UAAP grants deadline extension for Ateneo

In a statement released on Tuesday night, the UAAP granted an extension to Ateneo de Manila University with regards to its submission of its findings in light of the incident in Dipaculao, Aurora last month.

Statement reads as follows. 

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines has granted Ateneo de Manila University’s request to extend the deadline for the submission of its official findings on the June 8, 2026 incident in Dipaculao, Aurora, from July 15 to July 24, 2026.

All previously announced preventive measures remain in effect during the extension period, including the barring of the concerned members of the Ateneo coaching staff from all UAAP-related activities.

Ateneo requested the extension before the original deadline to complete its internal investigation and submit its report. The UAAP Board approved the request during its meeting.

Any determination of accountability will be based on the findings of the appropriate government agencies, Ateneo’s independent fact-finding body, and the UAAP, in accordance with the UAAP By-Laws and applicable rules and regulations.

UP, La Salle duel for Filoil Preseason top seed

Games on Monday
1 p.m. - Mapua vs. Perpetual
3 p.m. - San Beda vs. Letran
6 p.m. - UP vs. La Salle

NEW age rivals cross paths anew this Monday as University of the Philippines and La Salle collide in the 19th Filoil Ecooil Preseason Cup presented by ABC Tile Adhesive at Playtime Filoil Centre in San Juan.

And their duel couldn't have come at a better time with high stakes hanging in the balance for the last three days of eliminations of the premier preseason league.

For the 4-0 Fighting Maroons, a win solidifies its position at the top of the UAAP Group ahead of the crossover quarterfinals and you bet, Veejay Pre, Rey Remogat, and James Payosing are determined to reinforce their position at the top of the table.

The Green Archers, on the other hand, are the hottest team in their bracket winning four straight to go up at 4-1, and Jacob Cortez, Mason Amos, and Vhoris Marasigan are all motivated to continue the defending UAAP champions' mastery against their foes from Diliman.

Moreover, a victory in the 6 p.m. game can force a tie for first with idle National U (5-1), all of which are still awaiting their playoff dates from the opposite bracket in this tourney which has Hanes, Buffalo's Wings N Things, Wallem, BDO, Akari, Smart, Molten, Reyes Barbecue, Nature's Spring, EO Executive Optical, FWD Insurance, Tela.com Athletics, Brothers Burger, B’lue Vita Boost, Mejos Lechon Cebu, and Don Benito's as sponsors.

But it's not the only rivalry game in the day's slate.

Letran and San Beda, both sporting 6-1 records, add another chapter to their storied battles in another Finals rematch from the last collegiate season come 3 p.m.

Titing Manalili has been the engine that has kept the Knights winning as they have emerged victorious in their last six outings, one that they want to sustain heading into the quarters.

Aldous Torculas, on the other hand, is just as stupendous for the Red Lions as he has been the absolute leader for this Mendiola pack.

Playoff-bound Mapua (6-1) also takes on also-ran Perpetual (3-4) in the 1 p.m. curtain raiser of this triple-header.

PFA Open Senior Ranking Series resumes with third leg at Rizal Memorial

The Philippine National team at the Asian Fencing Championships last June

The Philippine Fencing Association’s senior ranking season returns to the strip this weekend as the third leg of the 2026 PFA Open Ranking Tournament takes place on July 4 and 5 at Rizal Memorial.
The two-day competition marks another important stop in the national ranking calendar, with fencers across foil, epee, and sabre expected to chase valuable points, podium finishes, and positioning in the race for year-end standings and national team consideration.

Second leg set the tone

The second leg last April 25 and 26, also held at Rizal Memorial, continued the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships and drew around 250 competitors, underscoring the depth of the Open Division field. It followed a season opener that saw national team regulars, elite club fencers, and Modern Pentathlon standouts battle for early control across foil, epee, and sabre.

Nearly all of the early medalists returned for that April stop, while fencers fresh from UAAP, cadet and junior, and international campaigns added to the level of competition. That mix of proven names and rising challengers helped sharpen the ranking race heading into this weekend’s third leg.

Ranking points take center stage

Coming after the opening senior ranking leg at Amoranto Sports Complex in February and the second leg at Rizal Memorial in April, the third leg now gives competitors a timely opportunity to build on recent momentum, defend early gains, or make a decisive move up the leaderboard.

With the PFA calendar listing two more senior stops later in the year, including the fourth leg in September and the Philippine Open International in October, every direct elimination win this weekend could carry added weight in the broader ranking picture.

Storylines to watch

Among the key storylines will be how the early leaders respond under renewed pressure, particularly with the season now moving past its halfway point for the senior circuit. The third leg traditionally serves as a proving ground for contenders who have already built momentum, while also opening the door for emerging names from clubs and school-based programs to break through.

The event also provides another high-level test for fencers sharpening their form in a busy domestic calendar. Beyond individual medals, the weekend will be a gauge of consistency, depth, and tactical maturity as athletes navigate pool bouts and knockout rounds against familiar rivals and rising challengers.

Members of the national Team, fresh from their exploits in the Senior Asian Fencing Championships in New Delhi, are set to participate. All but two from that pool are set to compete, including Penn State standout Sam Catantan, and Sean Lauron, who was a late scratch in New Delhi and was not able to participate.

Also set to join in are members of the Modern Pentathlon pool, led by Princess Honey Arbilon.

Rizal Memorial back as fencing hub

Rizal Memorial continues to serve as a central venue for the PFA’s 2026 competitions, hosting multiple ranking legs across senior, junior, cadet, minime, veteran, and recreational divisions. Its return as host for the third senior leg reinforces its role as one of the key stages for the country’s competitive fencing scene.
For athletes, coaches, and clubs, the July 4-5 tournament is more than another weekend competition. It is a chance to measure progress, test adjustments made from previous legs, and build confidence heading into the final stretch of the senior ranking season.

Momentum up for grabs

As the national rankings tighten and the calendar moves deeper into the year, the third leg of the PFA Open Ranking Tournament is expected to deliver another competitive weekend of Philippine fencing. For the country’s top senior fencers and those hoping to join them, Rizal Memorial will once again be the place where form, focus, and ranking ambitions are put to the test.

NBA launches new Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA app

Jr. NBA app (c/o NBA)

In a move to further build on its grassroots development, the NBA recently launched the My Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA app, a unified global digital hub tailored for program participants, coaches, referees, parents, as well as competition managers and operators.

With the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program spanning across over 190 countries and territories worldwide, the app, which is available as a free download on both the App Store and Google Play, will be its primary digital destination and one-stop-shop.

Organizers will find the key tools and resources needed to oversee a Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA program on the app, including competition management, registration and data features, live game streaming, and integrated communication capabilities. In addition, it can support multiple languages, as well as handle geo-targeted content, and both app and web-based access.

The key features of the app include:

• Competition Management: Program operators can manage schedules, standings, results, brackets, box scores, play‑by‑play and multimedia galleries all in one place.
• Live Streaming: Coverage of Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA leagues and tournaments.
• Registration Hub: Simplified sign‑ups, waiver processing and participant tracking.
• Communication Tools: Direct updates for participants, parents, coaches, referees and organizers.
• Event Information: Centralized access to Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA events and activities, including program entry.

Considered as the NBA's global youth basketball program, the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA aims to teach fundamental skills and core values of the game, specifically teamwork, respect, determination, and community, at the grassroots level in an effort to help enrich the youth basketball experience for players, coaches, and parents. To do this, it updated its curriculum, now featuring a games-based approach, with over a hundred new activities across 48 practice plans, using small-sided games to boost player engagement and decision-making.

Decathlon reveals VNL Collection as part of FIVB, Volleyball World partnership

Decathlon has teamed up with the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) to launch the exclusive VNL x Decathlon Fan Collection. Designed for the supporters who bring the noise, energy, and passion to the stands, this lifestyle range seamlessly blends iconic volleyball culture with everyday streetwear comfort.
In the Philippines, the exclusive lineup features the official VNL Volleyball available in Size 5 (PHP 850.00), Size 3 (PHP 350.00), and Size 1 (PHP 350.00). The collection also includes fan-essential apparel and gear, featuring the VNL lifestyle t-shirt at PHP 550.00, along with performance arm sleeves and knee braces priced at PHP 450.00 each. The collection is available exclusively at Decathlon stores in Alabang, Pasig, Pasay, and Cebu.

In line with the collection launch and Philippine leg of the VNL Week 2 held at the PhilSports Arena, Decathlon hosted a volleyball clinic featuring current and former Philippine Women’s National Volleyball Team stars Niña Ytang, Faith Nisperos, and Ced Domingo. The event provided specialized, hands-on training for selected aspiring athletes across Metro Manila.

Ced Domingo, a former national team standout and multi-awarded middle blocker, expressed her joy for the continuous growth of the Philippine volleyball community:

“I’m really happy that volleyball, both men's and women's, is getting the exposure it needs and deserves. A lot of people are becoming sports enthusiasts, which is incredibly beneficial for a person’s physical and mental well-being.”

Niña Ytang, the four-time UAAP Best Middle Blocker from UP and standout Alas Pilipinas player, shared how valuable witnessing world-class volleyball action is for her development:

“As an athlete, being able to watch these international players live is the most rewarding experience. You cannot replicate that kind of learning from a screen.”

Faith Nisperos, former Ateneo Lady Eagle and Alas Pilipinas Spiker, shared her passion for mentoring the next generation of volleyball talents:

“Giving back to volleyball has always been one of my life’s missions. Through clinics like this, I get the opportunity to share my knowledge and hopefully inspire them to fall even more in love with the sport. I truly enjoyed coaching because every athlete showed enthusiasm and a genuine desire to learn. Moments like these remind me why I love giving back to the game that has given me so much.”

Third edition of Asia Pacific Padel Cup officially starts in Taguig

The Asia Pacific Padel Cup (APPC) 2026 officially opened today in Manila, marking the start of four days of competition featuring teams from across the Asia-Pacific region.

Now in its third edition, the tournament continues to showcase the rapid growth of padel throughout the region, bringing together top players from participating countries in a celebration of sport, friendship, and regional collaboration.

"APPC 2026 marks an important milestone in the continued growth of padel in the Asia-Pacific region," said Jeff Cheng, President of Padel Pilipinas. "As the defending champions, we enter this tournament with a deep sense of pride and responsibility — not just to compete, but to show the region what Filipino athletes are capable of when given the right support and opportunities."

"The Philippine Olympic Committee is proud to stand behind Padel Pilipinas as it hosts this prestigious regional competition," said Bambol Tolentino, President of the Philippine Olympic Committee. "Events like the Asia Pacific Padel Cup are a testament to how far padel has come in the region — and the Philippines, as defending champion, is proof of what is possible when a federation is built on the right foundations. We look forward to seeing the best of Asia-Pacific compete right here in Manila."

"The Philippines is quickly becoming a hub for emerging sports in the region, and hosting the Asia Pacific Padel Cup 2026 is a proud reflection of that momentum, as part of PSC's sports tourism campaign," said Pato Gregorio, Chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission. "This tournament highlights not only the rapid growth of padel in the country, but also the dedication of our athletes who continue to raise the level of competition. We are proud to support this international event as it showcases world-class play, strengthens regional ties, and celebrates the passion and talent of athletes across Asia-Pacific. This occasion is a proud moment for our sporting community and reflects our continued commitment to developing sport at all levels. To grow the sport, we want our young athletes to watch world-class padel being played here in our country, so they can be inspired to pursue excellence and see what is possible on the international stage."

"Hosting the Asia Pacific Padel Cup for the first time in Manila is something we have worked toward since the very beginning," said Atty. Duane Santos, Secretary General of Padel Pilipinas. "This tournament is more than just a competition — it is a statement that the Philippines is ready to lead padel development in the region. We welcome every team, every athlete, and every fan who has made the journey here, and we are committed to delivering an experience worthy of this championship."

Athletes, coaches, officials, partners, and members of the padel community gathered for the opening of the event, which will run from June 25 to 28. Throughout the tournament, teams will compete for the APPC title while demonstrating the skill, passion, and sportsmanship that have become hallmarks of the competition.

The Philippines enters this year's tournament as the defending champion following its victory in 2025, while teams from across the region look to challenge for the title in what is expected to be the most competitive edition of the event to date.

Since its inception, the Asia Pacific Padel Cup has served as a platform for strengthening connections between padel communities across the region while contributing to the sport's continued development and visibility.

Competition begins immediately following the opening ceremonies, with matches taking place throughout the week and culminating in the championship finals on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Fans and supporters are invited to witness high-level padel action as teams from across the Asia-Pacific region compete in Manila for the 2026 Asia Pacific Padel Cup title.

Vermosa Green Run remains supportive of Takbo Kabitenyo running community

Vermosa Green Run, the multi-level race that supports ecosystem conservation, animal welfare and sports development, has partnered anew with Takbo Kabitenyo, a Cavite-based running organization dedicated to developing aspiring track and field athletes from Cavite.

Vermosa recently turned over race kits to the organization to seal their partnership for the third straight year. Each Takbo Kabitenyo runner also received race day essentials from this year’s sponsors Merrell and Gatsby.

By supporting Takbo Kabitenyo, Vermosa aims to provide greater exposure and meaningful opportunities for promising Cavite athletes as they pursue their sporting aspirations to hopefully become national athletes. By championing young athletes, Vermosa underscofres its support for grassroots sports development.

Green Run 2026 will gun off at Ayala Vermosa Estates on June 28, providing runners of different fitness levels the opportunity to compete, hone their running skills and enjoy the camaraderie of other members of the running community. Proceeds from Green Run 2026 will benefit the Haribon Foundation, Takbo Kabitenyo, and Pawssion Project. The event is also backed by Oishi, Merrell, Pocari, Salonpas, Booster C, Fitbar, Gatsby, Milo, Apex, Topbreed, Dunsk Kuhner, Baby Boo, Chef Special, Entrée Gourmet Pet Treats, Saint Roche, The Gourmet Specialist, Zert, Wonderpaw.

For more information about The Green Run 2026 and to register, visit ayalaland.myruntime.com/register.