SportsPlus, Dwight Ramos renew partnership

(From Left to Right: SportsPlus CEO - Andre Uy, Dwight Ramos, and Dwight's Sports Agent - PJ Pilares)

Fresh from recently becoming the Official Title Partner of the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL), SportsPlus—the country’s No. 1 sportsbook and Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Olympic Committee—further boosts its support for Philippine basketball by formally renewing its partnership with Gilas Pilipinas ace player Dwight Ramos.

Underscoring SportsPlus’ long-term commitment to elevate Philippine sports, this partnership renewal extends the mutual trust and respect that began in August 2024 when Ramos first became SportsPlus’ brand ambassador. Since then, both parties have built a relationship grounded in professionalism and purpose—values they consistently uphold on and off the court.

Recently, Ramos turned in a career-best campaign in the Japan B-League, posting standout numbers for Levanga Hokkaido before rejoining Gilas Pilipinas for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers, where the national basketball team are once again representing the country on the international stage.

Since committing to the national team, Ramos has consistently answered the call, embracing the responsibility that comes with competing against the region’s best. Ramos has suited up in multiple major tournaments including the 2021 & 2022 FIBA Asia Cup, the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, where he was also initially named the 21-man training pool and later secured a spot in the final 12-man roster and the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou. He also played a key role in Gilas Pilipinas’ historic gold medal run at the 2022 Asian Games—the country’s first men’s basketball gold in over six decades.

“As long as my body allows me to compete at my best and the team needs me, I’ll always be committed to playing for Gilas Pilipinas,” Ramos shared. “Playing for the Philippines is an honor that I don’t take for granted. Every time I step on the court for Gilas Pilipinas, I give it my all,” he added.

His renewed partnership with SportsPlus reflects that same discipline and drive. “I’m grateful for the continued trust of SportsPlus,” Ramos continued. “Our partnership goes beyond basketball. It’s about representing something bigger than ourselves. I’m excited to keep building a brand that truly supports Philippine sports.”

SportsPlus President & CEO Andre Uy also emphasized the importance of continuity in the partnership. “Dwight represents the best of what Philippine basketball stands for: hard work, integrity, and pride in representing the country,” he said. “From day one, this partnership has been built on trust and mutual respect. We’re proud to continue supporting Dwight as he competes at the highest level and inspires the next generation of Filipino athletes.”

The renewal also reinforces SportsPlus’ commitment to working with respected personalities and established sports institutions. The brand recently formalized its partnership with MPBL for the 2026 season as its Official Title Partner. During the signing at Gameville Ball Park in Mandaluyong, MPBL founder Manny Pacquiao joined SportsPlus President & CEO Andre Uy, and MPBL Commissioner Emmerson Oreta, committing a shared goal of elevating professional basketball standards and creating more opportunities for Filipino athletes.

Fans can keep track of the continuing partnership journey between SportsPlus and Dwight Ramos. For the latest stories, game updates, and exclusive content, visit SportsPlus.ph and follow SportsPlus across its official social media platforms.

SportsPlus secures partnership with the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League

(From Left to Right: SportsPlus President & CEO Andre Uy, MPBL Founder Manny Pacquiao, MPBL Commissioner Emmerson Oreta, & MPBL Legal Counsel Atty. Glen Gacal)

SportsPlus—the country’s No. 1 sportsbook, Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Olympic Committee, and a trusted PAGCOR-regulated platform—and the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) formally announced their partnership for the 2026 season, officially confirming SportsPlus as the league’s Official Title Partner. The launch marked a major milestone as both organizations set the tone for what is expected to be a banner year for one of the country’s fastest-rising basketball leagues.

In a ceremonial contract signing held on February 23 at Gameville Ball Park in Mandaluyong, MPBL founder and Philippine boxing icon Manny Pacquiao joined SportsPlus President & CEO Andre Uy and MPBL Commissioner Emmerson Oreta. The event signaled a shared commitment to raising professional basketball standards while strengthening opportunities for Filipino athletes nationwide.

For SportsPlus, the partnership reflects its growing role in championing local sports development. “This is another meaningful step for us in supporting Philippine sports and empowering homegrown talent,” said Andre Uy. “We believe in tying up with platforms like MPBL that create real opportunities for athletes and bring the game closer to communities across the country.”

MPBL, meanwhile, expressed enthusiasm about aligning with a partner that shares its long-term vision. “We are proud to work with an organization that truly prioritizes the growth of sports in the Philippines,” said Emmerson Oreta. “With SportsPlus alongside us, we’re confident we can further strengthen the league and continue opening doors for Filipino players to showcase their talent.”

In line with its push for strengthened direction this season, MPBL will also partner with global sports technology company Sportradar to enforce integrity and elevate league standards. Trusted by major organizations such as the NBA, NHL, MLB, and FIFA, Sportradar provides advanced data and integrity solutions that help safeguard competitions worldwide. Through this partnership, MPBL reinforces its commitment to fair play, transparency, and better governance — ensuring greater confidence for teams, partners, and fans as the league continues to grow alongside SportsPlus for the 2026 season.

The ceremony concluded with a Commemorative Jersey Signing and Turnover led by Pacquiao, symbolizing the formal start of the partnership and a unified commitment to the league’s continued growth. With key alliances now in place, SportsPlus and the MPBL look forward to delivering a more competitive, engaging, and integrity-driven year for basketball fans across the country.

Follow the SportsPlus x MPBL journey and catch latest stories, game updates, and exclusive contents at SportsPlus.ph and on SportsPlus' social channels.

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.

SportsPlus reaffirms commitment to Youth Sports Development, rewards 2025 Asian Youth Games Medalists

The Asian Youth Games medalists

Philippine sports shines even brighter with young Filipino athletes bringing home coveted medals from the recently concluded 2025 Asian Youth Games held in Manama, Bahrain. SportsPlus, the country’s #1 sportsbook and the Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), honored these young medalists for their sheer dedication to champion Filipino pride on the world stage.

In a celebratory lunch and awarding ceremony held in Mandaluyong City on December 3, SportsPlus expressed its appreciation and support for all 26 Asian Youth Games medalists by awarding each of them with the new iPhone 17 mobile device – a meaningful connectivity incentive designed to help the young athletes stay linked with their coaches, trainors, family and friends both in and out of competition.

“These remarkable youths have proven that Filipino excellence has no age,” SportsPlus Head of Partnerships James da Costa said in a statement. “Their hard work and potential inspire us at SportsPlus to keep expanding our investment in grassroots sports, because every champion begins with proper guidance, opportunity, and support.”

The Philippines showcased strong performances at the 2025 Asian Youth Games, with Filipino athletes securing multiple medals across various sports. Their achievements not only amplified national pride but also encouraged the sports community to create more athletic development programs for young talents.

SportsPlus emphasized its long-term commitment to uplifting emerging Filipino athletes.

“We arranged this gathering to celebrate our athletes’ achievements and reaffirm our support as they continue their sports journey,” said James da Costa. “This is our way of recognizing their hard work and reinforcing our commitment to youth sports development. As the Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Sports Commission (POC), SportsPlus remains dedicated to supporting programs and initiatives that help young athletes grow, stay connected, and reach their full potential.”

As a steadfast partner of the POC, SportsPlus continues to fuel a sports culture built on excellence, integrity, and national pride. From supporting elite athletes to uplifting young talents across communities, the brand’s advocacy centers on giving Filipinos the tools and platforms they need to train harder, perform better, and dream bigger.

On behalf of the POC Board and POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, POC Auditor and Board Member Don Caringal thanked SportsPlus for being their partner in growing Philippine sports. “Thank you for supporting our athletes and giving them additional inspiration and motivation to do better,” he said. “It is always an honor and privilege to serve and give pride to our country. It is a big responsibility.”

With these recognition and initiatives, SportsPlus reinforces its long-term commitment to championing the next wave of Filipino athletes and helping them stay connected as they expand their potential for greatness.

SportsPlus Celebrates Eumir Marcial’s Triumph in ‘Thrilla in Manila 2’

Eumir Marcial

Filipino boxing pride shone bright once again as Eumir Marcial captured the WBC International Middleweight Title at the recently concluded Thrilla in Manila 2. SportsPlus, a dedicated sports supporter and the Official Gaming Partner of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), stood behind Marcial’s preparation and journey to this historic win – a commitment reflecting the brand’s long-standing mission to uplift local athletes and highlight Filipino excellence on the global stage. 

“I’m thankful to SportsPlus for their support. It means a lot, not just for me, but for the youth who might be inspired to stand where I am one day,” Marcial said. “Their belief in me and in Filipino sports is a huge motivation, and I thank them for standing firmly behind me every step of the way.”

Fifty years after the iconic clash between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, the Smart Araneta Coliseum witnessed another historic moment in the boxing industry. Serving as the co-main event of the Thrilla in Manila 2 fight card, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial claimed a hard-fought victory over Venezuela’s Eddy Colmenares. The historic Thrilla in Manila of 1975 remains etched in sports history as one of the greatest boxing matches of all time. After five decades, Marcial stepped into that same ring to continue the legacy—honoring the legends before him while ushering in a new era of Filipino boxing excellence. 

Despite being knocked down twice, Marcial’s composure and fighting spirit never wavered, proving once again why he remains one of the Philippines’ most celebrated boxers. The fight was an epic showdown and a hard-earned world title for Marcial as he won over the heavy-handed Colmenares by majority decision. The victory was made even more meaningful as it coincided with his 30th birthday, marking a milestone in both his life and career.

Marcial’s journey to the belt is built on hard work, discipline, and heart. Growing up in Zamboanga, he learned early what it meant to fight for every opportunity. When he first started boxing, he had no proper gym, limited resources, and little support—but he never lost sight of his dream.

Marcial continues to sharpen his craft and strengthen his purpose, with this win marking the start of his journey toward becoming a world champion–a dream he shares with his late brother. “This fight was my test to see if I truly have what it takes to become a world champion at middleweight,” Marcial shared. “Before my brother passed away, he always told me one thing–that he wanted to see me become a world champion.” This goal perfectly aligns with the SportsPlus mission to uplift Filipino athletes and provide the support needed to turn potential into world-class excellence. 

Throughout his preparation, SportsPlus stood firmly behind Marcial, offering support that went beyond sponsorship. The support around him keeps him grounded and reminds him that every fight, every win, is for the Filipino people.

Beyond this triumph, SportsPlus remains committed to its mission to uplift Filipino athletes through its partnership with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).  

As Marcial continues to raise the flag for Filipino boxing, his victory stands as a reminder that the heart of a champion beats in every Filipino–undaunted, determined, and ready to fight for greatness. His victory echoes the strength of a nation that never backs down.

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.

SportsPlus PH picks Kylie Verzosa as brand ambassador

SportsPlus PH's newest brand ambassadress: 2016 MIss International Kylie Verzosa

In a stylish ceremony this week, SportsPlus PH revealed Kylie Verzosa as their brand ambassador.

The 2016 Miss International shares in joining up with the PAGCOR-accredited sports betting platform, "I love how SportsPlus PH offers Filipinos a convenient way to stay updated on the most exciting sports events. With its hassle-free access to live games and real-time updates, it’s a platform that brings the thrill of sports right to your fingertips."

In making the announcement, SportsPlus PH Marketing Manager James Velasquez says, "Kylie perfectly embodies the athleticism and personal style that SportsPlus PH champions in its campaigns. She knows what it takes to represent the country on a global stage and flourish even when all eyes are on you. We’re looking forward to working with Kylie to take SportsPlus PH to greater heights."

He adds, "Our vision for this year is clear. We want to further increase payment options, streamline access across devices, and more importantly, bolster support for local sports by hosting more leagues on SportsPlus PH."

With over a million total users since being launched in 2022, the IDGC-owned firm is considered as the premier sports betting company in the country. Users can bet on over 30,000 events over a variety of leagues, including the NBA, the PBA, and the English Premier League.

SportsPlus PH expanded and optimized its reach in the past year with its integration onto GCash via GLife, enabling additional payment options and the ability to live-stream games within the app.

The platform back in February also introduced a sports and entertainment program called SP+ Nation, which is broadcast on their Facebook page every MWF and is hosted by MJ Fox and Neil Martin.

Those who want to join the fun can simply head to sportsplus.ph and sign up. Do note that this is for individuals over 21 years of age and highlight the importance of gaming responsibly.