Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Milo Endorsers
Aside from Molina are fellow swimmers Enchong Dee, Johan Aguilar, Gian Berino, Ken Uy, Miggy Carandang, Janjan Chiu, Evan Uy and Sean Tan, basketball players Chris Tiu, Prince Carlos, Kiefer Ravena, Thirdy Ravena, Jeron Teng and Javi and Juan Gomez de LiaƱo, marathon runner Mary Joy Tabal, volleyball players Princess Gaiser and Alyssa Valdez, taekwondo jin Japoy Lizardo and Pauline Lopez, figure skaters Katrice delos Reyes and Michael Christian Martinez, gymnast Carlos Yulo and actor James Reid both are Milo endorsers.
Monday, December 30, 2019
CELEBRATING 120 YEARS OF RP SPORTS
The Philippine Sportswriters Association will celebrate 120 years of Philippine Sports when the group of Filipino sports journalists holds its annual awards night on Jan. 10 at the Holiday Inn Manila.
Sports greats of long ago era will be honored together with future Olympians during the blue-ribbon affair where the prestigious Athlete of the Decade award will be given out for the first time in PSA history.
From Pancho Villa, the famed prize fighter of the 1920s who put Asia on the world boxing map, to young Dorothy Joy Delasin, who is set to conquer the Ladies Professional Golfers Association Tour in the year 2020, the list of honorees represents the cream of the crop in RP sports through the years.
President Duterte, a known sports fan and patron, has been invited to be the guest of honor and speaker.
Efren 'Bata' Reyes gets the Athlete of the Year award in recognition of his triumph in the world billiards championship in Wales and his admirable stint in the 20th Southeast Asian Games in Brunei.
A highlight of the event is the choice of 11 men and women, led by Villa and four-time bowling World Cup champion Paeng Nepomuceno, as Athletes of the Millennium. The rest are: Gabriel 'Flash' Elorde, trackster Lydia de Vega, tennis champ Felicisimo Ampon, bowling queen Olivia 'Bong' Coo, Olympic boxers Anthony Villanueva and Mansueto Velasco, Jr., basketball's Carlos Loyzaga, swimmer Teofilo Yldefonso and Asia's first chess grandmaster Eugene Torre.
"This is the PSA's humble way of paying tribute to the men and women who have contributed the most to our sports heritage through their exploits and world-class talent," said PSA president Ding Marcelo of the Manila Bulletin.
Sports greats of long ago era will be honored together with future Olympians during the blue-ribbon affair where the prestigious Athlete of the Decade award will be given out for the first time in PSA history.
From Pancho Villa, the famed prize fighter of the 1920s who put Asia on the world boxing map, to young Dorothy Joy Delasin, who is set to conquer the Ladies Professional Golfers Association Tour in the year 2020, the list of honorees represents the cream of the crop in RP sports through the years.
President Duterte, a known sports fan and patron, has been invited to be the guest of honor and speaker.
Efren 'Bata' Reyes gets the Athlete of the Year award in recognition of his triumph in the world billiards championship in Wales and his admirable stint in the 20th Southeast Asian Games in Brunei.
A highlight of the event is the choice of 11 men and women, led by Villa and four-time bowling World Cup champion Paeng Nepomuceno, as Athletes of the Millennium. The rest are: Gabriel 'Flash' Elorde, trackster Lydia de Vega, tennis champ Felicisimo Ampon, bowling queen Olivia 'Bong' Coo, Olympic boxers Anthony Villanueva and Mansueto Velasco, Jr., basketball's Carlos Loyzaga, swimmer Teofilo Yldefonso and Asia's first chess grandmaster Eugene Torre.
"This is the PSA's humble way of paying tribute to the men and women who have contributed the most to our sports heritage through their exploits and world-class talent," said PSA president Ding Marcelo of the Manila Bulletin.
Saturday, December 28, 2019
Figure skater Michael Martinez gears up for comeback
The 23-year-old athlete feels refreshed after taking a much-needed break
A standout among Philippine athletes is Michael Martinez. His representing the country at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics and 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics were no small feats, especially since he’s the first Southeast Asian skater to qualify for the Olympics.
Moreover, he was one of only two Philippines athletes who competed in 2018.
The 23-year-old has taken a much-needed break, resting and going on a journey of self-discovery.
Martinez said he has never really had a rest period from skating until now, and this downtime has been liberating and pivotal to his personal growth.
He pointed out that he has learned to value inner peace and happiness, be more accepting, keeping an open mind, and to treat people with respect.
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| Basic olive green shirt, black skinny tattered jeans, Forever 21 |
Moreover, he was one of only two Philippines athletes who competed in 2018.
The 23-year-old has taken a much-needed break, resting and going on a journey of self-discovery.
Martinez said he has never really had a rest period from skating until now, and this downtime has been liberating and pivotal to his personal growth.
He pointed out that he has learned to value inner peace and happiness, be more accepting, keeping an open mind, and to treat people with respect.
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| Oversized basic shirt, tattered denim jeans, Forever 21 |
But Martinez maintains the discipline of keeping fit. He does not skip on daily workouts, integrating a mix of routines.
His passion for skating intensifies amid the adrenaline rush from performing for an audience and representing the country.
An optimist, Martinez sees a bright future for Philippine sports. He believes in the talent of his coathletes. And he’s eager to see more professionals rising up in upcoming competitions.
He’s likewise excited about being with a new management team, DigiStar PH, which is said to be planning to expand his career.
More importantly, he’s enthusiastic about catching up with his figure skating team and the prospects of his comeback. It is confirmed that he’ll be going back to training in 2020.
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Duterte fetes SEA Games medalists; gives extra incentives
By Azer Parrocha
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday honored over 800 Filipino athletes who competed in the 30th Southeast Asian Games held from November 30 to December 11.
In his speech, Duterte personally congratulated the Filipino athletes for winning the overall championship in the biennial regional multi-sport event.
“I am deeply honored to be in the presence of our athletes who have emerged victorious in the recently concluded 30th Southeast Asian Games held in our country. Your triumph showcases the athleticism and sporting prowess of our people to our neighbors in Southeast Asia,” Duterte said.
“I am really very happy to no end,” he added, noting that he would brag about Filipino athletes to Southeast Asian neighbors.
A total of 149 gold, 117 silver, and 121 bronze medals were snagged by the Philippine team to win the overall championship since 2005 and its second top finish in the history of the SEA Games.
Duterte described the country’s overall championship as a “windfall” or unexpected good fortune despite particular logistical issues prior to the SEA Games’ formal opening.
He also committed to give the athletes an additional PHP21 million on top of the incentives to medalists provided by the law.
Republic Act 10699 grants PHP300,000; PHP150,000; and PHP60,000 for SEA Games’ gold, silver, and bronze medalists, respectively.
The President, meanwhile, floated the possibility of asking Congress to raise the monthly allowances of Filipino national athletes.
“I'll try to talk things over with Congress. Yung allowance ninyo, dapat yung pagkain libre na. Yung allowance ninyo, allowance na ninyo ‘yan (You should keep the allowance to yourselves. Food should be free),” Duterte said.
“PHP250,000 a month, okay na siguro ‘yan (does it sound okay to you)? We will try to raise the money,” he added.
On top of the incentives, Duterte conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu rank of Kamagi to all of the medalists.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu is given to those “deserving of merit and recognition and to fully express the President’s appreciation of the Filipino people’s contributions to the success of the campaigns and the programs of the government.”
Also during the event, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) turned over PHP117 million for the incentives of medalists.
Duterte later prodded Pagcor chair Andrea Domingo to providing an additional PHP100 million for the medalists.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) William “Butch” Ramirez presented the President with the Philippine team’s trophy for its winning overall championship.
Duterte also obliged for a “groufie” with Filipino athletes while remaining on stage.
Stay out of drugs, terrorism
Warning athletes that illegal drugs and terrorism could destroy their lives, the President also urged athletes to instead “seek sanctuary” in the many human activities such as sports.
Duterte discouraged them from using illegal drugs, saying that it “is really a more dangerous thing to do.”
He also expressed his desire to end communist insurgency anew, stressing the youth were made to believe that it was an easy way of getting out of poverty.
“Pag pumasok kayo diyan habang ako naging Presidente, delikado talaga ‘yan (If you join rebel groups while I’m President, that’s really dangerous). Stay out of it. It is the most dangerous activity that you can really mess up with. Mamatay ka diyan (You could die there),” Duterte said.
“Ngayon, sa sports nalang maghanap nalang ng pera, mag-training kayo (Look for money through sports. Continue training). I don't mind. Basta (Just) stay clean,” he added.
The President defended anew his controversial war on drugs, saying he was “cruel in many ways” because he loved the country and the youth.
He also hit human rights groups anew for lacking common sense, noting that killing drug lords and other criminals was the best way to ensure a safer country.
Secret weapon vs. drugs
Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) chairman and House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said promoting sports is one of the President’s “secret weapons” in fighting illegal drugs.
“When the President took office in 2016, he had one directive for us, one clear vision: a safe and comfortable life for all. At simple lang po ang guidelines niya (And his guidelines are simple). If you remove crime especially drugs, corruption from the country, we can give every single Filipino a safe and comfortable life,” Cayetano said.
“Many, especially those in the West, akala po nila unidimensional yung approach ni Presidente sapagkat very simple ang utos niya-- (thought the President's approach was undimensional because his order is simple) to fight crime, corruption, drugs, safe and comfortable life not knowing that sports was one of the secret weapons of President Duterte in fighting drugs, in giving our young people a better future,” he added.
Cayetano, meanwhile, thanked the President for considering sports as “part of nation-building.”
“You cannot take sports, culture out of education and if we truly believe in sports, we will put our money where our mouth is,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1089104
President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday honored over 800 Filipino athletes who competed in the 30th Southeast Asian Games held from November 30 to December 11.
In his speech, Duterte personally congratulated the Filipino athletes for winning the overall championship in the biennial regional multi-sport event.
“I am deeply honored to be in the presence of our athletes who have emerged victorious in the recently concluded 30th Southeast Asian Games held in our country. Your triumph showcases the athleticism and sporting prowess of our people to our neighbors in Southeast Asia,” Duterte said.
“I am really very happy to no end,” he added, noting that he would brag about Filipino athletes to Southeast Asian neighbors.
A total of 149 gold, 117 silver, and 121 bronze medals were snagged by the Philippine team to win the overall championship since 2005 and its second top finish in the history of the SEA Games.
Duterte described the country’s overall championship as a “windfall” or unexpected good fortune despite particular logistical issues prior to the SEA Games’ formal opening.
He also committed to give the athletes an additional PHP21 million on top of the incentives to medalists provided by the law.
Republic Act 10699 grants PHP300,000; PHP150,000; and PHP60,000 for SEA Games’ gold, silver, and bronze medalists, respectively.
The President, meanwhile, floated the possibility of asking Congress to raise the monthly allowances of Filipino national athletes.
“I'll try to talk things over with Congress. Yung allowance ninyo, dapat yung pagkain libre na. Yung allowance ninyo, allowance na ninyo ‘yan (You should keep the allowance to yourselves. Food should be free),” Duterte said.
“PHP250,000 a month, okay na siguro ‘yan (does it sound okay to you)? We will try to raise the money,” he added.
On top of the incentives, Duterte conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu rank of Kamagi to all of the medalists.
The Order of Lapu-Lapu is given to those “deserving of merit and recognition and to fully express the President’s appreciation of the Filipino people’s contributions to the success of the campaigns and the programs of the government.”
Also during the event, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) turned over PHP117 million for the incentives of medalists.
Duterte later prodded Pagcor chair Andrea Domingo to providing an additional PHP100 million for the medalists.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) William “Butch” Ramirez presented the President with the Philippine team’s trophy for its winning overall championship.
Duterte also obliged for a “groufie” with Filipino athletes while remaining on stage.
Stay out of drugs, terrorism
Warning athletes that illegal drugs and terrorism could destroy their lives, the President also urged athletes to instead “seek sanctuary” in the many human activities such as sports.
Duterte discouraged them from using illegal drugs, saying that it “is really a more dangerous thing to do.”
He also expressed his desire to end communist insurgency anew, stressing the youth were made to believe that it was an easy way of getting out of poverty.
“Pag pumasok kayo diyan habang ako naging Presidente, delikado talaga ‘yan (If you join rebel groups while I’m President, that’s really dangerous). Stay out of it. It is the most dangerous activity that you can really mess up with. Mamatay ka diyan (You could die there),” Duterte said.
“Ngayon, sa sports nalang maghanap nalang ng pera, mag-training kayo (Look for money through sports. Continue training). I don't mind. Basta (Just) stay clean,” he added.
The President defended anew his controversial war on drugs, saying he was “cruel in many ways” because he loved the country and the youth.
He also hit human rights groups anew for lacking common sense, noting that killing drug lords and other criminals was the best way to ensure a safer country.
Secret weapon vs. drugs
Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) chairman and House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano said promoting sports is one of the President’s “secret weapons” in fighting illegal drugs.
“When the President took office in 2016, he had one directive for us, one clear vision: a safe and comfortable life for all. At simple lang po ang guidelines niya (And his guidelines are simple). If you remove crime especially drugs, corruption from the country, we can give every single Filipino a safe and comfortable life,” Cayetano said.
“Many, especially those in the West, akala po nila unidimensional yung approach ni Presidente sapagkat very simple ang utos niya-- (thought the President's approach was undimensional because his order is simple) to fight crime, corruption, drugs, safe and comfortable life not knowing that sports was one of the secret weapons of President Duterte in fighting drugs, in giving our young people a better future,” he added.
Cayetano, meanwhile, thanked the President for considering sports as “part of nation-building.”
“You cannot take sports, culture out of education and if we truly believe in sports, we will put our money where our mouth is,” he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1089104
De Lima seeks Senate probe into country's hosting of 2019 SEA Games
Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima has sought an immediate Senate investigation into the alleged irregularities that marred the country's hosting of the recently concluded 2019 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games).
De Lima filed Senate Resolution (SR) No. 274 directing the appropriate Senate committee to conduct an investigation on the reported organizational and administrative problems, as well as possible corruption, which affected the biennial sports meet.
"As we celebrate our athletes' most successful campaign in recent memory, it is likewise important for our government to scrutinize our performance both as a host country and as patrons to our athletes," she said.
"The reports on organizational problems surrounding our preparation betrays a political dynamic that could translate to even greater problems in our sports programs in the future," she added.
Prior to its opening on Nov. 30, the country's hosting of the SEA Games has been beset by organizational issues, including early troubles with transportation and accommodations of teams from Myanmar, Timor-Leste and Cambodia, accreditation issues and lack of halal food for Singapore's delegation, and even problems with accreditation of media.
Delays were also noted on the construction of some sports venues, such as the Rizal Memoral Sports Complex and New Clark City, which some Filipino athletes saw as a lost opportunity for them to maximize their homecourt advantage ahead of the games.
Several volunteers for the SEA Games also aired their grievances over the lack of system and coordination of the volunteer program that resulted to some of them having to wait long hours just to get their accreditation IDs and uniforms.
Likewise, the Duterte administration also drew flaks for allocating an exorbitant amount, or a whopping 50 million pesos, for a 50-meter tall cauldron-type structure for the lighting of the SEA games flame.
The unrelenting backlash on social media received by the government due to the country's hosting of the event eventually forced apologies from the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) chaired by House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and the Palace.
"Proper management and governance necessitate that we conduct an inquiry on the recently concluded SEA Games, especially after the problems encountered were duly documented by the mass media," De Lima pointed out.
She also underscored the need to scrutinize the organizational structure through which the country hosts international sporting events to ensure that the funds will be properly given to institutions with the mandate and capability to properly utilize them.
"There is need to investigate the existing sports legislation to ensure that support and funding are given to the agencies that have proper mandate and that accountability lies even with private organizations, especially those who have access to government resources," she said.
"While problems of disorganization, incompetence, and inefficiency can be resolved through institutional mechanisms, what cannot be countenanced is the scandalous probability that in the middle of all this disorganization and incompetence, certain high public officials still might have enriched themselves in the procurement of government contracts for the hosting of the games," she added.
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman and current PHISGOC Executive Board's co-vice chairperson William Ramirez attributed the delayed preparations in the SEA games to the dynamics between Philippine Olympic Committee and PHISGOC officials and the delayed passage of the national budget.
https://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2019/1218_delima2.asp
De Lima filed Senate Resolution (SR) No. 274 directing the appropriate Senate committee to conduct an investigation on the reported organizational and administrative problems, as well as possible corruption, which affected the biennial sports meet.
"As we celebrate our athletes' most successful campaign in recent memory, it is likewise important for our government to scrutinize our performance both as a host country and as patrons to our athletes," she said.
"The reports on organizational problems surrounding our preparation betrays a political dynamic that could translate to even greater problems in our sports programs in the future," she added.
Prior to its opening on Nov. 30, the country's hosting of the SEA Games has been beset by organizational issues, including early troubles with transportation and accommodations of teams from Myanmar, Timor-Leste and Cambodia, accreditation issues and lack of halal food for Singapore's delegation, and even problems with accreditation of media.
Delays were also noted on the construction of some sports venues, such as the Rizal Memoral Sports Complex and New Clark City, which some Filipino athletes saw as a lost opportunity for them to maximize their homecourt advantage ahead of the games.
Several volunteers for the SEA Games also aired their grievances over the lack of system and coordination of the volunteer program that resulted to some of them having to wait long hours just to get their accreditation IDs and uniforms.
Likewise, the Duterte administration also drew flaks for allocating an exorbitant amount, or a whopping 50 million pesos, for a 50-meter tall cauldron-type structure for the lighting of the SEA games flame.
The unrelenting backlash on social media received by the government due to the country's hosting of the event eventually forced apologies from the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) chaired by House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano and the Palace.
"Proper management and governance necessitate that we conduct an inquiry on the recently concluded SEA Games, especially after the problems encountered were duly documented by the mass media," De Lima pointed out.
She also underscored the need to scrutinize the organizational structure through which the country hosts international sporting events to ensure that the funds will be properly given to institutions with the mandate and capability to properly utilize them.
"There is need to investigate the existing sports legislation to ensure that support and funding are given to the agencies that have proper mandate and that accountability lies even with private organizations, especially those who have access to government resources," she said.
"While problems of disorganization, incompetence, and inefficiency can be resolved through institutional mechanisms, what cannot be countenanced is the scandalous probability that in the middle of all this disorganization and incompetence, certain high public officials still might have enriched themselves in the procurement of government contracts for the hosting of the games," she added.
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman and current PHISGOC Executive Board's co-vice chairperson William Ramirez attributed the delayed preparations in the SEA games to the dynamics between Philippine Olympic Committee and PHISGOC officials and the delayed passage of the national budget.
https://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2019/1218_delima2.asp
Tuesday, December 17, 2019
Nike bids farewell to BGC Hyper Court
The Nike Hyper Court in Bonifacio Global City had been recently reclaimed for redevelopment by its landowners
The iconic Nike Hyper Court in the Bonifacio Global City is set to close its doors at the end of 2019.
After serving as an avenue for the Filipinos' love for basketball since 2017, the court had been recently reclaimed for redevelopment by its landowners.
To commemorate the closure of the Hyper Court, Nike held a series of 3x3 games for both male and female ballers with a number of renowned basketball players and coaches gracing the event.
PBA standouts Kiefer Ravena and CJ Perez, and collegiate stars Aljun Melecio, CJ Cansino, and Camille Clarin were among those present.
"Since our Hyper Court launched two years ago at the BGC, it has cemented its position as a thriving hub for Filipino ballers," said Nike Philippines country marketing manager Jino Ferrer.
Ronald Caliente, Albert Urbano, Chris Dabbay, and Clark Ongpauco of Team Happy ruled the men's division.
Meanwhile, Justin Alano, Jaine Del Prado, Matet Samonte, and Zahnezra Babasanta of Team Piyu reigned supreme in the women's division.
Four other Hyper Courts stand: the Ususan Court in Taguig, the Scarlet Homes Covered Court in ParaƱaque, and the YCL Covered Court in Quezon City.
On the other hand, the Comembo Covered Court in Makati is currently under renovation.
https://www.rappler.com/sports/by-sport/basketball/247350-nike-bids-farewell-bgc-hyper-court
The iconic Nike Hyper Court in the Bonifacio Global City is set to close its doors at the end of 2019.
After serving as an avenue for the Filipinos' love for basketball since 2017, the court had been recently reclaimed for redevelopment by its landowners.
To commemorate the closure of the Hyper Court, Nike held a series of 3x3 games for both male and female ballers with a number of renowned basketball players and coaches gracing the event.
PBA standouts Kiefer Ravena and CJ Perez, and collegiate stars Aljun Melecio, CJ Cansino, and Camille Clarin were among those present.
"Since our Hyper Court launched two years ago at the BGC, it has cemented its position as a thriving hub for Filipino ballers," said Nike Philippines country marketing manager Jino Ferrer.
Ronald Caliente, Albert Urbano, Chris Dabbay, and Clark Ongpauco of Team Happy ruled the men's division.
Meanwhile, Justin Alano, Jaine Del Prado, Matet Samonte, and Zahnezra Babasanta of Team Piyu reigned supreme in the women's division.
Four other Hyper Courts stand: the Ususan Court in Taguig, the Scarlet Homes Covered Court in ParaƱaque, and the YCL Covered Court in Quezon City.
On the other hand, the Comembo Covered Court in Makati is currently under renovation.
https://www.rappler.com/sports/by-sport/basketball/247350-nike-bids-farewell-bgc-hyper-court
Filipino athletes honored for winning medals in 30th Southeast Asian Games
The Senate today adopted three resolutions congratulating and commending a number of Filipino atheletes for winning medals in the recently concluded 30th Southeast Asian Games.
Senate Resolutions 245, 246 and 281 were introduced by Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and Sen. Win Gatchalian respectively.
According to Zubiri, Christine Hallasgo brought honor to the country after she brought home the gold in the women's marathon held in Capas, Tarlac last December 6. He said Hallasgo added to the country's increasing gold medal harvest in the sporting meet.
Likewise, Zubiri said Sarah Noveno Dequinan made the country proud when she won the gold medal in the women's heptathlon also in Capas, Tarlac last December 8. He said Dequinan "improved the country's gold medal tally in the sporting meet."
He said Dequinan's feat had claimed a win that has eluded the Philippines since the legendary Elma Muros had achieved it in 2001.
Zubiri said both women deserve to be acknowledged for their astonishing feat in bringing honor and glory to the country by becoming champions in international sporting competitions.
"By delivering gold medals to the country in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, Hallasgo and Dequinan deserve to be recognized and commended for bringing pride and inspiration to the Filipino people and for showing to the world the unrelenting spirit of Filipino excellence," Zubiri said.
For his part, Gatchalian said six athletes from Valenzuela made the Filipinos proud when they hauled in medals during the Southeas Asian Games.
He named the Valenzuelanos as Fernando Jose Casares, gold medalists, Philippine triathlon-mixed team relay; Jeniel Bata-Anon, gold medalists, Philippine Esports team-mobile legends: Bang-bang; Brandhon Kyrielle Aquino, bronze medalist, sailing international 420 men's event; Baby Jessica Canabal, bronze medalist, taekwondo women's under 53 kgs; Noelito Jose, Jr, bronze medalist, fencing men's individual epee; John Michael Pasco, bronze medalists, beach handball.
"These Valenzuelano athletes are an inspiration, not only to our people but also to our leaders who shall continue to build a city and a home that will allow them to develop their talents, exceed their limits and achieve their dreams," Gatchalian said.
https://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2019/1217_prib2.asp
Senate Resolutions 245, 246 and 281 were introduced by Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and Sen. Win Gatchalian respectively.
According to Zubiri, Christine Hallasgo brought honor to the country after she brought home the gold in the women's marathon held in Capas, Tarlac last December 6. He said Hallasgo added to the country's increasing gold medal harvest in the sporting meet.
Likewise, Zubiri said Sarah Noveno Dequinan made the country proud when she won the gold medal in the women's heptathlon also in Capas, Tarlac last December 8. He said Dequinan "improved the country's gold medal tally in the sporting meet."
He said Dequinan's feat had claimed a win that has eluded the Philippines since the legendary Elma Muros had achieved it in 2001.
Zubiri said both women deserve to be acknowledged for their astonishing feat in bringing honor and glory to the country by becoming champions in international sporting competitions.
"By delivering gold medals to the country in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, Hallasgo and Dequinan deserve to be recognized and commended for bringing pride and inspiration to the Filipino people and for showing to the world the unrelenting spirit of Filipino excellence," Zubiri said.
For his part, Gatchalian said six athletes from Valenzuela made the Filipinos proud when they hauled in medals during the Southeas Asian Games.
He named the Valenzuelanos as Fernando Jose Casares, gold medalists, Philippine triathlon-mixed team relay; Jeniel Bata-Anon, gold medalists, Philippine Esports team-mobile legends: Bang-bang; Brandhon Kyrielle Aquino, bronze medalist, sailing international 420 men's event; Baby Jessica Canabal, bronze medalist, taekwondo women's under 53 kgs; Noelito Jose, Jr, bronze medalist, fencing men's individual epee; John Michael Pasco, bronze medalists, beach handball.
"These Valenzuelano athletes are an inspiration, not only to our people but also to our leaders who shall continue to build a city and a home that will allow them to develop their talents, exceed their limits and achieve their dreams," Gatchalian said.
https://www.senate.gov.ph/press_release/2019/1217_prib2.asp
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Julius Babao on the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
Julius Babao, the anchor of the ABS-CBN's news program TV Patrol from 2004 to 2010, he recalls the fondest memory was the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
He and his wife, former Star News segment host Christine Bersola was spending time at the Traders Hotel Manila in Pasay City during their fourth wedding anniversary celebration on December 8, 2007, coincidentally with the second day of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
Besides next to the Babao couple is no other than Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr., Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, former Ilocos Sur governor Luis Singson and former Senator Vicente Sotto III.
At the National Media Center of the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, the Ambassador told reporters it cited the live TV coverage of 2007 Nakhon Ratchasima Southeast Asian Games would be next to the Second EDSA Revolution that deposed Joseph Estrada from the presidency after an aborted impeachment trial in which he was charged with plunder and perjury; his vice president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo became president, January 12-16, 1995 Manila visit of Pope John Paul II for the 10th World Youth Day when the closing Mass held at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park set a world record for the largest number of people gathered for a single religious event with 5 million attendees, 1994 Miss Universe and the 1992 Summer Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain.
He and his wife, former Star News segment host Christine Bersola was spending time at the Traders Hotel Manila in Pasay City during their fourth wedding anniversary celebration on December 8, 2007, coincidentally with the second day of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
Besides next to the Babao couple is no other than Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr., Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, former Ilocos Sur governor Luis Singson and former Senator Vicente Sotto III.
At the National Media Center of the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, the Ambassador told reporters it cited the live TV coverage of 2007 Nakhon Ratchasima Southeast Asian Games would be next to the Second EDSA Revolution that deposed Joseph Estrada from the presidency after an aborted impeachment trial in which he was charged with plunder and perjury; his vice president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo became president, January 12-16, 1995 Manila visit of Pope John Paul II for the 10th World Youth Day when the closing Mass held at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park set a world record for the largest number of people gathered for a single religious event with 5 million attendees, 1994 Miss Universe and the 1992 Summer Olympic Games in Barcelona, Spain.
From the PICC, Paynor was accompanied by kart racers Matteo Guidicelli, Tyson Sy, Mark Bumgarner and Javi Benitez and race car driver Enzo Pastor for a lunchtime dinner at the Spiral Restaurant, Sofitel Philippine Plaza.
At the Studio 7 of ABS-CBN Broadcast Center in Quezon City, the news program TV Patrol goes live due to the coverage, when Dyan Castillejo reported from Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand on the updates of team Philippines.
Aside from Castillejo, other reporters were in the said city such as Migs Bustos, Boom Gonzales, Mico Halili, Gretchen Ho, Doc Ian Laurel, Gretchen Malalad, TJ Manotoc, Mozzy Ravena, Mikee Reyes and Anton Roxas.
Ms. Castillejo would interview Miguel Molina, the four-time swimming gold medalist and most outstanding athlete of the year and Star Magic artist turned De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Tanker and Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Stingrays member Ernest Lorenzo "Enchong" Dee was in lane 8 of men’s 100-meter butterfly finals on Sunday, December 9.
Despite the live broadcast streaming of the swimming competition of the said event in mall activity centers nationwide, also at the Activity Center of Star City amusement park, the police clash with protesters in the Filipino capital Manila at past 7:29 p.m. of Sunday, December 9, 2007 near the Sofitel Philippine plaza hotel to Star City, also they marched to One ECom Center in SM Mall of Asia complex.
At the Studio 7 of ABS-CBN Broadcast Center in Quezon City, the news program TV Patrol goes live due to the coverage, when Dyan Castillejo reported from Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand on the updates of team Philippines.
Aside from Castillejo, other reporters were in the said city such as Migs Bustos, Boom Gonzales, Mico Halili, Gretchen Ho, Doc Ian Laurel, Gretchen Malalad, TJ Manotoc, Mozzy Ravena, Mikee Reyes and Anton Roxas.
Ms. Castillejo would interview Miguel Molina, the four-time swimming gold medalist and most outstanding athlete of the year and Star Magic artist turned De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Tanker and Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Stingrays member Ernest Lorenzo "Enchong" Dee was in lane 8 of men’s 100-meter butterfly finals on Sunday, December 9.
Despite the live broadcast streaming of the swimming competition of the said event in mall activity centers nationwide, also at the Activity Center of Star City amusement park, the police clash with protesters in the Filipino capital Manila at past 7:29 p.m. of Sunday, December 9, 2007 near the Sofitel Philippine plaza hotel to Star City, also they marched to One ECom Center in SM Mall of Asia complex.
Saturday, December 14, 2019
Swimmer Lacuna retires
Philippine swimming is in good hands. Keep inspiring. The future is bright.
Olympian Jessie Khing Lacuna is retiring after swimming for the national team for 10 years.
The 25-year former Ateneo de Manila University standout called it quits after competing in his last Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, which the country hosted.
“To swimming, you’ll always be (a) part of my life. Will always be my forever,” Lacuna posted on his Facebook account. “You taught me a lot of things and about life.”
In a decade of service, Lacuna had won numerous local and international titles and the Pulilan, Bulacan native had won three silvers and four bronze medals in the SEA Games.
One of the highlights of his career was when he represented the country in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, held in London and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, respectively.
The recent biennial meet saw the emergence of young male swimmers of the national team led by Sacho Ilustre.
The Philippine swimming team won one gold, courtesy of James Deiparine, six silvers and nine bronze medals in the 30th edition of the SEA Games and Lacuna said he’s leaving the sport he loved in good hands.
“Philippine swimming is in good hands. Keep inspiring. The future is bright,” the five-foot-seven swimmer said.
“I hope I made you proud, Philippines. It was an amazing journey. It was such an honor representing the Philippines for the past 10 years,” he added.
Overall, Lacuna won 51 medals, 35 from local tourneys while the rest he scooped in international stage.
https://tribune.net.ph/index.php/2019/12/14/swimmer-lacuna-retires/
Olympian Jessie Khing Lacuna is retiring after swimming for the national team for 10 years.
The 25-year former Ateneo de Manila University standout called it quits after competing in his last Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, which the country hosted.
“To swimming, you’ll always be (a) part of my life. Will always be my forever,” Lacuna posted on his Facebook account. “You taught me a lot of things and about life.”
In a decade of service, Lacuna had won numerous local and international titles and the Pulilan, Bulacan native had won three silvers and four bronze medals in the SEA Games.
One of the highlights of his career was when he represented the country in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, held in London and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, respectively.
The recent biennial meet saw the emergence of young male swimmers of the national team led by Sacho Ilustre.
The Philippine swimming team won one gold, courtesy of James Deiparine, six silvers and nine bronze medals in the 30th edition of the SEA Games and Lacuna said he’s leaving the sport he loved in good hands.
“Philippine swimming is in good hands. Keep inspiring. The future is bright,” the five-foot-seven swimmer said.
“I hope I made you proud, Philippines. It was an amazing journey. It was such an honor representing the Philippines for the past 10 years,” he added.
Overall, Lacuna won 51 medals, 35 from local tourneys while the rest he scooped in international stage.
https://tribune.net.ph/index.php/2019/12/14/swimmer-lacuna-retires/
Thursday, December 12, 2019
Jessie Lacuna calls it a day after SEAG
The King signs off
Two-time Olympian Jessie Lacuna has retired from national team duties after 10 years of serving the country.
The 25-year-old native of Pulilan, Bulacan made the announcement through his Facebook account.
“To swimming, you’ll always be a part of my life. It will always be my forever.
“You taught me a lot of things about life. Thank you,” his post read.
Lacuna, who was part of the Philippine team that competed in both the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, made his final swim for the national team during the recently-concluded 2019 Southeast Asian Games in Manila.
The product of Ateneo was part of the 200m freestyle (1:52.58, 7th), 400m freestyle (4:03.63, 8th), 200m butterfly (2:01.58, 5th), and 400m individual relay (4:32.53, 6th) while also being part of the 4x100m and 4x200m freestyle relay squads.
But for him, his time has passed and that he is turning over the team to the likes of James Deiparin, Sacho Ilustre, and the other young guns of Philippine swimming.
“Philippine Swimming is in good hands. Keep inspiring because the future is bright.”
During his service, he won three silvers and four bronzes in the Southeast Asian Games.
Then in the UAAP, Lacuna became a two-time Athlete of the Year, winning 35 golds for Ateneo during his spectacular five-year career there.
For all of this, he is forever grateful.
“I hope I made you proud, Philippines.
“It was an amazing journey! Such an honor representing the Philippines for the past ten years. Ang daming pinagdaanan, ups and downs, habang buhay ko itong papahalagahan,” he closed.
https://tiebreakertimes.com.ph/tbt/jessie-lacuna-calls-day-seag/173954
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
the former Olympic swimmer is now a blogger on Instagram and YouTube
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| JB Walsh |
The former national swimmer who compete at 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Games, 2005 Manila and 2007 Nakhon Ratchasima Southeast Asian Games and 2006 Doha Asian Games is no other than Filipino-American James Bernard "JB" Walsh is now a photo and video blogger and start compiling all photos from 2004 to 2010.
His personal Youtube and Instagram accounts (Magichands JB) will compile all the photos and videos of swimming career in Florida Gators Swimming & Diving from 2004 to 2008 and swim clinics in the Philippines from 2009 to 2010.
But he is retired in 2010 to concentrate on his medical studies, is also set to conduct his own series of clinics, this time in his hometown Leyte where swimming is being planned to be the province’s new sport.
“The clinics were very well attended and a new series is planned for January. Being part Waray, the two-time Olympian and multi-medalist, Walsh will be conducting a series of swim clinics in Tacloban next month,” said former aquatics chief Mark Joseph.
“This goes hand in hand with the Leyte Governor’s decision to make swimming a priority sport for the province. Leyte has a brand-new Olympic pool used in the Palarong Pambansa,” he added.
“JB, who will be hanging up his suit and moving onto medical schooling in the US, will also be leading a two-month long medical mission to reach out to the province’s impoverished communities
Monday, December 09, 2019
Aftermath: 2007 Southeast Asian Games men's 100 meter butterfly final
Then: Chinese Olympic swimmer Wu Peng compete at men's 200m butterfly swimming event at the 2006 Asian Games was held on December 2, 2006 at the Hamad Aquatic Centre in Doha, Qatar. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GukgrPhNKIU
No other than De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Tankers and Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Stingrays member and 2007 UAAP swimming championship men's division MVP Ernest Lorenzo "Enchong" Dee participated at the 2007 Southeast Asian Games swimming competition at the Aquatic Center, His Majesty the King's 80th Birthday Anniversary Stadium, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, when he was in lane 8 of men’s 100-meter butterfly finals on December 9, 2007 at past 6:29 p.m. local time (7:29 p.m. Manila time) and lane 1 of men’s 200- meter butterfly finals on Tuesday, December 11 at past 6:20 p.m. local time (7:20 p.m. Manila time) due to activists clashed with riot police in Manila, Quezon City, Rodriguez, San Mateo, Marikina, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Makati, Pasig, Cainta, Taytay, Angono, Binangonan, Pasay, Paranaque, Las Pinas, Muntinlupa and San Pedro, and he was the eighth place finish in the said event with the time of 56.87 seconds (100-meter butterfly) and 2 minutes, 11.47 seconds (200-meter butterfly).
Despite the live broadcast streaming of the swimming competition of the said event in activity centers inside shopping malls and even plazas of city and municipal halls and provincial capitols nationwide, the police clash with protesters in the Filipino capital Manila at past 7:29 p.m. of Sunday, December 9, 2007 near Sofitel Philippine plaza hotel to Star City amusement park in Pasay City.
They tried to pass through a police barrier to get close to the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), with about 700 officers deployed at the scene.
Again, Mr. Dee wears arena ARN-4091 WHT Silicone Swimming Cap, AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and aile-bleue ARN-6005M GRN One Piece Long Spats nux-K POWER STRUSH and competing in men's 200-meter and 400-meter individual medley heats and finals and 1,500-meter freestyle heats and finals.
But in photo and video shoots, when Enchong is wearing arena ARN-4091 WHT Silicone Swimming Cap, AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and ARN-6015 DGRN RIMIC nux-F and sister Anj wears speedo Aqua V Silicone Swimming Cap - Black (8-087750001), speedsocket - Black (8-705891549) and FASTSKIN FS-PRO Female Recordbreaker Costume – Black (8-008153218), Timothy is wearing Valentino Schoolwear White Swim Cap DL1000 Latex, arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and ARN-6014 DGRN Half Spats nux-F, Ken is wearing arena ARN-4091 WHT silicone swimming cap, AGL-1400 YLRD swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and ARN-6015 DRED RIMIC nux-F, Johan is wearing speedo Aqua V Silicone Swimming Cap - Black (8-087750001) and speedsocket Mirrored Goggle – Black (8-705890000) and agonswim Florida Gators Mesh Training Suit Fully Front & Back Lined (ACX111510TRS2MES), Miggy wears arena arena ARN-4091 WHT Silicone Swimming Cap, AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and speedo endurance+ Neuron Male 8cm Brief – Dark Blue and Sky Blue (8-009333322) and sister Mariel wears speedo Aqua V Silicone Swimming Cap - Black (8-087750001), speedsocket - Black (8-705891549) and FASTSKIN FS-PRO Female Recordbreaker Costume – Black (8-008153218) inspired from episode 3, part 3 of Your Song Presents: Boystown and shot on location at the swimming pool of Makati Aqua Sports Arena while Gian is wearing speedo Aqua V Silicone Swimming Cap - Black (8-087750001), speedsocket Unisex Goggle - Black (8-705895555) and FASTSKIN LZR RACER Male Legskin - Black (8-018040001) and shot on location at Loyola Schools Swimming Pool, Ateneo de Manila University.
At past 8 p.m. of the same day when Star City Mayor Elpidio "Deo" Macalma was accompanied by Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr. arrived at the PICC Meeting Room 2 for the live press conference with the help of PLDT myDSL.
Besides next to swimmer Dee in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, while in Manila, the Philippines when Sen. Pia Cayetano, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino general manager Marco Protacio, Rina Go and Paolo Abrera to spend a few more days before the grandest worldwide celebration of Christmas 2007 and new year 2008.
Aside from Sen. Cayetano, Protacio, Go, Abrera and Dee are kart racers Matteo Guidicelli, Tyson Sy, Mark Bumgarner and Javi Benitez, race car driver Enzo Pastor and Cebu basketball player and businessman Jeremy Ryan Huang along with Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr.
Saturday, December 07, 2019
Corruption in the 2019 SEA Games live broadcasting contract?
THINKING PINOY
By RJ NIETO
Organizers take pride in hosting a record number of sports in this year’s installment of the Southeast Asian Games, but it appears that they had no intention of making all the 56 sporting events as accessible as possible to the Filipino public that paid for hosting them, or they’re simply too stupid to realize what they’ve done.
The Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) chose only two networks — ABS-CBN and TV5. While both have multiple channels at their disposal, there’s simply no way for both of them to air all 56 events live.
Phisgoc Chairman Alan Peter Cayetano and COO Tats Suzara ignored this reality and decided to grant live broadcasting rights exclusively to these two networks, to the detriment of sports that these two networks will inevitably fail to air live, and of the general public whose taxes paid for hosting the games.
Water polo is a prime example.
For whatever reason, neither ABS-CBN nor TV5 was there to broadcast live the crucial November 29 match between our men’s team and Singapore’s, so the Philippine Water Polo Team itself took the initiative to live-stream the game on Facebook.
Some time in the second half, online viewers heard a Phisgoc official telling the cameraman that live-streaming is prohibited. The stream abruptly ended, to the irritation of thousands watching the game online.
Being an avid fan of the Water Polo team myself, I vehemently protested against Phisgoc’s rules. I told Phisgoc officials that the rule is grossly disadvantageous to taxpayers who wish to support our hardworking and talented water polo athletes.
I argued that the Filipino people, whose taxes paid for these games, have the right to watch live whichever game they want in the most convenient way they want to.
Hours later, a high-ranking SEA Games official told me that he would allow live-streaming if the official live broadcasters aren’t available, and I took his word for it.
On December 1st, I went to the New Clark Aquatics Center to watch the game between the Philippines and Malaysia. Neither ABS-CBN nor TV5 was there, so I started live-streaming the event as soon as it started. During the 2nd quarter, and just like what happened to the Philippines-Singapore match, a Phisgoc official approached me and told me to stop streaming because I am not an “accredited broadcaster.”
I asked, “So how will Filipino water polo fans watch the game live?”
No answer.
Exasperated, I told the Phisgoc official that it is the right of every Filipino to watch the games, and Phisgoc rules make it impossible to do so. I also told them I will not stop streaming the water polo match, and the only thing that can stop me if they forcibly throw me out of the premises.
After the match and out of sheer frustration over Phisgoc’s corruption and/or stupidity, I told my 1.4 million Facebook followers that I would stop live-streaming altogether.
I said covering such events is expensive, and I have used my hard-earned money to pay thousands for gasoline, telecoms, and manpower, to do so. I wanted to do it for you guys for free as part of public service, but Phisgoc illogical rules prevent me from doing so.
The post has garnered over 16,000 reactions to date, which likely prompted Phisgoc to issue an advisory shortly after the post.
The relevant part of the grammar-optional advisory stated:
“The live-streaming of portions of the games via social media shall be uploaded and shared on personal platforms and social media accounts only.”
Phisgoc, in so many words, basically told me that nobody except ABS-CBN and TV5 could stream the games live, even if neither are streaming the game, even if the live-stream is for non-commercial use.
Surely, streaming a game that both networks ignored should be no problem, unless the live-stream takes away viewers from the other games they chose to air.
As they say, never attribute to malice what can be adequately explained by stupidity.
With the generous assumption that Phisgoc officials concerned are not morons, there is only one possible explanation that I can think of: Phisgoc wants to protect the ratings of its two exclusive live broadcasters.
But worrying about TV ratings is not Phisgoc’s job. Instead, Phisgoc should worry about whether taxpayers get the most value out of the billions of public funds used to stage the SEA Games.
I blame neither ABS-CBN nor TV5 for this. It is their job, as a commercial enterprise, to optimize returns on investment. Capitalist enterprises are by nature greedy, and the government’s primordial responsibility is to put a cap on that greed for the sake of the people it governs.
Either Phisgoc forgot that, or Phisgoc never knew that the entire time.
With that said, I believe that a review of the live broadcasting contract is in order, as soon as the SEA Games end on the 11th.
The live broadcasting contract is disadvantageous to the government.
I believe some Phisgoc officers engaged in malfeasance or, worse, violated the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
For reactions, please email Tp@ThinkingPinoy.net
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/12/07/corruption-in-the-2019-sea-games-live-broadcasting-contract/
By RJ NIETO
Organizers take pride in hosting a record number of sports in this year’s installment of the Southeast Asian Games, but it appears that they had no intention of making all the 56 sporting events as accessible as possible to the Filipino public that paid for hosting them, or they’re simply too stupid to realize what they’ve done.
The Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) chose only two networks — ABS-CBN and TV5. While both have multiple channels at their disposal, there’s simply no way for both of them to air all 56 events live.
Phisgoc Chairman Alan Peter Cayetano and COO Tats Suzara ignored this reality and decided to grant live broadcasting rights exclusively to these two networks, to the detriment of sports that these two networks will inevitably fail to air live, and of the general public whose taxes paid for hosting the games.
Water polo is a prime example.
For whatever reason, neither ABS-CBN nor TV5 was there to broadcast live the crucial November 29 match between our men’s team and Singapore’s, so the Philippine Water Polo Team itself took the initiative to live-stream the game on Facebook.
Some time in the second half, online viewers heard a Phisgoc official telling the cameraman that live-streaming is prohibited. The stream abruptly ended, to the irritation of thousands watching the game online.
Being an avid fan of the Water Polo team myself, I vehemently protested against Phisgoc’s rules. I told Phisgoc officials that the rule is grossly disadvantageous to taxpayers who wish to support our hardworking and talented water polo athletes.
I argued that the Filipino people, whose taxes paid for these games, have the right to watch live whichever game they want in the most convenient way they want to.
Hours later, a high-ranking SEA Games official told me that he would allow live-streaming if the official live broadcasters aren’t available, and I took his word for it.
On December 1st, I went to the New Clark Aquatics Center to watch the game between the Philippines and Malaysia. Neither ABS-CBN nor TV5 was there, so I started live-streaming the event as soon as it started. During the 2nd quarter, and just like what happened to the Philippines-Singapore match, a Phisgoc official approached me and told me to stop streaming because I am not an “accredited broadcaster.”
I asked, “So how will Filipino water polo fans watch the game live?”
No answer.
Exasperated, I told the Phisgoc official that it is the right of every Filipino to watch the games, and Phisgoc rules make it impossible to do so. I also told them I will not stop streaming the water polo match, and the only thing that can stop me if they forcibly throw me out of the premises.
After the match and out of sheer frustration over Phisgoc’s corruption and/or stupidity, I told my 1.4 million Facebook followers that I would stop live-streaming altogether.
I said covering such events is expensive, and I have used my hard-earned money to pay thousands for gasoline, telecoms, and manpower, to do so. I wanted to do it for you guys for free as part of public service, but Phisgoc illogical rules prevent me from doing so.
The post has garnered over 16,000 reactions to date, which likely prompted Phisgoc to issue an advisory shortly after the post.
The relevant part of the grammar-optional advisory stated:
“The live-streaming of portions of the games via social media shall be uploaded and shared on personal platforms and social media accounts only.”
Phisgoc, in so many words, basically told me that nobody except ABS-CBN and TV5 could stream the games live, even if neither are streaming the game, even if the live-stream is for non-commercial use.
Surely, streaming a game that both networks ignored should be no problem, unless the live-stream takes away viewers from the other games they chose to air.
As they say, never attribute to malice what can be adequately explained by stupidity.
With the generous assumption that Phisgoc officials concerned are not morons, there is only one possible explanation that I can think of: Phisgoc wants to protect the ratings of its two exclusive live broadcasters.
But worrying about TV ratings is not Phisgoc’s job. Instead, Phisgoc should worry about whether taxpayers get the most value out of the billions of public funds used to stage the SEA Games.
I blame neither ABS-CBN nor TV5 for this. It is their job, as a commercial enterprise, to optimize returns on investment. Capitalist enterprises are by nature greedy, and the government’s primordial responsibility is to put a cap on that greed for the sake of the people it governs.
Either Phisgoc forgot that, or Phisgoc never knew that the entire time.
With that said, I believe that a review of the live broadcasting contract is in order, as soon as the SEA Games end on the 11th.
The live broadcasting contract is disadvantageous to the government.
I believe some Phisgoc officers engaged in malfeasance or, worse, violated the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
For reactions, please email Tp@ThinkingPinoy.net
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/12/07/corruption-in-the-2019-sea-games-live-broadcasting-contract/
Regencia finally gets his time on ice
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| The Philippines’ Jan Aro Regencia battle Thailand’s Ken Kindborn for the puck during the Ice Hockey preliminary round of the 30th South East Asian Games 2019. INQUIRER PHOTO/ Sherwin Vardeleon |
“I couldn’t even remember it,” he told the Inquirer with a chuckle. “I barely had ice time so I was just tense and was praying the whole time.”
The first-line forward, though, has emerged as one of the Philippine Eagle’s integral cogs in its hot start in this year’s Southeast Asian Games.
And that’s quite a statement for one of the only three teens in the bunch, and for someone who had been sickly most of his life.
“I used to have asthma; I was also prone to flu, colds and the like,” said Regencia. “Miraculously, they’re all gone.”
Regencia, 19, was clutch in the Nationals’ match with Singapore, where the Philippines was lethargic in the first and middle periods.
He hit a pair of goals late to preserve the heavy lifting of skipper Steven FĆ¼glister and Sam Bengzon, and eventually seal the win for the Eagles.
Regencia also had a steady outing in the crucial win over Indonesia last Wednesday, the game that assured the Eagles a semifinal slot.
The two other youngsters in the team are 17-year-old Jann So Tiong and 16-year-old Carlo Tigaronita.
If there was a pivotal moment for his young career, Regencia said it would be during the team’s campaign in the Challenge Cup of Asia here last year.
“That was the first time they made an experiment—they tried putting me on the first line,” he said.
It probably also helped Regencia that he is close to FĆ¼glister.
“There was a time we just talked purely hockey. He just told me to not put so much stuff in my head. It all became clear to me after that,” he said.
As it turned out, it was the moment of clarity he needed. As a teen, Regencia said he was expectedly cynical.
“Since [some of us] are young, [we’re] prone to negativity,” he said. “Whenever we look at other teams, we see they’re big. They have better builds. [We felt there’s so much] difference.”
“But I told myself and the others that the only way we cope with those differences is by being smart,” he said.
“Hockey’s a really fast game. It’s a game of mistakes. You can’t afford to be indecisive because one slip up could adversely affect the team’s play,” he said.
Regencia swears by this approach, as he feels it’s also the very reason why he has been on a roll lately—also after the fact that the Eagles are now given ample attention, which translated to six months of proper training.
“I thought to myself, I need to step up,” he said of his recent showing. This is the first line, so I might as well.”
“I don’t want to be the one that hinders this team’s potential.”
https://sports.inquirer.net/377446/regencia-finally-gets-his-time-on-ice
SEA Games: Semis-bound PH men’s volleyball drops 1st match
The Philippine men’s volleyball team failed to sweep Pool B, losing to Indonesia, 25-23, 32-30, 25-20, in its final preliminary match in the 30th Southeast Asian Games Friday at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The Philippines managed to stay in step with the 2017 silver medalists, thanks to excellent receptions and a bunch of highlight plays, to help them lead 16-11 in the third set.
However, on-point attacks from scoring ace Rivan Nurmulki and Doni Haryono, who registered 19 and 18 points, respectively, snuffed the life out of the Filipinos.
“Our execution was bad earlier. We lacked but we’ll know needs to be done if in case we’ll face them again,” Philippines’ head coach Dante Alinsunurin said in Filipino.
Indonesia’s air tight defense was also evident throughout as the Filipinos had a hard time making their hits go past the mighty Indonesian wall.
Former NU standout Bryan Bagunas lead the scoring for the Philippines with 24 points, all from attacks, while Marck Espejo tallied 17 points and 10 excellent receptions.
Despite dropping its first game, the Philippines still goes to the semifinals and will face perennial champions Thailand on Sunday.
https://sports.inquirer.net/377444/sea-games-semis-bound-ph-mens-volleyball-drops-1st-match
The Philippines managed to stay in step with the 2017 silver medalists, thanks to excellent receptions and a bunch of highlight plays, to help them lead 16-11 in the third set.
However, on-point attacks from scoring ace Rivan Nurmulki and Doni Haryono, who registered 19 and 18 points, respectively, snuffed the life out of the Filipinos.
“Our execution was bad earlier. We lacked but we’ll know needs to be done if in case we’ll face them again,” Philippines’ head coach Dante Alinsunurin said in Filipino.
Indonesia’s air tight defense was also evident throughout as the Filipinos had a hard time making their hits go past the mighty Indonesian wall.
Former NU standout Bryan Bagunas lead the scoring for the Philippines with 24 points, all from attacks, while Marck Espejo tallied 17 points and 10 excellent receptions.
Despite dropping its first game, the Philippines still goes to the semifinals and will face perennial champions Thailand on Sunday.
https://sports.inquirer.net/377444/sea-games-semis-bound-ph-mens-volleyball-drops-1st-match
SEA Games: Philippines absorbs 1st loss in ice hockey
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| The Philippines’ Rigel Lancero II battle Thailand’s Patrick Forstner for the puck during the Ice Hockey preliminary round of the 30th South East Asian Games 2019. INQUIRER PHOTO/ Sherwin Vardeleon |
The Eagles found themselves trailing early, 0-3, after an early barrage led by Papan Thanakroekkiat six minutes into the contest.
Already assured of a semifinal slot after their hot 3-0 start, the Nationals settled for the second spot in the preliminaries.
The Thais, who the Filipinos beat for in the 2017 gold medal match, went on to convert four more in the middle period.
Philippines’ lone goal make came from Carlo Martin Tenedero, who scored in the sixth minute of the second frame.
The Eagles crank their title-retention bid up when they play Singapore, a team they beat 5-3 in the group phase, when the knockout stage gets going this Saturday.
Thailand faces Malaysia in the other semifinal pairing which comes off wraps at 3 p.m.
https://sports.inquirer.net/377423/sea-games-philippines-absorbs-1st-loss-in-ice-hockey
Friday, December 06, 2019
SEA Games: PH wins 3 more bronzes as Singapore, Vietnam rule swimming
NEW CLARK CITY — The Philippine men’s relay team salvaged a silver against the Joseph Schooling-powered Singapore Friday night in the 30th Southeast Asian Games swimming here.
Luke Gebbie, Jean-Pierre Khouzam, Maurice Sacho Ilustre and Jarod Hatch reset the Philippine record in finishing second to Singapore in the men’s 4X 100-meter freestyle.
They clocked 3:22.32, improving the PH mark in 2009 SEA Games (3:24.35).
That, however, was way slower compared to the Singapore cruisers who timed 3:16.02, which is established as new SEA Games standard. They bettered their own 2017 record of 3:17.82.
Vietnam finished third clocking 3:22.46.
Amid the Singapore Vietnam romps, the Philippines also salvaged two bronze medals.
Remedy Rule and Chloe Kennedy Isleta settled for third place in their respective events as Singapore and Vietnam split the day’s golds on offer.
Rule picked up her third medal, a bronze in the women’s 200-meter freestyle. The 23-year-old from Texas had earlier had a silver in 200m butterfly and a bronze in 4X200m free relay.
Twenty-one-year-old Isleta, a standout from Arizona State University, placed third in women’s 200m backstroke.
Both their events were ruled by Vietnam’s Asian Games champ and Olympian Nguyen Thi Anh Vien.
Singapore has been lording over swimming competitions here at NCC Aquatics Center with 12 golds medals after three days.
Olympic champion Joseph Schooling claimed his second and third gold medal in ruling the men’s 100m fly and leading the relay team.
Vietnam currently has seven victories, two coming from the 23-year-old Nguyen.
https://sports.inquirer.net/377418/sea-games-ph-win-3-more-bronzes-as-singapore-vietnam-rule-swimming
Luke Gebbie, Jean-Pierre Khouzam, Maurice Sacho Ilustre and Jarod Hatch reset the Philippine record in finishing second to Singapore in the men’s 4X 100-meter freestyle.
They clocked 3:22.32, improving the PH mark in 2009 SEA Games (3:24.35).
That, however, was way slower compared to the Singapore cruisers who timed 3:16.02, which is established as new SEA Games standard. They bettered their own 2017 record of 3:17.82.
Vietnam finished third clocking 3:22.46.
Amid the Singapore Vietnam romps, the Philippines also salvaged two bronze medals.
Remedy Rule and Chloe Kennedy Isleta settled for third place in their respective events as Singapore and Vietnam split the day’s golds on offer.
Rule picked up her third medal, a bronze in the women’s 200-meter freestyle. The 23-year-old from Texas had earlier had a silver in 200m butterfly and a bronze in 4X200m free relay.
Twenty-one-year-old Isleta, a standout from Arizona State University, placed third in women’s 200m backstroke.
Both their events were ruled by Vietnam’s Asian Games champ and Olympian Nguyen Thi Anh Vien.
Singapore has been lording over swimming competitions here at NCC Aquatics Center with 12 golds medals after three days.
Olympic champion Joseph Schooling claimed his second and third gold medal in ruling the men’s 100m fly and leading the relay team.
Vietnam currently has seven victories, two coming from the 23-year-old Nguyen.
https://sports.inquirer.net/377418/sea-games-ph-win-3-more-bronzes-as-singapore-vietnam-rule-swimming
Gretchen Ho calls for continued support for athletes after SEA Games
With Filipino athletes scoring medals left and right at the SEA Games, Pinoy pride is on a high—and Gretchen Ho hopes that supporting local athletes does not end with the multi-sport event.
The TV host and former volleyball player tweeted yesterday, Dec. 5, that she hopes inspiring stories in the world of sports, as well as sponsorship of athletes, will continue even after the SEA Games.
“High morale ang lahat ngayon dahil sa #SEAGames2019. Sana ituloy natin yung ganitong pagpapahalaga sa mga atleta,” she said.
(Everyone has high morale because of the #SEAGames 2019. I hope we will continue to give this much importance to our athletes.)
She also stressed that support has to be given to those in the grassroots rather than only famous players.
Ho pointed out that the problem in sports is politics and corruption. Despite that, she said many see change happening and that younger athletes are standing up for their sports.
“Patuloy lang tayo, Pilipinas (Let’s keep this up, Philippines),” she said.
Ho herself is rallying behind the growth of beach volleyball in the country as a co-founder of Beach Volleyball Republic. The group aims to promote beach volleyball and organize tournaments around the country. /ra
https://sports.inquirer.net/377253/gretchen-ho-calls-for-continued-support-of-athletes-after-sea-games
The TV host and former volleyball player tweeted yesterday, Dec. 5, that she hopes inspiring stories in the world of sports, as well as sponsorship of athletes, will continue even after the SEA Games.
“High morale ang lahat ngayon dahil sa #SEAGames2019. Sana ituloy natin yung ganitong pagpapahalaga sa mga atleta,” she said.
(Everyone has high morale because of the #SEAGames 2019. I hope we will continue to give this much importance to our athletes.)
She also stressed that support has to be given to those in the grassroots rather than only famous players.
Ang daming magagandang kwento ang mahuhugot mula sa mundo ng sports. Sana kahit pagkatapos ng #SEAGames2019, tuloy tuloy pa rin ang pagbabahagi natin ng mga ito š— Gretchen Ho (@gretchenho) December 5, 2019
Ho pointed out that the problem in sports is politics and corruption. Despite that, she said many see change happening and that younger athletes are standing up for their sports.
“Patuloy lang tayo, Pilipinas (Let’s keep this up, Philippines),” she said.
Ho herself is rallying behind the growth of beach volleyball in the country as a co-founder of Beach Volleyball Republic. The group aims to promote beach volleyball and organize tournaments around the country. /ra
https://sports.inquirer.net/377253/gretchen-ho-calls-for-continued-support-of-athletes-after-sea-games
Swimming star Joseph Schooling has soft spot for Filipinos
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| Gold medalist Singapore’s Tzen Wei Teong, center, poses with silver medalist Singapore’s Joseph Schooling, left, and bronze medalist Indonesia Glenn Sutanto, right, during awarding ceremonies for the men’s 50m butterfly final during swimming competition at the 30th Southeast Asian Games in New Clark City, Tarlac province, northern Philippines on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana) |
NEW CLARK CITY — Classes have started and Joseph Schooling has the floor, err, the pool.
An Olympic gold medal winner who pulled off the trick in Rio de Janeiro at the expense of the legendary Michael Phelps, Schooling towed the Singapore squad to the 4X200-meter freestyle gold in record style late Wednesday and dazzled local swimming fans in closing out the day’s activities at NCC Aquatics Center here.
“I’m very pleased to come to the Philippines to swim. It’s a beautiful pool, the crowd is amazing, very fun to come here for the first time,” said Schooling after the awarding ceremony where he was swarmed by the media.
More than the venue and the crowd, Schooling has a soft spot for Filipinos because his nanny, whom he fondly calls Auntie Yolly, is a native of Cagayan Province.
“She has been with us since I was four months old, I hope she was here to watch me swim, but she’s at home,” said Schooling. “But I know she’s watching me on TV.”
The Singaporeans, also made up of Quah Zheng Wen, Jonathan Tan and Darren Chua, registered a new meet record by clocking seven minutes and 17.88 seconds.
Schooling, three-time Asian Games champ and 23-time SEA Games gold winner, is hoping to qualify for the 100-meter free and 100m fly events in the Tokyo Olympics next year.
“It’s all about baby steps and I just need to focus on one event at a time. Good event, take away from it. Bad event, just brush it aside and move forward to the next time,” he added.
And he hopes this weekend, where he will see action in five more events, would help prepare him for the big stage.
In the meantime, the rest of the field can all watch and learn something.
https://sports.inquirer.net/377198/swimming-star-joseph-schooling-has-soft-spot-for-filipinos
Thursday, December 05, 2019
SEA Games: John Marvin 1st Filipino boxer to crash out, bows to Vietnam bet
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| Filipino boxer John Marvin loses in his light heavyweight match in the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net |
Truong landed a cracking right overhand in the middle of Marvin’s guard, sending the 2017 SEA Games gold medalist to the mat in the first round.
Marvin tried to fight fire with fire in the second and third rounds to get the judges’ favor but Truong had built enough of a lead to escape with the win and advance to the semifinals.
“This is boxing, you win some, you lose some. I’m humble in victory as I’m humble in defeat,” said Marvin who shared an emotional moment with 2017 middleweight gold medalist Eumir Marcial after the bout.
Marvin landed his own 1-2 combinations in the third round and even connecting with booming right hook but Truong’s knockdown in the first round was too big of a difference for the Fil-Brit to close out.
“He was the better fighter, I didn’t bring it. It’s a shame I didn’t defend my title but there’s always next time. What’s happened is done now he’s taken the victory and good luck to him to the rest of the tournament.”
Marvin is the first Filipino boxer to get eliminated so far in the tournament.
https://sports.inquirer.net/377065/sea-games-john-marvin-1st-filipino-boxer-to-crash-out-bows-to-vietnam-bet
PH swimming golden boy Deiparine not retiring yet, says mom
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| James Deiparine of the Philippines wins gold medal in swimming after he ruled the 100-meter breaststroke held at Aquatics Center, New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, December 4, 2019. INQUIRER PHOTO / NIĆO JESUS ORBETA |
That’s according to no less than her mom, Patricia.
Philippine Swimming Inc., president Lani Velasco shared a message from the elder Deiparine that said: “Jimmy will not retire yet.”
“He has more to do for the Philippines and for everyone who has supported him,” said part of the message.
Deiparine’s family flew in from the United States and other parts of the Philippines to watch the 26-year-old law student break a 10-year record in 100-meter breaststroke.
Not only he ended the 10-year gold medal drought, Deiparine also becomes the first Filipino to have set a new SEA Games record in this edition.
But more than anything, Velasco said Deiparine’s feat is an inspiration to the Filipino swimmers in particular and Philippine sports in general.
“I think everybody, all of Philippine swimming are now inspired and will wat to get more gold,” Velasco said. “And we have a lot of grassroots talents who have that potential.”
Now fans are expected to fill up the stadium watching Deipairine compete in the 50m breasts and 4X100 medley relay on Sunday and Monday, respectively.
Deiparine’s best time in 50m breasts is 27.91 seconds which is .33 seconds faster than the existing SEA Games standard.
https://sports.inquirer.net/376987/ph-swimming-golden-boy-deiparine-not-retiring-yet-says-mom
Wednesday, December 04, 2019
Joseph Schooling gets first SEAG gold, calls stay in PH 'awesome'
NEW CLARK City, Capas, Tarlac -- Olympic gold medalist Joseph Schooling says that his stay thus far in the Philippines has so far been "awesome." Schooling, who etched himself into sporting history by upsetting Michael Phelps in the 2016 Rio Olympics in the men's 100m butterfly, is in the country as Singapore's star swimmer for the 30th Southeast Asian Games.
In the process, Schooling graced the newly-opened Aquatics Center with his prowess, calling the FINA-certified pool beautiful.
Just in his first day, the 24-year-old already reaped a gold medal as part of his country's 4x200m freestyle relay, besting five other countries, including the Philippines.
"It's awesome. It's amazing. There is so much energy for the relay. And I'm excited to see how everyone gets up for an individual event (Thursday), so I'm very excited for that," Schooling said.
Already qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Schooling is seeing the region's largest sporting conclave as a stepping stone for the Summer Games.
"So, definitely, this is one of the stepping steps to Tokyo, and it's all about baby steps. I just need to focus on one event at a time. Good event, take away from it, bad event, just brush it aside and move forward until the next time," he told reporters.
Showered by cheers from the capacity crowd at the venue, Schooling shared his appreciation of an adoring Filipino crowd.
He added that his Filipino nanny, whom he fondly calls Auntie Yolly, is definitely proud of him despite not making it to the country.
"She's been with us since I was ten months old. So, I mean, I wish she was here today, but she had to stay home and be with my dad. So I know, she's watching on TV and it's a very proud moment for all of us."
Following his gold medal win in a group effort, Schooling now sets his sights on the individual events, which includes the 50 and 100m butterfly.
"Taking each day step-by-step and after that, make our way home. Maybe I could come back after the Olympics, but right now, what's on my mind right now is being here."
https://tv5.espn.com/story/_/id/28223600/stay-ph-awesome
In the process, Schooling graced the newly-opened Aquatics Center with his prowess, calling the FINA-certified pool beautiful.
Just in his first day, the 24-year-old already reaped a gold medal as part of his country's 4x200m freestyle relay, besting five other countries, including the Philippines.
"It's awesome. It's amazing. There is so much energy for the relay. And I'm excited to see how everyone gets up for an individual event (Thursday), so I'm very excited for that," Schooling said.
Already qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Schooling is seeing the region's largest sporting conclave as a stepping stone for the Summer Games.
"So, definitely, this is one of the stepping steps to Tokyo, and it's all about baby steps. I just need to focus on one event at a time. Good event, take away from it, bad event, just brush it aside and move forward until the next time," he told reporters.
Showered by cheers from the capacity crowd at the venue, Schooling shared his appreciation of an adoring Filipino crowd.
He added that his Filipino nanny, whom he fondly calls Auntie Yolly, is definitely proud of him despite not making it to the country.
"She's been with us since I was ten months old. So, I mean, I wish she was here today, but she had to stay home and be with my dad. So I know, she's watching on TV and it's a very proud moment for all of us."
Following his gold medal win in a group effort, Schooling now sets his sights on the individual events, which includes the 50 and 100m butterfly.
"Taking each day step-by-step and after that, make our way home. Maybe I could come back after the Olympics, but right now, what's on my mind right now is being here."
https://tv5.espn.com/story/_/id/28223600/stay-ph-awesome
PH swimmer James Deiparine shatters 10-year SEA Games record
CAPAS, Tarlac, Philippines – James Deiparine made history right on the first day of swimming action in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games on Wednesday, December 4 at the New Clark City Aquatic Center here in Tarlac.
Deiparine captured the gold in the men's 100-meter breaststroke, shattered a 10-year SEA Games record, reset his own Philippine mark, and ended the country's decade-long gold medal drought in the sport.
A silver medalist in the 2017 edition, Deiparine recorded a time of 1 minute and 1.46 seconds to smash the regional tournament record of 1:01.60 that Vietnam's Nguyen Huu Viet set in 2009.
Deiparine also broke the Philippine mark of 1:02.00, which he set in the 2017 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur.
The last time Filipino tankers won in the SEA Games was way back in 2009 when Miguel Molina bagged a pair of mints in the men’s 200m and 400m individual medley, while Daniel Coakley and Ryan Arabejo had one each in the men’s 50m freestyle and men’s 1,500m freestyle, respectively.
https://www.rappler.com/sports/specials/sea-games/246349-results-swimming-james-deiparine-gold-record-december-4-2019
Deiparine captured the gold in the men's 100-meter breaststroke, shattered a 10-year SEA Games record, reset his own Philippine mark, and ended the country's decade-long gold medal drought in the sport.
A silver medalist in the 2017 edition, Deiparine recorded a time of 1 minute and 1.46 seconds to smash the regional tournament record of 1:01.60 that Vietnam's Nguyen Huu Viet set in 2009.
Deiparine also broke the Philippine mark of 1:02.00, which he set in the 2017 SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur.
The last time Filipino tankers won in the SEA Games was way back in 2009 when Miguel Molina bagged a pair of mints in the men’s 200m and 400m individual medley, while Daniel Coakley and Ryan Arabejo had one each in the men’s 50m freestyle and men’s 1,500m freestyle, respectively.
https://www.rappler.com/sports/specials/sea-games/246349-results-swimming-james-deiparine-gold-record-december-4-2019
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