Wagdos withdraws from Asiad marathon

Philippine marathon record holder Sonny Wagdos has withdrawn from the Asian Games marathon scheduled for tomorrow after falling ill ahead of the competition.

In a Facebook post, Wagdos revealed that he has been battling a high fever, forcing him to pull out of the event.

“I’m backing out of the marathon category due to high fever. I don’t know why, maybe it’s hard to adapt to the weather from hot to cold. Sayang talaga preparation namin,” Wagdos said.

Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association Secretary General Jasper Tanhueco shared that Wagdos had already been dealing with illness and taking medication even before arriving in Nagoya.

“He’s feeling better now, but we consulted with Sonny and Coach Vertek. Siyempre, priority natin ang well-being ng athlete. Marathon ‘yun at hindi biro, especially given his condition now,” Tanhueco said.

The 32-year-old Philippine Air Force sergeant made history earlier this year at the Tokyo Marathon, where he clocked 2:14:32 to break the 22-year-old Philippine marathon record previously held by his coach, two-time Olympian Eduardo ‘Vertek’ Buenavista.

Wagdos was expected to lead the country’s marathon campaign alongside fellow Filipino runner Richard Salano.

Despite missing the marathon, Wagdos’ Asian Games stint may not be over. He is still expected to compete in the men’s 5,000-meter event on September 29, provided he has fully recovered from his illness.

PATAFA: Difficult to predict Asiad medal haul

c/o PATAFA

EJ OBIENA will defend his gold medal—at the same time try to break his own record—in men’s pole vault as he leads a 24-member Philippine athletics team in the Aichi-Nagoya 20th Asian Games.

Philippine Athletics and Track and Field Association (PATAFA) president Terry Capistrano said the team is in harness for the competition set to start Wednesday at the Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium.

Joining Obiena are medal potentials John Cabang Tolentino, Lauren Hoffman and Victoria Bossong, but Capistrano admitted he couldn’t draw any medal prediction.

“It’s so difficult to gauge or make any prediction about our medal chances. But we do we believe our quality athletes will surprise us,” Capistrano said. “They are really working hard since they arrived here in Nagoya despite the rains. They really conditioned themselves.”

Tolentino is the Bangkok 2025 Southeast Asian Games champion hurdler and Olympian alongside Hoffman, while Filipino-American Bossong, according to PATAFA coaches, has the numbers for podium finishes in the middle distance races.

Obiena owns the Asian record of 6.0 meters and the games record of 5.90 meters he set in Hangzhou three years ago.

Besides Tolentino (110m hurdles), Hoffman (400m women hurdles), Bossong (women’s 800m), and Obiena, the other national athletes are Yacine Guermali (5000m), Sonny Wagdos (5000m, marathon), Richard Solaño, and Artjoy Torregosa (Marathon) and Neil Michael Catral (200m).

The other athletes are Anfernee Lorena (100m), Jessica Rose Laurence (women’s 100m), Zion Rose Nelson (women’s 100m, 200m), Kristina Marie Knott (relays), Hussein Loraña (800m), Naomi Johnson (200m), Diana Pama (relays), Lanz Arcenal (400m) and Michael Carlo del Prado (400m).

Completing the cast are veterans Janry Ubas (long jump), and Leonard Grospe (high jump), Gabriel Borado (400m), Nathaniel Seiler (marathon race walk), Frederick Ramirez (relays), and Kent Francis Jardin (100m, relays).

“These athletes are all capable of making the final round,” Capistrano said. “Incredibly challenging so we will take it from there and hopefully podium finishes.”

Prior to their arrival to Nagoya, the team save for Obiena and Guermali warmed up at the Nippon Sports Science University from September 14 to 20.

Efosa Aguinaldo smashes 34-year-old long jump record, UST remains atop HS Athletics leaderboard

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 High School Athletics

Boys'
UST - 177.5
ADU - 146
NUNS - 87
UE - 86
DLSZ - 30
Ateneo - 14

Girls'
UST - 177.5
AdU - 165
UE - 139
Ateneo -0
DLSZ - 0

National University-Nazareth School’s Efosa Aguinaldo shattered a 34-year-old league record in the boys’ long jump, marking his second record-breaking feat in the UAAP Season 88 High School Athletics Championships at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.

The 18-year-old Cebuano soared 7.20 meters, eclipsing the previous mark of 6.97 meters set by Ateneo legend Illac Diaz on January 13, 1991, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

“Masaya ako na nabreak ko ‘yung record na ito. Lahat ng pinagpaguran ko sa training, nasuklian talaga,” shared Aguinaldo.

His leap even surpassed the bronze-medal mark in the seniors’ division, which was 7.17 meters, set earlier in the day by the University of the Philippines’ Clint Neri.

“Hindi ko ine-expect na ganun kahaba ‘yung talon ko. Ang nasa isip ko lang talaga ay magka-medal,” he added.

Aguinaldo’s first record came just a day earlier in the boys’ triple jump, where he leaped 14.78 meters.

University of the East’s Romel Cardona claimed silver in the long jump with 6.78 meters, while fellow NU-Nazareth standout Razen Andres took bronze at 6.65 meters.

The day, however, belonged to University of Santo Tomas, which continued to dominate both high school divisions in this tournament, sponsored by CF Moto and Masiv Sports.

UST’s mixed 4x400-meter relay team of Ivan Cabanda, Fiona Pilaspilas, Novie Masangcap, and Liana Ascan clocked 3:30.93, surpassing NU-Nazareth’s previous record of 3:43.96 from last season. Adamson University took second at 3:49.77, while UE rounded out the podium with 4:00.63.

After the second day, the Junior Tiger Tracksters maintained the overall lead with 177.5 points, followed by Adamson in second with 146 points.

Aguinaldo’s record-breaking performance helped NUNS climb to third with 87 points.

In the girls’ division, the Junior Lady Tracksters also held the top spot with 177.5 points, followed by Adamson (165 points) and defending champion UE (139 points).

Matching Aguinaldo’s back-to-back record-breaking feat, UST’s Franceine Jhobie Rosario cemented her status as the new queen of the sprints by winning the girls’ 200 meters.

The 17-year-old from Cagayan clocked 24.77 seconds, edging out UE’s Jeralyn Rodriguez, who set the previous record of 24.84 last season. Adamson’s Juvelle Matnog (25.68) and Jenia Bolito (25.74) completed the podium.

“Sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam last UAAP ko na po sa highschool naka-break po ako ng dalawang record,” she shared.

“Sana may mga ma-break pa po ako na records sa mga susunod kong laro, masaya po ako na naka-contribute ako sa UST. Sana yung champion mabalik namin sa España.”

Junior Lady Trackster Lhynette Libranda added to UST’s growing medal haul after capturing gold in the girls’ heptathlon with a total of 3,669 points, breaking the previous record of 3,739 points set by Janice Nemi on November 18, 2024, in Pasig.

Libranda's teammate Rica Clavel initially surpassed the old mark with 3,553 points before Libranda’s final tally overtook her for the top spot. Adamson’s Javie Mediana took bronze with 2,859 points.

In the girls’ 3,000 meters, Adamson’s Erika Dorado delivered a dominant performance, finishing in 11:49.58 to claim gold. Teammate Nene Mianagua earned silver at 11:53.98, while UE’s Shaira Fantilaga took bronze in 11:59.79.

The University of the East continued its stronghold in throwing events.

In the girls’ javelin throw, Daisy Tomaque (36.54m) and Rhian Encomendia (34.48m) secured gold and silver, respectively, while Adamson’s Norwyne Edrada took bronze with 30.43m.

In the boys’ discus throw, UE’s Josh Salcedo broke another record with an impressive 46.52 meters. UST’s Tayshaun Donasco (41.25m) and Jayvee Ceballos (40.06m) completed the podium.

De La Salle Zobel’s rising star Pi Durden Wangkay claimed his second gold of the season, following his win in the 100 meters.

The 17-year-old gold medalist in the recently concluded Asian Youth Games sprinted to victory in the boys’ 200 meters, clocking 21.85 seconds. Prince Cuyos narrowly missed gold, finishing just behind for silver, while Adamson’s Elreb Taduran bagged bronze in 21.17 seconds.

FEU moves into UAAP Women's Athletics lead, anchored on Magtubo 5k record

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Athletics Team Standings

Men’s
NU - 91.5
FEU - 88
UST - 83
UP - 82
Ateneo - 52
AdU - 44
DLSU - 23
UE -23

Women’s
FEU - 151.5
UST - 125
DLSU - 94.75
UE - 78.75
UP - 74
AdU - 42
NU - 29.5
Ateneo - 7

CAPAS, TARLAC — Far Eastern University charged back in the women’s division after edging out erstwhile leader University of Santo Tomas at the conclusion of Day 2 of the UAAP Season 88 Athletics Championships on Friday at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.

The Lady Tamaraws, aiming for their 26th UAAP title, seized the top spot in the standings with 151.5 points, claiming two of the six golds contested on the day.

Second-year standout Edna Magtubo led the charge for the reigning champions in this tournament, backed by CF Moto and Masiv Sports.

Magtubo, a 22-year-old product of Mandurriao National High School in Iloilo City, outpaced National University's Jesse Roda in the women’s 5,000 meters to claim FEU’s first gold of the day in record-breaking fashion.

Her new mark of 17:59.13 shaved nine milliseconds off the nearly 13-year-old record of national track legend Mercedita Manipol, who set 17:59.22 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in 2002.

“Hindi ko rin po kasi talaga inaasahan na makuha ko siya kasi nga alam ko po na malakas rin ‘yung mga kalaban. Nagpapasalamat lang din po ako kay Lord na ligtas po ako sa laban at walang naging injury,” said Magtubo. “Ang tinitignan ko po talaga ‘yung kalaban; hindi ko naman po nalaman na na-break ko na pala ‘yung record.

“Ang iniisip ko lang naman po namin talaga is paano kami mag-me-medal, paano kami pupuntos. Suporta lang po sa isa’t isa.”

Roda finished second, crossing the line 37 milliseconds behind Magtubo with 17:59.50, while fellow Lady Tamaraw Nicole Diloy completed the podium at 18:03.01.

Rookie Ana Bhianca Espenilla added a second gold for FEU during the morning session, topping the women’s javelin throw with a 48.00-meter heave, well ahead of University of the Philippines’ Chrizzel Lanipa (38.08) and UE’s Janice Nemi (37.18).

The UST Lady Tracksters slipped to second place with 125 points, buoyed by Lianne Pama’s second gold of the season in the 200 meters with a time of 24.39 seconds, ahead of De La Salle University’s Hanna Delotavo (24.70) and FEU’s Shane Ponce (24.99).

DLSU, Season 86 champions, moved into third place with 94.75 points, thanks to a two-gold performance from fourth-year senior Abcd Agamanos in the afternoon session.

The senior leaper claimed titles in both the triple jump, with a best leap of 12.41 meters, and the heptathlon, amassing 4,432 points, putting the Lady Tracksters back in contention.

Rea Rafanan also earned silver in both events, finishing behind Agamanos with 12.08 meters in the triple jump and 4,175 points in the heptathlon.

UST’s Jeanne Arnibal captured bronze in the triple jump with 12.08 meters, while FEU’s Antonette Aguillon rounded out the heptathlon podium with 4,013 points.

On the men’s side, Season 86 champions National University overtook UST for the lead with 91.5 points over the latter’s 83, fueled by Rico Jay Patanao’s gold in the 10,000 meters.

The senior Bulldog crossed the finish line in 32:44.72, ahead of reigning MVP Alfrence Braza (32:52.39) and UP’s Roy Laudit (32:56.66).

Other universities shared the remaining golds as three more emerged victorious in their respective events.

Joshua Patorara of DLSU claimed the long jump title, surpassing heavy favorites Adamson University’s Kent Francis Jardin and UP’s Clint Neri, setting a new record of 7.44 meters.

Patorara’s mark broke the previous standard of national team standout Janry Ubas, who jumped 7.39 meters in Season 80 (2017), while Jardin and Neri recorded 7.38 and 7.17 meters, respectively.

UE’s Vianmar Dela Cruz successfully defended his 10,000-meter racewalk title, clocking a new record of 45:12.61, shattering his own 48:27.08 mark set last season at the same Capas venue.

Carlos De Imus, now representing FEU, finished second with 46:25.25, while NU’s John Aaron Arandia placed third at 48:23.23.

Jardin redeemed himself in the 200 meters, taking gold for Adamson with a time of 21.58 seconds, just ahead of FEU’s Andreas Womack (21.70) and UP’s Alhryan Labita (21.85).

NU held a slim 3.5-point lead over FEU, which ended the day with 88 points.

UST and reigning men’s champion UP remained within striking distance with 83 and 82 points, respectively.

UST claims early HS Athletics lead with Ceballos hammer throw record

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 High School Athletics Standings

Boys'
UST-112
ADU-106
NUNS-54
UE-49
DLSZ-15
Ateneo-12

Girls
UST-87
UE-73
ADU-72
Ateneo-0
DLSZ-0

University of Santo Tomas asserted early dominance in both the boys’ and girls’ divisions after an explosive opening day of the UAAP Season 88 High School Athletics Championships at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.

Leading the charge for the defending champions, Jayvee Ceballos shattered a decade-old record in the boys’ hammer throw, unleashing a 43.22-meter heave to eclipse the 41.18-meter mark set by Ateneo’s Matt Crespo on July 12, 2012, at the Philsports Track and Football Stadium. Ateneo’s Alessandro Nieto took silver with 40.55 meters, while UST’s Tayshaun Donasco completed the podium at 40.35 meters.

“Medyo nabigla din po ako considering medyo nilo-look up ko na yung record training pa lang namin,” shared Ceballos.

“Tinitingnan ko lang po ‘yung record — bonus na lang po talaga ‘yung medal para sa akin. So happy po ako, thank you sa mga coaches and teammates sa pagtulong sa akin makuha ito,” he added.

Fellow Junior Golden Trackster Charles Alcantara bagged silver in the boys’ triple jump with a leap of 14.14 meters. However, Efosa John Paul Aguinaldo of National University Nazareth School soared to gold with a record-breaking 14.78 meters, surpassing the 14.15-meter mark set by Kent Jardin in Season 85 on November 30, 2022. UE’s Erzl Borres secured his second straight bronze with a 14.00-meter effort.

UST’s golden momentum continued as Novie Jay Masangcap ruled the boys’ 800-meter run, clocking 1:53.20. UE’s Anthony Cariaso came agonizingly close, missing gold by just five milliseconds at 1:53.25, while NUNS’ Jerico Cadag claimed bronze with 1:54.20.

In the girls’ division of this tournament that is also supported by CF Moto and Masiv Sports, Liana Ascan led the Junior Growling Tigresses’ charge, capturing gold in the 800 meters with a time of 2:19.34. Adamson University’s Erika Joy Dorado followed for silver at 2:26.61, while UST’s Shaina Igcas took bronze in 2:30.84.

The Lady Tracksters’ dominance carried over to the sprints as Franceine Jhobie Rosario broke UE’s Jeralyn Rodriguez’s record in the girls’ 100 meters, clocking 11.97 seconds to surpass the 12.28-second mark set in Season 87. Adamson’s Juvelle Matnog settled for silver with 12.25 seconds, while UST’s Lhynette Libranda finished third in 12.48 seconds.

After Day 1, the Junior Tiger Tracksters led the standings with 112 points, closely trailed by the Baby Falcons with 106, while the Bullpups sat in third with 54.

In the girls’ division, the Junior Lady Tracksters of UST also seized the early lead with 87 points, followed by defending champion the Junior Lady Warriors with 73, and the Lady Baby Falcons just a point behind with 72.

Adamson’s Kent Ebron joined the record-breaking spree in the boys’ pole vault, clearing 4.15 meters to erase the 3.89-meter mark set by John Rey Magallanes on February 10, 2012, in Pasig. Fellow Soaring Falcon John Philip Villar took silver with 3.55 meters, while UST’s Gray Cloud Garcia settled for bronze, also with 3.55 meters.

Record-smashing performances extended to the race walk events as Adamson’s Abdul Saud and Palarong Pambansa standout Sep Blesse Placido dominated their respective divisions — the boys’ 5000 meters and girls’ 2000 meters.

Saud, last season’s silver medalist, struck gold this time with a meet-record 23:55.35, obliterating UST’s Gabriel Cervantes’ previous mark of 25:59.95 set on November 22, 2023. NUNS’ Ken Odato (24:34.82) and Rain Mabelin (24:49.27) also surpassed the old record.

Placido, fresh from her junior title at the National Open, rewrote her own UAAP record in the girls’ 2000-meter race walk with 10:03.19, improving on her 10:15.39 mark from last season. UE’s Meljane Dano was close behind at 10:03.77, while Adamson’s Iralea Dumaguin took bronze with 10:14.68 — both also faster than Placido’s Season 87 record.

Breaking UE’s two-year reign in the girls’ shot put, Adamson’s Niorwyne Edrada clinched gold with a throw of 10.43 meters. UE’s Alyannah Ico followed with 10.27 meters, while UST’s Yih Fernandez bagged bronze with 9.50 meters.

In the boys’ 100 meters, Asian Youth Games gold medalist Pi Wangkay Durden delivered De La Salle Zobel’s first gold of the tournament, clocking 10.88 seconds. UST’s Prince Cuyos finished just a fraction behind — also at 10.88 seconds — to take silver, while Elreb Taduran claimed bronze with 10.92 seconds.

UST dominates Day 1 with Collegiate Athletics lead

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Athletics Standings

Men’s
UST - 63
Ateneo - 52
FEU - 43
UP - 36
NU - 19
AdU - 11
DLSU - 8
UE - 0

Women’s
UST - 80
FEU - 61.5
UE - 49.75
UP - 38
AdU - 26
DLSU - 18.75
NU - 10
Ateneo - 6

CAPAS, TARLAC — University of Santo Tomas opened its campaign in the UAAP Season 88 Collegiate Athletics Championships in rousing fashion, leading both the men’s and women’s divisions at the end of Day 1, Thursday, at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.

Azeneth Serat took center stage as she powered the España-based squad to the top of the women’s standings with 80 points in the tournament backed by Masiv Sports and CF Moto.

The 21-year-old Bukidnon native successfully defended her title in the women’s 5,000-meter racewalk, shattering a 16-year-old record previously held by Far Eastern University’s Florida Gonzales.

Serat set a new mark of 26:04.63, eclipsing Gonzales’ 27:27.73, and finishing well ahead of University of the Philippines’ Juliana Talaro (27:44.80) and Julianne Bayola (29:21.33).

“Actually, ang ine-aim ko po eh ‘yung national record. Kaya lang, parang hindi ko po kakayanin; eh sobrang init po. So, ang sabi ko po, ito na lang po munang UAAP record and susubukan ko,” said the third-year Fitness and Sports Management major.

“Happy ako, hindi lang para sa sarili ko kungdi para sa buong team at sa lahat ng sumusuporta sa ‘kin,” Serat added, expressing pride in both her performance and UST’s strong start.

Season 85 MVP Lianne Pama delivered UST’s second gold medal after ruling the women’s 100 meters with a blistering 11.82 seconds — the only sub-12 performance in the final. FEU’s Shane Ponce (12.00) and Annie Mercurio (12.24) settled for silver and bronze, respectively.

On the men’s side, Hokkett Delos Santos maintained his dominance in the pole vault, claiming another gold with a best leap of 4.50 meters to lead a UST sweep of the podium. Mejen Sumbongan (4.30) and Sean Harry Narag (4.20) completed the 1-2-3 finish, pushing the Tiger Tracksters to the top of the standings with 63 points, ahead of Ateneo de Manila’s 52 points.

Defending women’s champion FEU remained close behind with 49.95 points, thanks to Susan Ramadan, who finally captured gold in the 800 meters with 2:12.25. The fourth-year senior edged UP rookie Mary Jane Pagayon (2:14.10) and Adamson University’s Ligan Duhaylungsod (2:14.46) in a tight race.

University of the East stayed within striking distance at third with 49.75 points, highlighted by Mariel Abuan’s golden leap of 1.68 meters in the high jump. UST’s Jeanne Arnibal (1.60) and National University’s Evangeline Caminong (1.55) rounded out the podium.

Meanwhile, event host Ateneo de Manila University made waves in the men’s division after a surprising second-place standing, led by Hussein Loraña, who made his much-awaited UAAP debut count.

The Season 86 High School Boys’ MVP broke the 800-meter record in the morning heats with 1:51.76, then sealed the gold in the final with 1:52.71.

FEU’s Gervickson Labora spoiled the Loraña twins’ bid for a 1-2 finish, clocking 1:53.47 to bag silver ahead of Hassan Loraña’s 1:53.89, last season’s Rookie of the Year.

Ateneo’s Russel Ricaforte added to their medal haul after dominating the shot put with a massive 14.92-meter throw. Teammate Airex Gabriel took silver (13.53), while UP’s Jake Jacob Saga snatched bronze (13.28) on his final attempt.

Labora’s silver helped FEU climb to third in the men’s standings with 43 points after the opening day.

Adamson University’s Keisha Tolin wrapped up the day’s winners after ruling the women’s hammer throw with a top mark of 42.86 meters. The 23-year-old returnee edged out UE’s young standouts Jazen Araño (42.69) and Emma Bolden (42.25).

UST, UE ahead in penultimate day of UAAP athletics

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 High School Athletics Standings (Points – Gold-Silver-Bronze)

BOYS

UST-260 (4-5-3)

ADU-258 (5-4-5)

UE-215 (3-2-2)

NUNS-82.5 (3-0-3)

DLSZ-44 (0-3-0)

Ateneo-22 (0-0-1)

GIRLS

UE-410.5 (11-4-6)

UST- 343.5 (3-7-7)

AdU-217 (1-5-4)

NUNS-56.5 (1-1-0)

Ateneo-22 (0-0-0)

DLSZ -6 (0-0-0)

University of the East surged ahead in the UAAP Season 87 High School Athletics tournament, amassing 410.5 points by the end of Wednesday at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.

Defending champions University of Santo Tomas trail in second place with 343.5 points.  

Record-Breaking Performances for UE  

Jazen Araño spearheaded UE's charge with a record-breaking gold in the hammer throw, registering a distance of 39.66 meters. This eclipsed her previous record of 34.71 meters set on November 30, 2023.

"Syempre, thankful po ako na nagawa ko nang maayos 'yung pinaghandaan kong event. Main event ko po talaga ang hammer throw; 'yun po talaga ang priority ko out of the four events," said Araño, a graduating Humanities and Social Studies student.  

"Sobrang nakaka-proud po kasi simula day one ng season, grabe po 'yung training namin. Nakikita ko naman po na nagbubunga ang lahat ng effort. 'Yun po ang mahalaga," she added.  

Just like last season, teammates Louise Managan (35.33m) and Alyannah Ico (35.19m) completed another podium sweep for UE in the hammer throw.  

UE’s Jeralyn Rodriguez also shone in the 400-meter hurdles, breaking the UAAP record twice in one day. Her finals time of 1:02.99 surpassed the previous record of 1:05.11 set by former UE standout Ellah Sirilian in UAAP Season 80 (2017).  

UST’s Jamaica Saligan (1:03.83) and Ma. Lhynnette Libranda (1:07.88) secured silver and bronze in the event.  

In the 5000-meter walk, UE’s Sep Blesse Placido claimed gold with a new UAAP record of 28:47.58, shattering the mark set by UST’s Aira Mae Gacusan (30:25.61) last November 22, 2023. Adamson University’s Iralea Dumaguin (29:45.44) and UST’s Kate Mantawel (30:35.78) completed the podium.  

UST’s Lyka Raterta Shines in 5000-Meter Run  

UST’s Lyka Raterta delivered a clutch performance in the 5000-meter run, capturing gold with a time of 20:17.97. Adamson’s Nene Minagua (20:20.92) and Erika Dorado (20:43.18) followed in second and third place.  

UST Boys Clings to Slim Lead  

The UST Junior Male Tracksters maintained a narrow edge in the boys’ standings, leading with 260 points against Adamson University’s 258 points.  

UST’s Prince Yumang powered the team with a gold medal in the shot put, achieving a mark of 13.26 meters. Adamson’s John De Guzman (12.40m) and UE’s Abdul Hakim Marahomsalic (11.43m) settled for silver and bronze, respectively.  

In the decathlon, Adamson’s John Philip Villar claimed gold with 5331 points, ahead of UST’s Christian Vibar (4918) and UE’s Dustin Lanza (4663).  

National University Nazareth School’s Kharis Pantonial bagged his fifth gold of the season with a 400-meter hurdles win, clocking 55.07 seconds. Fellow Bullpup Larry Taripe and UST’s Justin Kilat completed the podium.  

UE’s Anthony Cariaso and Erick Jay Pensahan took gold and silver in the 5000-meter run with times of 17:43.15 and 17:44.52, respectively. UST’s Almie Aiso captured bronze with 17:44.94.  

With the final events set for Thursday, UE’s girls are on track to secure their first-ever championship, while UST’s boys look to fend off Adamson for a triumphant finish.

UP, FEU at cusp of clinching UAAP athletics crowns

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Athletics Standings (Points – Gold-Silver-Bronze)

Men’s:

UP – 251 (3-6-5)

FEU – 225 (3-3-5)

UST – 184 (6-3-2)

UE – 142 (4-1-2)

AdU – 121 (0-3-4)

NU – 115.5 (1-3-1)

Ateneo – 48 (2-0-0)

DLSU – 37 (0-0-0)

Women’s:

FEU – 313.5 (5-5-6)

UST – 214 (6-3-2)

UP – 173 (3-4-3)

DLSU – 162 (3-3-3)

NU – 76 (0-2-2

AdU – 71 (1-0-2)

UE – 49 (0-1-0)

Ateneo – 1 (0-0-0)

Russel Ricaforte brought pride to event sub-host Ateneo De Manila University with a record-smashing throw in the men’s discus throw on an eventful fourth day of the UAAP Season 87 Athletics Championships on Wednesday at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.

The 24-year-old, two-and-through MBA student denied University of the Philippines’ Ed Deliña a fourth consecutive gold in the event, breaking Deliña’s existing meet record of 47.28 meters set on November 25, 2023, with a new mark of 47.80 meters.

Deliña had led with a throw of 47.25 meters before Ricaforte’s attempt pushed him to silver. UP’s Neil Salvador edged out Adamson University’s Daniel Rambacal for third place with a throw of 40.50 meters.

“I’m just very thankful sa mga coaches ko, lalo na kay Coach Arniel (Ferrera), because lagi silang nandyan para mag-suporta and mag-guide sa ‘kin,” said Ricaforte.

Season Hosts UP Maintain Championship Lead

The day still belonged to the season host UP, as Deliña and Salvador’s 2-3 finish kept the Season 85 champions in the lead in the championships, which are backed by CFMoto and Masiv Sports.

Reigning MVP Alrhyan Labita added eight more points in the 400-meter hurdles (54.04 seconds), while Josh Buenavista (15:46.68) and Roy Laudit (15:55.68) combined for 14 more points, bringing the Fighting Maroons to a total of 251 points.

High Jump, Decathlon Records Broken

Far Eastern University’s Ernie Calipay soared to a record-breaking feat in the men’s high jump during the morning session, surpassing his previous league mark of 2.05 meters set on November 24, 2023, twice that morning. He set the bar to 2.06 meters before clearing 2.10 meters on his third try.

This feat brought the Tamaraws closer to the Fighting Maroons, as they totaled 225 points, just 26 points behind.

National University’s Ryan Cacho (1.92m) and University of the East’s Rainier Caranto (1.85m) finished second and third, respectively.

University of Santo Tomas kept pace with the leaders, amassing 184 points heading into the fifth and final day on Thursday, thanks to gold medals from John Celestino Romero in the 400-meter hurdles and Hokett Delos Santos in the decathlon.

Romero crossed the line with a new UAAP record of 52.46 seconds, lowering his standing mark set in the morning's heats (52.77). FEU’s Timothy Okolo and Jazzpeer Arcenal finished second and third with times of 53.63 and 54.75 seconds, respectively.

Delos Santos made it back-to-back golds in the decathlon, with 6,286 points after dominating all nine of the first events.

FEU Closes in on Women's Crown

On the women’s side, the FEU Lady Tamaraws continued to dominate with a total of 25 points from the two events of the day: the long jump and the 400-meter hurdles.

All four entries of the Season 81 champions collected points in the long jump, with Rica Balderama taking the silver with a leap of 5.87 meters. Diane Taranza (5.68 meters), Angelyn Ortiz (5.58 meters), and Annaly Sinconiegue (5.41 meters) contributed to the tally, which now stands at 288.5 points.

The UST Female Tracksters remain in second with 214 points, while the UP Fighting Maroons fended off the De La Salle University Lady Green Tracksters for third with 173 points.

Adamson University’s Diana Huraño earned the gold with her squad’s first win of the meet, leaping 5.94 meters. UST’s Jeanne Arnibal finished third with a jump of 5.76 meters.

Reigning MVP Bernalyn Bejoy added another gold by winning the 400-meter hurdles with a time of 1:00.53. National University’s Lenlyn Sanita (1:02.44) and UST’s Justine Mae Catindoy (1:02.92) finished with the silver and bronze, respectively.

The kings and queens of track and field will be crowned after the final events of the championships on Thursday.

Women's Swimming title up for grabs heading into final session

c/o UAAP

The New Clark City Aquatics Center here is set to host the final day of hostilities in the UAAP Season 87 Swimming Championship where a showdown looms in the women's division as defending champions University of the Philippines look to catch up to the leaders, Ateneo de Manila University, who hold a slim 25-point margin.

Both the Fighting Maroons and the Blue Eagles have placed the necessary pieces to win the championship as the former squad has 12 qualifiers across four events, while the latter has 10 after the morning preliminaries.

UP will rely on team captain Camille Buico (women's 200-meter butterfly and 50-meter freestyle) and reigning MVP Quendy Fernandez (women's 50-meter backstroke and 50-meter freestyle) to bring them to the top, while Ateneo has MVP race leader Mishka Sy (women's 200-meter butterfly) and Sofia Annika Isip (women's 200-meter breaststroke) to count on to bring home the championship.

In the men's division, rookie Miguel Barreto secured his seventh gold medal in as many events in the men's 1500-meter freestyle to all but seal the rookie-of-the-year and MVP awards for himself, and the championship for his team.

The Bulacan native won a close battle against last year's winner, Alexander Chu of DLSU (16:43.79), by clocking 16:43.35. Juan Marco Daos took the bronze in 16:58.10.

Ateneo enjoys a commanding lead with 412 points, ahead of DLSU (232 points) and UP (171 points).

Similarly, University of Santo Tomas is in complete control of the boys' and girls' divisions as they look set to claim their fourth straight double championship at the high school level.

UST's MVP favorite Aishel Evangelista comfortably collected his fifth gold medal in the boys' 1500-meter freestyle as he finished in 17:25.17, ahead of teammate Aldrich Balderas (18:14.30) and Ateneo's Karl Friedrich Cziomer (18:40.30).

Likewise, Junior Tigershark Pam Santor qualified in the girls' 200-meter breaststroke and 200-meter butterfly to make a case for MVP in the afternoon finals as her team looks to formalize their championship.

c/o UAAP

Over at the Athletics Stadium, Far Eastern University’s Ernie Calipay soared to a record-breaking feat in the men’s high jump, taking the spotlight on the fourth day’s morning session of the Athletics Championships.

The 24-year-old national athlete broke his previous UAAP record of 2.05 meters on November 24, 2023, twice this morning.

He set the bar to 2.06 meters before reaching 2.10 meters and cleared it on his third try.

“Parang kanina pa lang, habang nagwa-warm up ako, iniisip ko na parang mabe-break ko ‘yung record kasi kundisyon ako lagi. Sa training naman, sabi ni coach, kumbaga sa training, petiks-petiks. Kumbaga check mark, basic skills lang, at ‘yung approach lang kinukuha namin,” said the Mongolbongol National High School product.

National University’s Ryan Cacho (1.92m) and University of the East’s Rainier Caranto (1.85m) finished second and third.

John Romero Celestino of University Santo Tomas likewise reset the league mark in the 400-meter hurdles with 52.77 seconds, smashing FEU’s Clinton Bautista’s 52.81 seconds on February 11, 2017.

Reigning MVP and De La Salle University’s Bernalyn Bejoy topped the women’s 400-meter hurdles with 1:01.98 ahead of the Finals later this afternoon.

In the high school division, University of the East standouts Jeralyn Rodriguez and Jazen Araño also set new league standards.

Rodriguez lowered the girls’ 400-meter hurdles record of former UE standout Ella Therese Sirilan (1.05.11) established on February 11, 2017, with a new mark of 1:03.22.

Araño, on her part, threw 39.66 meters in the girls’ hammer throw to obliterate her previous mark of 34.71 registered on November 22, 2023.

The Swimming Championships’ final session and the resumption of Athletics Championships’ Day 4 are underway as of publishing.

Adamson keeping title retention hopes alive in high school athletics

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 High School Athletics Standings (Points – Gold-Silver-Bronze)

Boys

UST-260 (4-5-3)

ADU-258 (5-4-5)

UE-215 (3-2-2)

NUNS-82.5 (3-0-3)

DLSZ-44 (0-3-0)

Ateneo-22 (0-0-1)

Girls

UE-311.5 (8-2-5)

UST- 278.5 (3-7-7)

AdU-159 (2-3-3)

NUNS-55.5 (1-1-0)

Ateneo-14 (0-0-0)

DLSZ -6 (0-0-0)

Abdul Saud kept Adamson University’s three-peat bid alive after breaking the 3,000-meter record previously set by his senior Yuri Jumaday on a remarkable third day of the UAAP Season 87 High School Athletics Championships on Tuesday at the New Clark City Stadium here.

The Catanduanes native surpassed his mentor's record of 14:31.93, set on December 2, 2022, by finishing the race in 14:16.94.

“Sa kanya ‘yung record po nung Season 85. Sobrang saya kasi siya yung humila sa ‘kin nang pataas. Lahat ng workout niya, sabi niya, ‘Wag daw ako hihiwalay,’” Saud recalled, reflecting on his preparation for the tournament.

Norberto Concepcion added another gold for Adamson in the high jump, clearing 1.94 meters. University of Santo Tomas' Ivan Talplacido settled for silver with a jump of 1.91 meters, while AdU’s Kurt Ragudos claimed the bronze with 1.80 meters.

Adamson also excelled in the 4x100-meter relay, with Aaron Prince Angeles, Elreb Taduran, Matthew Angeles, and John Yu finishing first with a time of 43.60 seconds. The UST Junior Tracksters—Reymark Cabansa, Prince Cuyos, Jydan Lumantas, and Kevin Banda—took silver with 43.76 seconds. University of the East secured the bronze with a time of 43.79 seconds, with Ralph Velasco, Chadwick Jupackal, Linel Espidido, and Janilo Agasin running for them.

UST, however, took a slim two-point lead over Adamson in the overall standings, 60-58.

In the pole vault, UST’s Francis Allen Sillar won gold with a height of 4.00 meters. AdU's John Philip Villar matched that height but had to settle for silver due to a back-count. Adamson's Angeles claimed third with a jump of 3.80 meters.

Villar also earned a silver in the javelin throw with a throw of 47.06 meters, falling short of UST's Kurby Arca, who won gold with 48.96 meters. Adamson's John De Guzman claimed the bronze with 46.40 meters.

In the 1500 meters, University of the East claimed first and second place. Anthony Cariaso finished first with a time of 4:11.02, while Erick Jay Pensahan followed closely in second with 4:11.30. UST’s Almie Aiso placed third with a time of 4:13.36.

The Sprint King and Queen

After setting a new record in the 200 meters the previous day, UE's Jeralyn Rodriguez and National University's Kharis Pantonial both added another record to their names in the 400-meter relay event.

Rodriguez broke the previous record of 57.47 seconds set by NU's Jessel Lumapas on November 28, 2018, finishing with a time of 55.87 seconds. Meanwhile, Pantonial surpassed Adamson's Hussein Loraña's record of 49.12 seconds, set on November 24, 2023, with a finish of 48.78 seconds.

Both athletes collected their fourth gold medal of the season, dominating the sprint events.

UE Girls Continue to Dominate

The collective efforts of UE’s Heart Duarte (36.78m), Jazen Araño (32.19m), Louise Manangan (28.75m), and Alyannah Ico (28.33m) in the discus throw extended their lead in the girls' category.

Meanwhile, the UST Junior Tracksters fought to close the gap in their title defense. UST claimed gold in the 1500-meter walk, with Liana Ascan leading the way with a time of 5:09.19. Her training partner, Lyka Mae Raterta, finished second at 5:06.60, while UE’s Janice Nemi earned bronze with 5:09.36.

UST secured their third gold of the season with a victory in the 4x100-meter relay. The team, consisting of Ashley Tabad, Lea Ordinario, Jamaica Saligan, and Iza Pangalinan, finished with a time of 48.38 seconds. This performance broke the previous record of 49.50 seconds set by the Jhocson squad of Eliza Cuyom, Mica Cabaddu, Jessel Lumapas, and Pamela Jaime on November 30, 2018.

NUNS' Jonalyn Halasan won her first gold medal of the season with a jump of 11.19 meters. UST’s Rica Clavel (11.13m) and Jamaica Kate (10.93m) took silver and bronze, respectively.

Day 4 of the championship will continue on Wednesday at 6 a.m.

FEU pads lead in UAAP women's athletics

c/o UAAP

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Athletics Standings (Points – Gold-Silver-Bronze)

Men’s:

UP – 207 (3-5-4)

UST – 147 (4-4-2)

FEU – 143 (3-13)

AdU – 103 (0-3-4)

UE – 91 (3-0-2)

DLSU – 30 (0-0-0)

Ateneo – 29 (1-0-0)

Women’s:

FEU – 280.5 (5-4-6)

UST – 194 (6-3-2)

UP – 171 (3-4-3)

DLSU – 131 (2-3-2)

NU – 63 (0-1-2)

AdU – 56 (0-0-1)

UE – 47 (0-1-0)

Ateneo – 1 (0-0-0)

Susan Ramadan delivered an outstanding performance in the women’s 1,500 meters to lead Far Eastern University on an eventful Day 3 of the UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Athletics Championships on Tuesday at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium here.

The standout from Dagupan City, Pangasinan, set the tone for a big day for her squad, helping FEU extend its lead with 280.5 points—far ahead of second-placed University of Santo Tomas with 194 points.

Ramadan clinched the gold with a time of 4:41.39.

“Sobrang unexpected and nakaka-overwhelm po talaga kasi dati hindi ko naman ine-expect na mapabababa ko pa ‘yung time ko. Tapos muntik nang ma-break ‘yung record, mga isa na lang. Kaya parang gusto ko pang magbigger next season,” said the third-year Lady Tamaraw.

She added, “Hindi na po namin pakakawalan ‘to. Parang lahat naka-eye na sa momentum na kayang-kaya lahat mag-champion. Bigay lang po namin ‘yung best namin at hindi po kami dapat makampante kasi hindi namin hawak ‘yung panahon.”

Nicole Diloy, also from FEU, secured second place with a time of 4:42.66, while National University’s Jessa Mae Roda took third with 4:44.19.

FEU Charges Ahead

FEU, the champions of Season 81, finished the day with another gold in the women’s 4x100-meter relay. Annie Mercurio, Shane Ponce, Angelyn Ortiz, and Diane Taranza clocked 46.84 seconds, breaking the previous record of 47.02 seconds set by De La Salle University on November 24, 2023.

FEU's new mark surpassed the 47.02 seconds set by Jessel Lumapas, Erica Mae Ruto, Hanna Jandra Delotavo, and Trexie Dela Torre of DLSU.

This season, Lumapas, Ruto, and Delotavo, along with Abcd Agamanos, finished second with a time of 47.45 seconds. UST’s Lyka Miravelles, Mailene Pamarisan, Justine Mae Candoy, and Jessa Belinario completed the podium with 48.52 seconds.

Record Breaks and Breakthroughs

UST solidified its hold on second place with 194 points, thanks to Azeneth Serat’s record-breaking performance in the 3,000-meter walk. Her new time of 15:27.96 was almost seven minutes faster than the previous record set by UP’s Sally Campus, who clocked 15:34.73 on November 24, 2023.

Reigning MVP Bernalyn Bejoy gave De La Salle University its first gold of the championships, winning the 400 meters in 56.01 seconds. UST’s Belinario (56.73) and FEU’s Kaye Villanueva (57.21) took second and third, respectively.

Meanwhile, Aina Masangkay of University of the Philippines bagged the gold in the javelin throw with a distance of 39.58 meters. UST’s Rashied Faith Burdeos and FEU’s Rhealyn De Costa took silver and bronze, with throws of 39.10 meters and 36.83 meters, respectively.

UP Men Leap Forward

On the men’s side, UP’s Clint Niño Neri became a double gold medalist, winning the triple jump with a massive leap of 14.94 meters.

His teammate, Ranier Sobrepeña, finished second with 14.82 meters, while Adamson University’s Kent Francis Jardin took third with 14.78 meters.

Two silver medals from different events helped increase the Fighting Maroons' lead to 207 points, ahead of UST's 147.

Arthur Alintog earned silver in the javelin throw with a distance of 55.74 meters, just behind the unexpected gold medalist, FEU’s Joemarie Lazaro, who threw 56.20 meters. UST’s John Allen Butiong took third with 55.60 meters.

Reigning MVP Alrhyan Labita secured his first medal of the season, a silver in the 400 meters, with a time of 48.68 seconds.

National University’s Orly Orongan won the gold with 48.04 seconds, and FEU’s Timothy Okolo took the bronze with 48.83 seconds.

Challengers Make Their Move

UST claimed victory in the men’s 4x100-meter relay, with Lorenz Datiles, Hokett Delos Santos, John Celestino Romero, and Jasper Obanon finishing in 41.77 seconds, matching the record set by UP’s Leoniel Tigtig, Jomar Udtohan, Jaime Mejia, and John Carlo Yuzon on November 30, 2018.

Meanwhile, University of the East’s Vianmar Dela Cruz won the 5,000-meter walk gold with a time of 22:44.16, finishing far ahead of Adamson’s Yuri Jumaday (23:55.06) and UP’s Peter Lachica (24:17.30).

The fourth day of the championships begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday.

Ateneo maintains lead in early penultimate swimming action

c/o UAAP

Rookies Ivo Enot and Francis Espiritu dished out record-breaking performances as the Davao natives helped Ateneo de Manila University continue to assert its mastery in the men’s division of the UAAP Season 87 Swimming Championships on Tuesday at the New Clark City Aquatics Center here.

Enot powered through a 58.59-second finish in the men’s 100-meter backstroke, to put himself in the position to clinch the gold later in the afternoon.

The Season 85 Boys’ MVP smashed the old record of 59.27 seconds held by De La Salle University’s Steven Ho which was set back on November 26, 2022.

“Breaking a record in my rookie year is such an amazing feeling. Well, it was kind of expected… to break the record since 59.27 lang yung record, and my personal best was 58.82. But again, it was such an amazing feeling kasi this is UAAP; and seeing everyone cheering for me after I touched the wall,” said the 19-year-old upstart. 

On the other hand, Espiritu, a product of Ateneo de Davao, continued a dream start for the Blue Eagles with a 1:05.46 finish in the preliminary round of the men’s 100-meter breaststroke. 

The 20-year-old Davaoeno shaved off the standing record of 1:05.56 by Alberto Batungbacal, also from Ateneo. Batungbacal’s record was set on October 14, 2017.

In the women’s division, noticeably absent from her events was De La Salle rookie Mikaela Talosig who had been leading her team the last two days, accounting for 50 of her team’s division-leading 155 points. 

Talosig was a no-show in the women’s 100-meter backstroke and the 400-meter individual medley despite topping the women’s 200-meter freestyle during the morning preliminaries.

Her absence leaves the door open for University of the Philippines and Ateneo de Manila University to capitalize on the rare opportunity to take the lead from De La Salle in the afternoon finals at 3:00 pm.

In the high school division, University of Santo Tomas continues its smooth-sailing ride to a four-peat double in the boys’ and girls’ divisions.

Over at the Athletics Stadium here, another new mark was set continuing the three-day streak of record-breaking results on the track.

University of Santo Tomas’ Azeneth Serat made a racewalk double after setting a new-record finish of 15:27.96 in the women’s 3,000 meters, which lowered UP’s Sally Campus’ 15:34.73 which was set on November 24, 2023. Serat finished way ahead of Fighting Maroons Juliana Talaro (15:44.88) and Julianne Bayola (16:13.82).

Nonetheless, Far Eastern University pulled away from the pack after a 1-2 finish in the women’s 1,500 meters with Susan Ramadan (4:41.39) and Nicole Diloy (4:42.66). National University’s Jessa Mae Roda finished third with 4:44.19.

The Lady Tamaraws collected 232.5 points as of the morning, 75.5 ahead of the UST Female Tracksters’ 157.

The Fighting Maroons continue to add to their lead on the men’s side which now stands at 165 points against the Male Tracksters with 117.

UP’s Clint Niño Neri also became a double gold medalist with a massive 14.94 meters in the triple jump. Teammate Ranier Sobrepeña and Adamson University’s Kent Francis Jardin ended second and third with 14.82 and 14.78 meters, respectively.

FEU finally got its breakthrough gold in the men’s division following the javelin throw title courtesy of Joemarie Lazaro with 56.20 meters. UP’s Arthur Alintog bagged the silver with 55.74 meters, while UST’s John Allen Butiong with 55.60 meters.

The resumption of the third day of competitions in both swimming and athletics championships are ongoing as of posting time.

Free admission for UAAP Season 87 Athletics and Swimming

c/o UAAP

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines has announced that the UAAP Season 87 Swimming and Athletics Championships will now be open to the public, starting Tuesday, November 19, at the New Clark City Sports Hub in Capas, Tarlac.

The swimming championships, which will run through Wednesday, November 20, at the state-of-the-art Aquatics Center, while the athletics meet will conclude on Thursday, November 21, at the Athletics Stadium.

In a show of support for fans and the student-athletes competing, the UAAP is offering free admission to all attendees. 

There will be no need for tickets – just show up and witness the excitement as the nation’s finest student-athletes take center stage in their bid for glory.

A total of 46 medals remain up for grabs in the last two days of the swimming meet.

Meanwhile, the athletics competition will feature 26 collegiate events and 28 high school events in its last three days, with the champions determined on the final day of the tournaments.

Ninura secures second gold in UAAP athletics

c/o UAAP

Mea Gey Niñura of University of the Philippines became the first double gold medalist in the UAAP Season 87 Athletics Championships after topping the women’s 5,000 meters in the morning session on Monday at the New Clark City Stadium here.

The graduating senior from Kapatagan National High School followed up on her 10,000 meters title the previous day with a dominant finish of 18:47.33, ahead of teammate and national triathlete Erika Burgos, who clocked 18:54.90. Jessa Mae Roda of National University completed the podium with a time of 19:14.50.

“Ngayong season ang ginagawa ko is gusto kong bumabawi ako for the last season ko. Kasi tapos na ko mag-aral, kumbaga giving back na lang sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas. Ito ‘yung nagpa-aral sa ‘kin eh at dahil sa university, nakapagtapos ako,” said the Physical Education graduate.

University of Santo Tomas claimed the gold in the women’s javelin throw with Lanie Carpintero’s massive heave of 47.36 meters. Ann Katherine Quitoy of De La Salle University took a distant second with 40.19 meters, while Adamson University’s Elizabeth Sicat completed the podium with 37.87 meters.

Chrizzel Lanipa finished fourth in the event with a throw of 37.52 meters, keeping the Fighting Maroons in second place with 118 points, trailing Far Eastern University’s 129.

Rica Mae Balderama secured the Lady Tamaraws' top spot with a gold in the triple jump, reaching 12.52 meters. She bested UST's Jeanne Arnibal, who jumped 12.47 meters, and De La Salle University's Abcd Agamanos, who had 12.26 meters.

In the men’s division, James Darrel Orduña successfully defended his 10,000 meters title with a time of 32:10.81, helping University of the East stay in the thick of the competition.

FEU’s Rogen Aguirre followed with a time of 33:07.02, while UP’s Roy Laudit outlasted teammate and record holder Josh Buenavista for third place with 33:54.22.

The UST Tiger Tracksters maintain their hold on the pole position with 79 points.

Action also resumed at the New Clark City Aquatics Centre here with the continuation of the UAAP 87 Swimming Championships.

The Day 2 preliminary session was highlighted by Rian Marco Tirol of Ateneo de Manila University, who raced to a new UAAP record of 28.77 seconds in the men’s 50-meter breaststroke, lowering his own mark of 29.10 seconds set last season.

The long-time national athlete will aim to duplicate the feat in the afternoon final to help bolster his team’s chances of achieving a rare nine-peat in the men’s division.

The women’s division remains a three-way battle between defending champions University of the Philippines, De La Salle University, and Ateneo.

University of Santo Tomas continues to lead in both the boys’ and girls’ divisions with a slew of qualifiers from the preliminary session.

The afternoon session of the athletics and the Finals of the swimming competitions are underway as of publishing.

New Clark City to host UAAP Season 87 Swimming and Athletics Championships

New Clark City 

The University Athletic Association of the Philippines is set to take its Season 87 Swimming and Athletics Championships to the New Clark City Sports Hub, the site of the historic 30th Southeast Asian Games. 

The country's premier varsity league will hold its swimming and athletics competitions at the world-class facility starting this Sunday, November 17.

The swimming championships will be from Sunday to Wednesday while the athletics championships will end on Thursday.

Ateneo de Manila University Athletics Director Emmanuel “Em” Fernandez expressed his excitement about the venue, saying, “This is the best sports venue in the Philippines, and it’s a place that has already proven itself on the international stage. The country had the privilege of hosting the 30th Southeast Asian Games here, and it’s an honor for us to bring these two events to this incredible facility. With its world-class amenities, the NCC Sports Hub is the perfect place for our student-athletes to compete and showcase their skills.”

The Swimming Championships will take place at the state-of-the-art Aquatics Center, where Ateneo will be chasing a historic ninth consecutive men’s title.

The Blue Eagles’ charge will be led by brothers Miguel Barreto and Rafael Barreto, who will look to fend off challenges from the De La Salle University Green Tankers, the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, and the University of Santo Tomas Tigersharks. 

Meanwhile, UP, the host of this year’s Season 87, will aim for its 17th women’s swimming crown, with the Maroons’ star swimmers, including reigning Athlete of the Year Quendy Fernandez and team captain Camille Buico, leading the charge.

In the high school division, the Junior Tigersharks will seek to complete their fourth straight “golden double” in the swimming competitions.

At the nearby Athletics Stadium, both the men’s and women’s events will see intense competition.

The National University Bulldogs, who clinched their first men’s athletics title in Season 86, will be defending their crown with standout athlete Tyronne Flores leading the charge. 

They will face stiff competition from UP, the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, and a retooled UST squad.

On the women’s side, De La Salle’s Lady Green Tracksters will look to retain their crown after an impressive 2023 campaign. 

Season 86’s top athlete Bernalyn Bejoy and fellow national team member Jessel Lumapas will be at the helm of the Lady Green Tracksters as they aim to hold off the challenges from the FEU Lady Tamaraws, the UST Female Tracksters, and the NU Lady Bulldogs.

In the high school division, both Adamson University and UST will be gunning for a three-peat in the boys’ and girls’ categories, respectively.

The New Clark City Sports Hub, with its modern infrastructure, will provide the perfect stage for these high-stakes competitions. 

UAAP Executive Director Atty. Rene “Rebo” Saguisag emphasized the significance of the venue and the importance of spotlighting swimming and athletics, saying, “If you watch the Olympics, swimming and athletics are the highlights—these are the true stars of the show. That’s why we believe it’s time for the UAAP to put more focus on these two events. The facilities at the NCC are world-class, and we are hopeful that this will be just the first of many events we’ll be able to host here in the future.”

Arellano completes NCAA Track three-peat

Arellano University secured its three-peat at the final day of the NCAA Season 93 Track and Field tournament this past Monday at the PhilSports Oval in Pasig City.

The Chiefs secured another gold with the 4x400m relay, with its quartet of Christian Milano, Reynaldo Gimoto, Christian Traje and Billy Boy Endrina topping the event with a time of three minutes and 25.05 seconds.

This, alongside its other previous golds secured through Aristeo dela Pena in the long jump and John Carlos Corpuz in the discus throw helped Arellano fend off Mapua and Jose Rizal University. The Chiefs ended up with a total of 802.5 points, while the Cardinals and the Heavy Bombers finished with 640.5 and 370 points, respectively.

This is Arellano's third collegiate crown, after its triumph in women's volleyball and women's badminton. And if you ask its ManCom representative Peter Cayco, they are not yet done. He shares, "We are now reaping the fruits of a reinvigorated program and hopefully, we will go for a four-peat next season."

San Beda ended up on top of the the HS division with 647.5 points. Perpetual would finish second with 561.25, while defending champions Emilio Aguinaldo College finished in third with 522.5 points.

Arellano continues NCAA athletics dominance

Day 2 of the NCAA Season 93 track and field competition sees Arellano continue to build on a successful three-peat bid.

John Carlos Corpuz added another gold with a NCAA record throw in discus, as his 41.56m attempt eclipsed the old mark by a meter.

Meanwhile, Mapua took control of the running events with gold medals from Rowell Galvero in the 5000m (15:29.55), Raymund Alferos in the 400m (48.87s) , and Fernan Lopez in the 100m (11.2s).

Three more records fell earlier today, all of which came in the HS division.

Edgar Mahinay set the 2000m steeplechase gold medal with a time of six minutes and 11.47 seconds, as he dominated against the opposition. His fellow Red Cub Mariano Masano set the 800m record with his time of 1:55.28.

The other record saw Arellano's John Paul Parulan set a new mark with his 3.85m attempt in HS pole vault.

Meanwhile, reigning HS MVP Veruel Verdadero posted the fastest time of the day in the century dash, as the multiple gold medalist in the Palarong Pambansa and Batang Pinoy ran a 10.97.

Arellano asserts in Day 1 of NCAA Track

Arellano's quest to become a three-time champion in track and field started off strong after Day 1 of NCAA Season 93 activities at the PhilSports oval in Pasig earlier today.

The Chiefs secured the gold medal in the long jump, as Aristeo dela Pena recorded a leap of 7.00 meters, beating out Ronald Canaria of San Sebastian and Angelo Esguerra of Mapua with their respective 6.90m and 6.80m attempts.

Arellano also secured a silver in pole vault, as Jessie Boy Bayan's 3.80m mark was only second to Harvey Unico of Letran with his 4.00m attempt. Dave Geraldino of Mapua secured the bronze with his 3.40m mark.

In the HS division, San Beda and Perpetual are proving to be the biggest stumbling blocks to EAC-ICA's quest to defend their title.

The Red Cubs and Altalettes both secured 1-2 finishes in discus throw and long jump to get their campaigns off and running.

San Beda's John Rafael Lamatan and Gideon Arellano U topped the discus throw, while Perpetual's Warren Villaroso and Janseengin Mantecina topped the long jump.

Before the competition proper, the NCAA held simple opening ceremonies to kick off the festivities, with PATAFA chief Philip Ella Juico gracing the meet. Also present were members of the NCAA Management Committee (ManCom), led by track and field organizing head Frank Gusi of Perpetual Help.

Arellano set for NCAA Season 93 title defense in track

Arellano is set to launch its three-peat bid in track and field with the start of the NCAA Season 93 Track and Field tournament tomorrow at the PhilSports oval in Pasig.

The Chiefs will try to fend off last season's runner-up Mapua and JRU in this go-around, with College of Saint Benilde and Perpetual Help also serving as potential contenders. In the HS division, Emilio Aguinaldo College, through EAC-ICA, will be shooting for a fifth straight title.

According to Arellano head coach Paulino Coloma, he is looking at long-distance running as well as throwing to once again serve as the foundation in their quest for the title.

Eight gold medals are at stake in Day One, including pole vault and long jump in seniors and discus throw and long jump in HS play during the morning and the sprint events in the afternoon. Day 2 in athletics will take place the next day with twelve gold medals, while the final day will take place this Monday, with four medals.

Gracing the opening rites is PATAFA head Philip Juico.