Golden Tigresses prowl into the next round of the UAAP Women's Volleyball stepladder

c/o UAAP Media

Game on Saturday
 at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum
3 p.m. - UST vs NU (Women)

University of Santo Tomas proved that past results do not matter in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball stepladder.

The Golden Tigresses dominated elimination round tormentors Adamson University Lady Falcons, 25-16, 25-18, 25-19, to advance to the next phase of the stepladder on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

It was a reversal of fortunes this postseason after Adamson swept UST in the eliminations, 27-25, 25-22, 25-12 in the first round and 27-25, 25-20, 26-24 in the second round.

“Credit sa players namin. Grabe ‘yung effort na ginawa. Actually, hindi naman todo-todo ‘yung training pero mas inaral lang kung ano ‘yung tamang galaw, mas nagkaroon ng communication, saka ‘yung effort na mag-all-out sa game,” said UST head coach Shaq Delos Santos.

UST has now won two do-or-die games this season after eliminating Far Eastern University in the playoff for the last semifinal spot last Saturday, 16-25, 25-20, 25-18, 25-16.

The Golden Tigresses now look to make it three in a row when they face second-ranked National University in the next phase of the stepladder on Saturday, 3 p.m., still at the Big Dome, with a Finals ticket at stake. UST is 0-2 against the defending two-time champions in the eliminations.

La Salle is waiting in the wings after completing a 14-0 elimination round sweep. The best-of-three championship series is set on May 6.

“Although hindi namin inexpect na ganito kabilis ‘yung laro, sobrang happy lang talaga dahil tiniyaga talaga ng lahat, especially coaches and teammates ko. Sobrang saya lang, hindi ko pa rin alam kung totoo ba ito dahil kagabi, nakatulog na ko kakadasal kay Lordpaulit-ulit na sana ibigay ito sa amin,” said captain-libero Detdet Pepito, who anchored UST’s defense with 16 excellent digs on 23 attempts and nine excellent receptions, while also adding four excellent sets.

The Golden Tigresses took full control of the match after turning a 12-13 deficit into a 20-12 advantage, as Angge Poyos and Regina Jurado combined for eight straight points en route to a 25-18 second-set win.

A similar scenario unfolded in the third set, with Adamson ahead 13-12 before Jurado and Avril Bron, along with two errors from Lady Falcons’ top scorers Shaina Nitura and Frances Mordi, powered a 17-13 UST lead that held until the end for the straight-sets win in 82 minutes.

Poyos led UST with 17 points, eight digs, and seven receptions, while the supporting cast delivered key contributions.

Jurado finished with 13 points and 14 excellent digs on 25 attempts, while Jonna Perdido added 10 points, 10 digs, and seven receptions.

Bron also chipped in seven points, including five in the third set.

Presumptive MVP Nitura was held in check, finishing with 13 points on a 12-of-46 attacking clip, alongside 11 excellent receptions and seven digs.

Mordi was likewise limited to 11 points on 10-of-41 attacks, while Third Tuddao was Adamson’s next highest scorer with just four points.

Adamson, which will retain its core next season, ended the campaign in fourth place in its return to the Final Four after a three-year absence.

UAAP Streetdance set to be a standalone event in Season 88

For the first time, the UAAP Streetdance Competition will be held as a standalone event this season, marking a significant milestone for the league’s growing dance community.

The competition, a special event in the UAAP calendar, is set on Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Blue Eagle Gym in Loyola Heights, Quezon City.

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rene Saguisag Jr. underscored the distinction between the Streetdance and Cheerdance communities, emphasizing the importance of giving the former its own stage.

“The Streetdance and Cheerdance communities are distinct in identity, style, and culture. While both have long contributed to the spirit of UAAP, the Streetdance community has long been yearning for a platform they can truly call their own—and this event is a response to that call,” said Saguisag.

UAAP Season 88 Streetdance Commissioner Vimi Rivera welcomed the development, calling it a milestone for the discipline.

“The fact that Streetdance has been part of UAAP for so many years now is already a win for us. It’s the perfect platform for the Streetdance community in UAAP, and we are so grateful,” said Rivera.

“But to finally have a standalone event reinforces the support and significance we hold in UAAP. This is what we’ve been aiming for, and we will keep building on this moving forward.”

This year’s competition will feature two divisions, with all eight member schools competing in the collegiate division, while seven schools will see action in the high school category.

“Knowing the intensity, artistry, commitment, and competitiveness of all our teams, competitors, and coaches, this will be the best and biggest UAAP Streetdance competition yet,” Rivera added.

In the collegiate division, defending champions UP Street Dance Club will be gunning for their fifth overall crown. La Salle Dance Company-Street is also eyeing a fifth title, while UST Prime seeks to secure its third championship in four years.

In the high school division of this event subhosted by Ateneo, defending champions NUDC-Nazalian Street aim for a back-to-back title, while UST Galvanize looks to reclaim the crown and capture a fourth championship in five years.

FEU authors return trip to the UAAP Men's Volleyball Finals

c/o UAAP

Amet Bituin delivered when it mattered most as top-ranked Far Eastern University survived a thrilling five-set escape against fourth-seeded Ateneo de Manila University, 25-23, 20-25, 16-25, 25-17, 15-12, to book its place in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Finals on Wednesday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

After the Blue Eagles erased a 3-8 deficit in the fifth set to come within striking distance at 12-11, Bituin showed remarkable composure beyond his years. The 20-year-old outside hitter then came through with three consecutive crosscourt attacks that powered the Tamaraws to their second straight UAAP men’s volleyball finals appearance.

FEU will now await the winner between second-seeded National University and third-seeded University of Santo Tomas, with their match ongoing as of posting.

“Balikan natin yung whole duration ng match. Siguro masasabi ko na ito yung mae-expect sa semis, hindi ba?  Lagi natin sinasabi na this is the UAAP, at hindi napakadali manalo. Kung makikita naman natin yung adjustments ng bawat isa, masasabi ko na respetadong coach talaga si coach Vince [Mangulabnan],” Tamaraws head coach Eddieson Orcullo said.

After a dominant 25-17 win in the fourth set, FEU carried its momentum into the deciding frame, racing to an early 8-3 lead highlighted by a net touch error from Nigerian spiker Aimar Okeke and an off-the-block hit from Bituin.

Ateneo, however, refused to go down quietly, mounting a 6-2 run capped by back-to-back crosscourt hits from Okeke and a key block by Amil Pacinio on Bituin, cutting the deficit to just 12-11.

In the end, FEU held its ground, with Bituin once again stepping up by finishing the match with three straight crosscourt attacks to complete the comeback from a 1-2 set deficit.

The Blue Eagles were on the verge of forcing a rubber match after dominating the second and third sets, but FEU’s poise in the clutch proved decisive in sealing the reverse sweep.

“Kanina yung nasa isip ko lang nung last part na nung game, habang naglalaro kasi kanina, nagpa-pray ako sa utak ko na ‘Lord, bigyan niyo pa ako ng konting lakas para ma-push pa itong laro na ito, para ma-overcome itong laro na ito, at para makuha namin yung laro na ito,'" said Bituin, who finished with 12 points on 11 attacks and one block, alongside 10 excellent receptions and five excellent digs in the two-hour, two-minute marathon.

"Nagtiwala lang din ako sa mga teammate ko kanina at sa mga coaches, kung ano yung binibigay na instructions, sunod lang kami."

Dryx Saavedra led FEU with 14 points and three excellent digs, while Lirick Mendoza added 13 points built on 10 attacks and three blocks. Mikko Espartero contributed 11 points, 15 excellent receptions, and three excellent digs.

Team captain Ariel Cacao orchestrated the offense with 26 excellent sets, while Vennie Ceballos anchored the defense with 21 excellent receptions and 14 excellent digs.

FEU’s only loss of the season came against the Bulldogs in the second round, while the 25-time champions also swept the Golden Spikers in their elimination round meetings.

Meanwhile, in their first Final Four appearance since a bronze-medal finish in Season 81, the Blue Eagles settled for fourth place. Ateneo will also move forward without Season 85 Best Libero Lance de Castro and middle blocker Brian Castro heading into Season 89.

Okeke led Ateneo with 24 points on 22 attacks and two blocks, along with six excellent receptions and five excellent digs, while Ken Batas followed with 15 points on 11 attacks, two blocks, and two aces, plus 15 excellent receptions.

Jian Salarzon posted 12 points and 19 excellent receptions, while Rodge Alejos added nine points on six attacks and three blocks.

In their final game for Ateneo, Castro contributed seven points, while De Castro finished with 20 excellent receptions and six excellent digs.

Ateneo, La Salle remain undefeated in UAAP 3x3 Men's Basketball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Collegiate 3x3 Standings

Men’s 

Ateneo 3-0
DLSU 3-0
ADU 2-1
UP 2-1
FEU 1-2
NU 1-2
UE 0-3
UST 0-3

Women’s

UST 3-0
ADU 2-1
Ateneo 2-1
FEU 2-1
DLSU 1-2
NU 1-2
UE 1-2
UP 0-3

Defending UAAP Collegiate Men’s 3x3 champion De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University remained the only unbeaten teams after three games on Tuesday at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City.

The Green Archers routed the National University Bulldogs, 21-13, behind Luis Pablo, who led the charge with eight points and five rebounds. Doy Dungo and Jcee Macalalag added six and five points, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Blue Eagles cruised past the winless University of the East Red Warriors, 21-14, to share the lead with their archrivals in the tournament supported by Wilson Philippines and Ayala Malls and sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Andrew Bongo scored eight points, Shawn Tuano had seven, while Kyle Gamber chipped in five for Ateneo.

“We’re just trying to make the school proud. Too many years, even in 5-on-5, not even a Final Four placement,” said Tuano. “We’re just here, trying to bring something home and just trying to make the school proud.

“We have one goal in mind: bring home that gold. We want to bring that championship back to Ateneo; we will try to do that,” he added, noting that the last time Ateneo won the 3x3 crown was in UAAP Season 81, when the sport was still a demonstration event.

In other men’s games, Miguel Yñiguez and Noah Pacquiao delivered game-winners to lift University of the Philippines and Adamson University to a share of third place with identical 2-1 records.

For the second straight game, Yñiguez knocked down a game-winning deuce, lifting the Fighting Maroons past the Far Eastern University Tamaraws in overtime, 20-18. He finished with 10 points and 12 rebounds, while LA Andres added eight points.

On the other hand, Pacquiao drained a corner deuce — his 10th point of the game — at the buzzer to carry the Soaring Falcons to a 20-18 win over the still winless University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers.

FEU and NU slipped to 1-2 heading into Day 3 on Thursday.

Meanwhile, in the women’s division, the battle of unbeatens between the Growling Tigresses and the Lady Tamaraws turned into a lopsided affair, with UST cruising to a 13-2 win for its third straight victory.

Kent Pastrana led the way with five points and nine rebounds, Brigette Santos added four points, while Coi Danganan chipped in three in the rout.

“So lucky to be playing with her in her last tournament here in the UAAP,” said Fil-Australian rookie Erinn Mcalary on being able to team up with Pastrana before she moves on to the next chapter of her career. “It’s more motivation for us to play well in this tournament and hopefully win this to send her off properly.”

The loss dropped the Lady Tamaraws into a tie for second with the Blue Eagles, who defeated the Fighting Maroons, 14-8, and the Lady Falcons, who edged the Lady Archers, 19-17.

Kacey dela Rosa and Kai Oani scored all of Ateneo’s points with eight and six, respectively.

Elaine Etang poured in nine points in Adamson’s win, while Cheska Apag added six.

Meanwhile, the Lady Bulldogs notched their first win of the tournament despite fielding just three players, defeating the Lady Warriors, 19-16.

Aloha Betanio and Samantha Medina finished with eight and seven points, respectively, while Bonie Solis added four.

Tiger Cubs snap Baby Tams 24-game streak in UAAP U19 Boys 3x3 Basketball

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 High School 3x3 Basketball Standings

19U Boys’
UST 3-0
NUNS 2-1
FEU-D 2-1
DLSZ 2-1
UE 1-2
ADU 1-2
UPIS 1-2
Ateneo 0-3

16u Boys’
FEU-D 3-0
UST 2-1
Ateneo 2-1
DLSZ 2-1
ADU 1-2
UE 1-2
NUNS 1-2
UPIS 0-3

University of Santo Tomas took solo lead in the UAAP Season 88 19-and-under 3x3 basketball tournament after pulling off two thrilling wins on Tuesday at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City.

The Tiger Cubs ended the 24-game winning streak of defending champions FEU-Diliman Baby Tamaraws with a 21-18 victory to open their day, before following it up with a 21-16 win over the DLSZ Junior Archers. With those results, UST remained the only unbeaten team in the tournament, which is supported by Wilson Philippines and Ayala Malls and sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Kirk Cañete led the charge against FEU-D, going a perfect 4-of-4 from the field, including 2-of-2 from beyond the arc, finishing with 10 points, while Joaqui Ludovice added seven.

Ludovice then took over against DLSZ, finishing with nine points, while Jettlee Melano and Cañete chipped in five points apiece.

“Happy po kami as a team kasi nagtulong-tulungan kami. Lahat ito, pinaghandaan kami,” said Ludovice, the 5-foot-9 guard who is in Grade 11 but will age out of the league’s high school competitions in UAAP Season 89. “Pero hindi pa kami ganoon kasaya kasi hindi pa namin naabot yung pinaka goal namin, which is yung championship. Happy kami pero hindi pa kami kuntento.”

For Ludovice, winning the 3x3 tournament would be a perfect cap to their high school run after finishing sixth in the 5-on-5 competition last March.

“Sineseryoso namin ito kasi ito yung comeback namin from 5-on-5. UAAP pa rin ito at parehong championship pa rin ang pinaglalabanan dito,” said Joaqui, the younger brother of former San Beda Red Lion Yvan Ludovice.

The middle of the standings remains tightly packed, with FEU-D, National University Nazareth School, and De La Salle-Zobel all holding 2-1 records.

Cabs Cabonilas powered FEU-D with 11 points and 11 rebounds in a 21-13 bounce-back win over Ateneo.

Meanwhile, University of the Philippines Integrated School leaned on the duo of Jhustin Hallare and Bruce Tubongbanua, who both scored nine points, in a 22-20 stunner over NUNS. However, NUNS responded later in the day with a 21-11 rout of Adamson.

Niño Ferrer then scored a deuce in overtime to lift DLSZ to a 20-18 win over Ateneo, helping the Junior Archers rebound.

Adamson, UE, and UPIS are all at 1-2, while Ateneo remains winless in the division.

In the 16-and-under division, defending champion Ateneo—coming off a 21-17 win over UE earlier in the day—saw its 10-game winning streak snapped after FEU-Diliman pulled off a 21-15 victory.

Prince Cariño dominated the match, finishing with 13 points and eight rebounds.

The Baby Tamaraws also cruised in their first game of the day, defeating Adamson 21-13 behind nine points from Dwayne Enriquez and seven from Cariño to move to 3-0 in the division.

Ateneo, UST, and DLSZ are all at 2-1, while Adamson, UE, and NUNS sit at 1-2. UPIS remains winless.

The Junior Tiger Cubs also went 2-0 for the day, scoring wins over NUNS (21-16) and UPIS (21-13).

Miguel Jubilado and CJ Tabbuga scored eight and seven points, respectively, against the Bullpups, while Tabbuga added nine points and Dave Regala contributed seven points and nine rebounds against the Fighting Maroons.

DLSZ, which started the day with a 21-20 escape over UPIS, suffered a 19-15 upset loss to NUNS—the Bullpups’ first win of the tournament.

Junior Archers head trainer Joshua Webb said his squad needs to experience both highs and lows to grow in the competition.

“Just a few tweaks and adjustments here and there, but that’s going to come. 3x3 is a different animal from 5-on-5, and it’s our job to teach them that,” said Webb, a DLSZ legend and former Philippine-ranked 3x3 player during his stint with Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3.

The Junior Warriors finally broke through with their first win, edging the Adamson Baby Falcons 19-17 in overtime as James Mesa nailed the game-winning deuce.

The tournament will resume on Thursday, with the high school girls’ competition also set to begin on the same day.

Opening Ceremonies to mark start of 2026 edition of MPTC Tour of Luzon

 

The revival of the race of the summer continues as the 2026 edition of the MPTC Tour of Luzon gets kickstarted with the Opening Ceremonies and Team Presentations on Tuesday at CaSoBe in Calatagan, Batangas.

Dubbed as "A Heritage in Motion," 91 riders split into thirteen teams are set to display their shiny jerseys as an appetizer for the grueling road ahead, featuring fourteen stages traversing the biggest island in the Philippines.

Set to address them in the ceremony, which starts at 5pm, are Philippines Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio, and the tour's Chief Organizer and CEO Arrey Perez, which will also feature a message from Philippine Olympic Committee president and concurrently the head of PhilCycling, the national sports association for cycling, Abraham Tolentino, as well as opening remarks from NLEX Corporation president and general manager Luis Reñon.

In addition, gracing the event are Mediaquest Holdings Inc President and CEO Ricky Vargas, who also is a member of the Board of Directors for the tour's Organizing Committee, as well as Games and Amusements Board chairman Atty. Francisco Rivera, Calatagan Mayor Rico Puno and Cardinal Santos Medical Center president and CEO Raul Pagdanganan.

Also among the distinguished guests are noted cycling enthusiast and MMDA General Nicolas Torre III, who was one of the participants in Sunday's Heritage Race for cycling executives, and the family of the late cycling patron Albert Lina.

Aside for the messages, the ceremony will feature the handover of the MPTC Tour of Luzon Perpetual Trophy from inaugural champion MPTC DriveHub back to the organizers. In order to keep this trophy, they will need to win this upcoming edition and the next one after that.

Concluding the events on Tuesday will be a fireworks display on the shore off Balayan Bay.

Race proper begins on Wednesday with a festive and booming Grand Departure starting at 9am, with Stage 1 set to conclude at Tagaytay City. It is the lone stage in Southern Luzon with the start of Stage 2 taking place in Clark. In a tour first, it will feature a couple of Hors Category climbs, with one on the tenth stage from Candon City, Ilocos Sur to Bessang Pass in Cervantes, Ilocos Norte, as well as on the final stage from Lingayen Pangasinan to John Hay Hotels in Baguio City.

Returning to defend his individual crown and leading the foreign contingent in the tour is Joo Dae Young of Gapyeong Cycling Team, one of two Korean teams participating.

The rest of the foreign legion are comprised of Seoul Cycling Team, LCW UAE Cycle, CCN Factory Racing (Hong Kong), Ponti Wijaya Racing Team (Indonesia), and the Malaysian National Team.

Aside from the defending champions MPTC DriveHub, representing the Philippines are known continental players 7-Eleven CLIQQ Roadbike Philippines and Go For Gold Philippines, as well as Standard Insurance Philippines, DReyna Orion Cement Pro Cycling Team, Excellent Noodles, and Pangasinan Cycling Team.

The MPTC Tour of Luzon is co-presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, and supported by the MVP Group of Companies and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), while also aligned with the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NSTIAC). 

Details about the race are in the official website tourofluzoncycling.com and its corresponding Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/tourofluzoncycling.

Dela Rosa, Apag seek to build on FIBA 3x3 experience onto UAAP 3x3

c/o UAAP

Two weeks after making Philippine 3x3 history, Kacey dela Rosa and Cheska Apag return to familiar ground to lead their respective universities in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s 3x3 Basketball Tournament, which begins today (Monday) at Ayala Malls By The Bay.

Dela Rosa and Apag were part of the Gilas Women’s squad that captured silver in the FIBA 3x3 Asia Cup. Dela Rosa, together with UAAP alums Afril Bernardino, Mikka Cacho, and Tantoy Ferrer, also helped the Philippines punch its ticket to the 3x3 World Cup.

“I’m super excited, of course. Coming from the FIBA Asia Cup and World Cup Qualifiers, I know I learned a lot from those tournaments, and you know I’m just excited to share it with my teammates on the court,” said Dela Rosa.

She will be joined by 5-on-5 Rookie of the Year Erica De Luna, Kai Oani, Lauren Lopez, and Hannah Lopez as Ateneo de Manila University opens its campaign against two former champions, University of Santo Tomas at 12:40 p.m., followed by National University at 3:20 p.m.

Now, Dela Rosa is focused on anchoring the Blue Eagles’ title-retention bid in the three-a-side game.

“Whenever I play naman, for Gilas especially, you know, for Ateneo, I’m super competitive talaga. Siguro kasi nakasanayan na talaga eh. I came from Chiang Kai Shek kasi, and I guess dun ko parang na-adapt yung mindset na ganun. Gusto ko lagi manalo or mag champion kahit anong team pa yan,” she added.

Adamson University’s Cheska Apag, meanwhile, will be joined by Elaine Etang, Jam Meniano, Niclen Manlimos, and Nadine Muñoz as they look to bounce back into podium contention after missing out last season.

The women’s division is expected to be highly competitive, with UST, NU, and University of the Philippines fielding loaded squads.

The Growling Tigresses, reigning 5-on-5 champions, will be led by Kent Pastrana, who will be representing UST for the final time in this tournament. She will be joined by Brigette Santos, Karylle Sierba, Coi Danganan, and Erinn McAlary.

UAAP Season 86 Girls' 3x3 MVP Cielo Pagdulagan will spearhead the Lady Bulldogs, alongside Dindy Medina, Aloha Betanio, Bonie Solis, and Samantha Medina, as NU looks to rebound after missing the podium last season.

Louna Ozar will lead the Cacho-trained Fighting Maroons and will be flanked by Camille Nolasco, Achrissa Maw, Shane Cunanan, and Marielle Vingno.

The rivalry clash between UST and NU is set for April 30 at 6 p.m.

On the collegiate men’s side, De La Salle University is eyeing a fourth straight 3x3 crown in this tournament supported by Wilson Philippines and Ayala Malls, and is sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas.

Seniors Earl Abadam and Jcee Macalalag return, teaming up with reigning MVP Doy Dungo, EJ Gollena, and Luis Pablo.

“We take it with pride and honor to have the chance to bring La Salle a fourth 3x3 championship this year. This one will mean a lot to Jcee and me since it will be our last year playing and wearing a La Salle jersey,” said Abadam, who is aiming for his fifth overall UAAP title.

Last season’s silver medalists, the Growling Tigers, will bring back Amiel Acido, Gelo Crisostomo, and Ice Danting, along with rookies Carl Manding and Koji Buenaflor.

Crisostomo is currently in Sanya, China, representing the Philippines in the 3x3 competition of the 6th Asian Beach Games.

Last season's bronze medalists, the Soaring Falcons, will feature Allen Perez, AJ Fransman, Joshua Barcelona, Mat Edding, and Noah Pacquiao.

After finishing in the lower half of the standings last season, the Nico Salva-mentored Blue Eagles will field a deep lineup with Andrew Bongo, Shawn Tuano, Kyle Gamber, Alden Cainglet, and Thirdy Ebdane.

La Salle opens its title defense against Adamson at 2 p.m.

Cabs Cabonilas, the history-maker who won both regular season and Finals MVPs last March, will lead FEU-Diliman’s “three-peat” bid alongside Marc Burgos, JB Cagurungan, Sam Hall, and Adrian Alabagan.

The NU-Nazareth School Bullpups, looking to avenge their 5-on-5 loss to the Baby Tamaraws, will be composed of Kurl Figueroa, Miekho Natinga, Chad Cartel, Sofiane Bouzina, and Rhon-J Matias.

The Junior Growling Tigresses, meanwhile, like their seniors, are eyeing a “golden double” with Lea Pinuela, Katrina Insoy, Jesabel Anacan, Janice Oczon, and Sofia Petalcorin.

The Lady Bullpups, fielding Aubrey Lapasaran, Zaydhen Rosano, Ruiza Olmos, Queennie Cordero, and KJ Badajos, will look to spoil that bid.

In the 16-and-under division, 15-year-old reigning MVP Sky Jazul will lead Ateneo High School’s back-to-back title pursuit.

The elimination round runs from April 27 to May 2, with a break on April 29. The knockout stage will be held on May 3.

NU secures twice-to-beat postseason advantage in thrilling playoff

c/o UAAP Media

Six-peat-seeking National University clinched the second seed and the last twice-to-beat advantage in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Men’s Volleyball Final Four after a thrilling 25-22, 20-25, 25-23, 28-26 victory over third-ranked University of Santo Tomas on Saturday afternoon at the SMART Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

Beyond securing the final playoff incentive, the win was even sweeter for the Bulldogs as it snapped a two-game skid and allowed them to enter the Final Four with renewed momentum.

Prior to the match, NU dropped back-to-back games against also-ran De La Salle University and UST to close the eliminations, forcing a playoff for the No. 2 seed against the Golden Spikers.

With the victory, the six-peat-seeking Bulldogs will carry a twice-to-beat advantage when they face UST again in the Final Four this Wednesday, April 29, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

NU is now gunning for an 11th straight Finals appearance and will try to seal its return when it meets the Golden Spikers for the fourth time this season.

“Siyempre, may tiwala pa rin ako sa mga players ko dahil matagal ko na silang kasama. Alam ko yung kakayahan nila. Siguro nung game kanina, gusto nilang tapusin agad sa mabilis na paraan, pero sabi ko nga, hindi kailangan maging excited. Importante lang ay mag-focus kami sa gusto naming mangyari sa loob ng court,” Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin said.

NU appeared on track to close out the fourth set after consecutive attacks from Leo Ordiales and Buds Buddin built a comfortable 19-15 lead. However, UST fought back with a 5-1 run, capped by two Trevor Valera attacks, to tie the set at 20-all.

Both teams traded points until the Golden Spikers reached set point following a costly Ordiales attack error, but the Bulldogs held firm in the clutch.

UST again reached set point at 25-24 off a drop ball from presumptive MVP Josh Ybañez, but NU responded with a 4-1 finishing run. The rally was capped by a Vryvin Catinsag service error and the game-winning kill block from Ordiales and Ybañez, securing the coveted playoff incentive.

“Siguro, siyempre, pagod na kasi akong matalo, kaya nung nanalo kami kanina, talagang sobrang saya ko kasi lahat ng trinabaho namin nitong mga araw na ito, talagang nagbunga talaga. Pero sabi nga namin, hindi pa tapos yung laban,” Ordiales said, who led the Bulldogs with 22 points on 19-of-44 attacks and three blocks, along with five excellent digs.

Buddin followed with 20 points on 19-of-38 kills, 21 excellent receptions, and six excellent digs, while Jade Disquitado added 10 points, 15 excellent receptions, and eight excellent digs.

Congolese middle blocker Obed Mukaba contributed eight points on four attacks and three blocks, while team captain Peng Taguibolos had six points on four attacks and two blocks.

Greg Ancheta dished out 30 excellent sets, while Jimwell Gapultos added 12 excellent receptions and eight excellent digs.

For UST, Ybañez led the Golden Spikers in the losing effort, finishing with 20 points on 19 attacks, along with 16 excellent receptions and eight excellent digs, as their four-game winning streak came to an end.

Gboy de Vega produced 13 points, 10 excellent receptions, and five excellent digs, while Sherwin Umandal added 12 points and four excellent digs.

Valera also had 12 points on 10 attacks and two blocks, while Catinsag chipped in seven points in the loss.

Team captain Dux Yambao orchestrated the offense with 29 excellent sets and added four points, while sophomore libero Edriel Alabar contributed 21 excellent receptions.

Meanwhile, the other Final Four pairing pits top-seeded Far Eastern University against fourth-ranked Ateneo de Manila University on the same date and venue, with the Tamaraws holding a twice-to-beat advantage.

Second leg of PFA Open Tournament on tap this weekend

c/o Philippine Fencing Association

Fencers return to competitive action this weekend as the second leg of the Philippine Fencing Association (PFA) Open Division ranking tournaments commences inside the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

Around 250 competitors are expected to take part, marking the continuation of the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships, which also hosted the first leg of the PFA Cadet and Junior rankings last March.

The season-opening leg of the PFA Open last February set an early tone for what has become a tightly contested year, featuring national team regulars and elite club fencers battling for early control of the standings. While several familiar names claimed podium finishes, results across foil, épée, and sabre highlighted just how slim the margins have become at the highest level.

Nearly all medalists from the first leg are back in action, alongside competitors coming off recent campaigns in the UAAP Fencing Championships, the domestic Cadet and Junior leg, and international events such as the FIE Cadet and Junior Championships in Brazil. Those tournaments saw new contenders emerge and sharpened several athletes ahead of this key Open Division stop.

Also returning are members of the Philippine Modern Pentathlon Team, who figured prominently in the opening leg. Leading that contingent are Samuel German and Princess Arpilon, both aiming to build on previous medal finishes.

Competition begins on Saturday with Men’s Épée, Women’s Foil, and Men’s Sabre, before concluding on Sunday with Women’s Épée, Men’s Foil, and Women’s Sabre, as valuable ranking points remain up for grabs.

Canlas Fencing sets the table in PFA Cadet/Junior opener

c/o Philippine Fencing Association

Members of the Canlas Fencing community stepped up and showed out in the first leg of the Philippines Fencing Association's ranking tournaments for Cadet and Junior fencers last March 21-22 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The competition, called the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships, took place days after the conclusion of the UAAP Fencing Championships that was held at the University of Makati.

Leading the charge for the club are the Canlas sisters, with Nina netting two gold medals in Women's Epee and Nicol securing a gold and a bronze in Women's Sabre. The former dispatch a couple of Oblation Fencing competitors, Sophia Carig in the semifinals, and Faith Olemos in the final to claim the Cadet crown on Saturday, before defeating fellow Red Warrior Mika Ragot in the semifinals and Justa Sandoval of UP in the final for Juniors the next day.

As for the latter, she managed to defeat Liah Gillana in the semifinals, 15-7, avenging her defeat to the UST HS standout in the UAAP Girls Sabre semifinal a week earlier. Nicol then dispatched CF teammate Gabrielle Wynter Ang in the final, 15-12 for the Cadet crown.

She almost matched her sister's feat, but lost to Nadelle Turiano in the semifinals, 15-7. The Canadian-based fencer topped the Junior crown with a 15-13 win over Arianna Tiu of Republic Fencing.

All-CF match-ups also popped up on both days, with Oscar del Castillo defeating Franco Pediapco in the Cadet Men's Epee final, while it was a pure CF podium on Junior Men's Foil, with Nathan Canlas defeating Marcus Antonio Manuel in the final, 15-4. James Limuel Lim beat his fellow Red Warrior Brynt Gale for the bronze, 15-13.

Willa Galvez took advantage of Sophia Catantan incurring an injury during the knockout rounds to claim the Cadet Women's Foil title, dispatching Hagia Sophia del Castillo. With Catantan ruled out for the next day's Junior action, the younger del Castillo bounced back to top the action against Jodie Tan.

Other winners include Xavier's Gabriel Marcus Chua in Cadet Men's Foil, UST's Antonio Baydid in Cadet Men's Sabre, Matt Jacob Mayo in Junior Men's Epee, and Charles Babatio in Junior Men's Sabre.

The second leg of the Cadet and Junior ranking tournament is slated to take place next month.

Filoil preseason set for May 17 opening

Preseason basketball officially kicks into high gear next month, with the 19th edition of the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup set to open on May 17 at its hub, the Filoil Centre in San Juan.

Teams from both the UAAP and NCAA are set to tangle, with the champion to be crowned on July 18.

The University of the Philippines is seeking to claim its fourth straight title in this tournament, as it attempts to reclaim the UAAP men's basketball crown back from La Salle.

Even with the departure of its senior core, the Maroons will be ready for their title defense, led by its transfer standouts Veejay Pre, Rey Remogat, and Gani Stevens.

The Green Archers, fresh from their title exploits in dispatching UP in the league, will still have Jacob Cortez running the show, but expect some adjustments with the departure of Mike Phillips and Kean Baclaan. 

Set to make its return after sitting out the last few editions is Ateneo, which is set to parade a bunch of newcomers led by Kieffer Alas.

As for the NCAA, San Beda and Letran lead the way, while the College of Saint Benilde is also ready to impress. Jose Rizal University and Emilio Aguinaldo College, who have up-and-coming guards Sean Salvador and EJ Castillo, respectively, potentially surprising as they continue their preparations for the 102nd season of the Grand Old League.

The format from the past few seasons will be retained, as all UAAP schools will be placed in one group with the NCAA institutions on the other. After their groups go through a single round robin, the knockout rounds begin with the crossover quarterfinals.

A new element for this season is the appointment of BJ Manalo as the tournament's commissioner, supporting coaching legend Joe Lipa. The former La Salle collegiate standout is the latest addition to the tournament staff, which is still led by Virgil Villavicencio (chairman), Bert dela Rosa (deputy commissioner), Bennett Palad (tournament director) and Diana Layug (general manager). 

Manalo shares, "It's a wonderful privilege to be in touch with the current players and the current head coaches, and to have this chance to learn from coach Joe. This is special."

Supporting the Filoil EcoOil Preseason Cup are ABC Tile Adhesive, Hanes, Wallem, Molten, Reyes Barbecue, Nature's Spring, BDO, Akari, and Tela.com Athletics.

NU outlasts UST, secures semifinal berth

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Standings

**DLSU 14-0

*NU 10-4

*AdU 9-5

^UST 8-6

^FEU 8-6

UP 5-9

Ateneo 2-12

UE 0-14

**Finals

*Stepladder

^Playoff

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

1 p.m. - NU vs UST (Men's Playoff for Second Seed)

3 p.m. - UST vs FEU (Women's Stepladder Stage 1)

National University secured the second seed and an outright berth in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball stepladder semifinals after a stirring reverse sweep over University of Santo Tomas, 19-25, 23-25, 25-18, 25-18, 15-13, on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Bulldogs finished the elimination round with a 10-4 record, clinching solo second place and avoiding complications for the first phase of the semifinals.

De La Salle University is already waiting in the Finals after a perfect 14-0 elimination round, while Adamson University holds the third seed.

“I’m very proud of them because even though we were coming from a loss and we were fatigued already from that, we pushed through this game and locked in the second rank. Very happy. Hopefully dire-diretso na po ito hanggang dulo po,” said NU head coach Regine Diego.

Meanwhile, the Golden Tigresses dropped to 8-6, now tied with the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws for the fourth and final semifinal spot.

It was a day of reverse sweeps, as FEU earlier pulled off a 22-25, 23-25, 25-12, 25-21, 15-10 win over Ateneo to stay in the Final Four race.

UST and FEU will dispute the No. 4 spot on Saturday at the Big Dome.

Just when UST was on the verge of sealing a semifinals berth after taking the first two sets, NU regrouped and took the next two frames with identical 25-18 scores.

In the decider, NU led 11-7 before Avril Bron and Angge Poyos sparked a four-point run to tie the game at 11-all.

Both teams traded points over the next four exchanges to move the score to 13-all, before a crucial drop ball by Poyos narrowly went out, giving the Lady Bulldogs match point.

Captain Vange Alinsug then delivered the finishing blow, scoring through the UST blockers to seal the NU win after two hours and 23 minutes.

“Gusto lang po naming makabawi sa pagkatalo namin last game kasi ’yun ‘yung pinanghuhugutan talaga namin, ‘yung game na ’yun. Masaya lang din po kami kasi makikita naman po ‘yung team effort namin and teamwork po,” said Arah Panique, who vowed to bounce back after her net fault in the previous game against La Salle that cost NU the outright berth in the Final Four.

Panique made up for it with 24 points on 21 attacks, two blocks, and one ace, along with six digs. Sam Cantada also stepped up with 20 points on 15 spikes, three blocks, and two aces, plus 17 receptions and nine digs.

Alinsug contributed 13 points, 10 digs, and six receptions, while Chams Maaya, who was key in the fourth set, added nine points on four attacks, three aces, and two blocks.

Shaira Jardio anchored the defense with 33-of-46 excellent receptions and 16-of-33 digs, while Camilla Lamina orchestrated the offense with 24 excellent sets and five points.

For UST, Poyos led the way with 24 points, 15 receptions, and nine digs, while Regina Jurado added 21 points and 16 digs.

Cassie Carballo tallied 25 excellent sets, eight digs, and four points, while Detdet Pepito impressed with 20-of-22 excellent receptions and 16-of-32 digs.

Five-set drama keeps FEU postseason hopes alive in UAAP Women's Volleyball

c/o UAAP

Far Eastern University woke up just in time to outlast also-ran Ateneo de Manila University, 22-25, 23-25, 25-12, 25-21, 15-10, and keep its Final Four hopes alive in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Wednesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Tamaraws finished the elimination round with an 8-6 record and are now the biggest supporters of the NU Lady Bulldogs against the UST Golden Tigresses in their ongoing match as of publishing time.

An NU win would drop UST to an 8-6 record as well, tying it with FEU and forcing a playoff for the last Final Four ticket on Saturday at the Big Dome. A Golden Tigresses victory, however, will officially eliminate the Lady Tamaraws from contention.

“‘Yung first set hindi nag work ‘yung game plan namin… but ayun nga lesson namin ‘yung first two sets. Kailangang may mag-step up, kailangang may mag-embrace ng responsibility na iiwan ng mga seniors,” said FEU head coach Tina Salak.

FEU has now won its last eight meetings against Ateneo since Season 85 (2023), but the streak was threatened after KC Cortez steered the Katipunan-based side to a two-set lead.

The Lady Tamaraws regrouped and played with renewed purpose and determination, rallying to tie the match and force a fifth set.

In the decider, Ateneo handed the victory to FEU after committing three costly errors, while Melody Pons and Clarisse Loresco scored a point each to turn a slim 10-9 lead into a 15-10 win after two hours and 21 minutes.

“0-0 lang ang mindset kasi hindi pa po tapos ang laban (after the second set). Kailangan lang po naming bumalik, pusuan pa po ng mas angat pa,” said captain Gerzel Petallo, who delivered 17 points, 16 digs, and 11 receptions.

Lovely Lopez added 13 points and 26 receptions for FEU, while Kyle Pendon also produced 13 points on five attacks, six blocks, and two aces off the bench.

Loresco chipped in 10 points as well, while libero Marga Encarnacion capped her stellar elimination round with 15 digs and 12 receptions. Despite playing hurt, Tin Ubaldo still delivered 22 excellent sets and had two blocks.

On the Ateneo side, Dona De Leon continued to show the program’s bright future with 15 points on 11 attacks and four blocks, while JLo Delos Santos added 12 points, 11 digs, and seven receptions.

Rookie Ana Hermosura also contributed 10 points, along with 12 receptions and nine digs.

Setter Taks Fujimoto has exhausted her eligibility for the Blue Eagles, while head coach Sergio Veloso has also confirmed he will not return next season.

Ateneo finished in seventh place with a 2-12 record, its worst finish in the Final Four era.

Mangin powers into women's bantamweight gold medal match in UAAP Taekwondo

c/o UAAP

Tachiana Mangin showcased her pedigree and led the charge in kicking off the University of Santo Tomas’ redemption bid in style, advancing to the gold medal match of the women’s bantamweight (under-58 kg) division in the UAAP Season 88 Taekwondo Championships on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Malate, Manila.

The 2024 World Junior champion in the under-49 kg division dominated her two opponents in her UAAP debut, dispatching University of the Philippines’ Messiah Cruz, 2–0 (12–4, 10–2), in the quarterfinals before stamping her authority with another 2–0 romp over Far Eastern University’s Khira Duldulao, 21–3, 19–1, in the semifinals.

"Siyempre, masaya po na nakalaro na ako kasi before nung kakapasok ko pa lang po sa UST, pinapanood ko lang po 'yung mga seniors ko mag-compete. And isa rin sa mga nag-motivate sa 'kin is 'yung seniors ko po," said the rookie standout.

"I think lahat naman po kami naapektuhan sa bagong format, kaya equal footing naman po. Kaya after rin naman po ng UAAP last season, nag-adjust po agad kami at ginamit po naming advantage 'yung matagal na off-season para bumalik sa basic," Mangin added.

The 33rd Southeast Asian Games gold medalist will take on National University’s RJ Rae Arquion, who defeated Ateneo de Manila University’s Kenshin Rain Bonos, in the finals on Friday.

K-Ann Shane Gibaga joined Mangin in the Lady Jins’ quest for a bounce-back championship, pulling off a win by superiority in the sudden-death round of the finweight (under-46 kg) semifinal against NU’s Caitlyn Carlos.

Gibaga will face De La Salle University’s Jade Irish Papa, who defeated UP’s Shania Azarcon in straight rounds in the semifinals, for the gold medal.

The reigning champions, the NU Lady Bulldogs, also booked two tickets to Friday’s finals. Aside from Arquion, Rajany Santos clinched a spot in the flyweight (under-49 kg) gold medal match against UP’s Mikaela Sese.

Santos and Sese each needed just two rounds to secure their respective semifinal victories, defeating UP’s Yuhana Pardinez and Ateneo’s Sheean Dumat-ol.

On the men’s side, former champions NU set their own redemption campaign in motion, sending three jins to the finals: Kent John Banzon in the featherweight (under-68 kg), Carl Louie Ayaton in the welterweight (under-80 kg), and Cyvir Junio in the middle/heavyweight (over-80 kg).

Banzon defeated Ateneo’s Gabrielle Samson in the semifinals to arrange a finals showdown with UP’s Alexander Ogoy, who mounted a comeback against UST’s Aron Jay Bangayan in their own Final Four clash.

The two other finals featuring NU jins will both be against UST Tiger Jins.

Ayaton, who outlasted La Salle’s Nicolas Castillo, will face Michael Cadampog, who scored a come-from-behind win over UP’s Russel Villanueva. Meanwhile, Junio, who beat La Salle’s Marcus Delos Santos, will rekindle his rivalry with UST veteran Israel Cantos.

The final in the remaining weight class contested on Tuesday will feature La Salle’s Einz Alicayon against Ateneo’s Carl Williams.

Alicayon edged UP’s Arwyn Wagtingan in the semifinals, 2–1, while Williams pulled off a stunner against UST’s John Kim Pasion.

Similarly, it will be an all-NU-UST affair in the gold medal matches for the first three weight categories in the High School Girls’ division.

NU’s Keira Gonzales and UST’s Mitch Enriquez will clash for the under-44 kg gold. Rian Ramos of NU Nazareth School and UST’s Shay Cadilena will battle for the under-49 kg title, while NUNS’ Alyssa Garces and UST’s Ryzza Cadilena will contest the under-46 kg crown.

National Team stalwarts set early pace in PFA Open tournament

c/o Philippine Fencing Association

The quest to determine the best Filipino fencers in the country took place last Valentine's weekend at the Amoranto Stadium in Quezon City, as the Philippine Fencing Association held the first leg of its ranking tournaments.

As expected, members of the national team pool led the way in the competition, managing to earn their way to most of the final spots for each division.

Saturday saw our SEA Games individual medalists step up to the plate, with silver medalist Noelito Jose Jr claim the Men's Epee title against Samuel German, who is part of the national pool for Modern Pentathlon, 15-13.

Bronze Medalist Janna Catantan claimed the Women's Foil crown by defeating her younger sister Sophia, 15-9, while Eunice Villanueva topped fellow bronze medalist CJ Concepcion, 15-12.

Meanwhile on Sunday, bronze medalist Nathaniel Perez topped surprise standout Michael Nicanor, 15-12, for the men's foil title. Nicanor has been active more as a coach/mentor for Republic Fencing, but managed to dispatch national team pool members Marcus Manuel and Shawn Nicollei Felipe respectively in the quarterfinals and semifinals to set up his match against Perez.

Jylyn Nicanor topped her fellow national team member Queenie Dalmacio for the Women's Sabre crown.

Complementing the performance of German for Modern Pentathlon, is Princess Honey Arpilon. The former SEA Games medalist pulled off upsets against fellow Ormoc natives and UAAP individual champions Alexa Larrazabal in the semifinal and Juliana Gomez in the final to claim the Women's Epee title with 15-11 scorelines.

Other noteworthy performances during the competition include La Salle standouts Edan Ensamtan and Kurt Maruquez, Aubrey Fernandez of UST, Canada-based Nadelle Turiano, and Victoria Ebdane, both of whom represent Canlas Fencing.

In addition to the action on the piste, the PFA also honored last year's top fencers in all three levels (MiniMe, Cadet and Junior, Open).

The NSA will hold its second leg on April 25-26 at Rizal Memorial Coliseum as the Open portion of the Dr. Celso L. Dayrit Memorial Fencing Championships.

Ateneo sends UE to winless season

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena
9 a.m. - UP vs UST (Men’s)
11 a.m. - DLSU vs NU (Men’s)
1 p.m. - UP vs UST (Women’s)
3 p.m. - DLSU vs NU (Women’s)

Ateneo de Manila University ended its five-game skid with a sweep of winless University of the East, 25-23, 25-19, 29-27, in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Saturday afternoon at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

With Dona de Leon and Jihan Chuatico leading the charge, the Blue Eagles finally broke out of their prolonged slump, improving to a 2-11 record ahead of their final Season 88 assignment against the Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws on Wednesday, April 22, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

“Yeah, it's the purpose. When you need to increase the strong mind, as I told the player all the time, you need to try to do her best all the time. And in this situation, it doesn't matter if we start good or not. And you need to fight all the time,” Ateneo head coach Sergio Veloso said.

“This is the purpose. Never, never give up. You need to stay in the top level all the time. In the end, you have a good fight. They continue with a strong focus in the end,” he added.

The Lady Warriors were on track to extend the match to a fourth set after an Angel Pepino hit off the block and a Van Bangayan attack off the block pushed Ateneo into a 24-22 deficit. However, consecutive points from Ana Hermosura and Jlo delos Santos tied the frame at 24-all.

From there, Ateneo had to survive two UE set points before taking a slim 27-26 lead off an Ashley Cañete service error and a Khy Cepada attack mistake.

UE briefly tied the set following a KC Cortez service error, but Bangayan committed another attack error before Delos Santos delivered the game-winning ace that sealed Ateneo’s second win of Season 88.

“For me, we’re so very happy kasi nga parang ilang days kami nagfi-film viewing at pinupush kami ni coach Sergio this week para mabigay namin yung best namin. Para sa akin, nagawa ko na yung role ko ‘eh, and ever since nasa first round, ginagawa ko yung best ko,” De Leon said, who led Ateneo with 14 points on 11 attacks, two blocks, and one ace in the one-hour-and-39-minute match.

Second-year middle blocker Jihan Chuatico added 12 points on seven attacks and five blocks, while Hermosura finished with 11 points, 11 excellent digs, and nine excellent receptions.

Delos Santos contributed nine points on six attacks and three blocks, along with seven excellent digs and four excellent receptions, while Pacia chipped in five points and two excellent digs.

Cortez directed the offense with 22 excellent sets, adding four points on three attacks and one ace.

Meanwhile, UE ended Season 88 without a win once again, becoming the first UAAP women’s volleyball team to suffer back-to-back winless seasons since the Lady Warriors went three straight years without a victory from Seasons 75 to 77.

Cepada paced UE with 18 points on 15 attacks, two aces, and one block, along with 13 excellent receptions and 11 excellent digs, while Bangayan added 12 points on 11 attacks and one block with eight excellent digs.

Pepino finished with nine points, four excellent digs, and four excellent receptions.

Sofia Arasan tallied 14 excellent sets, while Reyes contributed 12 excellent digs and eight excellent receptions.

UAAP, PGTI set for golf introduction for Season 88

Golf is finally making its much-anticipated entry into the UAAP mainstream, debuting as a demonstration event this Season 88 – a significant step toward expanding the collegiate league’s program beyond its traditional core sports.

In partnership with the Pilipinas Golf Tournaments, Inc., organizer of the Philippine Golf Tour, the Ladies PGT, the Junior PGT, and the Intercollegiate Tour, the UAAP is pulling out all the stops to ensure not just a successful debut but a compelling case for golf’s inclusion as a regular medal event in the near future. This collaboration reflects a shared vision: to elevate collegiate golf and create a sustainable competitive structure for student-athletes.

The milestone inauguration will take place on April 20 at The Country Club. Dubbed as the UAAP Golf Invitational, the 18-hole tournament is expected to draw key players from member schools, school representatives, and guests, underscoring the significance of this breakthrough moment.

Competition will be structured across multiple divisions. The men’s category will feature Classes A, B, and C, while players aged 60 and above will vie for the Seniors crown. The women’s division will have a single category, highlighting inclusivity while maintaining competitive integrity.

More than just a debut, golf’s inclusion as a special event this season signals the UAAP’s broader intent to diversify its sports portfolio and assess new events based on participation, competitiveness, and long-term viability. If the demonstration proves successful, golf could soon join the ranks of regular UAAP medal events.

This initiative aligns with the league’s efforts to build on the popularity of its established centerpiece sports – such as basketball, volleyball, and cheerdance – by introducing disciplines that offer different skill sets and career pathways.

Notably, several UAAP schools, including La Salle, Ateneo, and UST, have already participated in the ICTSI Intercollegiate Tour, providing a strong foundation of experience and talent heading into the UAAP setup. While ICTSI will continue to stage its intercollegiate event, UAAP golf will operate as a separate competition, with schools given the flexibility to field different teams in both tournaments.

Golf’s rising popularity in recent years further strengthens its case. ICTSI’s sustained efforts – through its professional circuit, ladies’ tour, and especially its junior development programs – have helped grow the sport nationwide. The Junior PGT, in particular, has cultivated young talent across Luzon and the Visayas-Mindanao regions, culminating in elite competitions such as the North vs South Finals.

Within this context, UAAP golf has the potential to become a crucial bridge in the athlete development pipeline. It can connect grassroots junior programs to the professional ranks, offering student-athletes a structured environment where they can refine their skills while pursuing academic goals.

Ultimately, UAAP golf represents more than just another addition to the calendar – it is an investment in the future of Philippine sports. By providing a competitive platform at the collegiate level, the league not only accelerates the sport’s growth but also empowers student-athletes to seriously consider professional careers.

If momentum continues, golf could soon evolve from a special event into a cornerstone UAAP sport – one that not only broadens the league’s appeal but also strengthens the country’s presence in the global golfing arena.

Cleantech set to support Filipino athletes in Olympic quest

PHILIPPINE Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Cleantech chairman Luisito Mercado seal the partnership with (from left) Alexis Mercado, Gloria Mercado, Yeana Victoria Mercado, Francis Luis Mercado,  POC secretary-general Atty. Wharton Chan, Shylou Ortiz Luis and Philip Luis Mercado. POC Photo

THE Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and gas station company Cleantech sealed on Thursday a three-year partnership that runs through the country’s campaign in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Considered a first for the POC in collaborating with a fuel company for its mission and vision, the partnership was sealed between POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Cleantech chairman Luisito Mercado on Thursday in a formal ceremony at the Century Park Hotel in Manila.

“Cleantech is now the POC’s official fuel brand partner and we’re so happy that they will support our national athletes,” said Tolentino, adding Cleantech’s support comes at the right time when Filipino athletes are gearing up for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games this September, Southeast Asian Games in Malaysia and the inaugural SEA Plus Youth Games the Philippine is hosting next year and the Asian Beach Games in Cebu in 2028.

“This is a valuable support,” Tolentino added.

Cleantech is a gas station company in partnership with Repsol established in November 2015 operating in Nueva Ecija and Pampanga with a mission to provide customers the “Sulit” feeling for every liter they spend.

“We believe in the potential of Filipino athletes and we want to be part of their journey especially in the Los Angeles Summer Olympics in 2028,” Cleantech Vice President for Finance Yeana Victoria Mercado said.

“We want to serve and help athletes through our social responsibility to fellow Filipino people and want to be with them,” said Yeana Victoria Mercado, adding that Cleantech’s support comes in the form of a P1-million-a-year cash sponsorship.

Cleantech is authorized to use the POC logo in its promotional campaigns and in return, the POC will include the company’s logo in all its platforms—including in social media and national team jerseys.

Also present in the contract signing ceremony were POC secretary-general Atty. Wharton Chan and Cleantech Director for Finance Alexis Mercado, Director Gloria Mercado, General Manager Francis Luis Mercado and Directors Philip Luis Mercado and Shylou Ortiz Luis.

Menta to sit out UP WVT season finale

 

Fabio Menta with Nina Ytang (c/o UP OASD)

NCAA women's volleyball champion consultant Aleksi Lahteenmaki will yet again serve as acting coach for the University of the Philippines women's volleyball team (WVT) in its match against University of Santo Tomas on Sunday to end UAAP Season 88.

Lahteenmaki, a Finnish player-turned-coach only 22 years old, will temporarily step into the post in lieu of Fabio Menta, who has asked permission to take care of his well-being for the meantime.

The UP Office for Athletics and Sports Development as well as main backer Strong Group Athletics have allowed Menta to tend to his health, but also made it clear he remains WVT head coach and may return whenever he sees fit.

For now, State U tries to close its campaign on a high note under the guidance of Lahteenmaki, who had just helped the Lady Knights to their first championship in 27 years.

"We hope coach Fabio feels better sooner than later, so for our last game this season, let's just all support coach Aleksi and the rest of our girls in trying to get us a season-ending win," said UP OASD Director Bo Perasol.

Lahteenmaki has been under Menta's tutelage since the former chose to begin his coaching career following the end of his tour of duty for Finland's under-18 national team. He is instrumental part of the championship run of Colegio de San Juan de Letran in the just-concluded NCAA Season 101 Volleyball tournament, assisting Mayeth Carolino.

Now, he will try to give Nina Ytang, Irah Jaboneta, and Joan Monares a fitting farewell to their collegiate careers.

Lady Spikers at cusp of completing elims sweep

c/o UAAP

Games on Saturday at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion
9 a.m. - Ateneo vs UE (Men’s)
11 a.m. - Ateneo vs UE (Women’s)
3 p.m. - AdU vs FEU (Men’s)
5 p.m. - AdU vs FEU (Women’s)

De La Salle University moved on the cusp of the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Finals after overpowering also-ran University of the East, 25-20, 25-18, 25-15, on Wednesday afternoon at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila.

The Lady Spikers stayed unbeaten at 13-0 and inched closer to their first elimination-round sweep since Season 76 (2014)—an achievement that would secure an outright Finals berth and trigger a stepladder format.

La Salle will aim to complete the sweep against modern-day rival and defending champion National University this Sunday, April 19, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. The Lady Spikers won their first-round encounter against the Lady Bulldogs, 25-21, 25-19, 19-25, 25-17, last March 15 at the same Pasay venue.

La Salle was also able to insert substitutes Mikee Santos, Ella de Guzman, and Mikole Reyes, who all responded well in the straight-set victory.

“Siguro, hindi naman mawawala yung pressure pagdating sa amin. Siyempre, nandoon yung pressure na kailangang manalo, pero lagi namang pinapaalala ni coach na score at number lang ’yan. Kailangan mag-focus pa rin sa kung ano yung nasa harapan mo, which is yung NU ngayon, at one game at a time lang. Sana, hopefully, maganda pa rin yung mapakita namin na game against NU,” La Salle assistant coach Gian de Jesus said.

In the third set, the Lady Spikers turned a 4-4 deadlock into a comfortable 15-9 advantage, capped by three consecutive attacks from second-year outside hitter Shane Reterta.

From there, La Salle stayed firmly in control, with Angel Canino’s attack, a Kristine Iquio attack error, a Mikee Santos crosscourt hit, and a down-the-line conversion from De Guzman sealing the match in just 78 minutes.

In a tightly contested second frame, the Lady Spikers pulled ahead for a two-set advantage behind consecutive Lilay del Castillo blocks, a Canino backrow hit, and a quick attack by Amie Provido.

“That’s what the coaches are instilling in us—one game at a time. We don’t worry about this streak that we have and the 13-0; we worry about how we perform, and if we perform, of what we had done in training. Being disciplined in staying true to the system the coaches have taught us,” Laput said, who finished with 12 points on 10-of-20 kills, one block, and one ace alongside four excellent digs.

Canino also finished with 12 points on top of 10 excellent digs and seven excellent receptions. Del Castillo had nine points on five blocks and four attacks, while Provido supplied eight points on six attacks and two blocks.

Reterta posted an all-around stat line of five points, seven excellent digs, and seven excellent receptions, while Santos also added five points.

Meanwhile, the Lady Warriors remained winless through 13 games, extending their losing streak to 27 consecutive matches and moving on the brink of a second straight winless campaign in UAAP women’s volleyball.

Khy Cepada led UE in the loss with 13 points on 10 attacks, two aces, and one block, along with 10 excellent receptions and four excellent digs, while Bangayan added 10 points on eight attacks and two aces with six excellent digs.

Angge Reyes contributed 10 excellent digs and eight excellent receptions.

The Lady Warriors will look to break through against the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles this Saturday, April 18, at the same UST venue.

Second edition of NBA Rising Stars Invitational set this June

NBA Rising Stars Invitational

The National Basketball Association officially announced that it will bring back the NBA Rising Stars Invitational in a couple of months.

Launched last year, the second edition of the competition bringing together select 18-and-under boys' and girls' teams across the Asia-Pacific will take place at the OCBC Arena in Singapore this June 22-28.

In sharing the announcement, NBA Asia's Head of Southeast Asia Sheila Rasu notes, "The inaugural NBA Rising Stars Invitational set a benchmark for high-school basketball in Asia-Pacific.  As we return to Singapore for the consecutive second year, we look forward to delivering another unforgettable week of programming featuring some of the region’s best young talent, brought to life through the NBA’s signature mix of sports and family-friendly entertainment."

Done in collaboration with Sport Singapore (SportSG) and the Singapore Tourism Board, supported by the Karim Family Foundation, and operated by the event agencies of NBA Singapore, twelve teams each from the boys' and girls' division will tangle in round robin action before heading into the knockout phase.

Teams were selected with the assistance of the national basketball federations and leagues, as well as through local qualifying tournaments in Bangkok, Melbourne, Taipei, and Tokyo. As hosts, Singapore has been granted two teams in both divisions.

Aside from competition, players will also go through skill development sessions, social impact programming, and off-court activities promoting cultural exchange. Outstanding ballers will have the opportunity to attend future NBA basketball development camps, showcases, and programs.

Gracing the proceedings are Jeremy Lin and Lauren Jackson, with both set to interact with the participants throughout the week. The former shares, "I’m incredibly excited to be part of the NBA Rising Stars Invitational in Singapore.  There is so much young talent across Asia-Pacific, and I’m proud to be part of an event that shines a spotlight on some of the region’s top prospects.  Helping shape the next generation is a cause I’m deeply committed to, and I hope my journey encourages these rising stars to make the most of this opportunity and ultimately contribute to greater Asian representation at the highest levels of the game."

As for the latter, she says, "Last year’s NBA Rising Stars Invitational was a remarkable showcase of talent and determination, and I witnessed firsthand how much the stage and experience meant to the players.  I look forward to returning to Singapore this June and helping these amazing athletes continue their development."

Aside from the two champions, additional current and former NBA players will be heading to the Lion City for the event.

In addition to the action, the NBA Rising Stars Invitational will also have additional activations in place all week for fans, including community outreach initiatives, photo opportunities, authentic NBA memorabilia, player appearances and meet-and-greet sessions, exclusive clinics, as well as live entertainment and interactive fan experiences.

From the perspective of the hosts, SportSG Deputy Chief of Industry Development Group Dean Tan says, "The inaugural NBA Rising Stars Invitational in 2025 was an outstanding success, with 22 teams from 11 countries competing, more than 9,000 local and international spectators catching the action live, and many more watching online.  This year’s tournament builds on last year’s success and will be a platform that connects youths across borders and sharpens their skills, through high-level competition and elite mentorship from NBA talents and legends.  We look forward to witnessing students who have qualified through Singapore’s largest annual inter-school competition take centre stage alongside our region’s top youth talents, showcasing the next generation of top basketball players on home ground."

STB Director of Sports Lilian Chee adds, "We are delighted to welcome the return of the NBA Rising Stars Invitational to Singapore.  The tournament enhances Singapore’s vibrant events landscape and reinforces our position as a premier sporting destination.  We look forward to hosting the young athletes from across Asia-Pacific alongside their families and friends, as well as NBA players.  Beyond the competition, we hope they will create memorable experiences, forge meaningful connections, and draw inspiration from their time in Singapore."

For more details on the NBA Rising Stars Invitational, one can check out www.nbarisingstarsinvitational.com. The competition is also on Instagram and YouTube.

Adamson extends softball dynasty with 13th straight title

c/o UAAP

The longest active championship streak in UAAP collegiate events continues for a 13th consecutive season.

Adamson University captured the record-extending title with another 5–0 victory over the University of the Philippines, completing a two-game sweep of the UAAP Season 88 Softball Finals on Friday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Falcons have now overtaken Far Eastern University as the winningest squad in the sport, breaking the deadlock with their league-best 21st championship.

The Lady Falcons also won 5-0 in last Monday's opener.

The San Marcelino-based squad used a strong start to fuel this historic victory.

“Siyempre, grateful and super happy no. And siyempre, thank you, Lord. Pinagdasal namin ‘to, pinagdasal ng players ‘to. And talagang I’m so, so proud sa lahat ng aking players; kasi nung tinanong ko sila bago mag-start ang season kung ano ang gusto nilang makuha. Nung sinabi nila sa ‘kin na gusto ulit nilang mag-champion para matuloy nila ‘yung legacy, sinabi ko sa kanila, being a champion is not easy, so you must be prepared sa lahat ng preparations na gagawin natin,” said long-time head coach Ana Santiago in this milestone for the program.

“Kasi, if you want to become a champion, then we will practice like a champion. And super happy ako na nag-step up ‘yung mga nawalan namin ng positions, nag-step up talaga ngayon. And kahit mga bata pa sila, pinakita nila na deserving sila this season.”

Down to one out in the first inning, Reyae Villamin sent a deep fly ball to right field that could have been an easy catch for UP’s Sathia Romero-Salas.

Instead, the rookie Fighting Maroon misplayed the catch, allowing Roma Mae Cruz to score the go-ahead run. Villamin was then rewarded with a run of her own after another defensive error from left fielder Laica Atlas drove in the second run.

Mae Langga, the season’s Best Hitter (BA .480) and Best Slugger (SA 1.040), then delivered her lone hit of the day—a triple down the right-field line past Romero-Salas—to spark the third-inning rally.

The eventual Season 88 MVP and Adamson team captain then extended the lead to three after a sacrifice hit to right field from Villamin.

Three straight hits from Mea Tubongbanua, Jhaycel Roldan, and MJ Libaton produced two more runs, which ultimately stood as the final score as the Adamson defense shut down UP.

“Iba talaga na nag-level up ‘yung kanilang laro. Pero sinabi ko nga sa kanila, at the end of the day, whatever you get this season, be proud of yourselves, kasi kayo ang dahilan kung bakit tayo mag-chachampion,” Santiago, the concurrent Blu Girls head coach, added.

The Fighting Maroons had a chance to get on the scoreboard after back-to-back hits from substitutes Erika Ocampo and Airess Libaton, but Glory Alonzo eventually struck out Cali Adriatico for the second out.

Alonzo, who was named the season’s Best Pitcher, then induced a long fly ball from graduating Reuel Caogdan that Villamin easily caught for the final out, sealing the shutout and the dynastic championship for the Lady Falcons.

Alonzo finished with five strikeouts in the clincher.

“Sabi nila malas raw ‘yung 13, pero pinatunayan namin na hindi, this is our lucky 13th. And nataon pang Season 88, masaya lang ako na bumalik pa ako. No regrets,” said the graduating senior, who ended her UAAP career with back-to-back Best Pitcher awards and two Finals MVP plums.

After two complete-game shutouts in the Finals, Alonzo ended her UAAP career with another Finals MVP plum, replicating what her Season 77 seniors achieved against the same UP squad (winning both games via 6–0 and 10–0 routs).

Langga also collected the awards for Most RBIs (13) and Most Home Runs (3) in her final season for the now 21-time UAAP softball champions.

University of Santo Tomas finished third for the fourth straight season, with freshman standout Anna Rose Macatbag winning Rookie of the Year honors.

De La Salle University’s Cassandra Inot claimed the Most Stolen Bases award with six.

Team    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    R    H    E
AdU    2    0    3    0    0    0    0    5    8    0
UP    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    4    3

La Salle fends off FEU to earn twice-to-beat advantage

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Women’s Volleyball Standings
**DLSU 11-0
NU 8-3
UST 7-4
FEU 6-5
AdU 6-5
UP 5-6
Ateneo 1-10
UE 0-11
**Twice-to-beat

Games on Saturday at the Filoil Centre

9 a.m. - Ateneo vs DLSU (Men’s)
11 a.m. - Ateneo vs DLSU (Women’s)
3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Men’s)
5 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women’s)

De La Salle University averted disaster against Far Eastern University, eking out a 25-17, 25-22, 23-25, 19-25, 15-10 victory to stay perfect and secure a twice-to-beat incentive in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Women’s Volleyball Final Four on Wednesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Now sporting an 11-0 record, the Lady Spikers still have bigger dreams as an elimination round sweep would give them an outright Finals berth.

“Unang-una, nung fifth set, sinabihan lang sila ni Coach Ramil na balik, kalimutan yung nangyari sa third set at fourth set, balik kung ano yung inumpisahan namin. Sumunod lang sila sa kung ano yung gustong mangyari ni coach, kaya ayun, nakuha yung fifth set,” said La Salle deputy coach Noel Orcullo.

But for the Lady Spikers to remain undefeated, they needed grit and poise as the Lady Tamaraws staged a furious comeback.

La Salle was two points away from sweeping the match at 23-20 when FEU rallied with five unanswered points, fueled by three errors, a block by Tin Ubaldo, and an ace to stay alive.

The Lady Tamaraws carried that momentum into the fourth set, building a lead as high as 23-13 to force a decider.

In the fifth set, the Lady Spikers found a second wind as seniors Angel Canino, Amie Provido, and Shevana Laput led their team to the win after two hours and 27 minutes of play.

With FEU closing in after back-to-back points at 9-11, Provido, Laput, Canino, and sophomore Shane Reterta combined for a 4-1 finishing run to keep La Salle’s record intact.

“Itong match na ‘to, sobrang grateful kami kasi napanalo namin, pero I think, kailangan din talaga tingnan namin kung ano ang nangyari sa game na ‘to. Hindi lang yung result kasi madami kaming mga lapses talaga as a team na pwede namang maiwasan, so, more on balik kami doon sa basic,” said Canino, who finished with 24 points, 14 digs, and 10 receptions.

Laput added 25 points and seven digs, while Provido came up huge with 17 points on 10 attacks, six blocks, and an ace.

Rookie playmaker Eshana Nunag continued to impress with 32 excellent sets as the Lady Spikers dominated in attacks and blocks, 58-50 and 17-11, respectively, while the Lady Tamaraws controlled the service department, 9-3.

La Salle will next face Ateneo de Manila University on Saturday at the Filoil Centre before closing the second round against University of the East on the 15th and defending champion National University on the 19th.

Meanwhile, the Lady Tamaraws absorbed their second straight defeat, dropping to 6-5 and tying with the Adamson Lady Falcons for fourth place.

Lovely Lopez led FEU with 16 points and 24 excellent receptions, while Gerzel Petallo returned after missing three games due to a right shoulder injury and contributed 14 points, 18 receptions, and nine digs.

FEU will look to regain its winning form on Sunday against University of the Philippines at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.