps provide a holistic view of your health.

Motivation for Lasting Health Changes

Sleep is a window into your overall health and each restful night allows your body and mind to recover immediately the very next day. That’s why Samsung is continuously advancing the sleep experience, offering tailored sleep coaching, helping to create an optimal sleep environment, and even detecting moderate to severe signs of sleep apnea. On top of that, the Galaxy Watch8 series comes with new unique health features on the Samsung Health app[3] that help you build healthier habits through instant, motivational insights – from sleep to nutrition and workout.

Bedtime Guidance[4] can measure your circadian rhythm to suggest the optimal time to go to bed so you wake up refreshed the next morning. Vascular Load[5] helps monitor the stress levels on your vascular system during sleep. Providing insights on various lifestyle factors including sleep, stress and activity, it helps you adopt a more comprehensive approach to managing your health.

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Watch8 series introduces Antioxidant Index[6] for the first time in a smartwatch, enabling you to measure carotenoid levels in just five seconds and make informed lifestyle choices for healthy aging.

Whether you’re a novice or experienced runner, the Galaxy Watch8 series delivers personalized fitness insights to keep you motivated when you need it most. Running Coach[7] calculates your fitness level from 1 to 10 and develops a tailored training plan complete with real-time guidance and motivational insights. With the updated Together feature, which now supports running, you can gamify your fitness journey by challenging friends and family.

If high level of stress persists, High Stress Alert will immediately signal so that you can take a break to help manage your stress levels in real-time. With Mindfulness Tracker, you can record your mood and receive guidance on breathing exercises to relieve your stress – all at once on your wrist.

Plus, the AI-powered Energy Score[8] gives you a snapshot of your energy level, combining physical and mental energy metrics so you can have a healthier day, every day.

Easier Watch Interaction with Wear OS and Gemini

Developed in close collaboration with Google, the Galaxy Watch8 series is the first smartwatch to come out of the box with Gemini[9], Google's AI assistant, and be powered by Wear OS 6. Go hands-free using natural voice commands to get things done on the go with your Galaxy Watch apps like Samsung Health, Calendar, Reminder, and Clock. For example, you can ask Gemini to find a nearby cafe and text a friend to meet you there, all in one go. Or, if you’re ready to start your workout and you have a goal in mind, simply say, “Start a 30-minute run.” The watch seamlessly initiates the workout in Samsung Health.

In addition, thanks to the new One UI 8 Watch, the user interface is optimized for the size and shape of the watch face. The new Multi-Info Tiles provide easy access to health metrics, weather, events and more – all in a single, quick look. Moreover, the new Now Bar and depthless notifications ensure key activities are front and center.

Tailored to Match Every Lifestyle

Galaxy Watch8, Galaxy Watch8 Classic and the new Galaxy Watch Ultra are available for pre-order in select markets starting today until July 31, with general availability starting August 1.

Featuring a sleek and minimalist design, Galaxy Watch8 is designed for everyday wellness. Available in 44mm or 40mm sizes and in Graphite or Silver, it provides comfort and style for daily activities. Meanwhile, Galaxy Watch8 Classic brings timeless sophistication to the wrist with modern features such as a rotating bezel and a quick button for added convenience. The Classic model measures 46mm and comes in Black and White. Plus, both models can be matched with a range of stylish bands[10] designed to suit diverse lifestyles.

For those who love outdoor adventures, Galaxy Watch Ultra is the most advanced and durable Galaxy Watch model yet. Available in four titanium finishes including the new Titanium Blue, it offers the longest battery life and the most robust performance in the lineup.

To learn more about Galaxy Watch8, please visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch8-44mm-silver-bluetooth-sm-l330nzsaasa/buy/

Galaxy Watch8 Series Specifications

 

	Galaxy Watch8		Galaxy Watch8 Classic
Color	- 44mm: Graphite, Silver - 40mm: Graphite, Silver		46mm: Black, White
Dimension[11] & Weight[12]	- 44mm: 43.7mm x 46mm x 8.6t (34.0g) - 40mm: 40.4mm x 42.7mm x 8.6t (30.0g)		46mm: 46.4mm x 46mm x 10.6t (63.5g)
Display	Sapphire Crystal - 44mm: 1.47-inch (480x480) Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display - 40mm: 1.34-inch (438x438) Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display		Sapphire Crystal - 46mm: 1.34-inch (438x438) Super AMOLED, Full Color Always On Display
Processor	Exynos W1000 (5 Core, 3nm)
Memory & Storage	2GB memory + 32GB storage		2GB memory + 64GB storage
Battery[13] (typical)	- 44mm: 435mAh - 40mm: 325mAh		445mAh
Charging[14]	Fast Charging (WPC-based wireless charging)
OS[15]	Wear OS Powered by Samsung (Wear OS 6)
UI	One UI 8 Watch
Sensor	Samsung BioActive Sensor (Optical Bio-signal Sensor + Electrical Heart Signal + Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis), Temperature Sensor, Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro Sensor, Geomagnetic Sensor, Light Sensor	Samsung BioActive Sensor (Optical Bio-signal Sensor + Electrical Heart Signal + Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis), Temperature Sensor, Accelerometer, Barometer, Gyro Sensor, Geomagnetic Sensor, Light Sensor, 3D Hall sensor
Connectivity	LTE[16], Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 2.4+5GHz, NFC, L1+L5 Dual-Frequency GPS (GPS, Glonass, Beidou, Galileo)
Durability[17]	5ATM + IP68 / MIL-STD-810H
Compatibility	Android 12.0 or higher and with more than 1.5GB of memory[18]

---

[1] Availability and features may vary depending on market, model and the smartphone paired. All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice.

[2] Compared to the previous Galaxy Watches.

[3] Intended for general wellness and fitness purposes only. Not intended for use in detection, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring or management of any medical condition or disease. Any health-related information accessed through the device and/or application should not be treated as medical advice. Users should seek any medical advice from a physician. Certain features may vary by market, carrier, or the device paired.

[4] Based on 3 days of sleep analysis of user's circadian rhythm and sleep pressure.

[5] Wearing a compatible Galaxy Watch is required when sleeping for at least 3 of the most recent 14 days.

[6] To measure, the user should place the center of their finger on the sensor at the back of the Watch and hold it for 5 seconds. While Antioxidant Index can be measured using any finger, the thumb is recommended for the most accurate result. Repeat measurement due to uneven skin texture may lead to different results.

[7] Prior to starting the coach program, taking a running level test and receiving a level designation is required.

[8] Only available when user register a compatible Galaxy Watch or Galaxy Ring at least once.

[9] Gemini mobile app available on select devices, languages, and countries. Requires compatible Wear OS watch to be connected to a compatible device. Check responses for accuracy. Internet connection and set up may be required. Features may differ depending on subscription and account. Results for illustrative purposes and may vary. Google and Gemini are trademarks of Google LLC.

[10] Sold separately. Availability of watch bands may vary by market or carrier.

[11] Measured without health sensors.

[12] Measured without band.

[13] Battery life is based on results from internal lab tests for typical usage pattern scenarios conducted by Samsung. Actual battery life may vary depending on different usage patterns, device model, network environment and other factors. Typical value tested under third-party laboratory conditions. Typical value is the estimated average value considering the deviation in battery capacity among battery samples tested under the IEC 61960 standard.

[14] Testing conducted by Samsung using pre-released version of Galaxy Watch8 and Galaxy Watch8 Classic (BT & LTE), each paired to a Samsung phone; all devices tested with prerelease software, Galaxy Watch Magnetic Fast Charging USB C Cable (EP-OL300), and Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800). Charge time varies according to region, settings, usage patterns and environmental factors; actual results may vary. Samsung 25W USB C Power Adapter (EP-TA800) sold separately.

[15] Wear OS Powered by Samsung works with phones running Android 12 or later with more than 1.5GB of memory. Compatible devices may vary by market, carrier or device brand.

[16] LTE connectivity only available in LTE models.

[17] Galaxy Watch8 series has obtained MIL-STD 810H Certification: It has undergone a test that repeats from -20°C (1Hr) to 50°C (1Hr) for a total 6 hours.

[18] Device activation is only available after connecting to a smartphone that supports Google Mobile Services. Compatible devices may vary by market, carrier or device brand.

Gilas Pilipinas to face Macau Black Bears in FIBA Asia Cup sendoff

From the SBP

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas has set up an official send-off for Gilas Pilipinas onto their FIBA Asia Cup aspirations.

Taking place on July 28, The Gilas Men will face off against the Macau Black Bears at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum for a friendly.

Tip-off is estimated to be at 730pm.

SBP President Al Panlilio says about the upcoming friendly, "Playing tuneup games before Gilas dives into the FIBA Asia Cup will only help the team out."

He adds, "While the team gets good competition, it’s also an opportunity for our Gilas fans to band together and send their team off before they fly out to Saudi Arabia. It’s a short preparation window as many of our players saw action in the semifinals of the Philippine Cup, which was another reason why the SBP wanted Gilas to have a tuneup game here."

Macau has had previous experience in helping nations with their preparations, having faced off against China last year. 

Founded in 2017 as Chong Son Kung Fu, they made their continental debut in the ASEAN Basketball League, and was one of two new teams in the East Asia Super League this past season. In addition, they are part of roster of sides involved in The Asian Tournament. Their combination of natives, diaspora, and reinforcements under the leadership of Garrett Kelly will provide a good test.

As noted by head coach Tim Cone, "They beat the Chinese national team. They are really strong. They’ve got good imports. It could be a very interesting friendly for us."

The Philippines is hoping to improve its ninth-place finish from the last edition of the FIBA Asia Cup, and will be battling against New Zealand, Chinese-Taipei, and Iraq in first round action at Jeddah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Gilas is expected to be in full strength, save for Kai Sotto, who is still recovering from an ACL injury.

Tickets are now available via https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/

EASL reveals makeover for the 2025-26 season

EASL: Your Game

The East Asia Super League tweaked its look for the upcoming 2025-26 season.

Considered as arguably the top-flight in continental basketball in Asia, the EASL in its third season under its current iteration thought it was time to show love and appreciation to everyone who made it possible all across the region, from the teams and their fans to the league's partners.

As such, the thrust for this coming campaign centers on it being "Your Game."

Choosing this messaging allows the EASL to emphasize that "every city, every court, every possession is part of that limit-defying experience you share with Asia’s top teams and athletes." As the EASL will not exist without the fans.

The logo redesign and creative shift that has a clean and modern identity that matches the league's momentum and vision, noting the recent gains Asian basketball has made in the global stage.

In addition, "Your Game" provides a messaging towards the youth in the region that "their heroes once stood in where they currently stand, with a ball, a court, and a dream they made their own",  something now in place thanks to the EASL's Future Champions program. 

EASL Creative Manager Hadrein Damalerio shares about the new identity, "We saw an opportunity to create a brand identity that not only stands out but stands for something. It reflects our ambition to build the most elevated basketball platform in Asia. The design bridges our previous typography with added symbolic motion, capturing the rising energy of basketball across Asia and our commitment to push it forward."

Vice President and Head of Marketing Mat Morgan adds, "Your Game’ is more than a campaign, it’s an open invitation. Whether it comes from us, our teams, or the fans, it always says the same thing: this league is for you. It’s personal, it’s cultural, and it’s built to welcome everyone into the story."

The upcoming season sees the league add another team from Japan through its cup champion, as well as an inaugural representative from Mongolia.

TCL set with Olympic Day activations

The court TCL took care of at Araullo High School

In line with Olympic Day, TCL conducted special activities highlighting the values espoused by the Olympic Movement, striving to "Inspire Greatness" in its own unique way to build a better future ahead.

One such activation took place recently at the Araullo High School in Manila, where TCL revitalized the court being used by the school in conjuction with Rain or Shine, who provided the paint to enable the refresh of the facility that has 2,072 square feet outside of the 4,700 square foot that comprises the court.

To highlight the finished product, a TCL Basketball Camp was facilitated through the coordination of Better Basketball PH Skills Camp. Forty youngsters participated in this clinic, with Suwon KT SonicBoom guard JD Cagulangan gracing the occasion. The UP alumnus and the Rookie of the Year for the just-concluded Korean Basketball League season joined in and even shot hoops alongside the participants.

In addition, a coaching principles session was conducted with TCL brand partner Jeffrey Cariaso sharing his basketball expertise towards the PE coaches present. Assisting the Blackwater coach in the discussion is the school's Head Teacher VI, MAPEH Department Mr. Augusto D. Baldoz.

Aside from the on-court activation, TCL and Araullo High School formalized their partnership with a contract signing ceremony, Representing the former are TCL CEO Peter Chen, TCL Deputy Marketing Director Shae Yu, TCL Deputy Product Director of Air Conditioner Bert Cheung, TCL Brand Manager Joseph Cernitchez, together with Rain or Shine Assistant Brand Manager Red Magcase, while Assistant School Principal II Ms. Ebuena P. Alvarez served as the latter's representation.

As part of the partnership, TCL donated PhP 300,000 worth of televisions and air-conditioning units to Araullo High School.

Chen says of the partnership, "We're happy to launch this partnership officially. As we celebrate International Olympic Day and our status as the Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner, this basketball clinic perfectly embodies TCL's commitment to ‘Inspire Greatness’ among hopeful kids who aspire to do their best in the field of basketball."

He adds, "Through this endeavor, we aim to impart Olympic values to our Filipinos. We hope our partnership with Araullo High School becomes a hub for more vibrant, engaging activities, inspiring people to connect and celebrate through sports. Here's to more exciting and fulfilling events like this in the future!"

Recently renewing their partnership with the Olympic Movement, securing the title as the official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category, TCL also was honored in special ceremony at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland last June 22, where their name was added onto the Donors' Wall, highlghting their contributions through smart terminals and display solutions, which are set to enhance the development of sports and culture through innovative technology, while also reaffirming the Olympic ethos of "Faster, Higher, Stronger, Together" through its commitment to "Inspire Greatness"

Unveiling the commemorative marble brick are representatives from TCL, including TCL Technology COO Kevin Wang, as well as from the International Olympic Committee, among them being President Thomas Bach and President-elect Kirsty Coventry, as well as Olympic Museum Director Angelita Teo.

TCL officials were also invited to the inauguration of Coventry as the IOC's tenth president the next day, as she became the first female and the first African IOC president. In a way, Coventry's ascent resonates with TCL, as its "TCLforHer" initiative is dedicated towards empowering women globally through technology and culture.

Fresh from the afterglow of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics and leading up to the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, TCL will remain active in supporting the IOC's initiatives towards advancing the evolution of the Olympic Movement.