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The Daily Guardian: NFL Power Rankings, Week 8 – Chiefs regain No. 1 spot; Ravens skyrocket into top five
Title: Patriots’ Hoyer Struggles in Recent Game, Raises Questions About Coaching Decision (Word count: 372) In a recent NFL matchup against the Chicago Bears, the.....»»
Brownlee formula
The issue surrounding Justin Brownlee is a major blackeye to Philippine basketball. It is yet another heartbreaker for Filipinos, who were hoping and praying to see the national team reassert its dominance in the international arena. For the longest time, the Filipinos had struggled internationally. In the Asian Games, for instance, the Philippines emerged victorious in its first four editions — 1951 in New Delhi, 1954 in Manila, 1958 in Tokyo, and 1962 in Jakarta before suffering a string of frustrating finishes. The closest we got to the gold medal was in 1990 when the Basketball Association of the Philippines tasked the Philippine Basketball Association with assembling a team that would reclaim our Asian glory. It was a tall order at the time as the Philippines was coming off a bitter setback at the hands of Malaysia in the 1989 Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur. The BAP knew that only an Asian crown would soothe the pain of a nation craving revenge. But it didn’t happen. Coached by Robert “Sonny” Jaworski, the team bannered by Allan Caidic, Benjie Paras, Ramon Fernandez, Samboy Lim, and Chito Loyzaga surrendered to powerhouse China featuring Shan Tao and Ma Jian in the gold medal match. Eight years later, Tim Cone was given the marching orders to assemble another star-studded squad to represent the country in the Bangkok Asian Games in 1998. But like Jaworski, his bitter coaching nemesis at the time, Cone was also unsuccessful as his Centennial Team had to settle for bronze behind China and South Korea. In the next edition in Busan in 2002, hopes were high. Despite a sudden coaching change after American mentor Ron Jacobs suffered a stroke in the final stretch of preparations, Jong Uichico was still able to form a solid team that had a mix of Filipino-foreign stars like Asi Taulava, Eric Menk, and Rudy Hatfield, as well as homegrown stars like Olsen Racela, Kenneth Duremdes, and Danny Ildefonso. But fate wrote a cruel script. The Philippines was ahead, 68-66, in the final 23.9 seconds of the semifinal clash against South Korea. A victory would have sent the Filipinos to the gold medal match against China, while a setback would relegate them to a battle for bronze against Kazakhstan. Racela was at the charity stripe for a chance to ice the game and seal the victory. But he missed both free shots. In a shocking — and heartbreaking — turn of events, Korean gunner Lee Sang Min buried a long three-pointer off a broken play at the buzzer that sent the host country to the finals. The players were crushed while a river of tears flowed through the streets of Manila as the entire country couldn’t believe how merciless the basketball gods could be. Since then, Philippine basketball has been reduced to a mere footnote in Asian basketball. We bombed out of the medal podium in Doha in 2006 and Guangzhou in 2010. We even suffered international embarrassment when head coach Chot Reyes instructed naturalized player Marcus Douthit to shoot at our own basket in Incheon in 2014. In 2018, a legitimate National Basketball Association campaigner, Jordan Clarkson, came along and was billed as the hero who would save Philippine basketball. But he was unsuccessful. The Filipinos’ string of misfortunes continued as Gilas Pilipinas settled for fifth place. Then here came Brownlee, tapped to see action as a naturalized player in the Hangzhou Asian Games. The 35-year-old American was tasked to power a team already familiar to him — guys he had been playing with for more than five years. The coach — Cone — had been his mentor since he arrived in Manila in 2016 and led Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to six PBA titles while winning three Best Import honors. There was no honeymoon period to speak of. He hit the ground running. The result was impressive as Brownlee dropped 36 points to lead Gilas Pilipinas to a razor-thin 84-83 win over Iran in the quarterfinals, before dropping back-to-back three-point bombs in their miraculous 77-76 victory over host China in the semifinals. The Filipinos won their first gold medal in 61 years following a 70-60 victory over Jordan in the final, but an asterisk was attached to the victory after Brownlee tested positive for Carboxy-THC, a banned substance linked to the use of cannabis. At this point, it is unknown whether Brownlee will contest the findings or how long his possible suspension will be. What is clear is that Brownlee made a tremendous impact on Philippine basketball as he proved that the best way to win an international title is to field a naturalized player who is very familiar with the Filipinos’ style of play. Brownlee may not be as exciting and flashy as Clarkson or as tall as Douthit and Blatche, but he knows Philippine basketball like the back of his hand. It’s time for the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to create more Justin Brownlees by recruiting young foreign players who are willing to stay in the country for a longer period — not just to earn and play as imports in the PBA — but to win the hearts and minds of these basketball-crazy Filipinos. Brownlee’s professional career is in great peril, and we may not see him don the Gilas or Ginebra jerseys again. But we should always remember his most significant contribution to Philippine basketball. Nope, it wasn’t the incredible play he delivered against China or how he stood his ground against Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and the powerful Jordanians that led to the country’s first Asian Games title in 61 years. His most important contribution was the idea that to gain international success, the federation must recruit a naturalized player not based on skills, height, or popularity but on his love, respect, and dedication to the country he wishes to represent. The post Brownlee formula appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Times Education picks Pacquiao as ambassador
STRENGTHENING their presence in Southeast Asia and appealing directly to prospective students in the Philippines, Education and Training provider Times Education Group Australia announced its partnership with Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao as their brand ambassador and investor, to collaborate on several education-related projects in both the Philippines and Australia. The plan is to expand Times Education – an Australia-based education and training provider – worldwide in 2024, with the goal of making it a premier institution for education. In addition to a variety of courses, including English, Hospitality, Accounting, Information Technology, Cookery, Travel and Tourism, Real Estate, Digital Marketing, Human Resource Management, Social Media Marketing, Business and Management, Leadership and Management, Marketing and Communication, Aged Care and Community Services, Early Childhood Education and Care, and Higher Education Diploma and Graduate Diploma, Times Education will grow their curriculum to include Sport Coaching and Exercise Management with the creation a new Sports Institute. Additional expansion into residential aged care and employment recruitment services is slated. In a statement welcoming the eight-division world champion to the team, Times Education founder and CEO Charles Shiao explained, through their partnership with Manny Pacquiao and planned collaborations with Philippines colleges, lifelong scholarships will be provided to aspiring students. "Manny is a proven winner in life, and we couldn't be more enthusiastic to have him onboard as an investor and brand ambassador. His ring exploits continue to inspire the youth to keep persevering in life, and his passion for education, as proven by his efforts to pursue his studies, is perfectly in line with our ideals," Shiao said. Pacquiao — himself a holder of a master's degree in management Major in Public Education — emphasized the importance of education, even as he encouraged prospective investors to join him in helping Times Education in its expansion efforts. “Education is not merely a process of acquiring knowledge; it is a catalyst for personal growth, social progress, and economic development. It empowers individuals, enhances critical thinking, and equips us to face the challenges of an ever-evolving world,” the former eight-division world champion said. “My journey from humble beginnings to global stardom is a testament to the transformative power of education. Despite facing numerous challenges, my unwavering determination and commitment to self-improvement led me to become not only a sporting icon but also a respected leader and advocate for education. My story inspires countless individuals around the world, proving that education is the great equalizer that transcends social and economic barriers,” he added. One of Australia’s largest institutions offering vocational education and training, and higher learning among others, Times Education has delivered training to over 35,000 students across seven colleges and 12 campuses in key Australian cities. The company has set its sights on a global expansion, and Pacquiao is keen on helping them achieve the goal. “The partnership between Times Education Group Australia and Manny Pacquiao symbolizes the transformative power of education,” Pacquiao said. The post Times Education picks Pacquiao as ambassador appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
International Basketball University Phl launched
The International Basketball University is now in the Philippines. Headquartered in Kaunas, Lithuania, the IBU is one of the leading basketball learning institutions in the world. Most of its instructors have vast experience in playing, coaching or teaching international basketball, including many of the most recognizable names in Olympic and FIBA basketball......»»
Golden Tigresses turn back Lady Knights on Almadro s Letran coaching debut
University of Santo Tomas spoiled the debut of new Letran coach Oliver Almadro with a 25-21, 25-23, 25-14 win to stay unbeaten in the 2023 Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Collegiate Pre-Season Championship.....»»
Go Negosyo’s mentoring serves Parañaque MSMEs
No less than Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion and Parañaque City Mayor Eric Olivarez graced Go Negosyo’s 3M on Wheels, providing free entrepreneurship mentoring for micro, small and medium enterprises at SM City BF Parañaque yesterday. The event attracted hundreds of entrepreneurs from this city south of the National Capital Region. 3M On Wheels promotes the three M’s for successful entrepreneurship, namely Mentorship, Money, and Market. All three form the foundation of Go Negosyo’s mission to promote entrepreneurship among Filipinos. 3M on Wheels’ predecessor, Mentor ME On Wheels, was started in 2018 and was inspired by the growing number of Filipinos turning to entrepreneurship. The initiative filled the learning gap in the entrepreneurial journey and turned mentorship into a solution that addressed the capacity-building needs of Filipino entrepreneurs. During Saturday’s event, Mayor Olivarez and Go Negosyo founder Concepcion gave a special message to the city’s entrepreneurs. Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Parañaque president Dr. Yolanda Arandia, also gave full support to the event, along with Go Negosyo’s icon mentors, including PCCI Valenzuela’s Yolly dela Cruz, PCCI Caloocan’s Maricor Malitao, and PCCI-NCR’s Tess Ngan Tian. A special part of the program was a short talk by brand influencer and entrepreneur Cleo Loque, who shared with the audience how they can use digital technology and become their own brand influencer. Veteran mentors from Go Negosyo as well as top executives from the country’s biggest companies volunteered their time to give free mentoring to the active and aspiring entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, lucky attendees went home with pandagdag-puhunan prizes and free Go Negosyo t-shirts. 3M on Wheels is a program of the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (Go Negosyo). In addition to free one-on-one coaching for active and aspiring entrepreneurs, financing and market solutions are also made available to them via curated kiosks at the event. The post Go Negosyo’s mentoring serves Parañaque MSMEs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SB19: ‘Yan ang Coach Stell namin!’
Following multiple awards, sold-out concerts and the recently concluded PAGTATAG world tour, Stell Ajero of SB19 continues to be “booked and busy.” Ajero, the main vocalist and lead dancer of the global P-pop group SB19, said his co-members are all-out in supporting his solo gig as The Voice Generations coach despite their group activities. In an interview with Boy Abunda during “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” on 12 September, Abunda asked the singer-songwriter about SB19’s reaction when he was offered to be one of the coaches of The Voice Generations. “Sabi nila sa’kin, ‘Stell, kapag hindi mo pa tinanggap ang project na ‘yan, hindi namin alam kung anong gagawin sa’yo (They said, “Stell, if you won’t accept this project, we don’t know what to do with you),” Ajero said. Before the GMA offer, he explained, he had been very selective in accepting solo projects because he wanted to prioritize group projects with SB19. However, the 28-year-old vocalist told Abunda that all he needed was the push and encouragement from SB19 and his loved ones. “With the help of my group, my team, my family, sila ‘yung nagpakita at nagparamdam sa akin na [I] really deserved that spot. ‘Kunin mo na. Binigay nila ‘yan sa’yo kasi alam nilang kaya mo at dapat mong tanggapin nang buong puso (With the help of my group, my team, my family, they made me feel I really deserved that spot. The project was offered to me since they knew I could do it, so I should accept it wholeheartedly).” In a separate video, the four other members of SB19 — Justin, Pablo, Ken and Josh — were profuse in their praise for Ajero, attesting to his passion for excellence and fun but committed attitude toward work, which they said would be of immense benefit to the artists he’d be handling on The Voice Generations. “Yan ang Coach Stell namin! (That’s our Coach Stell!),” said SB19’s leader Pablo. Despite coaching for The Voice Generations and the possibility of being offered more solo activities, Ajero vowed that SB19 will always be his main priority. Asked about his mentorship style, Ajero said he wants to keep it simple and chill while also remembering his roots when he was starting out. “I give them time to adjust at isapuso muna nila kung ano ‘yung sinabi ko… Ayoko po kasi nila maramdaman ‘yung pressure from me as their coach (I give my artists time to adjust and take what I said to heart. I don’t want them to feel pressured as their coach),” he said, explaining that he doesn’t want to stress his talents to be perfect from the get-go. Viewers may tune in every Sunday to watch Ajero’s entertaining and substantive coaching in The Voice Generations, along with award-winning singer and dancer Billy Crawford, Parokya ni Edgar frontman Chito Miranda and Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose as his fellow coaches. The post SB19: ‘Yan ang Coach Stell namin!’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Our team
The 19th Asian Games have yet to start, but Gilas Pilipinas is already winning the hearts and minds of Filipinos. Gilas coach Tim Cone swept local fans off their feet when he allowed them to watch their joint training session with the Gilas Women team last Thursday at the PhilSports Arena. After their workout, San Miguel Corporation director Alfrancis Chua gave the fans five minutes to have their pictures taken with their basketball idols. But when Cone approached Chua, he suddenly changed his mind and increased the allotted time to 15 minutes. Seeing Gilas — a collection of the country’s most popular and wealthiest athletes — go out of their way to mingle with fans is truly heartwarming. And it won’t be the last time they will see their basketball heroes as Cone has invited them anew to watch their friendly match against Changwon LG Sakers on Friday. But just a few weeks ago, this beautiful bond between Gilas and their fans was unthinkable. Gilas struggled to gain public support during the country’s hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup. At the same time, their head coach, Chot Reyes, was being bashed and heckled mercilessly due to their forgettable performance. Fans questioned Reyes’s integrity as a coach, especially when he benched Kai Sotto in their first game against the Dominican Republic. He was also criticized for relying too much on National Basketball Association star Jordan Clarkson, raising speculations that he was unprepared for the world’s biggest and most prestigious basketball event. The fans inside the Smart Araneta Coliseum made their presence felt. They booed Reyes during the player introductions against Italy, prompting some of his players, like Kiefer Ravena, Rhenz Abando and Clarkson, to rush to his defense. Even Reyes’s outfit didn’t escape the eyes of the public. Social media exploded with insults, adverse reactions, and comments after Reyes flaunted an ultra-expensive Thom Browne suit during their game against Angola. The money he spent, reportedly around P200,000, wasn’t worth it as Gilas suffered a 70-80 loss to the Angolans, dealing a major blow to their chances of advancing to the knockout stages. But his manner of coaching and posh outfit were not the only reasons Reyes struggled to deodorize his public image. When Gilas was preparing for the World Cup, Reyes shut the doors of their practice facility to fans and sportswriters. Instead of making the team available, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas assigned a media liaison who disseminated information and narrated what was happening through short videos and photos regularly posted on social media. That was the practice when Gilas trained at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, as well as when they were in Estonia and Lithuania. Gilas also played friendly matches against Ivory Coast, Mexico, and Montenegro at the PhilSports Arena with no one but a very few team staffers and federation officials in attendance. With the friendly matches being inaccessible, sportswriters had to resort to checking the social media pages of Gilas’s opponents and the SBP to get information and avoid the wrath of their editors. They jokingly called it “socmed journalism.” That’s why the appointment of Cone as Gilas’ head coach is a breath of fresh air. The 65-year-old Cone may be an American, but he knows the importance of gaining public approval. In fact, he started his career as a villain in the eyes of the masses after engaging with the charismatic Robert Jaworski in numerous coaching battles. But he let his coaching do the talking as he led Alaska to a grand slam in 1996 before winning another triple crown with San Mig Coffee in 2014. At Barangay Ginebra San Miguel, the most popular professional team in the country, Cone further cemented his reputation as a well-loved, well-respected coach when he turned the likes of LA Tenorio, Japeth Aguilar, Scottie Thompson and Justin Brownlee into fan favorites. Now, Cone is at the helm of Gilas Pilipinas, armed with a mission of not only winning an Asian Games medal but also bringing the national players closer to the public. It’s a tough order. But Cone is carrying it out to perfection. The post Our team appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Quo Vadis Gilas?
Over the past week, basketball crazy FIBA co-host Philippines has been the mecca for world basketball. Hordes of foreign basketball fans eager to support their teams have trooped to our country, and along with thousands of local fans, including yours truly, have endured the hardships of hours long traffic, bewildering weather of humidity, heat and massive rainfall melding intermittently all within the day enroute to the venues, just to witness live the World Cup’s top hoopsters. Despite what I felt were atrociously expensive tickets for the lower box sections, being an incorrigible basketball fanatic, I just felt that I could not pass up the chance to be part of the once in a lifetime World Cup experience, particularly since I would be in the company of family friends, businessman basketball-sportscaster Dominic Uy who shared his insightful off-court commentaries and who was responsible for getting us some great seats, my erstwhile golfing partner Cookie la’O who had partnered with me decades back to bag the prestigious Mango Tee Tournament championship in Alabang, and my son-in-law, noted New Balance shoe designer Gabe la’O, who flew all the way from New Hampshire to watch some top-notch games. Never mind that they are all as La Salle Green as can be but their youthful energies in cheering their hearts out for every basket, block, steal and mad breakaway was infectious. I watched the US-Greece and Gilas-Italy games live and the experience did not disappoint. The highlights of those games in consonance with the tremendous roars of the fans will be replayed in my memory bank over and over again for a long time to come. But, of course, like all true-blue basketball aficionados, recounting and analyzing the wows of a won game and the what-ifs of a heartbreaker and the future of Gilas is par for the course. So here goes. Despite the four heartbreaking defeats to the Dominican Republic, Angola, Italy and South Sudan, the last game of Gilas winning against the undisputed Asian champion, China, has given us a slight glimmer of hope, again, to have a chance to make it to Paris next year. Although the win was masterfully achieved as a team effort, undoubtedly it was Jordan Clarkson who practically carried Gilas on his shoulders with his hot 3-point shooting in the third quarter. Even China’s coach Sasha Dordevic and NBA star Li Kaier of the Minneapolis Timberwolves pointed to Clarkson as the main reason for their never-before lopsided loss to Gilas. Because of this win, Gilas is ranked 24th out of the 32 participating countries, enough to allow us to participate in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament and so the buzz over Gilas’ chances continues. What changes are needed? As far as the team composition is concerned, unless there are injuries, I believe the current line-up is as good as it can get. All are unquestionably standouts. On the other hand, as far as the coaching leadership is concerned, Chot Reyes already declared immediately after the win over China that he is stepping down because the incessant social media abuse from his critics has been “brutal” for him and his family. Kudos to Chot for his service to the country and for making this move rightly expected of any leader who has not delivered on the goals. The options, however, are limited. And worse, there is an extremely short timeline to make the choice because the Asian Games starts on 23 September. Tab Baldwin of course is the popular clamor, but the UAAP season begins as well this September and I don’t think he will leave the Blue Eagles coachless. Also it seems that there could be some pushback from certain SBA and PBA quarters who might not be too keen on Tab’s up front in your face style. Tim Cone is my own bet because not only is he an equally great coach but also for continuity since he is already in the Gilas coaching staff. Regardless of the choice, however, the problem of conflicting schedules of the players with their home teams will continue to be an obstacle to building a Gilas team that needs to be properly honed with significant playing time together. PBA and SBP will have to somehow firmly reach an understanding, otherwise Gilas fans will have to face up to the reality of more heartbreaks. Quo Vadis Gilas? Until next week… OBF! For comments, email bing_matoto@yahoo.com The post Quo Vadis Gilas? appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cone as Gilas coach: Count me out
Tim Cone’s mind is on Barangay Ginebra, not Gilas Pilipinas’ coaching job......»»
Phl, Vietnam tie-up spurs tech growth
Financial technology firm E-commerce Thrive Asia-Philippines seeks a self-regulatory body that will ensure ethical business practices and lead in countering digital scams plaguing the industry — a move that will also prompt economic growth. In a statement over the weekend, it announced its collaboration with CTO Network Vietnam, the largest financial technology and E-commerce organization in Vietnam, to implement its targets. The agreement includes stringent checks and monitoring of each member’s online business practices. “The collective effort seeks to create a robust foundation for secure and ethical digital commerce while stimulating economic growth through technological advancements and cooperative initiatives,” according to the company. Ecom Thrive Asia-Philippines is a movement to empower the micro, small, and medium enterprises and the country’s economy through digital commerce and continue education of its members and stakeholders on current technology and best practices. There are around 30 million e-commerce users nationwide but only less than one percent are formally registered, while the rest are on underground operations. According to ECom Thrive Founders Nani Razon, Raffy Canare and Charlie Gengos, all players need to take part in nation-building by registering their business with the government. While this may be a challenge, at least adding companies will increase the number of companies who are willing to support the government. 8,000 members vs digital scam Meanwhile, CTO Network Vietnam boasts an impressive membership base, with over 8,000 individual and corporate members. Recognizing the need for industry-wide vigilance against digital scams, the two organizations have united to safeguard the interests of industry stakeholders. In a recent six-day visit to Hanoi, the Philippine delegation conducted a series of coaching and mentoring sessions with Vietnam’s ECommerce tycoon, Hai Dang Nguyen of SEA International and BB Capital Vietnam and Branding Guru and Philanthropist, Hung Vu of CES Talk. President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had mentioned during his recent State of the Nation Address that a stronger E-Commerce industry will help propel economic growth. He said a roadmap firmly in place ensures that the government will deliver a robust economy driven by active digitalization of both the commercial sector, the government and consumers. The post Phl, Vietnam tie-up spurs tech growth appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A lot of catching up to do
A disturbing trend at the close of the qualifying round of the ongoing FIBA World Cup in the host cities of Manila, Okinawa, and Jakarta saw Asian teams left to the mercy of traditional world powerhouses in basketball, having been relegated to the classification round of the 32-nation quadrennial event. The FIBA World Cup, a premier international basketball tournament, showcases the prowess of nations in the sport. In recent editions, however, a consistent trend has emerged where Asian teams, including the Philippines, found themselves relegated to the so-called consolation round, with none advancing to the second phase of the Round of 16. This phenomenon has ignited discussions about whether Asia, the world’s most populated region, is lagging behind its global counterparts in basketball. The best that the Philippines, Japan, Iran, Jordan, China and Lebanon could aspire to now is to top this round and earn a ticket to the 2024 Paris Olympics as the best-placed team from the region. While basketball has grown exponentially in Asia over the years, this historical disadvantage is not easily overcome. Skills development takes time, and it requires sustained efforts in coaching, talent identification, and grassroots programs. Nations with strong basketball traditions often boast of well-established leagues, state-of-the-art training facilities, and investment in coaching expertise. These conditions foster the growth of talent from a young age and create a competitive environment that nurtures skills development. Conversely, many Asian countries, while passionate about basketball, face challenges in terms of inadequate facilities, limited financial support, and lack of structured development pathways. This results in a smaller talent pool and limited opportunities for players to hone their skills against high-quality opposition. Without the necessary infrastructure and resources, it becomes challenging for Asian teams to compete at the same level as their global counterparts. The level of competition a team regularly faces has a profound impact on its development. Strong competition exposes players to different playing styles, strategies, and skill sets, ultimately contributing to their growth. Many Asian countries struggle to consistently engage in high-intensity international matches due to the regional distribution of basketball prowess. In contrast, European and American teams often benefit from participating in competitive leagues and tournaments, where they face off against other basketball powerhouses. This exposure enhances their ability to adapt to different game scenarios and raises the overall skill level of their players. For Asian teams, limited exposure to high-level competition hinders their ability to refine their gameplay and compete effectively on the global stage. Gilas Pilipinas, for one, was hounded by player availability issues, not to mention injuries in its build-up to the World Cup. A young team composed of the best talents outside of the Philippine Basketball Association was once formed and earned accolades even from the harshest of critics as the young guns turned the tables twice on a South Korean squad in the qualifiers. The youthful squad would have by now made an impact in the World Cup, but sadly, poaching by other Asian leagues of its members has decimated Gilas Pilipinas, leaving the coaching staff no choice but to turn to Philippine Basketball Association players to shore up its bid. While it is evident that Asian teams, including the Philippines, have struggled to advance beyond the qualification round in the FIBA World Cup, attributing this solely to a deficiency in skill, however, would be unfair and simplistic. Historical context, infrastructure, competition levels, and cultural factors all contribute to the performance disparity. Add to this size, which Asians do not have in a sport that requires a lot of it. Rather than viewing Asia as lagging behind its global counterparts, it is more constructive probably to recognize the progress that has been made and the challenges that persist. Asian countries are working tirelessly to bridge the gap, investing in grassroots programs, coaching education, and infrastructure development. As these efforts bear fruit over time, we may witness a more competitive landscape in international basketball, where Asian teams can compete on a more level playing court. The post A lot of catching up to do appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chip will never forget Manila
Chip Engelland is back in town on Team USA’s coaching staff for the FIBA World Cup and enjoying every moment of his return to the Philippines which will always have a special place in his heart. He lived about three years here in the 1980s, played three conferences in the PBA and had a sentimental “homecoming” in 2007......»»
Sto. Tomas takes Petro Gazz coaching reins
The Petro Gazz Angels have named Ateneo men’s volleyball coach Timmy Sto. Tomas as their new head coach......»»
Golden sports opportunities
Dominican Republic led by Karl Anthony Towns won over Gilas of the Philippines by a score of 87-81. I felt sad for our country. It should have been an easy win for us, for an outright berth to the Paris Olympics in 2024. If coached skillfully, our 2023 Gilas Five, the best basketball team the Philippines has ever assembled in over half a century, could have “slaughtered” the opposition. The team suffered from lapses in coaching, faulty substitutions and, worst of all, failure to execute to our best advantage the alley-oop arc passes to Kai Sotto. Many times in the past, I witnessed Sotto perform this move with amazing success. All the Gilas players led by Jordan Clarkson have the skill to make the arc pass for an alley-oop shot to the basket. But how can we have the alley-oop when Sotto was benched in the crucial quarter of the game? The fourth quarter belonged to us. What was surprising was why, with five minutes remaining, Sotto, our 7-foot-2 superstar, was not sent in to help control the board, to stop Karl Anthony Towns from scoring from long range, and to save our most precious player, Jordan Clarkson, from fouling out. With Kai Sotto out of the court, what I feared would happen did happen. The Dominicans controlled the board, 17 for them, only 3 for us. Towns went to town scoring, and Jordan Clarkson, in a desperate bid to stop him, fouled out. We lost the game and the outright berth to the Olympics in Paris in 2024. The Philippines–Dominican Republic game, the most watched last Friday, 25 August, established a new world record of 38,115 fans in attendance, surpassing the 32,616 that witnessed the US-Russia final at the 1994 World Cup in Toronto, Canada. Our defeat at the hands of Karl Anthony Towns and his team dashed any hopes of repeating or surpassing what happened seventy years ago. The world was sweeter then. That was once upon a time when bronze glittered like gold, when the Philippines in a stunning performance at the 1954 World Basketball Championship — now known as the FIBA World Cup — in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil beat France for third place to achieve the highest finish ever by an Asian team on the world stage. The 6-foot-3 center, Carlos Loyzaga, led the golden age of Philippine basketball back in the 1950s. His best record was that bronze finish in 1954 — to date the country’s, or any Asian country’s for that matter, best in global basketball. Loyzaga fired 19 points to steer the Herminio Silva-mentored Philippine squad to victory over France, 66-60. Still, let us celebrate the victory of the Dominican Republic. Playing basketball in a global setting is a celebration of humanity, regardless of faith, race, culture, belief, gender and ability. Basketball brings us together — to meet across borders and boundaries, to learn to compete as friends, to respect and trust one another even in opposition. After the game, Karl Anthony Towns was warmly congratulated by the Filipino fans, young and old alike, who shook his hand, saying, “Mabuhay ka Karl Anthony” (Long live Karl Anthony). The big tall man responded, “Salamat po. Mabuhay kayo lahat.” (Thank you, long live to all). The Dominican Republic may have captured the game, but the Filipinos captured the heart of its captain. Sport is always the winner! The post Golden sports opportunities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM and TESDA to elevate education and employment collaborations
SM Supermalls affirmed its commitment to providing learning and upskilling opportunities to Filipinos during the 29th founding anniversary celebration of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority held at the SM Megamall Event Center last 22 August. TESDA has planned a series of events that emphasize the value of Technical Vocational Education and Training in boosting the socio-economic standing of Filipinos, including an orientation on labor education for graduating students and employment coaching; skills demonstrations on cooking, basic life support, and first aid for vehicular accidents, and smart farming; and a symposium on Gender and Development. The celebration is also in accordance with Republic Act No. 7796 which declares every 25th of August as "National Technical-Vocational (Tech-Voc) Day," which highlights job linking, TVET enrollment, and product displays and trade fairs from different regions across the country. [caption id="attachment_175743" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Kalinga coffee, taro chips, dragon fruit wine, and other products from the Cordillera Administrative Region are sold at the TESDA trade fair.[/caption] “TESDA remains at the forefront of modern and innovative technical vocational education and training. Let us serve with a heart, and continue to provide quality programs and projects that will uplift the lives of our kababayans. As symbolized in our new slogan, tunay ngang ‘Sa TESDA, Lingap ay Maaasahan’,” shared TESDA Secretary Suharto Mangudadatu in his anniversary message. [caption id="attachment_175744" align="aligncenter" width="525"] TESDA Secretary Suharto Mangudadatu[/caption] SM and TESDA’s holistic approach to education and employment has transformed lives and strengthened local communities in the Philippines. Among its collaborative work includes the expansion of the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan Program which helped empower farmers, and the SM Asensong Pinoy Program which opened livelihood opportunities by giving enterprise-based National Certificate II certification training. “At SM, we recognize the profound impact of TESDA on our country. Your unwavering dedication has equipped individuals with the tools they need to excel in various fields, and this has helped bring forth a positive influence to different communities across the country,” said SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan in his message of support. [caption id="attachment_175745" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_175746" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda[/caption] [caption id="attachment_175747" align="aligncenter" width="525"] (L-R): Sultan Kudarat 1st District Congresswoman Princess Rihan Sakaluran, Pasig City Councilor Angelu De Leon, Mandaluyong City Councilor Charisse Abalos-Vargas, and Maguindanao Governor Mariam Mangudadatu[/caption] The post SM and TESDA to elevate education and employment collaborations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Enhance productivity and creativity with a new mobile experience
Samsung’s Join the Flip Side event dazzled attendees at Conrad Manila as it unveiled the latest Galaxy devices with a spectacular launch party, bringing to life the brand’s promise of self-expression, creativity, productivity, and overall wellness. The mobile company shared a rundown of the newest Galaxy groundbreaking innovations — the Galaxy Z Flip5, Z Fold5, Watch6, and Tab S9—marking a new era of unparalleled premium experiences. Samsung invites consumers on a journey to discover an all-new Galaxy as Samsung showcases its latest innovations designed to open possibilities and transform lives. At the launch, the newest #TeamGalaxy members, Catriona Gray and AC Bonifacio, were introduced and shared what one could expect over the flip side. With an energetic performance, AC Bonifacio kept the crowd excited throughout the night. Singer-songwriter Leila Alcasid, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, entrepreneur Nico Bolzico, and travel and lifestyle content creator Camille Co then took guests on a tour of different Galaxy zones, which are experiential installations that brought to life exactly how the new Galaxy devices complement modern lifestyles. Express yourself As part of the evening’s interactive experiences, guests could discover their best side at the Self Expression Studio, where they took photos at the Mirror Selfie Station, and the Flex Every Angle Photo Booth, where they got to experience the versatility of the Flex Cam. Guests also took fun group selfies at the Groufie Station with the various hands-free selfie options. The Flex Showcase, meanwhile highlighted the Galaxy Z Flip5’s Flex Window widgets, which allows you to get productive on the go with just a few clicks and swipes. As the ultimate pocketable self-expression tool, you can let your individuality shine with the giant cover screen at 3.4 inches. Work and play At the Productivity Cafe, guests enjoyed curated drinks at the Coffee Station while checking out the features and functions of the new Galaxy Z Fold5. At the Gaming Lounge, guests tried their favorite games with the Galaxy Z Fold5’s immersive 7.6” main display. At the same time, at the Multi-Tasking Station, the Galaxy Fold5 was showcased as a powerful productivity tool through its sleeker S Pen, advanced Taskbar, and Split Screen features. The Entertainment Pod displayed a diorama of a cinema with the Galaxy Fold5 as its movie screen. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, users can watch videos on one screen and type texts and comments using flex mode on the other half. No need to worry about bulkiness as the Galaxy Fold5 is the thinnest Fold yet, thanks to the Zero Gap Hinge. Sleep better and live healthier At the Wellness Den, the new features of the Galaxy Watch6 series were on full display. The Sleep Up station highlighted the innovative capabilities of the Galaxy Watch6’s Sleep Monitoring functions, such as the Sleep Scores, Sleep Stages analyses, and intuitive information with Sleep Coaching. Guests also got active with stationary bikes while wearing the Watch6 to experience its various functions. With the innovative 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor, users can enjoy an efficient way to monitor exercise efforts and check their health as the Galaxy Watch6 series monitors blood pressure and electrocardiographic. The wide selection of versatile watch faces, as well as new one-click band options, were highlighted as well at the Straps Station. These devices pack holistic health offerings and powerful performance in a refined and sleek design — a 30 percent slimmer bezel, a 20 percent larger and more vibrant display, and a more interactive user interface. Samsung Philippines has partnered with Emma The Sleep Company to champion overall wellness further. This award-winning German brand advocates for better sleep experiences and the 24/7 health consultation app KonsultaMD to enable better health and everyday wellness through technology. There will also be exclusive promotions and discounts for Samsung Members, Emma Sleep customers, and Watch6 Customers. Meanwhile, Samsung and KonsultaMD will host health talks, wellness activities and offer promotions and discounts to Samsung Members, KonsultaMD subscribers, and Watch6 Customers. Activities will be announced throughout the rest of the year. The post Enhance productivity and creativity with a new mobile experience appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go leads Senate in congratulating Filipino champions of 2023 World Cup of Pool
On 16 August, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go sponsored a Senate resolution congratulating and commending James Aranas and Johann Chua for winning the 2023 World Cup of Pool. The 2023 World Cup of Pool, a prestigious pool doubles tournament participated in by 32 teams representing different countries, was held in Spain from 27 June to 2 July 2023. In a thrilling showdown, the Filipino duo bested Germany’s Joshua Filler and Moritz Neuhausen, 11-7, in the finals at the Pazo de Feiras E Congresos in Lugo, Spain. The victory not only showcased the outstanding talents of the athletes but also ended the country's decade-long title drought, marking the fourth World Cup of Pool championship for the Philippines since 2013. “This triumph holds a special significance,” stated Go. “Their quest to victory was not achieved overnight, for it was the outcome of thorough preparation, unyielding commitment, and relentless perseverance.” Go, chairperson of the Committee on Sports, praised Aranas and Chua as beacons of inspiration, reminding Filipino athletes to pursue their dreams with “unwavering determination and passion.” He also extended recognition to the coaching staff and trainers, emphasizing their vital role in the athletes' success. In an impassioned moment, Go reflected on the hardships the athletes endure, saying, “Hindi po biro ang kanilang sakripisyo na ginagawa tuwing sila ay mag-eensayo." "Ang iba po sakanila ay kailangan mahiwalay sa kanilang mga pamilya at mahal sa buhay para lang makamit ang kanilang mga pangarap," added Go. The senator further emphasized the need to prioritize and advocate for the welfare of athletes, maintaining the advancements attained in the global sports arena. He called for united support and collaboration to honor and uplift the nation through sports. Concluding his speech, Go addressed the champions directly, saying, “Once again, I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to the both of you for exhibiting exceptional skill and talent." "Your unwavering determination and dedication have set a remarkable example for all of us, demonstrating what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. We look forward to your future achievements and continued success. Mabuhay kayo!” concluded Go. A sports advocate and enthusiast himself, Go called for additional support for aspiring Filipino athletes during the deliberation for the 2023 budgets of the Philippine Sports Commission and the Games and Amusement Board. The senator is also an ardent supporter of long-term and grassroots sports development in the country. Go authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in 2020. The NAS is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. The said law is in line with Go’s vision of providing a dedicated learning facility where promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting quality education. The NAS Main Campus is located at the New Clark City Sports Complex in Capas, Tarlac. As one of his priority measures in the 19th Congress, Go also filed Senate Bill No. 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development. Go is also the author of Senate Bill No. 2116, which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 10699 or the "National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act”, which was tackled by the Senate Committee on Sports during the hearing. He emphasized the need to further recognize para-athletics on the same footing as other international competitions. The post Bong Go leads Senate in congratulating Filipino champions of 2023 World Cup of Pool appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gilas poised to make a stand
About a week from now, the FIBA Basketball World Cup, one of the most anticipated sporting events on the global stage, is set to unfold to captivate basketball fans around the world. As teams prepare to showcase their skills and compete for the coveted title, the Philippine national basketball team, known as “Gilas Pilipinas,” has been generating significant buzz and raising hopes among its passionate fan base. With a rich basketball history and a growing pool of talented players, the Philippines is poised to make a statement in the upcoming tournament it is co-hosting with Japan and Indonesia. The Philippines has a deep-rooted love for basketball, often referred to as the national sport. The passion for the game runs through the veins of Filipino enthusiasts, making every international competition a matter of immense national pride. Although the country has faced challenges in recent FIBA World Cup editions, the fervent support of the fans and the dedication of the players and coaching staff continue to fuel hopes for a successful campaign this time around. Gilas Pilipinas has faced strong opposition in the past, often contending against teams boasting of NBA-level talent and sophisticated basketball programs. Despite these challenges, the Philippine team exhibited remarkable resilience, showcasing flashes of brilliance that demonstrated its potential on the world stage. In 2014, the country snapped 36 years of futility and earned a ticket to the FIBA World Cup in Spain, capped by a historic win over Senegal that meant all the world to Filipino fans. The upcoming FIBA World Cup presents another opportunity for Gilas Pilipinas to further evolve and make a lasting impression, with the potential to upset more established basketball powerhouses. One key factor contributing to the optimism surrounding the Philippine team is the growing talent pool of Filipino basketball players. The Philippines has produced numerous skilled athletes who have excelled in various basketball leagues both domestically and internationally. Led by Fil-Am Jordan Clarkson, 7-foot-3 Kai Sotto, and World Cup veterans Junmar Fajardo and Japeth Aguilar, the team boasts of skilled players with height, a big factor in the international circuit. Along with a slew of talented players, many of whom honed their skills in collegiate leagues and professional basketball circuits, many think that they will give the opposition a run for their money. Their experience, combined with their familiarity with high-level competition, positions the team to perform at their best during the World Cup. The Philippine basketball community is also benefiting from the increasing support and investment in grassroots basketball development. Basketball courts dot the Philippine landscape, serving as breeding grounds for young talents who aspire to don the national team’s jersey someday. The Philippine Basketball Association continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing homegrown talents, with initiatives aimed at fostering youth basketball and grassroots programs. While optimism is running high, it’s essential to acknowledge the fierce competition that awaits Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup. Teams from traditional basketball powerhouses, such as the United States, Spain, and France, will be formidable opponents. These teams boast exceptional talent, extensive experience, and robust basketball infrastructure that has consistently propelled them to the upper echelons of international basketball. To increase its chances of success, Gilas Pilipinas must focus on meticulous preparation, effective strategies, and a strong team spirit. The coaching staff, led by Chot Reyes, Tim Cone and Jong Uichico, will play a crucial role in devising game plans that will capitalize on the team’s strengths and exploit opponents’ weaknesses. In all, the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup presents an exciting opportunity for Gilas Pilipinas to showcase its skills, passion, and resilience on the global stage. While challenges abound, the spirit of competition, national pride and the love of the game will undoubtedly drive the team to give its all and leave an indelible mark on the world of basketball. E-mail:mannyangeles27@gmail.com The post Gilas poised to make a stand appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Alapag joins Kings coaching staff
A Pinoy legend in the NBA......»»