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.

Philippine Olympic Committee formalizes partnerships with SportsPlus, SMART

(From left to right) Karate Pilipinas President Richard Lim, SportsPlus Head of Partnerships James da Costa, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, PLDT_Smart Communications First Vice President Jude Turcuato

SportsPlus, the No. 1 sportsbook in the country and a trusted PAGCOR-regulated platform, has officially entered into a four-year partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) from 2025 to 2029, providing crucial support leading up to and through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as Official Gaming Partner. Smart Communications, Inc. will serve as the Official Connectivity Partner, providing telecommunications support for the initiative.

The partnership – signed by Mr. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, President of the POC; Mr. Jude H. Turcuato, First Vice President and Head of Sports at PLDT/Smart; and Mr. James da Costa, Head of Partnerships of SportsPlus – was officially sealed during a contract signing held on September 17, 2025, at Gameville Ball Park in Mandaluyong City.

The contract signing marked SportsPlus’ commitment to POC in giving Filipino athletes the tools, support, and visibility they need on their journey to the world’s biggest sporting stages. This includes essential athlete support, from training resources to connectivity tools - with Smart providing the products and services that keep athletes connected to their families, coaches, and fans throughout their training and competitions.

For SportsPlus, this partnership shows its strong commitment to Philippine sports, providing steady and meaningful support that helps athletes train, compete, and shine on the world stage. By working closely with the POC, SportsPlus aims to share more athlete stories, bring fans closer to the action, and promote the pride of Philippine sports here and abroad. Over the next four years, SportsPlus will invest in projects that keep athletes engaged with their fans – from digital campaigns and athlete stories to send-off events before major competitions. These efforts are designed to celebrate Filipino sporting excellence while inspiring the next generation of athletes to dream big.

As part of its athlete-first commitment, SportsPlus also recognized the outstanding performance of the country’s medalists from The World Games held in Chengdu, China  – Aislinn Yap, Carlos Baylon Jr., Kaila Napolis, and Chezka Centeno. SportsPlus will award each of them an iPhone 17 to help them stay connected as they continue to represent the Philippines.

“SportsPlus is more than a partner—we are a dedicated supporter of the exceptional talent and spirit of the Filipino athlete.  From grassroots development to the professional ranks and onto the world stage, SportsPlus is committed to standing with athletes every step of the way,” said SportsPlus Head of Partnerships James da Costa. “This partnership  is our pledge to provide the support, visibility, and resources they need to excel and bring pride to the nation.”

POC President Bambol Tolentino shared, "This collaboration with Smart and SportsPlus is a big boost for our athletes. The most important thing is preparation in all our undertakings, and these partnerships provide exactly that. With partners who are truly passionate about Philippine sports, we may not just bring home two medals like we did in the Paris Olympics  — we can achieve even more."

“Through this partnership with SportsPlus and the Philippine Olympic Committee, Smart will ensure that our athletes are connected, whether it's by providing world-class connectivity for training, live streaming sports content, or keeping our national athletes in touch with their families and supporters, especially when they compete abroad,” added Smart Communications, Inc. First Vice President and Head of Sports Jude H. Turcuato.

Samsung supports Filipino Olympians as the Team Pilipinas' official mobile partner

In the photo, from left to right: Vanessa Sarno (Weightlifting), Elreen Ando (Weightlifting), Joanie Delgaco (Rowing), Samantha "Sam" Catantan (Fencing), Carlos Yulo (Gymnast), Aira Villegas (Boxing), Nesthy Petecio (Boxing), Hergie Bacyadan (Boxing), and John Ceniza (Weightlifting), all with their Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5

Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO) reaffirms its commitment to the Olympic programme by establishing a partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee, setting up the Korean brand as the official mobile partner of Team Pilipinas for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

For Samsung, forming an alliance with the Philippine Olympic Committee not only emphasizes  its technological advancements but also spotlights the athletes' commitment and accomplishments, enhancing their visibility and aspirations internationally.

SEPCO officials, led by Marketing head Yna Quimson and Mobile Experience Head Blue Avelino, were present at the team's official send-off ceremony last week in Intramuros, which was graced by the presence of Philippines president Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., as well as POC President Abraham Tolentino.

As part of the partnership, Team Pilipinas members received a Galaxy Z Flip 5, allowing each athlete to remain connected with their loved ones, as well as their fans, throughout their Olympic adventure, starting with their camp in Metz, France. In the process, they would be able to amplify their own voices and stories through their platforms.

Samsung has been a Worldwide Olympic Partner since 1988, and is set to continue that until 2028, making it four decades of commitment towards the Olympic movement, allowing athletes and fans to utilize the brand's transformative mobile technology in order to share the Olympic spirit.

For the upcoming Summer Games, Samsung recently unveiled its "Open always wins" global campaign, highlighting its shared values on openness, which it believes it enables new perspectives and infinite possibilities.

Coincidentally, Paris will be serving as the backdrop for Samsung's latest event: Galaxy Unpacked. Set to take place on July 10, at 9pm in the Philippines, the French capital serves as the ideal setting for the brand's latest cutting-edge innovations, whether in wireless communications and computing equipment, including artificial intelligence, virtual reality, augmented reality, and 5G, as it continues to shape the world's digital future.

Fans worldwide would be able to catch Galaxy Unpacked as well through Samsung.com, Samsung Newsroom and Samsung’s YouTube channel. Register now by visiting https://www.samsung.com/ph/unpacked/ and get an e-voucher worth up to P7,000 plus a chance to win a 65” Neo QLED 4K TV worth P135,999.

Cignal TV, POC set for Paris 2024 partnership

c/o Cignal

With the countdown to the 2024 Paris Olympics reaching 100 days, the Philippine Olympic Committee and Cignal TV are set to join forces in launching Isang Daang Taon Laban Para sa Bayan: Celebrating 100 Years of Filipino Excellence in the Olympics.

This campaign kicks off the country's quest towards the quadrennial event, as it seeks to build on the successes in Tokyo, where we finally snagged our first gold medal thanks to Hidilyn Diaz. It also celebrates the centennial of the Philippines' participation in the Summer Games. Sprinter David Nepomuceno is the first Filipino Olympian, as he participated in the 100m and 200m events of the eighth edition of the Games.

Cignal TV and MediaQuest President & CEO Jane J. Basas shares, "Cignal TV has always believed in the skills and talent of the Filipino athlete and this partnership only reiterates our commitment to them. We want them to know that we’re with them every step of the way."

On the POC's part, President Abraham ‘Bambol’ Tolentino adds, "We’re honored to have Cignal TV be our gracious partner for the Paris-bound athletes and this early, we have high hopes of another memorable showing in the Olympics."

A growing crop of Pinoys seek to replicate Diaz's achievements a few years ago, led by gymnast Carlos Yulo, vaulter EJ Obiena, boxers Eumir Marcial and Nesthy Petecio, as well as Vanessa Sarno.

Cignal TV will use its full arsenal at its disposal in documenting Team Pilipinas' buildup and preparations, including their moments at the country's chosen French headquarters in Metz. Content will then be shown on the varying MediaQuest platforms, whether through mainstream platforms or through digital and social media.

Trota #ALLInForGold speech for Max's Group Inc.

Max's Group Inc. President and CEO Robert F. Trota

Our friends at Max's Group also shared the speech that their President and CEO, Robert F. Trota gave at the unveiling of their partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

The complete speech can be read below:

To our friends from the media and of course, to all our POC representatives, good afternoon.

Mr. Ricky Vargas, Mr. Patrick Gregorio, Mr. Ed Picson - who are all here today, thank you for gracing us with your presence! It is because of you that this partnership has come to fruition. Mr. Gregorio, thank you for championing this partnership. This would not have been possible without your genuine care and valuable guidance.

Today marks another important milestone for Max’s Group as we formally announce our exciting partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee.

Max’s Group is a brand that has local roots but is fast making strides in the global arena, with a number of well-loved brands delighting customers from all around the world.

As a local brand that champions Filipino food both here and internationally, so too are our athletes bannering the Philippine flag in the global arena, showing what we as Filipinos are capable of.

Together with the POC, we will make sure that our hardworking athletes get the backing that they need. As well as support the welfare for their families because we know how important family is to our athletes.

Max’s Group’s contribution to the POC will be used to support our athletes as they train, compete, and triumph in the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics.

OUR PARTNERSHIP will cover THESE 3 key points: Flagbearers, Families, and Fans.

The Flagbearers are our athletes. Our contribution will fund their training and provide an exciting incentive of PHP3 million which will be divided among all gold medalists.

The Families are the support systems of our athletes. Our brands should not just nourish the athletes themselves but give them something to spread delight to their own families.

The Fans are the rallying force behind our athletes. We believe there is no fan like a Filipino fan. And that’s why it’s important we give three pairs a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics live. STAY TUNED FOR DETAILS.

Thank you everyone for coming here to show your support. Together, let’s go #AllInForGold!

Max's Group goes #AllInForGold in Tokyo 2020

From L-R: Jim T. Fuentebella, Cristina Trota-Garcia, Carolyn Trota-Salud, and Dave T. Fuentebella (Max's Group Directors), Max's Group President and CEO Robert F. Trota, Philippine Olympic Committee President Ricky P. Vargas, POC Spokesperson and Communications Director Ed Picson, and POC Secreatry-General Patrick Gregorio

For a Filipino athlete, it is important to have some semblance of a support system around themselves, in order for them to focus on one's goals.

One of the loftiest goals for such an athlete would be to finally end the drought of an Olympic gold medal. And one private entity has made it its goal to help achieve that milestone.

Last week, Max's Group Inc. made official its involvement with the Olympic quest, forming a partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee.

The casual dining powerhouse, which has the likes of Max's Chicken, Yellow Cab, Pancake House, Krispy Kreme, and Jamba Juice under its banner, is investing an initial PhP 10.5 million to help Filipino athletes with their Olympic preparations.

Included on that incentive is a PhP 3 million cash reward for the much-sought-after Olympic gold. The initial investment also includes POC funding, as well as catering for POC events.

This partnership makes the Max's Group the first major local brand to pledge support for Tokyo 2020. By doing so, MGI hopes that they can inspire others to help our Filipino athletes get the resources they need in order to excel in the world's biggest sporting event.

MGI President and CEO Robert F. Trota shares, "We understand the work and support needed by our Filipino athletes to truly succeed in the global arena, and we want our athletes to thrive in this highly competitive environment. We’ve structured our pledge so that we address what we call the three Fs: Flagbearers, Families, and Fans. The Flagbearers, our athletes, will receive funds for their training and a cash prize of PHP3 million for gold medal wins. We will also make sure to nourish not just our Flagbearers, but also their Families, so they don’t have to worry about their welfare while they train for and compete in the Olympics. Lastly, we’re giving the Fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch and cheer for our Philippine team live in Tokyo 2020, because we believe that Filipinos are the greatest fans in the world."

POC President Ricky Vargas adds that the partnership allows Filipino excellence in food to trickle down into sports, adding "Filipino athletes have the drive and determination to rise above the competition. With our partnership with MGI for Tokyo 2020, we will be able to ground a new wave of Filipino pride for the world to see."

Aside from the contributions towards the athletes and their families and the POC, MGI is also establishing a special campaign through its different restaurant brands, dubbed as "All In For Gold."

Each of the brands will have their own specific product innovations, food bundles, and marketing campaigns that would help in raising additional funds for our Olympic athletes.

MGI is also looking to send three pairs of customers to Tokyo to partake of the Olympic festivities next year.

Trota believes that their partnership with the POC for Tokyo 2020 is step in unifying all Filipinos to showcase and champion the best Filipino talent, "Just as we at Max’s Group are championing Filipino cuisine here and abroad, so too are our athletes bannering the Philippine flag on the world stage. We hope that our partnership with POC will inspire a greater outpouring of support for our athletes, their families, and for Philippine sports, as well as instill being proudly Filipino."

MGI is no stranger to supporting sports, with Max's serving as one of the sponsors of Gilas Pilipinas back in 2014, and Yellow Cab being having served as sponsors for numerous football events in the country.