GMA and GMA News TV station message

GMA

February 4, 2017-December 31, 2019 (voiced by Al Torres) with GMA Kapuso Theme August 6, 2012 (Instrumental version)

ANNOUNCEMENT (without V/O): Any comments, suggestions or objections to the contents of the preceding programs may be referred to the Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission, VIBAL Building, EDSA, Q.C. or the NTC regional offices & the KBP.

This is GMA-DZBB Channel 7

A Commercial TV Station with 100,000-watt transmitting power authorized under Station License No. BSD-0067-2016 (REN) issued by the National Telecommunications Commission valid until December 31, 2019.

GMA studios are located at the GMA Complex EDSA corner Timog Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Republic of the Philippines.

The GMA transmitter station is located at Barangay Culiat, Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

GMA Engineering is headed by

• Elvis B. Ancheta: Professional Electronics Engr. No. 897

GMA Transmission Personnel is composed of Electronics Engineers, Technicians, and First Class Radio Operators with License issued by the Professional Regulations Commission and the National Telecommunications Commission.

• Ricardo L. Cabral: Professional Electronics Engr No. 92
• Erwin R. Timbre: Electronics Engr No. 3650
• Harold Kim D. Magarro: Electronics Engr No. 16782
• Jonathan G. Salvo: Electronics Engr No. 19705
• Joel M. Agu: Electronics Engr No. 40727
• Jayrald C. Arellano: Electronics Engr No. 49545
• Rodrigo P. Cuizon, Jr.: Professional Electronics Engr No. 875
• Louie O. Siapengco: Electronics Engr No. 15586
• Ralph T. Palma: Electronics Engr No. 29315
• Glynn Anthony A. Barroga: Electronics Engr No. 37435
• Mamerto D. Logronio, Jr.: Electronics Engr No. 28729
• Celestino A. Vega, Jr.: Electronics Engr No. 19182
• Kristine F. Salmorin: Electronics Engr No. 49121
• Bonnie Rey A. Ulang: Electronics Engr No. 47499
• Glen Aries T. Leonor: Electronics Engr No. 52560
• Reykel M. Espiritu: Electronics Tech No. 305
• Arvie P. Cariaga: Electronics Tech No. 603
• Rafael A. Racelis: 94-1PNCR-11977
• Innocencio Robert D. Maniago: 95-1PNCR-15029
• Arnel V. Aricheta: 93-1PNCR-6617
• Charlie F. Perez: 06-1PHN-23257 (NTC), ECT# 0073 (PRC)
• Gerard Lorenz O. Sandagon: 06-1PV-23313
• Peter N. Basallote: 06-1PNCR-23273
• Ramon C. Tantay: 94-1PNCR-12248
• Nelson C. Suarez: 17-1PNCR-26853
• Rene Q. Royo: 95-1PNCR-15435
• Larry A. Gabuco: 95-1PNCR-13478
• Nathaniel F. Santiago: 11-1PHN-26421
• Donny A. Villadores: 98-1PXII-44394
• Arnel Actub: 13-1PX-58335
• Charles M. De Leon: 97-1PXII-64256
• Victor L. De Guzman: 95-1PVII-20139
• Paul David P. Domingo: 97-1PXI-20349

All programs telecast on this station have been approved by the Movie & Television Review and Classification Board, seen via satellite in 54 stations nationwide!

Luzon:

• GMA-7 Manila
• TV-7 Batanes
• TV-5 Laoag
• TV-48 Vigan
• TV-7 Abra
• TV-7 Tuguegarao
• TV-13 Aparri
• TV-5 Mountain Province
• TV-8 Tabuk
• TV 10 Bontoc
• TV-11 La Union
• TV-7 Ilagan
• TV-48 Cauayan
• TV-21 Santiago
• TV-10 Benguet
• TV-7 Cabanatuan
• TV-10 Dagupan
• TV-10 Pampanga
• TV-5 Tarlac
• TV-10 Olongapo
• TV-27 Balanga
• TV-46 Malolos
• TV-26 Obando
• TV-5 Baler
• TV-12 Batangas
• TV-12 Tagaytay
• TV-31 Calamba
• TV-26 San Pablo
• TV-44 Jalajala, Rizal
• TV-5 Lucena
• TV-12 Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• TV-6 Brooke's Point, Palawan
• TV-8 Coron, Palawan
• TV-13 Occidental Mindoro
• TV-33 Oriental Mindoro
• TV-13 Boac
• TV-7 Romblon
• TV-8 Daet
• TV-7 Naga
• TV-13 Iriga
• TV-12 Legazpi
• TV-8 Malilipot
• TV-8 Camalig
• TV-13 Catanduanes
• TV-2 Sorsogon
• TV-7 Masbate

Visayas:

• TV-5 Calbayog
• TV-13 Catbalogan
• TV-9 Catarman
• TV-8 Borongan
• TV-10 Tacloban
• TV-48 Ormoc
• TV-10 Capoocan, Leyte
• TV-12 Isabel, Leyte
• TV-2 Kalibo
• TV-35 Boracay
• TV-11 Antique
• TV-5 Roxas
• TV-6 Iloilo
• TV-13 Bacolod
• TV-5 Cadiz
• TV-30 Murcia, Negros Occidental
• TV-7 Cebu
• TV-11 Barili
• TV-11 Samboan
• TV-7 Toledo
• TV-11 Bohol
• TV-5 Dumaguete
• TV-10 Sipalay

Mindanao:

• TV-41 Mambajao
• TV-35 Cagayan de Oro
• TV-12 Bukidnon
• TV-8 Valencia
• TV-4 Dipolog
• TV-5 Ozamis
• TV-3 Pagadian
• TV-21 Ipil
• TV-11 Iligan
• TV-26 Butuan
• TV-3 Agusan del Sur
• TV-7 Dinagat
• TV-10 Surigao
• TV-2 Tandag
• TV-12 Bislig
• TV-5 Davao
• TV-5 Panabo
• TV-8 General Santos
• TV-12 Kidapawan
• TV-9 Zamboanga
• TV-12 Cotabato
• TV-12 Jolo
• TV-8 Tawi-Tawi

This is GMA, the Philippines' largest network, now signing on/off.

Note: Due to launch of this station message, This station returned the version of the Philippine National Anthem produced by BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) digitally remastered 4K UHD version.

Note: This station message used after the national anthem during sign on and again before the national anthem during sign off. This station message background is updated on February 4, 2017 and September 6, 2017.

January 1, 2020-present (voiced by Weng dela Pena)

ANNOUNCEMENT (without V/O): Any comments, suggestions of objections to the contents of the preceding programs maybe referred to the Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission, Vibal Building, EDSA, Quezon City or the NTC Regional Offices and the KBP.

This is GMA-DZBB Channel 7, a Commercial TV Station with 100,000-watt transmitting power authorized under Station License No. BSD-0018-2019 (REN)-0617 issued by the National Telecommunications Commission valid until December 31, 2022.

GMA studios are located at the GMA Complex EDSA corner Timog Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Republic of the Philippines.

The GMA transmitter station is located at Barangay Culiat, Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

GMA Engineering is headed by 

• Elvis B. Ancheta: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 897

GMA Transmission Personnel is composed of Electronics Engineers, Technicians, and First Class Radio Operators with License issued by the Professional Regulations Commission and the National Telecommunications Commission.

• Ricardo L. Cabral: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 92
• Erwin R. Timbre: Electronics Engineer No. 3650
• Harold Kim D. Magarro: Electronics Engineer No. 16782
• Jonathan G. Salvo: Electronics Engineer No. 19705
• Joel M. Agu: Electronics Engineer No. 40727
• Jayrald C. Arellano: Electronics Engineer No. 49545
• Rodrigo P. Cuizon, Jr.: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 875
• Louie O. Siapengco: Electronics Engineer No. 15586
• Ralph T. Palma: Electronics Engineer No. 29315
• Glynn Anthony A. Barroga: Electronics Engineer No. 37435
• Mamerto D. Logronio, Jr.: Electronics Engineer No. 28729
• Celestino A. Vega, Jr.: Electronics Engineer No. 19182
• Rene Francis A. Lardizabal: Electronics Engr. No. 36106
• ​​​​​​Kristine F. Salmorin: Electronics Engineer No. 49121
• Bonnie Rey A. Ulang: Electronics Engineer No. 47499
• Glen Aries T. Leonor: Electronics Engineer No. 52560
• Reykel M. Espiritu: Electronics Tech No. 305
• Arvie P. Cariaga: Electronics Tech No. 603
• Rafael A. Racelis: 94-1PNCR-11977
• Innocencio Robert D. Maniago: 95-1PNCR-15029
• Arnel V. Aricheta: 93-1PNCR-6617
• Richie E. Nava: 98-1PNCR-22317
• Charlie F. Perez: 06-1PHN-23257
• Gerard Lorenz O. Sandagon: 06-1PV-23313
• Peter N. Basallote: 06-1PNCR-23273
• Ramon C. Tantay: 94-1PNCR-12248
• Nelson C. Suarez: 17-1PNCR-26853
• Rene Q. Royo: 95-1PNCR-15435
• Larry A. Gabuco: 95-1PNCR-13478
• Nathaniel F. Santiago: 11-1PHN-26421
• Donny A. Villadores: 98-1PXII-44394
• Arnel Actub: 13-1PX-58335
• Charles M. De Leon: 97-1PXII-64256
• Alan S. Mangubat: 97-1PXI-20349

All programs telecast on this station have been approved by the Movie & Television Review and Classification Board, seen via satellite in 54 stations nationwide!

Luzon

• GMA-7 Manila
• TV-7 Batanes
• TV-5 Ilocos Norte
• TV-48 Ilocos Sur
• TV-7 Abra
• TV-7 Tuguegarao
• TV-13 Aparri
• TV-5 Mountain Province
• TV-7 Isabela
• TV-5 Bayombong
• TV-10 Benguet
• TV-5 Baler
• TV-10 Olongapo
• TV-12 Batangas
• TV-44 Jalajala, Rizal
• TV-13 Occidental Mindoro
• TV-12 Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• TV-6 Brooke's Point, Palawan
• TV-8 Coron, Palawan
• TV-7 Romblon
• TV-7 Masbate
• TV-7 Naga
• TV-12 Legazpi
• TV-13 Catanduanes
• TV-2 Sorsogon
• TV-8 Daet

Visayas

• TV-5 Calbayog
• TV-8 Borongan
• TV-10 Tacloban
• TV-12 Ormoc
• TV-2 Kalibo
• TV-5 Roxas
• TV-6 Iloilo
• TV-13 Bacolod
• TV-30 Murcia, Negros Occidental
• TV-7 Cebu
• TV-11 Bohol
• TV-5 Dumaguete
• TV-10 Sipalay

Mindanao

• TV-35 Cagayan de Oro
• TV-12 Bukidnon
• TV-4 Dipolog
• TV-5 Ozamis
• TV-3 Pagadian
• TV-11 Iligan
• TV-26 Butuan
• TV-10 Surigao
• TV-2 Tandag
• TV-5 Davao
• TV-12 Kidapawan
• TV-12 Cotabato
• TV-8 General Santos
• TV-9 Zamboanga
• TV-12 Jolo

This is GMA, the Philippines' largest network, now signing on/off.

GMA News TV

June 4, 2019-December 31, 2019

ANNOUNCEMENT (without V/O): Any comments, suggestions of objections to the contents of the preceding programs maybe referred to the Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission, Vibal Building, EDSA, Quezon City or the NTC Regional Offices and the KBP.

This is GMA News TV DWDB-TV Channel 27, a commercial TV station with 30,000-watt transmitting power authorized under Temporary Permit Number BSD-0226-2019 (REN) issued by the National Telecommunications Commission, valid until May 9, 2022.

GMA News TV studios are located at the GMA Complex, EDSA corner Timog Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Republic of the Philippines.

The GMA News TV transmitter station is located at Barangay Culiat, Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

GMA News TV engineering is headed by

• Elvis B. Ancheta: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 897

GMA News TV Transmission Personnel is composed of Electronics Engineers, Technicians, and First Class Radio Operators with licenses issued by the Professional Regulations Commission and the National Telecommunications Commission.

• Ricardo L. Cabral: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 92
• Vincent G. Ronquillo: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 1199
• Erwin R. Timbre: Electronics Engineer No. 3650
• Harold Kim D. Magarro: Electronics Engineer No. 16782
• Jonathan G. Salvo: Electronics Engineer No. 19705
• Joel M. Agu: Electronics Engineer No. 40727
• Jayrald C. Arellano: Electronics Engineer No. 49545
• Rodrigo P. Cuizon, Jr.: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 875
• Louie O. Siapengco: Electronics Engineer No. 15586
• Ralph T. Palma: Electronics Engineer No. 29315
• Glynn Anthony A. Barroga: Electronics Engineer No. 37435
• Mamerto D. Logronio, Jr.: Electronics Engineer No. 28729
• Celestino A. Vega, Jr.: Electronics Engineer No. 19182
• Rachel Ann S. Roque: Electronics Engineer No. 66327
• Jed Ellison C. Zapanta: Electronics Engineer No. 62739
• Reykel M. Espiritu: Electronics Tech No. 305
• Arvie P. Cariaga: Electronics Tech No. 603
• Rafael A. Racelis: 94-1PNCR-11977
• Innocencio Robert D. Maniago: 95-1PNCR-15029
• Arnel V. Aricheta: 93-1PNCR-6617
• Charlie F. Perez: 06-1PHN-23257
• Gerard Lorenz O. Sandagon: 06-1PV-23313
• Peter N. Basallote: 06-1PNCR-23273
• Ramon C. Tantay: 94-1PNCR-12248
• Nelson C. Suarez: 17-1PNCR-26853
• Rene Q. Royo: 95-1PNCR-15435
• Larry A. Gabuco: 95-1PNCR-13478
• Nathaniel F. Santiago: 11-1PHN-26421
• Donny A. Villadores: 98-1PXII-44394
• Arnel Actub: 13-1PX-58335
• Charles M. De Leon: 97-1PXII-64256
• Alan S. Mangubat: 97-1PXI-20349

All programs telecast on this station have been approved by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, seen via satellite in over 32 stations nationwide!

Luzon

• GNTV-27 Manila
• TV-27 Ilocos Norte
• TV-40 Ilocos Sur
• TV-27 Tuguegarao
• TV-26 Aparri
• TV-28 Tarlac
• TV-22 Benguet
• TV-26 Olongapo
• TV-26 Batangas
• TV-26 Occidental Mindoro
• TV-27 Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• TV-27 Masbate
• TV-28 Naga
• TV-27 Legazpi

Visayas

• TV-27 Kalibo
• TV-27 Roxas
• TV-28 Iloilo
• TV-48 Bacolod
• TV-27 Cebu
• TV-28 Dumaguete
• TV-26 Tacloban

Mindanao

• TV-43 Cagayan De Oro
• TV-26 Dipolog
• TV-22 Ozamiz
• TV-26 Pagadian
• TV-27 Surigao
• TV-27 Davao
• TV-26 General Santos
• TV-21 Zamboanga
• TV-27 Cotabato
• TV-26 Jolo

GMA News TV is now signing on/off.

Note: The station after the national anthem during sign on and again before the national anthem during sign off. This station message background updated as of June 3, 2019.

Note: This is the first station notice of the network on Channel 27. The station notice background was restored to widescreen.

January 1, 2020-present (Voiced by Weng dela Pena)

ANNOUNCEMENT (without V/O): Any comments, suggestions of objections to the contents of the preceding programs maybe referred to the Commissioner of the National Telecommunications Commission, Vibal Building, EDSA, Quezon City or the NTC Regional Offices and the KBP.

This is GMA News TV-DWDB-TV Channel 27, a commercial TV station with 30,000-watt transmitting power authorized under Temporary Permit No. BSD-0226-2019 (REN) issued by the National Telecommunications Commission, valid until May 9, 2022.

GMA News TV studios are located at the GMA Complex EDSA corner Timog Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Republic of the Philippines.

GMA News TV transmitter station is located at Barangay Culiat, Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

GMA News TV engineering is headed by

• Elvis B. Ancheta: Professional Electronics Engr. # 897

GMA News TV Transmission Personnel is composed of Electronics Engineers, Technicians, and First Class Radio Operators with licenses issued by the Professional Regulations Commission and the National Telecommunications Commission.

• Ricardo L. Cabral: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 92
• Vincent G. Ronquillo: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 1199
• Erwin R. Timbre: Electronics Engineer No. 3650
• Harold Kim D. Magarro: Electronics Engineer No. 16782
• Bonnie Rey A. Ulang: Electronics Engineer No. 47499
• Jonathan G. Salvo: Electronics Engineer No. 19705
• Jayrald C. Arellano: Electronics Engineer No. 49545
• Rodrigo P. Cuizon, Jr.: Professional Electronics Engineer No. 875
• Louie O. Siapengco: Electronics Engineer No. 15586
• Ralph T. Palma: Electronics Engineer No. 29315
• Celestino A. Vega, Jr.: Electronics Engineer No. 19182
• Rene Francis A. Lardizabal: Electronics Engineer No. 36106
• Rachel Ann S. Roque: Electronics Engineer No. 66327
• Jed Ellison C. Zapanta: Electronics Engineer No. 62739
• Reykel M. Espiritu: Electronics Tech No. 305
• Arvie P. Cariaga: Electronics Tech No. 603
• Rafael A. Racelis: 94-1PNCR-11977
• Innocencio Robert D. Maniago: 95-1PNCR-15029
• Arnel V. Aricheta: 93-1PNCR-6617
• Richie E. Nava: 98-1PNCR-22317
• Charlie F. Perez: 06-1PHN-23257
• Gerard Lorenz O. Sandagon: 06-1PV-23313
• Peter N. Basallote: 06-1PNCR-23273
• Ramon C. Tantay: 94-1PNCR-12248
• Nelson C. Suarez: 17-1PNCR-26853
• Rene Q. Royo: 95-1PNCR-15435
• Larry A. Gabuco: 95-1PNCR-13478
• Nathaniel F. Santiago: 11-1PHN-26421
• Alan S. Mangubat: 97-1PXI-20349

All programs telecast on this station have been approved by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board, seen via satellite in thirty-one stations nationwide.

Luzon

• GNTV-27 Manila
• TV-27 Ilocos Norte
• TV-40 Ilocos Sur
• TV-27 Tuguegarao
• TV-26 Aparri
• TV-28 Tarlac
• TV-22 Benguet
• TV-26 Olongapo
• TV-26 Batangas
• TV-26 Occidental Mindoro
• TV-27 Puerto Princesa, Palalwan
• TV-27 Masbate
• TV-28 Naga
• TV-27 Legazpi

Visayas:

• TV-27 Kalibo
• TV-27 Roxas
• TV-28 Iloilo
• TV-48 Bacolod
• TV-27 Cebu
• TV-28 Dumaguete
• TV-26 Tacloban

Mindanao

• TV-43 Cagayan De Oro
• TV-26 Dipolog
• TV-22 Ozamiz
• TV-26 Pagadian
• TV-27 Surigao
• TV-27 Davao
• TV-26 General Santos
• TV-21 Zamboanga
• TV-27 Cotabato
• TV-26 Jolo

GMA News TV is now signing on/off.

Note: The station after the national anthem during sign on and again before the national anthem during sign off. This station message background updated as of January 30, 2019.

Note: This was the station notice, where the former ABS-CBN Electronics Engineer Rene Francis A. Lardizabal, former DZMM 630 Transmitter Technician Richie Nava and the former Light TV Electronics Engineer Bonnie Rey A. Ulang a was first mentioned.

National athletes, sports fans are sad to see Harrison Plaza go

DECEMBER 31, 2019 marked the final day of operations of Harrison Plaza, one of the first major shopping malls in Manila.

Located in the Malate district, the mall opened in 1976 and stood as the first one-stop shop in the country. It was closed down for business on New Year's Day, to be demolished to give way to a new development.

During its heyday, the upscale mall that stood along F.B. Harrison Street, M. Adriatico, and Pablo Ocampo Street, featured cinemas, amusement parks, a department store, and restaurants that made it one of the premier destinations of the Filipinos from the seventies up until the early nineties.

The site was very conveniently located and accessible via major roads like Taft Avenue and Roxas Boulevard. It is also near popular destinations like the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila Zoo and Century Park Sheraton Hotel.

Unfortunately, the rise of more modern shopping malls saw the deterioration of the place.

The Martel family, the owners of the property, has sold it to the SM Group, according to reports. Tenants were reportedly given until January 31, 2020 to vacate before the seven-hectare property is turned over to the new owners.

Naturally, Filipinos can’t help but feel nostalgic in the final days of Harrison Plaza, recalling cherished memories that happened within the walls of the mall. Diehard sports fans are no exception.

A Jai alai fronton was once built in the Harrison Plaza complex until it was demolished to make way for an SM Hypermarket. The mall also used to have a bowling alley, a table tennis center, and even a basketball court.

Due to its proximity to the historic Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, the site used to be a favorite among diehard sports fans who go there before or after sports events to dine or simply kill time.

Sportswriters who cover the Philippine Sports Commission beat like myself also frequent the Harrison Plaza mall to shop or eat. One of our favorite places was the Booksale at the second floor where cheap, hard-to-find sports books are sold. I also dated my now-wife for the very first time at a popular fastfood chain there.

PSC employees also frequent the place for its wide array of food choices. The government sports agency also hosted sports events at the mall, while the training facility of the billiards and snooker team was relocated here in 2019.

National athletes and coaches also love to go there since most of them live in the nearby dormitories of the Rizal sports complex. You’ll usually see athletes frequently visiting tiangge stalls and hanging out at Harrison Plaza buying their basic needs – from food, groceries, cellphone load, cellphone repair, and even DVDs.

Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena said it best when he paid tribute to the mall on his Facebook account.

“Harrison Plaza, you will leave in my heart. As a child, I looked forward to tag along with my Papa every training session because it means bonding with my family afterwards,” said Obiena, referring to his father and former national athlete Emerson.

“A happy meal or kiddie meal with my choice of toy as reward, the excitement of playing at Tom’s World with my sister. Thank you Harrison Plaza for the 12 years of childhood memories,” Obiena added.

The Philippine sports community will surely miss this place.

https://www.spin.ph/life/guide/this-diehard-sports-fans-will-be-sad-to-see-harrison-plaza-go-a795-20200101

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 Liaño, 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.

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.

Figure skater Michael Martinez gears up for comeback

The 23-year-old athlete feels refreshed after taking a much-needed break

Basic olive green shirt, black skinny tattered jeans, Forever 21

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.

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.

https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/354447/figure-skater-michael-martinez-gears-up-for-comeback/

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

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

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 Parañaque, 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

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.

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.