Palace hosts FIVB Men's Volleyball Championship celebration

c/o PNVF

With the celebration of the Drawing of Lots happening the night before, the celebration for the upcoming FIVB Men's World Championship was extended to the subsequent day at Malacañang’s grounds.

Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Local Organizing Committee co-chair William Vincent Araneta Marcos hosted a "Concierto sa Palacio," entertaining over three hundred guests with a two-hour concert filled with fun and enthusiasm.

“It’s really unbelievable, I didn’t expect this concert for the world championship, we never expect this,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation and now also the Asian Volleyball Confederation.

The entourage from the PNVF and FIVB with national athletes in volleyball and sitting volleyball started arriving at the Palace at 5 p.m. and to their surprise, a billboard-type tarp wall saying “PH to Serve” greeted them.

Said wall was a comprehensive gist on a brief history of the sport to the 32 nations competing in the worlds and a collage of action photos of the men’s national team.

“The commitment and effort of the government is extraordinary and we would like to thank the President, First Lady and Vinnie,” Suzara added.

The atmosphere was relaxed and party-like all night long as the guests were entertained by a lively number from the group that won at the World Championships of Performing Arts or more popularly known as the “Talent Olympics,” in Hollywood.

“It was fantastic to see how committed the President [Marcos] is in promoting volleyball,” FIVB general director Fabio Azevedo said. “It’s fantastic to see the volleyball euphoria in the Philippines.”

Fabio presented President Marcos a painting by Slaven Dizdarevic, an Olympian decathlete from Slovakia, who created a masterpiece on a 100 cm by 150 cm canvass depicting the glory of sports.

PNVF Chairman Emeritus Alan Peter Cayetano and fellow LOC co-chair Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and member Senator Pia Cayetano, Senators Juan Miguel Zubiri and Sherwin Gatchalian, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, Labor and Employment Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma and Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman joined the fun-filled night that helped kick off the year-long countdown to the world championship the Philippines is hosting from September 12 to 28, 2025, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Weather forces Ateneo-La Salle football cancellation

c/o UAAP

Weather conditions forced a disappointing conclusion to the opening day of the men's football tournament for the 87th season of the UAAP at the UP Diliman Football Stadium in Quezon City.

Heavy rains and lightning forced a stoppage of the match involving Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University with over thirteen minutes of action in place.

Protocols would then mandate an initial delay of thirty minutes in order to assess the possibility of resuming play. An additional delay of thirty minutes was then allocated to see if whether the game can resume or not.

With an hour to make the assessment, organizers decided to call it a day and cancelled the match. It will be rescheduled to a later date and will start from scratch.

Tickets purchased Sunday will be honored for the match when it is rescheduled.

It was a muted denouement for the day, which saw Far Eastern University defeat Adamson, 3-0 and the University of the East stunning the University of Santo Tomas, 2-1, in the afternoon games scheduled. 

FIVB world championship for Filipinos, Asia

c/o PNVF

ALAS Pilipinas got itself into a “pretty difficult” pool as the year-long countdown to the 2025 FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championship Philippines got off to a rousing and scintillating start in a glitzy Drawing of Lots ceremony at the Solaire Resort Grand Ballroom in Paranaque.

“This is for the Philippines and Filipino fans,” Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara told a big audience of FIVB and Philippine sports officials, representatives from the embassies of the 32-nation world championships, stakeholders, athletes and coaches.

“This is for Asia,” added Suzara, who made special mention of the women's world championship that Thailand is set to host in August—ahead of the September 12 to 28 men’s worlds—, and the world beach championships in Australia all in 2025.

“It’s big year for Asia, and me as president of AVC,” said Suzara, who was elected president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation only two weeks ago in Bangkok. “We like to work hard on this, that Asia can do it for a world championship next year.” 

“Let’s work hard and I’m very proud for the Filipinos to host this first-ever world championship for the first time,” he added.

The hard work thus began, not only for the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) but especially for the national men’s team Alas Pilipinas.

“Pretty difficult,” said Angiolino Frigoni, the Italian head coach of Alas Pilipinas whose credentials include coaching Italy in the 1992 BArcelona and 200o Sydney Olympics. 

“It’s a big responsibility and a big challenge,” said Frigoni as he stressed the importance of the Philippines being the solo host and at the same time pressed to perform well in the championship.

The Philippines was grouped in Pool A with 11-time African champion Tunisia, current Africa titlist and Paris Olympians Egypt and 2024 Asian championship runner-up Iran during the ceremony graced by LOC co-chairs William Vincent Araneta Marcos and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who formally received the world championship Trophy from FIVB General Director Fabio Azevedo.

World No. 1 Poland was in Pool B with Romania, Qatar and The Netherlands, while Volleyball Nations League champion France was grouped in Pool C with Korea, Finland and Argentina; the the United States in Pool D with Colombia, Portugal and 2010 silver medalist Cuba; Slovenia in Pool E with Chile, Bulgaria and 2014 bronze medalist Germany; 2022 world champion Italy in Pool F with Algeria, Belgium and Ukraine; Libya, European league 2023 winner Turkiye and Canada in Pool G; and Brazil, 2024 Challenge Cup winner China, Czech Republic and Serbia in Pool H.

LOC members Senator Pia Cayetano, Philippine Olympic Committee president  Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann were also in attendance in the glamorous ceremony that Gary Valenciano capped with an energetic and awesome performance that mesmerized the audience, local and foreign.

Ateneo-La Salle rivalry highlights Men's Football Opener

c/o UAAP

Matches today at UP Diliman Football Stadium

2 p.m. — FEU vs Adamson

4:30 p.m. — UST vs UE

7 p.m. — Ateneo vs DLSU

A tripleheader is set to kickoff the Collegiate Men's Football Tournament for the 87th season of the UAAP this afternoon. Matches are to take place at the UP Diliman Football Stadium in Quezon City, with the revised schedule now putting them as part of the first semester sports.

Serving as the main highlight at 7pm is the latest edition of the great rivalry between Ateneo and La Salle.

Their last meeting was a 2-2 draw last May, with both teams holding the potential coming in to make the semifinals depending on the outcome.

Said draw was enough to put the Blue Eagles through, thanks to goals from Andy Roxas and eventual Golden Boot winner Kofi Agyei.

Ateneo gaffer JP Merida acknowledged the schedule change has an impact with regards to their preparations.

The three-time champion shares, "It is very challenging because of the very short preparation. But we cannot make that excuse. I'm confident that my players are ready to challenge again this Season 87. It will be a tough opening game, and there is no room for complacency because the moment you switch off, there is a chance we will go home with no points."

His Taft counterpart, Alvin Ocampo, highlights that the Green Booters are this coming season this with a sense of humility, noting the departure of key booters, including Franck Anoh, Vincent Eduave, and Mo Almohjili.

He says, "It promises to be a great game vs Ateneo as always. Our goal, of course, is to qualify for the Final Four."

Last season's losing finalists Far Eastern University will kick off the festivities at 2pm against Adamson. The Tamaraws were hoping for back-to-back football trebles before being denied by the University of the Philippines.

The other match of the day will feature the University of Santo Tomas against the University of the East at 430pm.

As for the Fighting Maroons, they will open their campaign against UST in a rematch of their semifinal last season on Thursday night at 7pm.

La Salle, Ateneo set to wear dark jerseys in rivalry match

c/o UAAP

The first round meeting of Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men's Basketball Tournament will have historic significance from a visual perspective.

This comes after the Green Archers are exercising their option to wear their dark uniforms against their rivals, making for a blue versus green clash of colors.

Said option was made possible with a new rule installed last season. It grants member schools the ability to wear their dark jerseys instead of the light one, provided it has been approved by the Commissioner's Office, led by Xavy Nunag.

La Salle would be the first team to take advantage of this capability, having secured such consent on Saturday night.

According to head coach Topex Robinson, "Since it’s a La Salle-Ateneo game, we decided to wear our school color."

The rivalry game will take place at 630pm tonight at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Pathways set for FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship

FIVB general director Fabio Azevedo (center) turns over the world championship trophy to Local Organizing Committee co-chairs William Vincent Araneta Marcos (center) and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano

Another part of the timeline towards the 2025 edition of the FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championship has been checked off, with the conclusion of the Drawing of Lots on Saturday night at the Solaire Resort in Parañaque City.

Recently-elected Asian Volleyball Confederation president and the chief of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation chief Ramon "Tats" Suzara says, "It will be historic as the LOC [Local Organizing Committee] represents a unique ensemble of active and passionate participation from various sectors such as Government, corporate, sports industry changemakers and trailblazers, and volunteers, all determined to deliver their best; all with hearts beating for the love of the game."

32 teams were split off into eight pools, with the hosts Philippines and the top seven teams in the FIVB rankings getting seeded as the top line of each pool.

Alas Pilipinas, as hosts, were locked in as the top line of Pool A, alongside 11-time African champions Tunisia, defending African champions Egypt, and Asian runner-up Iran. The team was present during the event, including head coach Angiolino Frigoni. Also gracing the event was Alas Women mentor Jorge Souza de Brito, who was on the Brazil roster when they won the gold medal in the 1992 Olympics.

Top-ranked Poland is in Pool B against Romania, Qatar, and the Netherlands, while back-to-back Olympic champions France is in Pool C with Korea, Finland, and Argentina.

As for the fan favorites, the United States drew Colombia, Portugal, and Cuba in Pool D, Japan is in Pool G with Libya, Türkiye, and Canada, and Slovenia was allocated Chile, Bulgaria, and Germany in Pool E.

Completing the pools are Italy, Algeria, Belgium, and Ukraine in Pool F, and Brazil, China, Czechia, and Serbia in Pool H.

Helping conduct the draw are three noted stars of the sport: Dutch captain Nimir Abdel-Aziz, Slovenia captain Tine Urnaut, and Thai legend Nootsara Tomkom, whose nation was selected to host the women's edition of the World Championships next year.

Set to take place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and the SMART-Araneta Coliseum on September 12-28, the World Championships sees round-robin action within each pool, with the top two teams advancing into the Round of 16 to commence knockout action until a champion is determined, with the Philippines hoping to make their inaugural participation a memorable one to its passionate fans.

FIVB general director Fabio Azevedo shares, "For the first time ever, the World Championships will be held in the Philippines. They’re the first in Southeast Asia and for the first time ever, we will have the 32 best countries in your own soil... Together, we will all have the best volleyball experience here—the passion and courage of all teams. We’re absolutely happy and grateful. I can assure you will all work hard to make this a great success and give all the fans in the globe the joy of our sport."

Suzara adds, "Far after the champions have been awarded, the lights have been turned off and the sports hall has been closed, It will be historic, memorable, and even meaningful, as the legacy of the World Championships will carry on in the form of programs to energize national teams of lower catergory federations; programs to empower the youth, as they start dreaming of making it in the sport; and programs to strengthen communities through sports education campaigns and entrepreneurial initiatives."

Other highlights from the draw include the turnover of the FIVB trophy to the LOC, with co-chairs William Vincent Araneta Marcos and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano receiving, as well as an energetic performance from musical legend Gary Valenciano.

UP seeks joint UAAP men's basketball leadership

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Basketball Standings

Juniors High School Boys 

DLSZ 2-0

UE 1-0

FEU-D 1-0

UST 1-1

Ateneo 1-1

NUNS 0-1

UPIS 0-1

ADU 0-2

Collegiate Women

UST 2-0

AdU 2-0

NU 1-0

Ateneo 1-1

UP 0-1

FEU 0-1

UE 0-1

DLSU 0-2

Collegiate Men

DLSU 2-0

UST 2-0

UP 1-0

AdU 1-1

NU 0-1

FEU 0-1

UE 0-1

Ateneo 0-2

Games today at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

8 a.m. – NUNS vs FEU-D (JHS)

9:45 a.m. – UPIS vs UE (JHS)

11:30 a.m. – NU vs FEU (Women)

1:30 p.m. – UP vs UE (Women)

4:30 p.m. – NU vs FEU (Men)

6:30 p.m. – UP vs UE (Men)

The University of the Philippines seeks to force a three-way tie on top as it plays University of the East tonight when the UAAP Season 87 collegiate men's basketball tournament resumes action at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

The Fighting Maroons hope to capitalize on their size and depth advantage to the hilt in the 6:30 p.m. duel with the Red Warriors.

In the men's basketball curtain-raiser, National University and Far Eastern University eye to crash into the win column at 4:30 p.m..

UP, which ended a 36-year championship drought in the 2022 bubble tournament and runners-up in the last two seasons, flaunted its might on opening night in a 77-61 tripping of a young Ateneo crew.

JD Cagulangan and Francis Lopez were stellar, and the Fighting Maroons unveiled Quentin Millora-Brown, the graduate transfer center from The Citadel who grabbed 17 rebounds to dominate the Blue Eagles frontline.

UP knows it has a long way to go, as it tries to polish its game as the season progresses.

Cagulangan, the Season 84 hero, is determined to give back to coach Goldwin Monteverde by giving the Fighting Maroons another championship in his final year.

"Siguro, gusto ko na legacy na maaalala ng tao is yung tipong yung nakikita ninyo yung isang JD na sasabihin na winner. And siguro naman, alam natin na since dumating si coach Gold sa UP, ini-insist niya sa amin na mindset na maging winner talaga," Cagulangan said.

"Para sa kanya, yung winner hindi lang sa court, kahit na sa buhay. Laging sinasabi ni coach na yung pagiging champion, lifestyle iyan eh. Nagli-live kami sa sinasabi ni coach, which is thankful kami na nakilala namin siya," he added.

UE, meanwhile, opened the season with a 55-70 loss to University of Santo Tomas.

The Red Warriors sorely missed Noy Remogat, last season's Mythical Team member who moved to the Fighting Maroons earlier this year, as Nigerian Precious Momowei and Ethan Galang were only the bright spots in the loss to the Growling Tigers.

Despite losing their season opener, the Bulldogs still have the potential to remain on the podium.

NU gave defending champion De La Salle fits before dropping a 75-78 decision last Sunday, losing to a game-winning triple by reigning MVP Kevin Quiambao.

The Bulldogs are facing the young Tamaraws, who are adopting the new system implemented by new coach, PBA great Sean Chambers.

FEU actually had a good start against Adamson University, only to lose steam in the second half, suffering a 47-59 defeat also last Sunday.

Chambers, who played under the famed triangle offense system under decorated coach Tim Cone in the pros, remains upbeat about what the Tamaraws can do as the tournament progresses.

“Hopefully, we’ll be able to shock some teams this year,” Chambers said.

Action then moves to the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday, as it will feature the rivalry game between De La Salle and Ateneo at 6:30 p.m., with UST gunning for a third straight win against Adamson at 3:30 p.m.

The Green Archers and the Growling Tigers share the early lead, having won both of their respective matches so far.

In the women's division, NU seeks to join UST and Adamson atop the standings as it shoots for a second straight win against FEU at 11:30 a.m., while UP seeks to rebound from its season-opening setback to Ateneo when it tangles with UE at 1:30 p.m.

Opening things in the morning are a couple of Junior High School matches, with NUNS faces FEU-Diliman at 8am, seeking to bounce back after being stunned in its opener. It is then followed by UE seeking consecutive wins against UPIS at 945am.

Cayetano statement on UAAP eligibility

On Wednesday morning, Senator Pia Cayetano gave her thoughts about the recent eligibility tweaks the UAAP installed starting this season.

Ako naman, katulad din ng ibang mga parents, ibang mga Filipino na nakibalita lang naman, nabalitaan natin na ang UAAP, sabi nila ay may bago daw silang rule na kapag ikaw ay galing sa isang UAAP school, tapos athlete ka dun, kapag nag-transfer ka sa ibang UAAP school din, bigla daw dadagdagan ng two years. Tama? Yun ang aking narinig, hindi ko naman nabasa ang kanilang rules, pero yun ang aking narinig. Paulit-ulit kong narinig, tapos nabanggit pa yung pangalan ko na sa pananaw daw nila, hindi daw ito paglalabag sa batas. 

Ito babasahin ko sa inyo ang batas, kasi napakaliwanag: 

“Residency of Student-Athlete Section 4 of the law states, in the case of a tertiary student-athlete, transferring from one college or university to another, a maximum of one year residency may be imposed by an athletic association before a student-athlete could participate and represent a school in any athletic competition.”

Sinabi na, diba? A maximum of one-year residency may be imposed before maka-represent dun sa athletic competition. Bawal ang ibang klaseng residency requirement.

UAAP board, nakikiusap naman ako. Yes, I understand, hindi po ako bobo. I understand na may issue kayo na pina-pirate yung athletes nyo. Then solve it in an adult way. Don't punish the kids. Don't punish the athletes. You know, there are rules about commercialization of athletes. I listen naman. Kasi sa US, meron na silang pagbabago daw sa mga rules nila, parang papayagan na daw. Kung ano naman yung gusto ninyo sa gawin sa mga athetes, very open naman tayo. Pero ang huwag na huwag niyong gagawin, eh paparusahan niyo yung atletes dahil sa kagagawan niyong nagpa-pirate kayo-kayo din.

If somebody's violating the rules on piracy, then yun yung violation niya. Nagpa-pirate siya. Pero do not punish the athlete. I'll tell you this, when I was an athlete, when I was a UAAP athlete, 4 years yung inabot kong limit to play. Tapos inabot ko yung dinagdagan ng 5 years. So yung gusto pang maglaro, yung nag-aaral pa naman, pwedeng up to 5 years. Okay, so may must playing time. 

Many sports, karamihan ng sports, walang life after sports when you graduate from college. It is our life as an athlete. Talagang nakabuhos diyan ang oras ng isang atleta sa kanyang sport. Minsan nga, halos hindi makapasa-pasa dahil nga talagang nakatutok sa sports. And that's why, dito sa student-athlete law natin, sinasabi natin na kailangan tulungan natin yung athlete na ma-balance niya din naman yung obligasyon niya as a student, diba? Gusto din naman natin maka-graduate yan. Ngayon, a lot of them are very talented and in only a few sports. Only a few. Basketball for sure. And only in the last few years, volleyball. May commercial leagues after their college days. And then meron pa silang pagkakataon na kumita as a professional. 

But the other sports, wala. Kung meron man, for fun na lang. Tawagin man nilang pro, semi-pro, minsan nga allowance lang, hindi mabigay. Tapos babawasan niyo pa yung years nila as an athlete in college? Why would you do that? Solve your problems another way. Don't penalize the athletes. There are many reasons, and please emphasize this. There are many reasons that an athlete will desire to move universities. Hindi lang dahil pinayret [pirate] siya na may mas magandang offer na commercial value. Paano kung hindi niya kasundo yung teammates niya? Nangyayari po yun. Yung feeling mo hindi ka belong, kaya ka lumipat. 

Kahit nga hindi athlete. May mga kilala ako lumipat, La Salle, Ateneo. Yung lumipat ng La Salle Ateneo to UP kasi parang hindi daw sila belong. Kaya sila napalipat ng school. That's a valid reason to move. 

Now, other reasons. Paano kung napakalayo ng school na yun dun sa tinitirhan mo? Paano naman kung, may top three na silang player sa position na yun. Ika-fourth ka pa. Ka-batch mo o one year lang ang tanda sa'yo. Wala ka bang karapatan na lumipat ng school kung saan baka naman ikaw ay maging top player or top two? Wala kang karapatan ngayon dahil sa ginagawa niyong kalokohan na bagong rule na yan?

That is what you're doing. You are limiting the potential of the athletes by this imposition of this additional two-year residency. It is stupid. So please, and I know that my asking won't really change your minds, but I am asking from the bottom of my heart, think of the athletes. It's not about the medals that your university brings home. It's about the lives that we can change through sports. And you will not change the lives of these kids when you limit their potential. 

Ako as an athlete, feeling ko apat na taon, tapos na yung career ko kasi wala nang commercial naman na pupuntahan yung volleyball at that time. Pero with five years of playing, at least buo yung five years mo, hindi mo man magamit yung sports mo, hindi mo man ipagpatuloy yung sports mo dahil baka naman yung sports mo nga hindi naman basketball po, na wala namang commercial league, pero magagamit mo yung natutunan mo as an athlete for five years in life. Tapos ngayon babawasan niyo pa. Why would you do that?

When asked about having a potential conversation with the league to address this matter, she replies.

Well, ang sa akin naman kasi, thank you for that question. Marunong naman ako magbasa. Kung mali yung intindi ko, by all means, clarify it. By all means. 

Pero kung hindi naman mali yung pagka-intindi ko, ano pang pag-uusapan namin? Ipapatawag ko na lang sila sa hearing and they are violating the law. They should be prepared for that. Yun lang naman yung sa akin. 

I'm very open, but let's not waste each other's time. May trabaho po kayo. Alam ko yung mga nasa UAAP board, karamihan naman po yan, talagang mga nagsisikap sa trabaho. 

And let me make it clear, hindi ko ho nilalahat. But I have to address it as an entity dahil yan ang decision na ginawa ng board.

Cayetano made these thoughts during the groundbreaking ceremonies for the new Athletes' Dorm being put up in place at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

Groundbreaking Ceremony held for Future Athletes' Dormitory inside the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex

c/o Office of Senator Pia Cayetano

Senator Pia S. Cayetano joined sports officials and national athletes at the groundbreaking ceremony of the future seven-storey Athletes' Dormitory at the Rizal Memorial Sports Coliseum on September 12, 2024.

Senator Cayetano, a former national volleyball player and student-athlete, has been instrumental in funding this milestone infrastructure project. As Senior Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, she has been at the forefront of advocating for more support for Filipino athletes and sports development.  

The project, initially announced by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Richard Bachmann earlier this year, is envisioned to provide both living quarters and training facilities for national athletes. The new building will be constructed on the site of the former Pencak Silat and Boxing gyms, adjacent to the Teofilo Yldefonso Swimming Center. The new structure will serve as living quarters for the athletes with the sixth and seventh floor housing training venues for Pencak Silat and Boxing, respectively.

National athletes are currently housed in various spaces at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila and the PhilSports Multi-Purpose Arena in Pasig.

In her address, the Senator highlighted the importance of building an athletes' dorm at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex – a location that is steeped in sports history. She also recalled living in the South Tower during her stint as a former national volleyball athlete.

"I really believe that athletes can be the symbol of perseverance and success for this country. Ito ay proyekto natin with the leadership of Philippine Sports Commission, your coaches, and my colleagues in the Senate who are supportive of this. We hope to continue to invest in sports for this country," Senator Pia said.

She further emphasized the athletes’ need for better support systems and facilities, including sports psychology and mental health programs, underscoring the importance of community support in developing athletes.

“They always say it takes a village to raise a child. It also takes a village to raise an athlete. It really does,” she stressed.

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by officials from the PSC, including Chairman Bachmann, and Commissioners Olivia “Bong” Coo and Walter Francis Torres. Also present were “Long Jump Queen” Elma Muros, as well as national athletes of the Indoor Hockey Men’s & Women’s Teams, ⁠Softball Men’s & Women’s Teams, ⁠Baseball Men’s Team, ⁠Weightlifting Men’s & Women’s Teams, and ⁠Sepak Takraw Men’s & Women’s Teams.

Collegiate Press Corps holds General Assembly and elections

CPC newly-elected officers- L-R: Abby Toralba (Malaya), JR Isaga (Rappler), UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag, John Bryan Ulanday (The Philippine STAR), Justin Kenneth Carandang (GMA News Online), Lui Morales (One Sports), Mark Escarlote (Daily Tribune), Lance Agcaoili (Inquirer.net), Bea Micaller (GMA News Online)

A fresh mandate has been given to John Bryan Ulanday on Wednesday, as the scribe from The Philippine Star has been retained as the president of the Collegiate Press Corps for this season, covering both the 87th season of the UAAP and the centennial season of the NCAA.

Ulanday is set to serve his second straight term as the top man of the organization covering the two major collegiate leagues, after being nominated and voted by the members of the media present at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

Also re-elected to the same post is Abby Toralba of Malaya Business Insight as secretary.

Picked to be the Press Corps' vice presidents are John Remil Isaga of Rappler for the UAAP, JK Carandang for the NCAA, and Lui Morales of One Sports for Internal Affairs.

Serving as the Board of Directors for this term are Theodore Jurado of People's Journal, Peter Atencio of the Manila Standard, Bea Micaller of GMA News Online, Lance Agcaoili of Inquirer.net, and Mark Escarlote of the Daily Tribune.

Acting as advisers for these officers are Randolph Leongson of Cignal, Norman Lee Benjamin Riego of Spin.ph, Joey Villar of The Philippine STAR and Camille B. Naredo of ABS-CBN News.

Ulanday will be coming into his second year fresh from a bevy of new initiatives, among those were the integration of men’s volleyball and women’s basketball onto both the Annual Awards Night and Players of the Week honors for the first time, as well as the historic CPC Outreach Program that provided aid to a bevy of orphans in Manila — with a big help from both UAAP and NCAA officials and coaches.

For this new term, the CPC is set to introduce a weekly ranking of the collegiate teams, based on its thoroughly-crafted criteria. They are also planning on reviving its sportswriting workshop for the campus media covering the scene.

Backed by Discovery Suites and Tinapayan Festival as minor sponsors, it is also expected to introduce a Super Six award for next year's CPC Awards Night, which is the volleyball equivalent to the Mythical Team it hands out for basketball.

DLSU claims back-to-back wins

c/o UAAP

De La Salle University routed Adamson University with an emphatic 82-52 wire-to-wire victory in the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament at the SMART Araneta Coliseum on Wednesday.

Fresh off a close win against National University, the Green Archers came out strong, flexing their dominance to improve their record to 2-0.

“We weren’t really looking at the score. We’re just playing basketball. Again, we tried to keep the energy, that’s why we pretty much used everybody just so we’d have the same energy. That’s just who we are and what we do,” said La Salle head coach Topex Robinson.

La Salle wasted no time asserting control, opening with a 20-6 first quarter that set the tone for a commanding performance throughout the game.

Vhoris Marasigan’s baseline jumper with 2:34 left in the third quarter pushed the Green Archers' lead to an insurmountable 27 points, and a three-pointer from Matthew Rubico capped off the night, establishing their biggest lead at 30 points to seal the final scoreline.

Reigning MVP Kevin Quiambao led the charge, finishing with 21 points on a composed 7-of-13 shooting, while adding five rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one block.

UAAP Season 86 Boys' Basketball Mythical Team member Doy Dungo had a breakout game, sinking all five of his three-point attempts for 15 points.

Meanwhile, 6-foot-11 Nigerian center Henry Agunanne posted a double-double, contributing 11 points and a towering 16 rebounds.

“At the start of the game, I was out of rhythm, but Coach Topex told me that I’d get my redemption, so I just kept fighting and playing defense,” said Agunanne.

Ball movement was a crucial factor for the Green Archers, who recorded 27 assists out of their 31 made field goals.

Up next for La Salle is a highly anticipated matchup against archrival Ateneo de Manila University, set for Sunday at 6:30 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

On the other hand, Adamson’s fourth-year big man Cedrick Manzano was the lone Falcon in double digits with 15 points and eight rebounds. Matthew Montebon and Manu Anabo contributed seven points each.

With the loss, Adamson dropped to 1-1 and will look to bounce back against the University of Santo Tomas on Sunday at 3:30 p.m.

The Scores:

DLSU 82 – Quiambao 21, Dungo 15, Agunanne 11, Macalalag 9, Marasigan 8, Gollena 7, Rubico 3, Ramiro 3, Gonzales 3, Abadam 2, Alian 0, David 0, Phillips 0, Konov 0.

AdU 52 – Manzano 15, Montebon 7, Anabo 7, Yerro 6, Ojarikre 4, Erolon 3, Fransman 3, Alexander 3, Barasi 2, Mantua 2, Calisay 0, Dignadice 0, Ramos 0, Ignacio 0, Ronzone 0, Barcelona 0.

Quarterscores: 20-6, 44-27, 65-45, 82-52.

Philippines to host highly anticipated eFIBA Season 3 World Finals

FIBA Sec-Gen Andreas Zagliakis with SBP President Al Panlilio, c/o FIBA and SBP

Recently hosting the FIBA World Cup, the biggest on-court basketball competition in the country, the Philippines will now do the same for the biggest online basketball tournament later this year.

The much-anticipated third season of the eFIBA World Finals is set to happen on December 11-12 at the SMX Clark Convention Center.

Forty players split into eight teams will duke it out for the title of eFIBA World Champion, as well as a share of the $50,000 prize pool. That title is currently being held by the United States, who secured that in Sweden last year.

Qualification to determine the eight teams is set to commence next month, with 61 nations fielding their respective squads in Regional Pre-Qualifying, followed by Regional Qualifying and the Regional Finals, which will last until November 7.

The top two teams from Europe, as well as the champions from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, North America and the Caribbean, South America, and Oceania will comprise the field, which will be split into two groups. Top two of each group will advance into the semifinals, with the winners set to tangle in the final.

All of these matches are set to be broadcast onto the eFIBA's social media platforms, with the expectation of local casters being involved as well, aside from Vince Chang and Chris Simpson.

In securing the hosting rights, Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas President Al Panlilio says, "Clark has already held multi-sport events, including the Southeast Asian Games in 2019. Now we're excited to host the Season 3 eFIBA World Finals here."

He adds, "We felt that Clark was the perfect place for this event as participants  can enjoy world-class amenities in a more relaxed, laidback vibe with our usual Filipino hospitality."

On FIBA's end, Secretary General Andreas Zagklis shares, "It's an exciting prospect to be having this season's eFIBA World Finals in the Philippines since we all know the passion the country has for our sport. This was one more time confirmed last year at the FIBA Basketball World Cup, and now we can't wait to see the most high-profile eFIBA event taking place there, too."

La Salle, Adamson tussle for second victory

c/o UAAP

Men's Basketball Standings

UP 1-0

UST 1-0

AdU 1-0

DLSU 1-0

NU 0-1

FEU 0-1

UE 0-1

Ateneo 0-1

Women's Basketball Standings

UST 1-0

NU 1-0

AdU 1-0

Ateneo 1-0

UP 0-1

FEU 0-1

DLSU 0-1

UE 0-1

Juniors HS Boys Standings

Ateneo 1-0

DLSZ 1-0

UE 1-0

FEU-D 1-0

ADU 0-1

UST 0-1

NUNS 0-1

UPIS 0-1

Games today at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

8 a.m. – AdU vs DLSZ (JHS)

9:45 a.m. – UST vs Ateneo (JHS)

11:30 a.m. – AdU vs DLSU (Women)

1:30 p.m. – UST vs Ateneo (Women)

4:30 p.m. – AdU vs DLSU (Men)

6:30 p.m. – UST vs Ateneo (Men)

DEFENDING champion De La Salle, fresh off a hard-fought victory over National University last Sunday, will face Adamson University in the UAAP Season 87 collegiate men's basketball tournament on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The game is scheduled to tip off at 4:30 p.m., with both teams aiming for their second consecutive win.

The Green Archers are aware that the Soaring Falcons remain strong Final Four contenders. De La Salle, looking to secure its first back-to-back championship since winning four in a row from 1998 to 2001, will need to maintain their winning momentum.

The Green Archers clinched their latest victory with a dramatic 78-75 come-from-behind win against the Bulldogs, thanks to clutch plays from Kevin Quiambao.

Green Archers head coach Topex Robinson emphasized the importance of focusing on the present rather than defending their title.

"We decided last season that we wanna win the championship and it’s given to us now so we know the responsibility of being the previous champions and we kinda take that out of our vocabulary, we’re not defending anything right now," Robinson said.

He added, "In Season 87 every team has a chance to really win it. We’re just here to really attack the season and see where our courage, our understanding of each other, our trust, our love for each other throughout the season is gonna take us."

Adamson, meanwhile, overcame a sluggish start to spoil Sean Chambers' coaching debut for Far Eastern University with a 59-47 win.

Falcons head coach Nash Racela acknowledged the challenges of adjusting to a new season.

"Sana (hindi na bad start) pero just like what I told you, I didn’t really know what to expect coming into the game," Racela said.

He also noted, "Siguro ganon din sa mga susunod na games, it’s really up to the players. They get a lot of freedom but at the same time, may responsibility that comes with it."

On the other side, University of Santo Tomas (UST) is aiming for its second straight victory against Ateneo in the 6:30 p.m. game.

The Growling Tigers showed their potential with a commanding 70-55 win over University of the East. Mali's Mo Tounkara and transferee Forthsky Padrigao played pivotal roles in that win.

Padrigao, who will face his former team for the first time, previously won a Season 85 championship with the Blue Eagles before moving to España.

Tigers head coach Pido Jarencio expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance.

"Happy ako dito sa first game namin, ito yung breakout game namin eh. Basta sabi ko makuha lang namin ito, yung confidence tataas," Jarencio said.

He also highlighted the team’s preparedness, noting, "Kami naman well prepared kami kasi yung mga assistant coach ko scouting coach yun sa mga teams nila eh katulad si Coach Peter (Martin) nagscout yan sa San Miguel, si Coach Juno (Sauler) ganon din, si Coach Jaren (Jarencio) ganon din sa Northport kaya well-scouted, well-prepared kami."

Ateneo, which opened its season with a 61-77 loss to University of the Philippines last Saturday, will look to bounce back and match UST's two-win output from last year.

Chris Koon remains a doubtful starter due to a sprained ankle sustained late in the first half against the Fighting Maroons.

In the women’s division, UST will seek its second consecutive win against Ateneo at 11:30 a.m., while Adamson aims to secure a 2-0 record in the 1:30 p.m. match against De La Salle.

Also on tap are the junior high school fixtures between De La Salle-Zobel and Adamson at 8 a.m., and UST and Ateneo at 9:45 a.m.

Albert Capellas named as new Philippine Senior Men's National Football Team Head Coach

New gaffer. c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippines has a new gaffer, with the introduction of Albert Capellas as the latest man to take the post, as announced by the Philippine Football Federation.

Senior National Teams Director Freddy Gonzalez shares about the appointment, "The priority in our selection process was to find someone who not only shared our philosophy for the National Teams, but also had the capability to transmit that vision to our players quickly. In Albert Capellas, we’ve found an incredibly good fit — a man who embodies our idea of how the game should be played, and who’s had decades of experience successfully implementing this style in various elite performance environments across Europe and in Asia."

The Spaniard brings 33 years of coaching experience to the islands. Toting a UEFA Pro License, around a third of that time was spent in FC Barcelona. Starting out as a team assistant with Barcelona B, he would move up the ranks in the Catalan giant, becoming a Youth Team Coordinator and then Deputy Director of the Youth Academy.

Albert also acted as an assistant in a variety of prominent football clubs worldwide, having served alongside these notable managers Thomas Frank at Denmark’s Brondby, Peter Bosz at Germany’s Borussia Dortmund and Netherlands’ Vitesse, and Jordi Cruyff in Israel’s Maccabi Tel Aviv and China’s Chongqing Dangai.

He has had national team experience, handling the Under-21 team of Denmark from 2019-21, before taking on the role of manager at top Danish side Midtjylland.

In taking on the job, Capellas says, "I’m very proud to be a part of this journey. For me it’s a fantastic feeling to be here, to help the Federation to go to the next level because that’s what they are looking for. When Freddy asked me to join this project and explained to me what they are working on to make the federation better, and to deliver the best for the players, and how he wanted to approach football for the coming years in the Philippine teams, I was aligned and it piqued my attention. We clicked personally, which is very important for me — that you can be around people that you can work with and you can do your job. That’s why I’m here. I think the aspects we want to develop, we can make them happen. It won’t be easy — nothing in football is — but we can promise that we will do our best. I hope they (the fans) will enjoy the way we want to play, and the way we want to perform."

In crafting the future of the Philippines, he notes, "Our vision is built on three values. Honesty - that everything we do in the national team, we can look each other in the eyes all the time. Then it’s about Commitment. Nobody can stay in the national team without commitment to achieve the goals we are looking for. Finally there is Courage, to fight for the aims we want to achieve. We want to achieve a new way of playing, a new way of training and I want to help them to understand better what it means to be a professional. We want to help Filipino players who have the chance to play abroad, that they can find better teams, that they can be better prepared to be scouted and have better football careers."

Interim manager Norman Fegidero Jr will return to his previous role as an assistant, and his introduction of a more proactive and aggressive playing style will be accelerated under the new manager.

Gonzalez shares about the philosophical shift, "Football should be fun and exciting for both the spectators and the players. In order for that to be case, I believe we need to unshackle the players and place them in a system that trusts their talents and challenges them to raise their game. Coaches in the past may not have had the necessary faith in our players to implement our vision. In this new chapter, that will definitely not be a problem. Our players and spectators can look forward to exciting times."

He adds, "Albert came to observe during the Merdeka Cup, and while he wasn’t officially on board yet at the time, he was eager to already start providing his support to Norman before the Tajikistan game. In those few days Albert showed an impressive attention to detail, and an ability to communicate his ideas very clearly. He wanted to make sure that before the King’s Cup, the team would already have a foundation to build on. If you saw that Tajikistan game, it’s safe to say our players are fully embracing the direction we’re heading."

The directive to the new manager is clear: get the Philippines qualified for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Capellas will use the international windows in the next couple of months, as well as the ASEAN Football Championship this coming December, to help get the team ready by the start of next round of Asian Cup Qualification in March next year.

He says about the task ahead, "It won’t be easy. This is a project. It will be a journey, a process. There will be ups and downs. Sometimes we will fail. Our job is to make sure we learn from the fails. We will try to climb the mountain with a safe journey and go as far as possible. I hope the fans will be able to see the changes in October, and in November and December. But it won’t be everything at one time."

"What excites me the most is the game of football. It’s why I have different experiences in youth academy, or as a national team coach, or as an assistant with top coaches in big leagues and in smaller leagues in Europe and Asia. And now the Philippine national team gives me a new opportunity to discover more about the game, and to discover more about different cultures and different mentalities, and different ways to approach the game. Now I have a new challenge, where they can use my expertise to achieve all the things we are looking for."

EASL set for 2024-25 Season with SM Mall of Asia Arena doubleheader

The 2024-25 season of the East Asia Super League kicks off on October 2 with a double-header at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Called the EASL Tip-Off 2024, it will feature both Filipino teams against continental opposition.

The first matchup sees the 2023-24 PBA Commissioner's Cup champions San Miguel Beermen against the runners-up of the 2024 Korean Basketball League, the Suwon KT Sonic Boom at 6pm.

This matchup will feature eight-time PBA Most Valuable Player JuneMar Fajardo against Heo Hoon, a point guard who averaged 15.1 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists this past season for the Sonicboom.

At 8pm, the 2024 PBA Philippine Cup champions Meralco Bolts tangles with the Macau Black Bears, who are one of the two new additions to the competition.

Longtime Black Bear Jenning Leung will face off against Chris Newsome, a recent national team callup who averaged 16.8 points in their first foray into the EASL, including a 27-point outburst against Ryukyu.

The two games are the first of 34 that will take place across the region, and is to be capped off by the EASL Final Four slated in March 2025.

In making the EASL Tip-Off announcement, league CEO Henry Kerins shares, "Starting the season in Manila is a perfect way to showcase the passion and energy of EASL, both on the court and off it. We expect high intensity competition, with exciting entertainment and activations for fans to experience during the games. EASL Tip-Off 2024 is just the beginning of what we expect to be another amazing season of the best basketball in Asia."

Osaka Bluteon completes Alas Pilipinas sweep

Yuji Nishida

THE Alas Pilipinas Men held the upper hand several times but Osaka Bluteon asserted its superiority and scored a 25-17, 25-10, 25-21 victory in the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals on Sunday at the Philippine Arena in Pasig City.

Olympian and Filipino fan favorite Yuji Nishida again came up huge for the Japan V.League squad with 12 points, seven from attacks, four aces and a block as the visitors completed a sweep of the two exhibition matches against Alas Pilipinas.

Still, Alas Pilipinas team members were elated after the weekend volleyball spectacle, with team captain Kim Malabunga noting that the matches helped identify the areas they need to work on.

Although the Philippines seized the lead several times, Osaka Bluteon was always quick to recover.

“The speed in blocking, quickness in other areas. These are just a few of the things we need to focus on,” Malabunga said. “Individually and as a team, we have to improve in preparation for the world championships.”

The invitationals are part of the events for the one-year countdown to the FIVB Volleyball World Men’s Championship the Philippines is hosting from September 12 to 28, 2025.

“It’s a very good experience. It was very very difficult but for us, it was a very good experience,” Alas Pilipinas coach Angiolino Frigoni said.

Six-foot-2 Cuban Miguel Angel Lopez Castro scored 10, with nine from attacks plus an ace for the Japanese club, six-time champions in the Japanese top flight.

Buds Buddin and Jade Disquitado wowed the crowd as they got all their points from attacks, the former notching nine points and the latter six.

Kacey dela Rosa pounces for Ateneo' over UP

c/o UAAP

Reigning Most Valuable Player Kacey Dela Rosa led Ateneo de Manila University in their opening game of the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Basketball Tournament, scoring 34 points and lifting the Blue Eagles to a 79-68 victory over the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons on Sunday at Adamson Gym in Manila.

Dela Rosa, the 20-year-old center who recently competed with Gilas Women in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Prequalifying Tournament in Rwanda, went 15-of-23 from the field and added 11 rebounds and three blocks.

“Everybody knows Kacey is the main player of our team but it’s not just her points but also her leadership. She has to make her teammates better,” said Ateneo head coach LA Mumar about her star center.

“Siyempre mahirap maging ate but I have to be a leader for this team,” Dela Rosa added.

The Blue Eagles dominated the game, exploiting the Fighting Maroons’ weakened frontline, which was missing Favour Onoh for the season due to a knee injury sustained during a preseason meet.

Ateneo out-rebounded UP 59-29 and scored 21 second-chance points compared to just two for their opponents. Additionally, most of the Blue Eagles’ points came from inside the paint.

“We feel bad for Coach Paul (Ramos) for losing a key piece. But kami kasi, we are just focusing on our team and how we can improve,” said Mumar.

Dela Rosa had already scored 16 points by halftime, helping Ateneo secure a 49-39 lead. The advantage grew to as much as 17 points, 63-46, towards the end of the third quarter.

Sarah Makanjuola, a third-year big from Nigeria, supported Dela Rosa with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Aly Eufemiano added 12 points and five rebounds, while Junize Calago contributed six points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists.

“I was a bit concerned at first because we have a lot of rookies. Pero the veterans delivered for us. Nandito sila Kacey at sila Sarah. Hopefully, this is a good initiation for the rookies,” Mumar said as Ateneo prepares to face University of Santo Tomas on Wednesday.

Achrissa Maw led UP with 23 points, while Kaye Pesquera and Louna Ozar added 17 and 16 points, respectively.

UP will next face University of the East on Saturday.

The Scores:

Ateneo 79 - Dela Rosa 34, Makanjuola 13, Eufemiano 12, Oani 8, Calago 6, Villacruz 4, Batongbakal 2, Cancio 0, Cruza 0, Angala 0.

UP 68 - Maw 23, Pesquera 17, Ozar 16, Tapawan 4, Nolasco 3, Bariquit 2, Mendoza 2, Barba 1, Lozada 0, Solitario 0, Vingno 0, Quinquinio 0, Jimenez 0, Sauz 0.

Quarterscores: 29-22, 49-39, 65-49, 79-68

Zobel stuns NUNS to open UAAP JHS tournament

c/o UAAP

DE LA SALLE-Zobel pulled off a massive upset on the opening day of the UAAP Season 87 Junior High School Basketball Tournament, taking down inaugural champion National University Nazareth School, 83-62, on Sunday at Adamson Gym.

It was a monumental win for the Junior Archers program, scoring its first win over the Bullpups for the first time since Game 2 of the UAAP Season 78 Boys’ Basketball Tournament back on February 26, 2015 — a 71-60 victory which was led by the duo of Aljun Melecio and Marco Sario.

“Actually, it was not easy kasi 13 yung bago dito, three lang ang natira from last year,” said Junior Archers 16-under head coach Penny Laureaga after their win in this tournament that has been promoted to regular status this season.

“Ang ginawa lang namin, just be consistent. Lagi ko sa kanila sinasabi ‘yan and the rest will follow.”

Figuring in a close opening quarter, Melvin Tailan took charge for DLSZ, powering his side to a 25-point second stanza while helping limit NUNS to just 11 points to gain a 44-27 lead.

Tailan ended up with a day-high 27 points with six rebounds and three steals.

“Tailan is part din ng under-19 team namin. Ang laki ng pinagbago ng attitude at laro niya from last year to this year. Na cover niya yung nawala na production ni Ken (Atienza),” said Laureaga about Tailan, a 5-foot-10 guard from San Pablo City, Laguna.

DLSZ’s lead reached a peak of 23 points, 53-30, early in the third canto.

Vince Magan and Ram Luna complemented their captain’s efforts with the former chipping in 21 points on four treys while Luna tallied 12 points, seven steals, six assists, and five rebounds.

The Bullpups, whose core of Rob Celiz, Shaun Lucido, and Mot Matias have gone up the 19-and-under ranks, were led by Chester Tulabut’s 15 points.

Also picking up opening-day wins were last season’s finalists, Far Eastern University-Diliman, third-placers University of the East, and Ateneo de Manila University.

The Baby Tamaraws, who suffered a heartbreaking 67-65 loss to the Bullpups in last season’s finals, overwhelmed the Adamson Baby Falcons, 81-55, to begin their redemption journey.

“Masakit yung nangyari sa amin last year,” recalled new Baby Tams head coach Muriel Garcia, who took over for Mark Isip — now an assistant coach for Raiza Palmera-Dy’s Lady Tamaraws.

“Sabi lang namin sa mga bata, hanapin yung better shots, wag muna yung best shots. Kaso naging gigil. Kaya sabi ko, kalma lang tayo para makuha yung goal natin,” he added, still remembering the buzzer-beater from Rob Celiz that stunned them last May 4.

Four Baby Tams scored in double digits, with Anton Lopez leading the charge with 13 points, five assists, four rebounds, and three steals.

CP Miranda, son of FEU head of basketball operations Denok Miranda, contributed 12 points and five rebounds; Kierdy Victoria added 11 points, while Prince Cariño, a holdover from last season’s team, chipped in 10 points and nine rebounds.

Meanwhile, Jolo Pascual and Gab Delos Reyes led the Junior Warriors to a 69-51 victory over the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Cubs.

Pascual, a recruit from Tarlac, proved his value with a game-high 18 points, while Delos Reyes, a transferee from San Beda-Alabang, notched a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double.

“Yes, I’m very happy na na-overcome nila ang first-game jitters. A lot of our players are rookies, but they still stuck to our game plan. Very happy for them,” said Junior Warriors head coach Andrew Estrella, who decided to field just 11 players for this tournament.

UE was also bolstered by the efforts of holdover Enrico Bungar, who contributed 11 points, and 14-year-old big man Goodluck Okebata, who grabbed 10 rebounds and scored 3 points.

On the other side, Jhon Canapi and Andwele Cabanero, the younger brother of Tigers skipper Nic, led the Tiger Cubs with 14 points each but struggled from the field, shooting a combined 10-of-38.

The Baby Falcons, who went winless last season, were paced by Edison Jordan’s 13 points.

Zane Kallos continued his fine form for the Blue Eagles, delivering 21 points and 21 rebounds to lead Ateneo to a dominant 76-42 win over the debuting University of the Philippines Integrated School Fighting Maroons.

Supporting Kallos were Sky Jazul, son of PBA player RJ Jazul, who scored 15 points, and YJ Lacsamana, who also recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds.

UPIS, which skipped last season’s tournament, was led by Bruce Tubongbanua, who posted 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Tubongbanua also played for UPIS’s 19-under team last season.

The Scores:

First Game:

Ateneo 76 - Kallos 21, Jazul 15, Lacsamana 15, Juangco 7, Ngo 5, Ramos 3, Molina 2, Pineda 2, Hwang 2, Valte 2, Divinagracia 2, Meresen 0, Fernandez 0, Bernarte 0, Ylen 0, Dela Rosa 0.

UPIS 42 - Tubgongbanua 16, Hallare 8, Addatu 7, Cobico 7, Gepitan 2, Labao 0, Repane 0, Baldovino 0, Lugatiman 0, Rosete 0.

Quarterscores: 20-19, 40-26, 60-37, 76-42

Second Game:

UE 69 - Pascual 18, Bungar 11, Delos Reyes 10, Mesina 9, Panganiban 6, Garcia 5, Ferreros 3, Okebata 3, Oraa 2, Orca 2, Dalosa 0.

UST 51 - Canapi 14, Cabanero 14, Bathan 8, Jubilado 6, Castro 6, Balague 3, Guinto 0, Lim 0, Javier 0, Guerrero 0, Villacarlos 0, Duenas 0, Aguilar 0, Yu 0.

Quarterscores: 22-12, 37-29, 54-39, 69-51.

Third Game:

FEU-D 81 - Lopez 13, Miranda 12, Victoria 11, Carino 10, Santos 8, Dulin 7, Enriquez 5, Diaz 4, Pasinos 3, Pingris 2, Chavez 2, Pineda 2, Adriano 2, Lassiter 0, Barlan 0, Daa 0.

ADU 55 - Jordan K.E. 13, Fongtong 8, Gomez 8, Iledan 8, Damaian 7, Banate 5, Alcantara 3, Tiamzon 1, Tiazon 1, Ondevilla 1, Jordan K.A. 0, Azurias 0, Ang 0.

Quarterscores: 19-9, 49-15, 59-32, 81-55.

Fourth Game:

DLSZ 83 - Tailan 27, Magan 21, Luna 12, Tan 9, Centeno 6, Llamas 5, Rivera 2, Apao 1, Maglipon 0, Purugganan E. 0, Purugganan I. 0, Mindanao 0, Fuentes 0, Sorongon 0.

NUNS 62 - Tulabot 15, Sabareza 13, Tadeo 9, Pena Y. 6, Khobuntin 5, Pena N. 5, Urea 2, Reroma 2, Vitug 2, Toring 2, Gutierez 0.

Quarterscores: 19-16, 44-27, 64-52, 83-62.

UST throttles UE in season opener

c/o UAAP

University of Santo Tomas started its title defense in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Basketball Tournament in dominant fashion, coasting to a wire-to-wire 86-44 victory over the University of the East Sunday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

In her collegiate debut, Karylle Sierba, a product of the UST High School program, led the Growling Tigresses with 18 points on an efficient 61.5-percent shooting from the field, while also contributing four rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

UAAP Season 86 Athlete of the Year Kent Pastrana added 15 points, five rebounds, and seven assists, while Rachelle Ambos came close to a triple-double, tallying 13 points, 13 rebounds, and eight steals.

“Una po, binigay ko lang yung best ko sa loob ng court,” said Ambos, a third-year forward. “Nag-stick lang ako sa kung ano sinasabi ni coach [Haydee Ong]. Sinabi niya sa amin dati pa na wala na si ate Tantoy (Ferrer) kaya kailangan namin mag step-up as a big kasi kailangan kami sa game.

“Yun lang po. Kung ano sasabihin lang, yun lang bigay lang ng bigay ng best," she added.

From a slow start in the first quarter, the defending champions shifted gears in the second period, zooming past the Lady Warriors off baskets by Eka Soriano, Ambos and Kent Pastrana to lead by 17, 41-24, in the half.

UST then clinched its biggest separation from UE, 86-40, with 2:15 remaining in the contest.

Despite the impressive victory, Ong pointed out that her team has to take better care of the ball in its next games.

“I think we have to correct our turnovers. Madami pa rin,” Ong said. “Baka may mga first-game jitters. We started very excited. It’s all unforced turnovers. Hopefully sa next games, medyo maremedyohan namin yung mga turnovers namin.”

UST made sure to make UE pay for its 33 turnovers by scoring 30 points off of them.

The Growling Tigresses also seized 57 rebounds and produced 50 points from the bench while the Lady Warriors could only come up with 40 and 19 respectively.

The Growling Tigresses will look to build on this win when they take on the Ateneo Blue Eagles this Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Meanwhile, Rachel Lacayanga was the lone bright spot for UE with 11 points and seven rebounds as Malienne center Kamba Kone was held down to just eight points, four rebounds, and an assist.

On a 38-game losing streak, the Lady Warriors will try to finally get back to winning ways this Saturday against the UP Fighting Maroons at 1:30 p.m. at the same venue.

The Scores:

UST 86 – Sierba 18, Pastrana 15, Ambos 13, N. Danganan 7, Soriano 6, Tacatac 5, Santos 5, Relliquette 5, Bron 4, Maglupay 4, Pineda 2, Serrano 2, Dionisio 0, Pascador 0, Lopez 0, Amatong 0.

UE 44 – Lacayanga 11, Kone 8, Ronquillo 8, Ganade 6, Vacalares 6, Yanez 3, Buscar 2, Dublar 0, Ruiz 0, Cruz 0.

Quarterscores: 15-13, 41-24, 62-34, 86-44

UP claims UAAP Season 87 opener

c/o UAAP

University of the Philippines made a strong statement to open its UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Men's Basketball campaign, delivering a stunning finish to defeat archrival Ateneo de Manila University, 77-61, in front of 12,932 fans at the SMART Araneta Coliseum on Saturday evening.

Despite Ateneo closing the gap to within eight points midway through the fourth quarter, trailing 54-62 after being down by as much as 18 in the third, UP responded emphatically. 

JD Cagulangan hit a jumper, and Francis Lopez followed with five consecutive points, including a layup plus a foul and a thunderous one-hand jam, giving UP a fresh 15-point cushion with 4:03 remaining, 69-54.

“We started out tight in the first half, but when we started moving the ball around, we found the rhythm we wanted and gained confidence as a team,” said Fighting Maroons head coach Goldwin Monteverde.

UP, despite a slow start and a slim 17-16 lead at the end of the first quarter, built a 10-point lead by halftime. Terrence Fortea and Francis Lopez combined efforts in the second quarter to give UP a 40-30 advantage at the break.

Cagulangan flirted with a triple-double, finishing with 17 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds, adding two steals and a plus-19 rating in his 30 minutes on the floor.

“Nung first half may challenge kami na hinarap then after nung huddle namin sa halftime, laging sinasabi sa amin kung paano namin i-overcome ‘yung challenge na ‘yun kaya nakapag-respond kami nang maayos and nacontrol namin ‘yung game hanggang dulo,” said Cagulangan, who is in his final year with UP.

Lopez added 14 points on a perfect 3-of-3 shooting from the field, while also going 8-of-13 from the free-throw line. Last season's Rookie of the Year also contributed six rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.

Quentin Millora-Brown, a one-and-done big man from The Citadel, imposed his 6-foot-10 stature with 17 rebounds, two blocks, and seven points, finishing with a plus-17 rating in 25 minutes.

UP shot 49.2 percent from the field (29-of-59) and limited Ateneo to just 28.8 percent (19-of-66).

The Fighting Maroons will next face the University of the East Red Warriors on Saturday at the Big Dome at 6:30 p.m.

Freshman Jared Bahay led the Blue Eagles with 13 points but struggled with his shooting, making only 3-of-11. The 5-foot-9 also general from Cebu also recorded five rebounds and four assists. 

Senior Joshua Lazaro added a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Shawn Tuano also contributed 11 points and five rebounds.

Blue Eagles captain Chris Koon left the game early and did not return after injuring his left ankle at the 3:11 mark of the second quarter.

Ateneo will aim to rebound on Wednesday against the University of Santo Tomas, still at the Cubao venue at 6:30 p.m.

The Scores:

UP 77 – Cagulangan 17, Lopez 14, Fortea 8, Millora-Brown 7, Bayla 7, Ududo 7, Alarcon 6, Abadiano 5, Belmonte 2, Torres 0, Briones 0, Stevens 0, Alter 0, Felicilda 0.

Ateneo 61 – Bahay 13, Lazaro 11, Tuano 11, Espina 7, Espinosa 4, Balogun 4, Koon 3, Gamber 3, Porter 3, Bongo 2, Quitevis 0, Edu 0, Ong 0.

Quarterscores: 17-16, 40-30, 58-45, 77-61.

Alas Pilipinas drops opener to Osaka Bluteon

THE Alas Pilipinas Men battled hard in a nip and tuck contest before losing steam to bow to Osaka Bluteon, 27-29, 23-25, 12-25, Saturday in the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Japanese Olympian and Filipino fan favorite Yuji Nishida had a match-leading 15 points for Osaka, 14 from attacks including one that left the crowd stunned for a while as the fireball appeared to hit Alas Pilipinas hitter Jade Disquitado in the groin.

Disquitado shook it off and went on to score a team-high 11, while Buds Buddin came up with 10 points for Alas Pilipinas, which led 19-15 in the second set before fading.

The Japan V.League club also utilized both foreign reinforcements to pull off the big win over Alas Pilipinas.

Six-foot-6 American Thomas John Jaeschke scored 10 points, all from attacks, and 6-foot-2 Cuban Miguel Angel Lopez Castro delivered six points from three attacks and three aces, including back-to-back service winners that gave Osaka a commanding 18-8 lead in the third.

Alas Pilipinas coach Angiolino Frigoni rued the dip in performance in the endgame, but said he is quite pleased overall.

“I am pretty happy for what we did today. To play against this level, the level of attention must be always very high. And we are not able to stay long,” Frigoni said.

Nishida also lauded Alas Pilipinas for the fine play, although he noted they can be inconsistent.

“Sometimes they’re very good. I hope in the next match we’ll play a higher level match."

The two teams meet again on Sunday at 6 p.m.

Alas Pilipinas drops Invitational opener

THERE were no explosive hits or disorienting combination plays but Saga Hisamitsu Springs simply covered nearly all the gaps to foil the offense of the Philippine national women’s volleyball team en route to a 25-19, 25-16, 25-16 victory Saturday in the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals at the Philsports Arena.

The entry of Sisi Rondina, Thea Gagate and Cherry Nunag in the third after being held out in the earlier sets got the crowd going and provided Alas Pilipinas Women a quick boost.

Rondina managed to get through the Japanese defense with her crisp shots, while Gagate and Nunag covered the net well to gave Eya Laure several chances hitting from the back row on the way to a rare lead at 8-7.

But that inspiring run was short-lived as Saga Hisamitsu Springs figured things out quickly, shut down the formidable four and finished off the hosts in just over an hour.

Miyu Nakagawa showed the way for nine-time Japan V.League champions, scoring 15 points, while Megumi Fukazawa scored 14.

Alas Pilipinas women Dawn Macandili-Catindig admitted the team had quite a few lapses and needs to regroup quickly in the home-and-home set.

“Both ways, net and floor defense, we are a bit inconsistent so we need to do a better job,” said Macandili-Catindig.

Alyssa Solom and Vanie Gandler had five points each, while Laure added four for Alas Pilipinas.

“Now we have actually played them, we’ve learned quite a bit about them and we’re confident we can play better in the next match.”

Alas Pilipinas Women and Saga Hisamitsu Springs clash anew on Sunday at 3 p.m.

Coach Jorge Souza de Brito is also counting on a more solid performance in the rematch after a test run of sort.

“The plan today was to field all of them and maybe tomorrow we can give the visitors a tougher time,” De Brito said.

Eraserheads cap off impressive UAAP Opening Ceremony

c/o UAAP

The 87th season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) kicked off with an unparalleled display of style and spectacle, as University of the Philippines (UP) delivered what could be considered as the most glamorous opening ceremony in the league’s storied history. 

The sold-out SMART Araneta Coliseum was transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement and celebration on Saturday.

The highlight of the event was a breathtaking performance by the iconic OPM band Eraserheads. Reuniting once more for their alma mater’s hosting, the band’s set was a fitting tribute to the season’s theme: “Stronger, Better, Together.” 

“Did you know that it's our first time performing at Araneta?” said Eraserheads lead singer Ely Buendia, joined by guitarist Marcus Adoro, bassist Buddy Zabala, and drummer Raimund Marasigan. 

Their full set of seven songs—Alapaap, Sembreak, Ligaya, Pare Ko, Minsan, Magasin, and Ang Huling El Bimbo—created an unforgettable experience for both the band and the UAAP community.

UAAP Season 87 Chairman and UP President Atty. Jijil Jimenez expressed his excitement and pride for the event, stating, “The University of the Philippines opens the Season 87 as hosts by sending a message to the world that together, we can be stronger and better as schools, as a community, as a nation, and as citizens of the world.”

“From its beginnings almost a century ago, the UAAP has become what it is today - the most popular college sporting franchise this country has ever seen and it's most valuable as well,” he continued. 

Season President and UP Chancellor Carlo Vistan II officially declared the season open, marking the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling year of athletic competition. 

“Let this season be a testament to the unity, the excellence, and the sportsmanship that define the UAAP. This season, we make our athletes stronger, better, together,” said Vistan. 

The opening ceremony saw all eight member schools parading their student-athletes, showcasing the diverse talent and enthusiasm that define the UAAP.

The morning’s festivities continued with a traditional Oath of Sportsmanship led by UAAP Season 86 Athlete of the Year and UP swimmer Quendy Fernandez, reaffirming the league’s commitment to fair play and camaraderie.

The Collegiate Men’s Basketball Tournament kicks off later today at 6:30 p.m. with a high-stakes match between the Fighting Maroons and the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles.

Adding to the day’s excitement, UP alum and indie musician Johnoy Danao took to the stage. 

Slapshock guitarist Lean Ansing, Franco bassist Dave Delfin, and Moonstar88’s drummer Bon Sundiang and vocalist Maysh Baay—all distinguished products of UP and calling themselves the "Maroon 4" -- performed a rendition of The Beatles classic "Come Together" as the student-athletes, officials, and fans from all eight member schools rocked the Big Dome in unison.

P-Pop unit Kaia and hip-hop dance group UPeepz also delivered stirring performances, setting the stage for an extraordinary season.

UP also delivered a stunning drone show that illuminated the historic Big Dome, complemented by a moving production from the UP Symphony Orchestra and Kontra Gapi, the UP College of Arts and Letters’ ethnic music and dance ensemble.

As the curtains fell on a truly unforgettable opening ceremony, one thing was clear: UAAP Season 87 is off to a spectacular start, promising a season filled with unforgettable moments and fierce competition.

UP opens redemption campaign against Ateneo

c/o UAAP

Schedule today at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

11 a.m. – Opening Ceremony

6:30 p.m. – Ateneo vs UP (Men)

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines kicks off its 87th season on Saturday with one men's basketball matchup at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum.

At 630pm, the University of the Philippines seeks to make amends after ending up on the losing end of the finals last year with a matchup against neighbors Ateneo de Manila University.

The Fighting Maroons have been the bridesmaids for the past couple of seasons since ending their championship drought in Season 84, being beaten by the Blue Eagles in Season 85 and by La Salle in Season 86.

A win against Ateneo would put them on the right track from the get go. Head coach Goldwin Monteverde says, "Regardless of who we play, the first game sets the tone for our season and helps us start strong. Every team in the UAAP is led by experienced coaches who know how to maximize their respective teams."

He adds, "That is why it is important for us not to take any team lightly, as anyone can be beaten in our league on any given day."

UP remains generally intact, only shedding CJ Cansino and Malick Diouf, but JD Cagulangan remains to stir a renewed offense that still has the likes of Gerry Abadiano, Harold Alarcon, and Francis Lopez, as well as tapping a few additions to replenish its frontline.

Monteverde notes, "We are a bigger team this year with the additions of one-and-done Quentin Millora-Brown, Dikachi Ududo, and Gani Stevens. Along with Sean Alter, Francis Lopez, Mark Belmonte, and Jacob Bayla, this is definitely a taller team compared to last season."

In contrast, the Ateneo had to deal with players departing for the professional ranks, led by Kai Ballungay and Jarred Brown, as well as the sudden decision of Mason Amos to transfer to La Salle during the offseason. They also had to deal with LeBron Nieto being redshirted this season as a result of an ACL injury.

Head coach Tab Baldwin is counting on the leadership of its returning captains Sean Quitevis and Chris Koon to steady the ship.

The former Gilas mentos shares, "Sean is doing a great job. They were captains last year and I think that is a great learning experience despite last year not being a great year for us. There was a lot of adversity on the court and a lot of tough situations, losing a lot of close games." He adds, "Those sorts of situations provide a lot of lessons for all of us. I’m sure that Chris and Sean grew a lot and I’ve seen that this year. They’ve done a good job leading this very young team, and it’s a very important role for them. I’m excited, I think the challenge is huge, and I’m just a guy who loves challenges."

Ateneo's postseason streak was almost tested last year, as they needed to dispatch Adamson in a playoff to earn the last ticket to the Final Four.

Preceding the Battle of Katipunan is an elaborate Opening Ceremony that starts at 11am.The event is headlined by a performance by the Eraserheads, with a variety of musical acts along the way that highlights this season's theme of "Stronger. Better. Together."

The remaining basketball matches will take place on Sunday, capped off by the Green Archers' matchup against National University at 630pm at the same venue.

Sean Chambers makes his UAAP coaching debut at 3pm for Far Eastern University against Adamson, with the matchup of the University of the East and the University of Santo Tomas slated at 1pm.

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines opens its redemption season with a clash against Katipunan rival Ateneo in the lone UAAP Season 87 men’s basketball game today (Saturday) at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Fighting Maroons and the Blue Eagles meet for the first time since last season’s Final Four at 6:30 p.m. Both teams split the championships in 2022, with each series extending to three games.

After ending their 36-year championship drought in the 2022 bubble tournament, UP has settled for runner-up honors in the last two seasons. The Fighting Maroons lost to the Kevin Quiambao-led Green Archers in the Finals last year.

NCAA set for centennial kickoff this Saturday

NCAA Policy Board and Management Committee, with the ten coaches and captains for men's basketball

The first collegiate league for athletics is set for its centennial launch on Saturday.

Inspiring legacies of sportsmanship, competitiveness, hope, valor, camaraderie, and power, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) of the Philippines kicks things off at the SM Mall of Asia Arena with the "NCAA Siglo Uno: Inspiring Legacies Opening Ceremony."

The event will bring together all ten of its member schools, led by this season's host, Lyceum of the Philippines University.

Lyceum president and concurrent Policy Board head for this season Atty. Roberto Laurel shares about their historic achievement, "Ten decades have passed and the NCAA continues to grow and flourish, remaining strong and resilient. The country’s first athletic collegiate league has already produced many icons and legends who exemplify the league’s 100 years of excellence in sports. As we celebrate the centennial season this year, we recognize everyone who is part of the journey –  from those who have inspired legacies in the past 10 decades to those who continue to strive for sportsmanship today and tomorrow. Expect this season to be the most exciting yet."

This season's Management Committee Chairman Hercules Callanta, also from Lyceum, adds, "We are thrilled to showcase to everyone what is in store for them in this historic centennial year of the NCAA. It is also important for schools to support the NCAA, as the league promotes the development and nurturing of character and lifelong skills that can be used by the youth even when they have become professionals."

The league will have these events on tap for its historic season: Men's and Juniors' Basketball both in 5x5 and 3x3, Men's and Women's Volleyball in indoor and Beach as well as Juniors' Volleyball Fiesta, Badminton, Lawn Tennis and Soft Tennis, Football, Swimming, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Track and Field, and to be capped off by Cheerleading and Street Dance.

Serving as the league's broadcast partner since Season 96, GMA Network is ready to blast out the action onto its vast network offerings. Games will be shown through GTV, as well as Heart of Asia, as well as through the social platforms of NCAA Philippines and GMA Sports. Those based overseas can also watch the action on GMA News TV.

Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso notes, "GMA Network is both proud and honored to be part of the centennial season of the NCAA. The league has remained resilient and true to its core, transcending borders and inspiring legacies over the past decades. As the broadcast partner and home of the NCAA, we look forward to making this historic season truly remarkable and unforgettable, not just for the 10-member schools of the athletic association, but also for its supporters and viewers watching on TV and streaming, across the Philippines and overseas."

Viewers can expect an exciting Opening Ceremony, which will have Martin Javier as its host, alongside Sparkle artists Michael Sager and Faith da Silva, as well as Lexi Gonzales, who spent last season as one of its courtside reporters.

P-Pop group G22 has been tapped to perform this season's theme song, "Own the Future," with Justin de Dios of SB19 is ready to entertain the crowd.

You can catch the much-awaited NCAA Season 100 Opening Ceremony live at the MOA Arena on Saturday, starting at noon, with the broadcast slated at 10:05am on both GMA and Heart of Asia. Those based overseas can watch it on both GMA Pinoy TV and GMA News TV.

On-court action then follows with a doubleheader. Starting things off are hosts Lyceum tangling with defending champions San Beda at 230pm. It will be then followed by a matchup between Mapua and the College of Saint Benilde at 5pm.

Action then proceeds to the Filoil EcoOil Centre the next day until the conclusion of the first round. Games will be shown LIVE on Tuesdays and Saturday at 11am and 230pm, and at 12nn and 230pm on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.