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| The winners of the 3rd El Presidente Cup (Image Source: Manila Standard/Ramon S. Fernandez Sports & Youth Development Foundation Inc.) |
More than just a day of golf, the 3rd El Presidente Cup proved to be a powerful gathering of purpose, generosity, and community as sports leaders and supporters came together to uplift young Filipino athletes. Held recently at the Palmer Course of The Orchard Golf & Country Club, the charity tournament once again underscored its mission of “playing with heart” with proceeds earmarked for the Ramon S. Fernandez Sports and Youth Development Foundation.
Named after Philippine basketball legend Ramon “El Presidente” Fernandez, the event has grown into a meaningful platform that blends sport with service — channeling resources into youth development, grassroots sports programs, and leadership formation initiatives. “This is more than a game… It’s heart, purpose, and people coming together,” said Fernandez, emphasizing the deeper impact of the annual gathering. The tournament attracted a wide field of participants and supporters, all contributing to a cause that extends far beyond the fairways. Filipino homes-backed Manfred Lawas emerged as the Overall Low Net champion, capping a competitive yet spirited day on one of the country’s premier golf layouts. Designed by golf icon Arnold Palmer, the Orchard’s Palmer Course provided a fitting stage with its challenging fairways, water hazards, and pristine greens, testing both skill and strategy. But while trophies were awarded, organizers stressed that the true victory lies in the lives being shaped through the foundation’s programs. Among its beneficiaries is promising golfer Charles Serdenia who continues to pursue collegiate golf in the United States with support from the foundation — an example of how the tournament directly fuels athletic dreams. Beyond competition, the event fostered camaraderie and generosity, highlighted by a fellowship dinner and awards night filled with music, reflection, and gratitude. Performances from Side A and Chad Borja added warmth to the celebration while testimonials from beneficiaries served as poignant reminders of the tournament’s purpose.
Karla Fernandez, co-organizer and wife of Fernandez, described the evening as “a reunion of hearts”, thanking sponsors, partners, and participants for transforming the event into something deeply meaningful. Major sponsors — including Cebu Landmasters, Pryce Gases, the Philippine Sports Commission, and several corporate partners — played a vital role in ensuring the event’s success and maximizing funds directed to the foundation’s initiatives. The impact of the El Presidente Cup extends even further. Shortly after the tournament, the foundation set its sights on another outreach effort — a children’s summer program in Argao, Cebu — aimed at bringing joy and simple opportunities to underserved communities. From competitive swings to shared smiles, the El Presidente Cup is more than a sporting event — it is a movement grounded in generosity, showing that in golf, as in life, the most meaningful victories are those that give back.
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Jordan Brand Returns With DAYO23 Streetball Invitational For 3rd Year
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Jordan Brand) |
Jordan Brand takes streetball culture to new heights with the return of the DAYO23 Streetball Invitational on June 6-7, 2026, continuing its mission to spotlight the best of Filipino streetball culture. Dayo is where hometown heroes go head-to-head with the legends of tomorrow, with rising stars from across the country taking flight in a high-stakes, high-energy tournament. Built on the belief that Every Court is Home Court, DAYO23 has become a platform where hometown pride, turf strength and raw talent combine to provide a showcase of basketball passion.
From Luzon to Visayas to Mindanao, teams will represent their cities with pride — each one chasing a single goal: to bring home the glory. Beyond the competition, DAYO23 continues to push the culture forward. Attendees can expect a full weekend experience, featuring sets from Manila’s flyest DJs, appearances by visionary artists, and immersive moments that connect the broader hoops community. Come for the hoops, stay for the culture. The tournament will feature both men’s and women’s divisions, highlighting the depth of talent across the country, alongside the return of fan-favorite, ultra-competitive five-on-fives and immersive on-ground experiences. Exclusive DAYO23 merchandise and Jordan Brand activations will also be available throughout the weekend. As part of DAYO23’s return, Jordan Brand rolls out exclusive releases built for the barangay: the DAYO23 Collection, launched last May 6, and a Luka 77 ‘DAYO23’, an exclusive colorway of the Jordan Luka 77. These drops extend the culture on and off the court.
More than just a tournament, DAYO23 is a stage for self-expression where players, creatives, and fans alike can rep their hometown and win it all. Further details on registration and the full event lineup will be announced soon.
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PSC Launches ‘Champion In Mind’ Wellness Program To Promote Mental Health
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Philippine Sports Commission) |
In line with its mission to promote holistic health through sports and community engagement, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Champion In Mind health and wellness initiative was successfully launched recently at ILCentro in Sta. Lucia Mall. The program brought together participants from various age groups — from youth to senior citizens — highlighting the importance of mental health as a vital component of overall well-being. Through engaging activities and educational sessions, attendees were encouraged to adopt healthier lifestyles that support both mind and body.
The event was organized by Trizach Event in partnership with ILCentro Sta. Lucia Mall in collaboration with the Santolan Body Sculpting Club led by Coach Bong Baniqued. One of the highlights of the event was a dynamic Step Bench Aerobics presentation, demonstrating how physical activity can positively impact mental wellness. The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) continues to expand its initiatives beyond athletic performance by advocating for mental health awareness within communities. Recently, PSC strengthened its efforts through a partnership with Sports Vision, aiming to further integrate wellness programs into grassroots and nationwide sports development activities. This collaboration provides a strong foundation for initiatives like Champion in Mind Health and Wellness, reinforcing the role of sports in building not only physical strength but also mental resilience.
With the success of the launch event, organizers plan to bring the Champion In Mind health and wellness program to various venues, reaching more communities and promoting a culture that prioritizes mental well-being.
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Counter-Strike 2 To Power Phygital Shooter At The Games Of The Future 2026 In Astana
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| (Image Source: Phygital International) |
Games Of The Future (GOTF) has announced Counter-Strike 2 as the digital stage of Phygital Shooter at Games Of The Future 2026, the world's leading phygital sports event. One of the most recognized titles in competitive gaming, Counter-Strike 2 has shaped tactical shooter competition for generations, backed by a vast global player base and one of the most established eSports ecosystems in the world. Its return to Games Of The Future 2026 in Astana reflects the tournament's continued commitment to pairing elite digital titles with a format where physical performance is equally decisive.
Taking place on August 4-8, 2026 at Beeline Arena, the Phygital Shooter competition will see elite phygital athletes compete in a 5-on-5 format built across two rounds: competitors first face off in Counter-Strike 2, with their digital performance setting the conditions for the second round, a live laser tag bout where the outcome of the match is decided in the physical world, for a total prize pool of US$150,000. The discipline sits at the sharpest intersection of gaming and physical sport, demanding both in-game tactical execution and real-world marksmanship from its competitors. Following its appearance at Games Of The Future 2025 in Abu Dhabi which drew over 27 million broadcast views across digital streaming platforms and TV broadcasters worldwide, Phygital Shooter returns as one of the most distinctive disciplines on the program. "Having Counter-Strike 2 back in our lineup alongside other top-tier titles is a clear signal that the eSports world recognizes phygital sport as the next frontier of competition. We are building something new, and the industry is taking notice." said Phygital International Publisher Relations and IP Licensing Lead William Al-Badeesh. Following a season of qualifying tournaments held across multiple continents, the teams set to compete in Phygital Shooter at GOTF 2026 have now been confirmed. The line-up is headlined by defending champions xGoat, who return with former professional Counter-Strike player and Major winner Mikhail "Dosia" Stolyarov on their roster. They will be joined by Hybrids, coming from South Africa and Spain-based Klan Pedrajas. Liga Pro Team, Minsk House and MIRAGE Shooter complete the lineup with further teams to be announced in the coming weeks.
Phygital Shooter is one of the eight disciplines confirmed for GOTF 2026 which will take place on July 29-August 9, 2026 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The event is expected to bring together over 900 participants from more than 50 countries, reinforcing its position as the world's premier phygital sports competition. To keep up to date with the latest news on Games Of The Future 2026, visit the official GOTF 2026 Astana website at gofuture.games. Fans can also relive the action from previous editions via Phygital+, Phygital International’s dedicated Direct-to-Consumer platform, and GOTF's official YouTube channel.
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15K Runners Fill Galactic Star Wars Night Run At MOA
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/RUNRIO Inc.) |
Roy Laudit and Jessa Mae Roda turned out to be the strongest forces in the first-ever Star Wars Night Run Philippines held during the early morning of May 3, 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex. Laudit was triumphant in the men’s 10K, clocking in at 32:48, narrowly edging Ritchie Estampador (33:00) and Vincent Avestruz (33:05) to rule the 15,000-strong empire. Roda, on the other hand, timed at 38:54 in the women’s division as she was followed by Maricar Camacho (40:50) and Decerie Encomio (42:33).
The event transformed the SM MOA Complex into a galaxy-themed running celebration as participants donned Star Wars-inspired outfits armed with their own lightsabers. “We’re happy with the turnout and we can just feel everyone’s passion when it comes to such an iconic brand as Star Wars,” said RUNRIO president Rio de la Cruz who promised a return of this run next year in time for Star Wars’ 50th anniversary. In the 5K race, Noli Torre ruled the men’s division with a time of 15:43 ahead of Cymon Richard De Jesus (15:55) and James Kevin Cruz (16:26) as Mary Jane Pagayon paced the women’s side with 18:50, in front of Meljoy Gonzales (19:49) and Jo Punay (21:31). Jevie Rebutazo topped the men’s 3K category in 9:38, followed by Mark Anthony Oximar (9:53) and Mark Angelo Biagtan (10:04), while Kaye Kayralyn Villanueva led the women with 12:15, followed by Rona Rhyn Lozada (13:35) and Felicity Danao (13:40).
The Star Wars Night Run Philippines has Lanson Place, Citadines Bay City, and Okada Manila as official hotel partners, Gatorade as official sports drink, Sip Purified Water as official hydration partner, and Disney Store, Disney+, Nutrifizz, Globe, Rexona, Film Concerts PH, Funko, Leslie’s, Cheezy, Harvest, Clover, Farmer John, URC, Great Taste, B’lue, Mogu Mogu, C2, Quaker, Enervon, Salonpas, One World Deli, Hey Salad, and Veega as sponsors.
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BRAVE CF 105 Heralds Much-Awaited Return To Kazakhstan
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| (Image Source: BRAVE Combat Federation) |
BRAVE Combat Federation™ (BRAVE CF), the world’s fastest-growing and most global mixed martial arts organization, is set to make a highly anticipated return to Kazakhstan with BRAVE CF 105, scheduled to be held on May 31, 2026 at the iconic Baluan Sholak Sports Palace in Almaty.
BRAVE CF President Mohammed Shahid stated, “Returning to Kazakhstan is something we are truly excited about. This country has consistently produced elite-level mixed martial artists with incredible potential. Our goal is to continue exploring that talent pool and provide a platform where deserving athletes can shine and establish themselves on the global stage. Kazakhstan remains a key destination in our vision for the sport.” In partnership with the Alash Pride League, BRAVE CF 105 marks the promotion’s fourth event in Kazakhstan, reaffirming its commitment to a nation that has become a cornerstone of its international expansion since its first visit in 2017. The collaboration aims to further elevate the local scene while connecting it to the broader global MMA landscape. The event also serves as BRAVE CF’s return to the region following BRAVE CF 103 in Bukhara, Uzbekistan held last December 2025, highlighting the organization’s continued presence across Central Asia while keeping Kazakhstan at the forefront.
The upcoming extravaganza in Almaty is expected to feature a solid lineup of athletes from Kazakhstan and neighboring nations, with local heroes potentially taking center stage. Former BRAVE CF World Title contender Rauan “Shymyr” Bekbolat and top-ranked flyweight contender Dias “Son of the Steppes” Yerengaipov are among the names who could compete in front of a passionate home crowd. With bout announcements set to be revealed in the coming weeks, BRAVE CF 105 is shaping up to be a landmark night that celebrates Kazakhstan’s deep-rooted martial arts culture while delivering elite-level competition inside the cage.
