SportsPlus enters into SEA Games digital coverage, highlighting athlete efforts in biennal competition

SportsPlus with Women's 1500m Bronze medalist Susan Ramadan

SportsPlus has launched its most extensive Southeast Asian Games digital coverage to date, deploying an on-ground content team in Bangkok and rolling out real-time medal updates, athlete features, and behind-the-scenes coverage for the 33rd SEA Games. As the Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), SportsPlus aims to bring Filipino audiences closer to Team Philippines’ campaign with faster, richer, and more accessible content across its platforms.

As part of the expanded initiative, SportsPlus is producing daily highlight reels, medal round recaps, athlete spotlights, and quick-turn content directly from competition venues. The effort strengthens the company’s role in amplifying Filipino athletes’ presence online and increasing visibility for lesser-covered sports.

“This year, we wanted to go beyond traditional updates and create coverage that truly captures the heart of our athletes,” said James da Costa, Head of Partnerships at SportsPlus. “Thanks to our partnership with the POC, we’re able to be here in Bangkok documenting real-time results, sharing athlete features, and capturing moments that we can bring straight to our social media platforms. This expanded content push helps us shine a light on more athletes while keeping Filipinos engaged and proud throughout the SEA Games.”

The enhanced SEA Games push follows SportsPlus’ recent support for the Asian Youth Games and forms part of a long-term roadmap leading into the upcoming Asian Games and the Olympics. As the POC’s Official Gaming Partner, SportsPlus continues to invest in initiatives that spotlight athletes and widen the reach of Philippine sports storytelling.

The POC has emphasized the importance of stronger digital engagement around sports, especially among younger audiences. SportsPlus’ multi-platform content strategy aligns with this mission by offering fans easier access to updates, human-interest stories, and real-time results throughout the 33rd SEA Games.

Through dynamic on-site coverage, SportsPlus hopes to increase appreciation for national athletes and inspire the next generation to pursue excellence in sports.

Daily highlights, medal trackers, and athlete-focused content are available on the official SportsPlus Facebook page.

SBP reveals Gilas quintet

In a statement on Thursday, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas revealed its 5x5 squad for the 33rd edition of the Southeast Asian Games, which will take place in Thailand.

Under the head coaching duties of Norman Black, Gilas Men will be composed of the following players:

• Jamie Malonzo
• Dalph Panopio
• Thirdy Ravena
• Matthew Wright
• Ray Parks
• Cedric Manzano
• Justin Chua
• Robert Bolick
• Von Pessumal
• Allen Liwag
• Abu Tratter
• VJ Pre.

The statement also highlights the efforts put in by the SBP to finalize the lineups. They say, "After a tedious back and forth due to initially unclear and constantly changing rules in player eligibility, we at the SBP have submitted this list to the local organizing committee and it has been vetted and has undergone pre-approvals."

In addition, they also thanked the players and the institutions involved for their role in the formation of the team.

"We extend our deepest appreciation to all the players for dropping everything to compete for Gilas.

We thank our partners from the PBA, UAAP, and NCAA and our friends from the Japanese B-League for allowing their players to compete for flag and country."

Statement concludes with the federation wishing the entire Team Philippines in the SEA Games the best of luck.

Gilas Men is slotted in Group B alongside Malaysia (December 14 1130am) and Vietnam (December 15 1130am). The Quarterfinals is schedule to take place on the 17th, with the semifinals on the 18th and the medal matches on the 19th. 

PNVF picks twenty for Alas Women SEA Games pool

c/o PNVF

JIA MORADO-DE GUZMAN brings her veteran versatile act anew to a 20-strong Alas Pilipinas Women team which will target nothing less than the gold medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand in December.

“Nothing less than the gold medal,” declared Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, after the association board approved Brazilian head coach Jorge Edson Souza de Brito’s picks for the national team.

Suzara also said the team members are culled from the professional league Premier Volleyball League and the University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

Joining De Guzman (Creamline) at the setter position are Julia Coronel (Galeries Tower), Mars Alba (Akari), while the liberos are Dawn Macandili-Catindig (Cignal), Jen Nierva (Chery Tiggo) and Justine Jazareno (Akari).

Opposites are Alyssa Solomon (Osaka Marvelous), Kat Tolentino (Choco Mucho) and Leila Cruz (Capital1) and the outside hitters are Shaina Nitura (Adamson University), Eya Laure (Chery Tiggo), Vanessa Gandler (Cignal), Angel Canino (De La Salle), Bella Belen (Capital 1) and Alleiah Malaluan (PLDT).

Middle blockers are Dell Palomata (PLDT), Amie Provido (Fe La Salle), Maddie Madayag (Choco Mucho, Thea Gagate (Zus Coffee) and Fifi Sharma (Akari).

Suzara said the team will hold training camp from November 15 to 30 either in Japan of Taiwan.

The indoor volleyball competitions are set December 10 to 19 at the Huamark Indoor Stadium in Bangkok.

The Philippines has won the SEA Games women’s volleyball gold medal six times—the last in 1993 in Singapore—while Thailand is the region’s powerhouse with 16 golds.

PH athletes' heroism hailed on Bonifacio Day

As the nation commemorates the 156th birth anniversary of revolutionary hero Andres Bonifacio, the Philippine South East Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) enjoins all Filipinos to pay tribute to the country's modern-day heroes: our national athletes.

The Opening Ceremony of the 30th South East Asian (SEA) Games will be held on tonight, November 30, which coincided with the annual commemoration of Bonifacio Day.

"Today, we celebrate the birth of one of our greatest national heroes, Gat Andres Bonifacio, who was known for his courage and love for the Philippines. Coincidentally, we also celebrate the heroic feats of our Filipino athletes who continue to raise the country's flag through sports," PHISGOC Chairman and Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said.

As the committee tasked to take the lead in organizing the biggest SEA games, PHISGOC called for unity among all Filipinos to show support for the athletes who will represent the Philippines in the next 11 days of the Games.

"These national athletes embody the virtues of Bonifacio. They exude courage every time they fight in their respective sports events. And they do so with the goal of bringing honor to the Philippines," Speaker Cayetano said.

"Our athletes are heroes in their own way because of the tremendous pride they bring to our nation. They deserve all the praise they can get from their fellow Filipinos, especially now that the 30th SEA Games is officially starting today," he added.

Cayetano stressed that the Philippine hosting of the 30th SEA games is an opportunity to honor our athletes and showcase the world-class talent of the Filipinos.

PHISGOC encouraged Pinoys to support the athletes competing in the sports event by watching their games in venues near them. There will be a total of 56 sports and over 500 events that will be held in 58 different venues in Metro Manila, Central and Southern Luzon

“The athletes, guests and spectators attending the opening ceremonies will be treated to a display of world-class technology driven and spectacular show that will showcase the best of Filipino performers,” PHISGOC said in a statement.

Meanwhile, veteran playwright Floi Quintos in his social media account shared that the “power of spectacle is one that has been used worldwide to further agendas. But it is in the hands of spectacle’s creators to patch together some meaning, some cohesion, some message that goes beyond the political.

30th SEA Games Opening Ceremonies set for Saturday

Expect world-class talent and technology for the Opening Ceremonies for the 30th Southeast Asian Games.

Those attending the festivities at the Philippine Arena will be treated to a showcase of some of the best Filipino talent, but those who can't be at the cavernous stadium can watch LIVE on ABS-CBN at 7pm on Saturday, November 30.

For the Opening Ceremonies, the host Philippines has tapped the award-winning Five Currents consortium to produce the event.

The Los Angeles-based live content creators have had experience taking on such events, from the Olympics Opening Ceremonies in both London and Sochi, as well as the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta and the 2015 European Games in Baku. Their events have reached out to a total of twenty billion people worldwide, while also netting numerous industry accolades, including 14 Emmys out of 29 nominations, as well as sixty Telly Awards.

In collaboration with select Filipino talents on-stage and behind the scenes, Five Currents handled the creative and technical aspects of this particular production, including the design execution and the fabrication of all key elements and visuals that would make the SEA Games Opening Ceremonies a unique digital masterpiece.

Aside from the usual parade of athletes and the lighting of the cauldron, notable Pinoy talents will also make their presence felt inside the Philippine Arena.

Lani Misalucha will lead the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, followed by a four-part production that includes song and dance numbers to be performed by celebrated Filipino artists.

There will also be a dance production choreographed by Huling El Bimbo director Dexter Santos and veteran dancer Cherry Villanueva, featuring dancers from the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group as well as student performers from various colleges and universities.

Performers like Christian Bautista, Aicelle Santos, Jed Madela, Elmo Magalona, KZ Tandingan, Inigo Pascual, the TNT Boys, Ana Fegi, Robert Sena, and Apl.de.ap. are to render a medley of songs, including the 2019 SEA Games theme: "We Win as One." Helping with the production are musical arrangers Nikko Rivera and Jimmy Antiporda, as well as music producer Eloisa Matias, while taking the lead behind the scenes are veteran playwright Floy Quintos and National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab.

PHISGPC statement re: Senator Panfilo Lacson comments

The organizers of this year’s South East Asian Games (SEA Games) said Thursday that state spending for the Philippines’ hosting of the regional sports competition is all accounted for and were made in compliance with Commission on Audit (COA) rules.

Ramon Suzara, chief operating officer of the Philippine South East Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) made this assurance as he decried the statement made by Sen. Panfilo Lacson erroneously comparing the manner of spending done for the country’s hosting of the SEA Games to the multi-billion peso pork barrel scam.

Suzara noted that the funds spent by the PHISGOC for the SEA Games cannot be compared in any manner whatsoever to the shameless pork barrel racket perpetrated by Janet Napoles, who utilized so-called private foundations to siphon state funds to ghost projects.

“Every centavo spent by PHISGOC were all used for the benefit of the athletes and to ensure the Philippines’ successful hosting of the SEA Games,” Suzara said. “Senator Lacson is welcome to inspect the world-class facilities and other requirements that were prepared for this year’s SEA Games so that he can see for himself how the funds were prudently spent by the organizers.”

He issued the statement in response to Lacson’s allegation that the transfer of P1.5 billion in public funds to PHISGOC, a private foundation, was questionable and could be compared to Napoles’ pork barrel scam.

Suzara said that while PHISGOC is a private foundation, 80 percent of its members come from the government. Both the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) are well represented in the PHISGOC.

He also recalled that during the Senate plenary deliberations on the PSC budget, Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano, who chairs PHISGOC, provided senators with a breakdown of the P1.5 billion fund.

Suzara also pointed out that it was Lacson himself who said that Cayetano assured senators that PHISGCOC consulted COA every step of the way in spending funds for the SEA Games.

PHISGOC’s job of overseeing the preparations for the SEA Games is nothing new, Suzara said, as this was the same strategy done when the Philippines hosted the SEA Games in 2005. Other ASEAN members also formed organizing committees to oversee the preparations of the sports event in their countries.

Suzara said Lacson might have forgotten that due to the delay in the approval of the 2019 national budget, PHISGOC had to race against time in procuring the necessary equipment and other requirements for the SEA Games.

“The 2019 budget was only signed into law by the President in April because Congress was unable to approve the budget bill on time. This gave the government less than six months to procure all that was needed to ensure the Philippines’ seamless hosting of the SEA Games,” Suzara noted.

While Speaker Cayetano recommended to the President that the procurement be done by the Department of Budget and Management, PHISGOC had no choice but to do part of this job because of the lack of time, Suzara said.

“It takes several months to get things moving in compliance with procurement rules before either the DBM or PSC can bid out contracts. We had less than six months to mobilize to ensure that the SEA Games would push through,” Suzara said.

Suzara said PHISGOC is ready to face any investigation or post-audit of the spending done for the SEA Games as earlier made clear by Speaker Cayetano.

He also welcomed the suggestion of Albay Rep. Joey Salceda for the Senate to conduct the legislative inquiry to ensure that it would be impartial and transparent.

PHISGOC Statement re: SEA Games hosting

The Organizing Committee remains focused on ensuring the success of the Philippine hosting of the 30th SEA Games, and assures the public that all government regulations have been observed in this great endeavor.

Our Chairman has declared numerous times that we are willing to participate in any form of investigation on the 30th SEA Games, after its conclusion on December 12.

We agree that during the inquiry, we should be investigating too the proliferation of Fake News a few days before the Opening Ceremony, which has put the organizing committee, the Games, and the country in a bad light.

Presidential Spokesperson would agree with this as he himself was a victim of Fake News.

For now, we call on all Filipinos to stand together as one nation, one Team Philippines. Only in unity can we truly say that We Win As One!

PHISGOC statement re: Timor-Leste, Myanmar, Cambodia

SEA Games 2019

We sincerely apologize to our athlete guests from Timor-Leste, Myanmar, and Cambodia for the inconvenience caused to them by the confusion regarding their transportation and hotel arrangements. While PHISGOC strives to ensure proper coordination of the arrival details, airport welcome and transportation provisions of all international teams to their respective assigned hotels, we acknowledge our shortcomings in this particular incident and vow to do better.

For the information of the public, the confusion with the Timor-Leste football team happened when some of their members were initially brought to the Century Hotel along with the rest of the team. However, the Timor-Leste coordinator pointed out that some were actually billeted at the nearby Hotel Jen. PHISGOC was able to arrange the delegates’ shuttle to the other hotel.

As to the Cambodian football team, their change in arrival details was relayed late to the PHISGOC Games Services Department.  Instead of the arrival time initially relayed to PHISGOC, the Cambodian team arrived in NAIA at 4AM. Transportation was immediately provided, but since their hotel rooms were not yet available because the standard check-in time is 2PM, PHISGOC requested that the team be allowed to wait at an air-conditioned private hotel conference room with tables and chairs where the members could rest and feel comfortable while waiting for their rooms.

There were 34 international arrivals on Friday, November 22, in our NAIA Terminals, consisting of seven (7) sports team delegations, technical officials and representatives of the respective National Olympic Committees. Yesterday, November 23, there were 38 arrivals in our NAIA Terminals and 5 arrivals in our Clark International Airport of SEA Games athletes, delegates and officials.

While we are pleased to report that in the past two days there have been 75 international arrivals, consisting of various sports team delegations, technical officials and representatives of the respective National Olympic Committees, that have gone off without a hitch, the incident with the two teams remain a constant reminder for us as organizers to be more diligent. We owe it to our guests and our countrymen.

MILO and PHISGOC formalize SEA Games partnership

A celebratory toast between PHISGOC and Milo Philippines, flanked by Milo Champions Kiefer Ravena, Alyssa Valdez, and Pauline Lopez.

MILO reaffirms its commitment to the advancement of local sports with its partnership with the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) for the upcoming 30th Southeast Asian Games, vowing to continue to energize Team Pilipinas in their quest to become champions.

Serving as witnesses to the event are a couple of national athletes who also happen to be MILO champions: Volleyball icon Alyssa Valdez and Taekwondo sensation Pauline Lopez. Both ladies lauded MILO Philippines for their continuous efforts in championing athletes in the local and global setting.

Valdez shares, "When we hear the crowd cheering their hearts out for us, it’s a special feeling. It helps me hit harder, jump higher, and play smarter. It allows us to believe that we can overcome the odds and win together."

Lopez adds, "There will always be doubters and naysayers who will try to pull you down. Instead of being affected by their negativity, I channel all my efforts towards proving them wrong, becoming a stronger version of my self, and in the process inspiring others, especially young girls."

Both ladies form the centerpiece of a series of inspirational videos that are to be released in the run-up for the SEA Games. As they gear up for their respective stints, the videos capture the moments they displayed discipline, confidence, and determination during training and the rousing effects of having a nation of champions encouraging them in every step of the way. These will be posted on MILO Philippines' Facebook page, as well as the Youtube page of Nestlé Philippines.

The 2019 SEA Games' theme and motto "We Win As One" celebrates unity in diversity and heralds the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship amongst Filipinos, as well as with the rest of the ASEAN community. Such principles fit with the lifelong values MILO espouses with its grassroots programs: the MILO Sports Clinics, MILO Barangay Liga, MILO Champ Camp, MILO Little Olympics, and the National MILO Marathon.

Nestlé Philippines-MILO Vice President Veronica Cruz shares, "As a longtime supporter of Philippine sports, it is with great honor and a privilege that MILO comes in as a gold partner for the historic 30th SEA Games. As our athletes and local sports communities continue to work hard in the preparation for the SEA Games, we want to help energize the country to cheer them on and let them know that we are all with them in defending our home court, win or lose."

Officially slated to take place from November 30 to December 11, the 2019 SEA Games is set to be the largest edition ever, with just under ten thousand athletes and team officials participating in 56 sports. Alongside them are just over two thousand technical officials, 1,500 members of the press, and twelve thousand volunteers, with a reach of as much as half a billion viewers.

New Clark Sports Village serves as the main hub, with the Subic Bay Freeport Zone acting as the secondary hub and the tertiary hub found in Metro Manila and its surrounding areas.

Over 35,000 expected to be accredited for 2019 SEA Games

As of this month, counting only athletes and officials, nearly 11,000 application for accreditation from various sports have been received with barely three months to go before the opening ceremonies of the SEAG.

Alona Quintos, the director of accreditation and uniforms, on Thursday said at least 35,000 people are expected to sign up for the Games as the Sept. 30 accreditation deadline scheduled by the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee draws near.

According to Quintos, 9,552 have been screened while 8,213 personnel have been granted access to the 11-nation sportsfest to be held at New Clark City in Tarlac, Subic and Metro Manila from Nov. 30-Dec. 11.

"We are closely coordinating with the security department to ensure that everyone who gets accredited have cleared all security protocols,"’ said Quintos.

She explained that the printing of pre-valid accreditation cards (PVAC) of the 11 national Olympic committees would commence end of September.

Quintos likewise announced that around 1,500 journalists, photo journalists, videographers and broadcast personnel will comprise the covering media during the entire duration of the Games.

"We have set up a specific lane for every client group such as media, athletes and officials, etc. We want to make the experience of getting an accreditation as easy and comfortable as possible," said Quintos.

The World Trade Center in Pasay City will be the Main Accreditation Center set to cater sports to be played in Manila and Southern Luzon while the ASEAN Convention Center will serve both clusters in Clark and Subic.

The Main Accreditation Center will begin operations on November 20.

SIBOL eSports team for SEA Games unveiled

The Captains of SIBOL eSports

The Filipino eSports contingent for the upcoming SEA Games has been unveiled, with 27 making the cut out of the 77-strong training pool to comprise SIBOL and participate at the games.

The athlete breakdown is as follows:

Seven members each for the team-based games: Dota2, Arena of Valor, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

ML:BB - Kenneth Jiane "Kenji" Villa, Karl Gabriel "KarlTzy" Nepomuceno, Carlito "Ribo" Ribo, Jeniel "Haze" Bata-anon, Angelo Kyle "Pheww" Arcangel, Allan Sancio "Lusty" Castromayor, and Jason Rafael "Jay" Torculas.

DoTA 2 - Mc Nicholson "Mc" Villanueva, John Anthony "Natsumi" Vargas, Jun "Bok" Kanehara, Marvin Salvador "Boomy" Rushton, Bryle Jacob "CML" Alvizo, Van Jerico "Van" Manalaysay, and James Erice "Erice" Guerra

Arena of Valor - Kevin Kio "Gambit" Dizon, Jeremiah "1717" Camarillo, Jevan Lorenzo "Bents" Delos Santos, Lawrence Anthony "Rubixx" Gatmaitan, Miguel Klarenz "Miggie" Banaag, Bradie Ryan "Yats" Velasquez, and Kyle Jepherson "Vindiicated" Padlan

Two members each for the remaining games: StarCraft II, Hearthstone, Tekken 7

StarCraft II - Justin "NuksPH" Santos and Caviar "Enderr" Acampado

Hearthstone - Dustin "WaningMoon" Mangulabnan and Jacinta "Jia" Dee

Tekken 7 - Andreij Hosea "Doujin" Albar and Alexandre Gabrielle "AK" Laverez

With the lineups finalized, the focus is now on training and coaching them in order for each one to be ready to claim the gold medal, embodying the "Lakad Matatag" mentality.

Aside from the announcement, the Philippine Southeast Asian Games eSports Union (PSEU) also revealed that SMART is the official presenter of SIBOL, while Razer is set to assist with the team's training and preparation. The global gaming manufacturer is the official eSports partner for the SEA Games.

Smart Communications President Alfredo S. Panlilio shares, "eSports in the SEA Games is not just about making history; it is about building the foundation for all our young Filipinos who aspire to represent our country on a world stage. The athletes of Sibol are not just pioneers, they are our country’s pride. We at Smart wholly support our athletes in their SEA Games journey."

PHISGOC: Volunteers are the "Backbone" of the SEA Games

PHISGOC COO Ramon "Tats" Suzara asserted that volunteers serve as the "backbone" of the SEA games hosting in his opening remarks during the Subic-Clark cluster launch of the Volunteer Program held at the ASEAN Convention on August 23, 2019.

The Philippine South East Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) Chief Operating Officer Ramon Suzara asserted that the volunteers serve as the "backbone" of the Philippine hosting of the SEA Games.

"Whatever we have been doing in PHISGOC for the last few years will be meaningless without you. If we don't have any of you, then we won't be able to deliver the best SEA Games. And with this, you are part of our family, our SEA Games family."

This is the inspiring message expressed by the PHISGOC COO as he welcomed the participating volunteers in the Subic-Clark Cluster Launch of the SEA games Volunteers Program.

PHISGOC Chief Operating Officer Ramon Suzara assured the volunteers who joined the Subic-Clark launch that this will be a memorable experience for everyone, noting that the Philippines is staging the biggest and best SEA games ever.

Suzara stressed that preparations for the SEA Games is in full swing. It is "all systems go" especially with the support of partner institutions and thousands of volunteers, with less than a hundred days to go before the biennial sports event.

WE WIN AS ONE! The PHISGOC team welcomed thousands of volunteers to the SEA Games family. The spirit of nationalism and volunteerism was strong and alive during the Subic-Clark cluster launch of Volunteer program.

There are almost 11,000 athletes and team officials, 530 medal events covering 56 sports, 44 competition Venues for the 30th edition of the Games which will happen in 12 exciting days. The events will take place in 4 clusters in Clark, Subic, Metro Manila, and other areas in South Luzon.

The 9,000 strong volunteers recruited by the SEA games Volunteer Program will be trained by PHISGOC to prepare them for their tasks and responsibilities for the events proper.

Volunteers will be assigned to specific functional areas of PHISGOC depending on their skill sets and interests in order to spearhead the success of the Games.

The PHISGOC Executive thanked the volunteers from Clark, Subic, Metro Manila, North and South Luzon as well as from other parts of the archipelago and urged them to work together to make this the most memorable SEA games.

Volunteers ready for Subic-Clark portion of SEA Games

The bayanihan spirit was definitely very much alive during the Volunteer Program Launch for the Subic-Clark cluster, as hundreds of volunteers trooped to the ASEAN Convention Center in Clark to show their unwavering support for the 30th SEA games.

The resonating loud chants and cheers from the audience saying “I Volunteer” captured the strong passion and power of the volunteers present during the event.

With less than 100 days to go before the main event, the Philippine South East Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) gets additional boost from twenty five (25) partner institutions, consisting of universities and colleges, provincial government and business group.

Philippine Sports Commission Chair William “Butch” Ramirez, Senator Francis Tolentino, Pampanga Governor Dennis Pineda and Zambales Representative Cheryl Deloso-Montalla (2nd district), Capas Tarlac Mayor Rey Catacutan, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Senior Deputy Administrator for Support Services Mon Agregado and Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President Noel Manankil were present to show their support and motivate the volunteers.

The partner institutions that declared support for the SEA games volunteer program include: Columban College Inc, Mondriaan Aura College, Lyceum of Subic Bay, Gordon College, Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, Subic Bay Colleges Inc, President Ramon Magsaysay State University, St Joseph College, City College of Angeles, Clark College of Science & Technology, Gentry International School, Jocson College, Mabalacat City College, Our Lady of Fatima, Philippine State College of Aeronautics, Ifugao State University, Pangasinan State University, Holy Angel University, Angeles University Foundation, Systems Plus College Foundation, Tarlac State University, Colegio De Sebastian,Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Provincial Government of Tarlac.

The Philippine Sports Commission Chair William “Butch” Ramirez and Senator Francis Tolentino gave inspiring words to commend the volunteers as well as the partner institutions for showing their commitment and support for the success of the SEA games.

During the launch, Senator Tolentino asserted, “Regardless of gender, race, or religion, we will uphold the virtue of unity and nationalism for us to come together as one.”

“We must work together for us to win as one. I VOLUNTEER!” Tolentino said as he joined the PHISGOC team and volunteers on stage during the reciting of the manifesto of support.

Chris Tiu, Deputy Director of Volunteer Program and former PBA player, led hundreds of volunteers from different parts of Luzon, as they recited their pledge of support for the SEA games and to serve the country as well.

“I believe in the power of unity and camaraderie, in unity there is greater strength and bigger potential to succeed,” the manifesto reads.

“I know that We is bigger than I. Together we can overcome the challenges. We will win as one.” the volunteers recited.

The Subic and Clark volunteers will begin their volunteers’ program training at the ASEAN Convention Center after their cluster launch.

Over 1,000 volunteers from partner institutions and online applicants are expected to join the first ever training to prepare them for the biggest, most-viewed, and best hosted SEA Games.

The Volunteers Program has provided a once-in-a lifetime opportunity for students, teachers, persons with disabilities, professionals and even retirees to share their time and talent for a worthy cause –to ensure the success of the SEA games and to serve the country and make Filipinos proud.

SBP open to call up Chooks 3x3 players for SEA Games

Could Karl Dehesa get another national team callup again? It might happen, according to the SBP.

Chooks Pilipinas 3x3 players may get the chance to represent the country in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.

"That is a big possibility," according to Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas 3x3 Program Director Ronnie Magsanoc, although he admitted that he has yet to figure out what the federation's approach is for the event, which will take place at the Filoil Flying V Centre.

Magsanoc did acknowledge that Chooks Pilipinas 3x3 are "in strong consideration," noting their FIBA 3x3 rankings. He shares, "That is also an option. Yung mga nasa Chooks-to-Go, most of them have made it to the top one-hundred already. They will always be considered even a part of the pool because of their ranking."

The top 20 Filipinos in the rankings all play in the league, led by Joshua Munzon of Pasig Grindhouse and Alvin Pasaol of Bataan Risers.

Completing the top 20 are Leonard Santillan, Troy Rike, Karl Dehesa, Jaypee Belencion, Arvin Tolentino, Sean Manganti, Anton Asistio, Ron Lastimosa, Dylan Ababou, John Wilson, Larry Muyang, Roosevelt Adams, Leo De Vera, Paolo Hubalde, Jojo Cunanan, Chris De Chavez, Jan Jamon, and Rey Suerte.

Magsanoc also praised Chooks-to-Go with their efforts in helping the Philippines gain the necessary points in order to get themselves into a position to qualify for the upcoming 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. He says, "Napakalaking bagay ng ginagawa nila. Hindi pa nagagawa yun eh, pero sila nagawa nila."

The league, led by its owner Ronald Mascariñas, has made it clear that they will make themselves available for national team duties. The BAVI head says, "We are publicly offering the field for SBP. All the players who played in our Chooks-to-Go league are available. Even if there’s an ongoing tournament, if the country needs our players, we will release them for the country."

PHISGOC welcomes Pocari Sweat as new partner

From L-R: Pato Gregorio, Alan Peter Cayetano representing PHISGOC, Yoshihiro Bando and Kohei Oyamada representing Pocari Sweat

The Philippine South East Asian Games Organizing Committee announced a new partnership on Monday, as they welcomed Otsuka Pharmaceutical as their latest partner in the upcoming 30th SEA Games.

Otsuka Pharmaceutical is the company that manufactures Pocari Sweat, with its distribution in the Philippines being taken care of by Otsuka-Solar Philippines, Incorporated.

As a Gold Tier Sponsor, Pocari Sweat is set to be the exclusive rehydration isotonic drink of the 30th South East Asian Games.

The ceremony was personally witnessed by PHISGOC Chairperson Alan Peter Cayetano, who shared this with regards to the new partnership, "We are happy to share with our partners that the preparations are in full swing and the entry of Pocari Sweat will provide a big boost to our commitment to achieve our goals and tasks."

He adds, "The continuous outpouring of support from different multinational companies boosts our confidence that we can overcome all the challenges to deliver the best SEA Games ever."

Representing Pocari Sweat in the MOA signing is Yoshihiro Bando.

Having been a partner at numerous Asian Games, this is the first time they are entering such an agreement for the SEA Games, which takes place this coming November.

Pocari Sweat joins Ajinomoto, Asics, Atos, GL Events, Grand Sport, Marathon, Mikasa, Molten, and Philippine Airlines as sponsors for the SEA Games, which helps ensure that the games are successful with the combined participation of both government and international giant sponsors. Meanwhile, a partnership with Media Pro Asia has been set up to handle the broadcast.

PHISGOC has given these companies assurances that they will be given the best value for their sponsorship, noting that the country has raised its standards of hosting such an international tournament.

Philippines doubles up on SEA Games opener

Kyla Inquig on the right. Photo c/o MASOC

The Philippines capped off an generally positive opening day campaign to the 29th Southeast Asian Games with victories on the football field for both its men and women against separate opposition on Tuesday night.

The MP Selayang Stadium served as the venue for the Under-22 Azkals' first SEA Games win in six years with a 2-0 victory over Cambodia.

The Filipinos did not have an easy time in the first half against their opponents, whom they lost to in the AFC Qualifiers, 1-0, weeks earlier. They did manage to keep things goalless in the first half.

It took them fifty minutes to break the deadlock, as a corner kick taken by Jarvey Gayoso found its way towards Reymart Cubon, and the newly-minted Davao Aguilas FC defender headed it through the needle for the opening goal of the match.

The Under-22 Azkals manage to double the lead on the 82nd minute, Roberto Corsame, Jr won a free kick that Kou Ichi Belgira converted from distance.

Cambodia had their chances late to try to pull one back, but RJ Joyel managed to deflect two good attempts on goal, as well relied on luck with one chance hitting the post.

When asked about his thoughts on the game, assistant coach Popoy Clarino said, "We played as a team and we fought for God and for our country. No one gave up." It was something similar that team captain Ian Clarino told the Philippine Football Federation, "We’re more than grateful,” said Clarino. “(The win is) not just for the team, it’s for the country and that speaks a lot."

With the win, it ended a drought of twelve years without having to defeat the Khmers in this tournament.

Here is the highlight footage from earlier.



On the distaff side, the Senior Women's National Team denied hosts Malaysia a chance to secure points on home soil with a 2-1 victory at UiTM Stadium.

Camille Rodriguez made a triumphant return to national team duty with a lob taken from outside the box, putting it out of the reach of the opposing keeper just inside the right post in the 74th minute. It was her second goal in international duty, a stint that had been interrupted for six years.

Team captain Patrice Impelido managed to put the Malditas ahead just before the halftime break, receiving a corner from Pat Tomanon and getting a glancing header onto the back of the net.

Malaysia did manage to find an equalizer, with Dadree Rofinus taking advantage of Inna Palacios being off her line in the 52nd minute.

Head coach Let Dimzon praised the performance of the team to the Philippine Football Federation. She says, "It was good to pick up the threee points against a very difficult host." "The team did well tonight," she adds.

At the same time, Dimzon noted that the girls were either a little bit hesitant to take an attempt or had too much adrenaline, leading to missed opportunities to convert. She admits that the next match will be tougher, which would demand a better game plan.

Here is the highlight footage from earlier:



Up next for our footballers in the SEA Games:

The women face Vietnam at 4pm at the UM Arena, while the men face Indonesia at 845pm at the Shah Alam Stadium.

AirAsia launches #DaretoDream sports initiative for Team Philippines

Ateneo swimmer and part of the SEA Games swimming contingent for the Philippines Jesse Lacuna

In line with the Southeast Asian Games unofficially kicking off yesterday, AirAsia officially launched its #DareToDream sports initiative late last week, which aims to motivate and inspire athletes to discover their own potential and make their athletic aspiration a reality. The timing is appropriate since the company is the 2017 SEA Games' official airline partner.

In the Philippines, AirAsia, through AirAsia Philippines, has crafted three inspiring videos involving three separate athletes, long jumper Marestella Torres-Sunang, swimmer Jesse Lacuna, and volleyball superstar Alyssa Valdez. All three are part of the Filipino contingent in the upcoming SEA Games.

These videos, which are found on AirAsia Philippines' Facebook page, share both the challenges and joys that come with being an athlete, and would encourage young and aspiring local talents to get into sports.

According to AirAsia Philippines' Brand Manager David Viray, "The #DareToDream initiative is part of AirAsia's continued commitment to grow the local sports scene. Through the web video series, we are sharing the hard work and passion that drives our athletes. We also want to gather support for them from every Filipino - we want everyone to watch them compete and cheer for them during this year's SEA Games.

Aside from the inspiring videos, AirAsia will also post four video updates of the SEA Games on its Facebook page. Michele Gumabao will serve as the host, as she will dish highlights and team standings for Team Philippines and the other participating teams. The breakdown of the four videos are as follows:

Video 1: Opening Ceremonies
Video 2 & 3: Winning Athletes and Teams
Video 4: Recapping Team Philippines and its winning moments

Davao Aguilas reveal SEA Games call-ups

Davao Aguilas FC players, proud representatives of the Philippines at the upcoming SEA Games to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Davao Aguilas revealed on Saturday that seven of their players have been called up by the Philippine Football Federation for the upcoming SEA Games.

Composed of under-22 standouts, the seven Aguilas called up are as follows:

Junell Mark Bautista
Enzo Cheng
Raymart Cubon
Dylan De Bruycker
Van Rey Diaz
Jordan Jarvis
Richard Talaroc, Jr.

Davao head coach Gary Phillips praised this development, " Very exciting times for Davao Aguilas FC, we have 7 representatives, that's wonderful for our club. Obviously, we wish them all the best, we are confident that they will do well and represent Philippine football in a good way, and they are quality players, quality individuals. We are very excited for them and I'm sure they will do us proud."

The rest of the team will also be in Malaysia, but for a training camp that will get them ready once they resume their Philippines Football League campaign, which will be in September 9, as they host Global Cebu FC. Davao reloaded in the past few weeks, which included the transfer of the Younghusband brothers from FC Meralco Manila. The team will also support their teammates in national team duty.