Northtown Center is an integrated town center with retail, commercial, and institutional components.
This summer, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev)’s Northtown Center in Cabantian, Davao City, promises exciting events and activities.
Spreading areas for sports, play, and outdoor fitness, play and sports
Participating in outdoor activities enhances vitality overall, mental and physical health, and social connection. Two hectares of open space at Northtown Center are currently used as public spaces for strolling, bicycling, running, and organized sports.
Over 50 kids and teens participated in the Dayaw OCR Junior held at Northtown Center.
Just recently, Alsons Dev partnered with a local sports event organizer, Team Kwago, to hold two obstacle course races or OCR events in Northtown Center. The first race held on March 17 was the Dayaw OCR Junior, a 800-meter race for kids and teens with 15 obstacles to invigorate the young athletes. The following Sunday, the main event was held for seasoned adult athletes and sports enthusiasts. Dayaw OCR highlighted a four-kilometer course with 20 obstacles designed to challenge participants of various skill levels. The race attracted over a hundred attendees, including athletes from General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, and Manila, competing in the team, elite, and open divisions.
The Dayaw OCR is a qualifier event recognized by the Pilipinas Obstacle Sports Federation (POSF), with the top contenders from the race being considered for the National Team for Obstacle Sports.
Pop-up park for events
Nothing brings people better than food. Festive food bazaars are slated on April 24 to 30 and May 23 to 31 in Northtown Center to encourage community interaction and provide more recreational opportunities.
Davao Kalsada’s Summer Bazaar is expected to gather several budding foodpreneurs who will showcase their culinary creations for everyone to enjoy. The bazaar will also feature family-friendly activities and attractions like a giant inflatable playground, live bands, and open mic events.
Davao City’s first CityMall branch at Northtown offers shopping, dining and leisure options to residents of Cabantian and neighboring communities.
A community mall for convenience and leisure
Skip the traffic! Neighborhood shopping centers like CityMall Northtown offer nearby residents a walkable haven for essentials, local finds, and neighborly connections.
Embrace everyday pleasures like a fast lunch at FoodWorld or a grocery buy at MerryMart. You can mix & combine your favorite fast food items from Greenwich, Mang Inasal, and Jollibee in this one-stop food court. Now that they’re open, kid-friendly businesses like Fun Nation and Playville provide a fun and safe space for kids to play and socialize.
Northtown Center is a part of Northtown, a 150-hectare township project developed by Alsons Dev, Davao’s leading domestic real estate developer. While CityMall Northtown is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, the Northtown Center grounds are available to the public from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Visit Northtown’s Office Facebook Page Northtown Davao for more information on the latest lifestyle hub in Davao.
Toyota welcomes two new athletes to its Toyota Asia Team in the race to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024
Toyota stands committed in its support for 11 Asian athletes on their journey towards taking center stage, at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024.
In global partnership with the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee, Toyota launched “Start Your Impossible,” its first-ever corporate initiative to bring about social change through hero projects with their ‘Dual Heroes.’
With the beginning of the “Start Your Impossible” (SYI) global marketing campaign today, Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) is generating excitement for the future Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, 2024. The global ad highlights Toyota’s conviction that no journey is taken alone and demonstrates the strength of local communities supporting their athletes around the globe.
In Asia, Toyota launched “START YOUR IMPOSSIBLE,” the company’s first-ever worldwide corporate campaign, in collaboration with 11 athletes from India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. These sportsmen are scheduled to compete in the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris. These 11 outstanding athletes are moving closer to their goals of becoming professional athletes. They will compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, 2024, alongside over 200 other Global Team Toyota Athletes (GTTA) from around the world.
The full line-up of 11 Team Toyota Asia athletes include:
India: Murali Sreeshankar, Athletics
Indonesia: Ni Nengah Widiasih, Para Powerlifting
Malaysia: Abdul Latif Romly, Long Jump – Para Athletics
Nepal: Nabita Shresta – Table Tennis
Pakistan: Arshad Nadeem – Athletics
Philippines: Carlos Yulo, Artistic Gymnastics
Philippines: Ernie Gawilan, Para Swimming
Singapore: Toh Wei Soong, Para Swimming
Thailand: Kunvalut Vitidsarn, Badminton
Thailand: Pongsakorn Paeyo, Wheelchair Racing – Para Athletics
Vietnam: Lê Văn Công, Para Powerlifting
Currently, 8 out of the 11 Team Toyota Asia athletes have qualified for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024, with other qualifications still ongoing.
“On behalf of Toyota Motor Asia, we are thrilled that top athletes across Asia will be representing their countries and are heading to the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. Each Global Team Toyota athlete in Asia is not only a trailblazer but also a ‘Dual Hero’, where they champion social causes through Hero Projects that foster a positive change in their community. We take pride in the unrelenting dedication they have displayed in their respective disciplines, and wish them the best on the international stage,” says Preston Tan, Vice President, Toyota Motor Asia Singapore.
The “Start Your Impossible” campaign highlights Toyota’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive, sustainable, and mobile society as we transition to a mobility corporation by encouraging each person to take on new challenges and realize their “impossible.”
As an official worldwide partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Toyota is dedicated to offering eco-friendly mobility options that support the development of an inclusive and low-carbon society. Toyota has said that it will deliver 500 fuel cell Mirai cars as part of its official fleet for the 2024 Paris Olympics. This demonstrates the company’s objectives to become carbon neutral and its support for a multimodal strategy for sustainable travel.
Your all-day sports betting app, ArenaPlus, continues to play a leading role in the local entertainment industry by providing fun and entertainment at the 26th Kadalag-an Festival in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
The 26th Kadalag-an Festival, which took place from March 21 to 24, 2024, had the full backing of ArenaPlus, a platinum sponsor, in order to provide the Negrenses with top-notch entertainment. The company gave attendees of the festival a number of ways to make the most of their weekend and make lasting memories.
At Sidlak Victorias Global City, ArenaPlus set up an interactive booth where guests could play Roll the Dice and Spin the Wheel for prizes and acquire premium items. Tony Labrusca and Elyson De Dios were also brought in by ArenaPlus to perform for a crowd in order to provide even more fun and excitement. In a similar vein, there were games and prizes for the audience to win on stage.
In addition, ArenaPlus made sure to take part in one of the festival’s main events: the Miss Kadalag-an Queen 2024. The brand joined the coronation night last March 22 and awarded Ammeline Alegarbes, one of the pageant’s overall Top 5 candidates, Php 20,000 for winning the Miss ArenaPlus Kadalag-an Queen 2024 title. Jasper Vicencio, President of ArenaPlus’ personally congratulated Alegarbes as he handed the prize.
ArenaPlus continues to work with local organizers to bring more entertainment to various parts of the Philippines, regardless of how far the event and their communities are from the Metro. This effort extends to Visayas-based celebrations like the 26th Kadalag-an Festival in Negros Occidental, solidifying ArenaPlus’ dedication to developing entertainment all over the country.
Digiplus Interactive Corp. is a leading provider of gaming and leisure services in the nation, and BingoPlus and ArenaPlus are two of its proud flagship brands. Visit www.bingoplus.com and www.arenaplus.net for additional updates, or get the apps right now from Google Play and the App Store.
Here’s a quick summary of the company’s contribution to motorsports in 2023.
The top motorbike manufacturer in the nation, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), had yet another successful year in the motorsports industry. HPI has made significant strides to promote the growth and professionalism of motorsports in both domestic and international on-and off-road championships. In fact, the business succeeded in implementing its goals for On-Road and Off-Road Racing, strengthening its racing brand with initiatives like the Honda Pilipinas Dream Cup. Let’s take a moment to review the noteworthy accomplishments Honda made in 2023 as it works to improve both home and international motorsports.
On Road International Racing.
Aside from MotoGP, one of the most prestigious international motorcycle racing events is Moto2. Somkiat Chantra, a rider with Idemitsu Team Honda Asia from Thailand, finished sixth overall in this event. Ai Ogura, his colleague from Japan, came in a solid ninth place overall. Honda Team Asia competed in the Moto3 class as well. The team included Mario Suryo Aji of Indonesia, who finished 31st overall, and Taiyo Furusato of Japan, who finished the year ranked 16th overall.
Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi 2nd Place in overall position Asia Road Racing Championship-ASB1000
Andi Farid Izdihar 3rd Place in overall position Asia Road Racing Championship-ASB1000
Besides Moto2 & Moto3, Honda also sponsored a team for the ARRC (Asia Road Racing Championship) in the ASB 1000 Category. For this competition, Team HADR (Honda Asia Dream Racing with Showa) saw Malaysian Mohd Zaqhwan Zaidi 2nd in overall position with his teammate Andi Farid Izdihar of Indonesia is in 3rd place overall. Team HADR with Showa team also participated in the Suzuka 8 Hours Challenge where their racers finished in 7th position.
Jett Lawrence Champion 2023 AMA Pro Motocross 450
Hunter Lawrence Champion 2023 AMA Pro Motocross 250
5Off-Road International Racing.
For international off-road racing competition, Team Honda HRC riders and brothers Jett and Hunter Lawrence added the AMA Pro Motocross Championship to their list of achievements. Specifically, Jett Lawrence is the 2023 AMA Pro Motocross 450 Champion, and the 2023 Rider of the Year was awarded to him using the CRF450R motorcycles, while older brother Hunter Lawrence became the 2023 AMA Pro Motocross 250 Champion using the CRF250R motorcycles.
Let’s take a look at how motorsports in 2023 turned out and how Honda has been a part of its evolution in supporting domestic motorsports.
On Road Domestic Racing.
Honda’s “Road to Champion” campaign is the company’s initiative in developing the skills of the next generation of Filipino riders.
One such rider is Jakob Sablaya. Mr. Sablaya participated in the MOTOIR Championship race events. In this race, he placed first overall in both MOTOIR’s Super Sports 300 and MOTOIR 2 GP categories. In both instances, Jakob rode a Honda CBR150R converted to race bike motorcycle.
Alfonsi Daquigan
The 2023 IRGP was another race that was well represented by Honda. In this competition, Alfonsi Daquigan was able to showcase his skill when he took Pole Position for the race.
Jakob Sablaya
Meanwhile, Mr. Sablaya also competed with the later particularly in the race’s Super Sports 300 and MOTOIR2 GP categories. He placed 2nd in the Super Sports 300 category riding a Honda CBR300R and 3rd in the MOTOIR2 GP category riding a Honda CBR150R.
Off-Road Domestic Racing.
On the domestic and exciting off-road side, HPI provided support for its JMS – MOS (Man of Steel) Honda Ride Red Racing Team, as its members competed in the 2023 MotorAce Motocross series. The team consisted of Janelle Saulog who became the Overall Champion in the Ladies Category, while local Motocross legend Jovie Saulog, placed 2nd Overall Champion in the Veterans Category. The Father and daughter tandem let us feel the adrenaline rush in motocross using the CRF motorcycle units. On the other hand, Buboy Antonio, making his presence in local races increases seeing his potential with his determination and skills in off-road riding and with Jing Leongson took 2nd Overall and 3rd Overall Champion in the Expert and Veterans Category, respectively using their CRF250R and CRF450R motorcycles.
The Excitement Continues.
As we look forward to 2024, Honda Philippines, Inc. hopes to further reinforce its involvement in supporting the rider’s development and professionalism in Motorsports. Indeed, HPI already has a head start in this endeavor as the company continues to support Alfonsi Daquigan who recently qualified for the 2024 Asia Talent Cup, and Jakob Sablaya who will ride for SDG Team HARC-PRO Honda PH in the 2024 ARRC, AP250 Category.
More importantly, HPI will keep working to improve both the quality of mobility solutions and the state of On-Road and Off-Road motorsports in the Philippines. This is achieved by giving ambitious Filipino motorsport riders additional chances to hone their divinely endowed skills.
To learn more, go to www.hondaph.com. Follow Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook (facebook.com/hondaph), Instagram (instagram.com/hondaph_mc/), YouTube (HondaPhilippines_Motorcycle), and Tiktok (tiktok.com/@hondaphilippines) to stay up to date on the company’s newest offerings. You can also reach them by calling (02)-8581-6700 to 6799 and 0917-884-6632.
United City Football Club is excited to begin its strategic cooperation with Blocksport, a forward-thinking Swiss company created in 2019, following the success of the launch of its dedicated Fan App. United City FC has reached a major milestone with this partnership, which harnesses the potential of Web3 and blockchain technology to boost fan engagement and open up new revenue streams.
About Blocksport: Unlocking Limitless Revenue Streams with Web3
Leading sports teams in Europe and Africa, including OH Leuven, Empoli FC, Partizan BC, Kaizer Chiefs FC, Salford Red Devils Rugby Club, and Belgium Cycling, have worked with Blocksport, a leader in the sports technology space. The business focuses in assisting professional sports organizations in developing digital infrastructure, which in turn produces effective community centers and makes use of Web3 and blockchain technologies to increase revenue and fan interaction.
“At Blocksport, we are committed to empowering sports clubs with innovative solutions that transcend traditional boundaries. Our collaboration with United City FC signifies a bold step towards the future of fan engagement. Furthermore, my trip to Manila a few months ago to participate in the Business of Football conference confirmed to us that the Philippines and the Southeast Asian region, including Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand, are markets with huge potential; hence this partnership marks the start of the Blocksport footprint in this part of the world. By combining the power of Web3 and blockchain, we aim to create a digital ecosystem that meets and exceeds the expectations of the modern fan. Together with United City FC, we are paving the way for a new era in sports technology not just in the Philippines but beyond.” – Samir Ceric, COO of Blocksport.
The partnership between United City FC and Blocksport opens the door to various fan engagement activities, including but not limited to:
– NFT Games, Fan Points Booster, Digital Memberships, Premium Content, online ticketing, Exclusive Club content, Digital Collectibles, E-commerce, community chats, news updates, predictor games, live streaming, and much more.
Why Web3?
Gen Z Engagement: The next generation of fans, Gen Z, demands high digital and Web3 engagement levels from their favorite clubs. Embracing these technologies is crucial in attracting and retaining this tech-savvy audience.
Absolute Ownership: In Web3, fans have the exclusive ability to own, trade, and monetize their digital assets, fostering a sense of absolute ownership and connection with the club.
Transparency: Web3 technology ensures transparency in all transactions and relationships between clubs and fans. This transparency is essential for building trust and accountability within the fan community.
Security: Recognizing the value of fan data, Blocksport employs blockchain technology to uphold the highest security standards. This approach safeguards the privacy and integrity of fan data, treating it as the club’s most valuable asset.
“We are excited about the endless possibilities our partnership with Blocksport brings. As we step into Web3 and blockchain, we are not just transforming the fan experience; we are revolutionizing how clubs interact with their supporters. This is a game-changer not only for United City FC but also for Philippine Football, and we are proud to lead the way in embracing the future of sports technology.” – Eric Gottschalk, President of United City Football Club
Blocksport and United City FC are thrilled about the relationship’s potential to change the sports and technology industries. Together, we will develop a state-of-the-art fan experience and put the team at the forefront of these changes.
With immediate effect, United City FC (UCFC) is pleased to announce Esti Puji Lestari’s appointment as the club’s chairman. As the UCFC begins an exciting new chapter in its history, Esti’s confirmation of her commitment in the club is an important milestone.
Esti Puji Lestari, an Indonesian native, brings a plethora of experience and knowledge to her new position at United City FC (UCFC). Throughout her distinguished career in the sports sector, Esti has occupied pivotal leadership roles—including majority ownership—in her capacities as CEO of QD Red Lions China and president of Persijap Jepara. In these capacities, she has contributed significantly to the expansion and prosperity of her organizations.
“Reviving United City FC is my mission. It is an honor and privilege to be a part of a club with such a great tradition and long history, and my aim is to match the outstanding achievements of the past with similar ones in the future.
I feel I have unfinished business in football, and as an esports owner, I intend to add value to the club off the field as well as on it.
I am grateful for this opportunity and know that the Philippines football landscape is very supportive of not only the men’s game but also the women’s with their participation in the recent World Cup.
In the spirit of ASEAN cooperation, I would also like this to be a pathway for both men and women from Indonesia as well as Philippines to gain valuable experience and benefit from the synergy between two nations.” states Esti Lestari.
In Indonesia, as the only female owner of a Football Club that has a 63-year history, Esti led strategic initiatives to enhance the club’s brand visibility, optimize revenue streams, and foster community engagement, solidifying its position as a sustainable football club in Indonesia that continues to exist. Additionally, she has been a prominent advocate for women’s football, championing initiatives to support and develop women’s football at all levels.
In China, as Red Lions’ CEO, Esti brought her dynamic leadership and strategic acumen to oversee the club’s administration and development. Her visionary approach and dedication contributed to the growth and success of QD Red Lions during her tenure.
“We are privileged and proud to have such an esteemed investor and seasoned football expert join our Club to catapult the development of UCFC forward. Esti has been a long-time personal friend, and I am pleased to work alongside her as I know what she will bring to the Club. Our project and mission of UCFC have never changed, even when we took a break from football in 2023, but now we are back, and with Esti’s support, we will continue the legacy of the club and raise the bar once again for the gold standard of Philippines football.” – Eric Gottschalk, President of United City FC.
As UCFC enters this new era under Esti’s leadership, the club reaffirms its commitment to excellence both on and off the field. UCFC’s goals include:
Achieving Sporting Success: United City FC aims to compete at the highest level of Philippine football, striving for championships and representing the country internationally.
2. Community Engagement: United City FC is dedicated to fostering strong connections with its fans and the local community, organizing outreach programs and initiatives to promote the growth of football at the grassroots level.
3. Youth Development: United City FC recognizes the importance of nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for aspiring footballers to develop their skills within a professional environment.
4. Commercial Growth: United City FC seeks to maximize commercial opportunities, leveraging Esti’s expertise to enhance revenue streams, attract sponsors, and expand the club’s global brand presence.
5. Women’s Team Establishment: United City FC is committed to promoting women’s football by establishing a dedicated team, providing opportunities for female athletes to compete at the highest level, and inspiring the next generation of women footballers.
With Esti Puji Lestari’s appointment, UCFC enters an exciting new chapter in its history. The team is eager to use her experience and vision to reach new heights of success on and off the field.
Allianz PNB Life’s Grace Dar Santos, Head of Corporate Communications and CSR Lead; Jesus Dennis Montealto, Henry V. Moran Foundation, Program Coordinator; Gino Riola, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Sustainability, Allianz PNB Life; Kevin Goco, Philippine Football Federation and Fang Siong Chong, Chief Financial Officer, Allianz PNB Life
Recently, the Henry V. Moran Foundation (Moran Foundation) and Allianz PNB Life Insurance Inc. (Allianz) launched the Allianz Liga Eskwela Kaagapay futsal for development program. This grassroots initiative uses futsal to teach technical skills and foster financial literacy in Department of Education (DepEd) public schools.
“The program innovatively uses futsal, an indoor small-sided version of football, widely played in Philippine grassroots communities. Allianz Liga Eskwela Kaagapay aims to teach public school children technical skills in football as well as basic financial literacy through capacity building trainings for teachers, training sessions with students, and competitions,” said Gino Riola, Chief Marketing Officer & Head of Sustainability in Allianz. “Teachers who attend the training receive balls to be used in their schools, and also have the chance to be seconded to further coaching and official development programs under the Philippine Football Federation (PFF).”
Danny Moran, Chairman, The Henry V. Moran Foundation
“Since 2008, the Moran Foundation has been supporting football for development programs in public schools, orphanages, and NGOs across the country,” said Danny Moran, Chairman of the Moran Foundation. “But we realized that a major difficulty in promoting field football in most Filipino communities and schools is the lack of access to pitches. However, all these schools have access to covered basketball courts so it was natural to use futsal (indoor 5-aside football) for the kids as it is a game that has been proven to be an excellent formator of one’s technique, skill, and game awareness.”
Because of the Moran Foundation’s strong connections to the PFF and its relationship with DepEd, the Liga Eskwela Kaagapay Program fosters the growth of futsal. The Moran Foundation, in partnership with the PFF, organizes futsal competitions to complement the program’s training for PE instructors, which teaches them the fundamentals of futsal coaching, refereeing, and tournament organization. As of 2024, the program is operational in 12 school divisions/cities within DepEd Region 7 and all 16 school divisions/cities within the DepEd National Capital Region. Mindanao will soon adopt the program as well.
Along with teaching public school instructors how to use futsal skills and games to teach public school students basic financial literacy concepts like goal setting, saving, and budgeting, the program also highlights the use of futsal for the development of financial values. In 2023, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas released a report indicating that the Philippines’ financial literacy rank is third from last in ASEAN, with only 25% of the population possessing this knowledge.
For the win: Pasig U18 celebrate their U18 championship win
“Football and futsal in schools are fun for both the teachers and the students. Thus, through our partnership with the Moran Foundation, Allianz PNB Life hopes to address the financial literacy gap in the Philippines by using an attractive medium like futsal to get basic concepts across to public school teachers and students,” added Riola. “Liga Eskwela Kaagapay helps achieves Allianz PNB Life’s sustainability agenda in the country since it directly helps us address the UN Sustainable Development Goal #4 – Better Education.”
Game time: U18 girls defending champion Valenzuela (maroon) vs Manila
Liga Eskwela Kaagapay aims to work with at least 100 public school teachers to reach 10,000 public school children in collaboration with DepEd Regions in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
The winners of the one-day Liga Eskwela Futsal Festival 2024 in La Salle Greenhills last Jan. 21 are as follows:
● 12U Boys: Champion – Mandaluyong; 2nd Place – Caloocan; 3rd Place – Valenzuela.
● 12U Girls: Champion – Manila; 2nd Place – Muntinlupa; 3rd Place – Valenzuela.
● 16U Boys: Champion – Pasig; 2nd Place – Caloocan; 3rd Place – Valenzuela.
● 16U Girls: Champion – Malabon; 2nd Place – Muntinlupa; 3rd Place – Parañaque.
● 18U Boys: Champion – Pasig; 2nd Place – Manila; 3rd Place – Quezon City.
● 18U Girls: Champion – Valenzuela; 2nd Place – Pasig; and 3rd Place – Caloocan.
Your go-to sports betting app, ArenaPlus, did not hold back in supporting Philippine sports entertainment as it participated in the 52nd Golden Tee Invitational Tournament, which was held at the Manila Golf and Country Club from February 5–10, 2024.
ArenaPlus assumed the position of major sponsor for the event, also known as a Platinum Sponsor, and contributed Php 1,000,000.00 as the cash prize for the winner of the tournament. The brand feels that this sum is akin to the value that golf provides to the Filipino people in terms of both amusement and livelihood.
Notably, ArenaPlus’ participation also included being counted among the tournament players. The Golden Tee Sponsors Tournament portion of the event saw 10 representatives from the brand join in as they too worked to secure their own victories.
Event goers, from players to spectators, were given the additional treat of visiting ArenaPlus’ booth, which gave away goodies to its visitors.
ArenaPlus wants to continue its involvement in the local sports and leisure scenes because it is committed to fostering the growth and development of Philippine sports and culture. They keep creating new channels and chances to increase the accessibility and relevance of sports and leisure for Filipinos. Through its collaboration with the 52nd Golden Tee Invitational Tournament, ArenaPlus makes esoteric sports accessible to a wider audience.
Digiplus Interactive Corp. is a leading provider of gaming and leisure services in the nation, and BingoPlus and ArenaPlus are two of its proud flagship brands. Visit www.bingoplus.com and www.arenaplus.net for additional updates, or get the apps right now from Google Play and the App Store.
UP Maroon’s Aldous Torculas (left) and Sean Alter spending time with their fur babies
There is nothing better than returning home to a happy dog. Your pets will always be happy to see you when you arrive at the door, no matter how the day goes. When you become comfortable, they will be eager to play and relax with you. Some UP Maroons players get this feeling after practice and important game days.
A lot of sports fans watch UAAP Basketball to witness the UP Maroons stomp all over the court. Students and alumni from all throughout the nation rejoiced as the UP team won the championship during Season 84. They made it to the finals once more this year, carrying on their winning streak. The UP Maroons demonstrated their fervor and will to win even though they finished second.
The UP Maroons are devoted pet fathers who enjoy spending their free time with their dogs when they’re not giving it their all on the court.
Maroon’s best friend
CJ Casino with his fur baby, Milo
For UP Maroons team captain CJ Cansino, walking and playing with his Corgi, Milo, re-energizes him whenever he’s back home in Laguna. “I make sure na ako nag-aalaga sa kanya, ako nag-iikot sa kanya, ako nagpapakain sa kanya,” he says.
When Aldous Torculas got his American Bulldog, Zion, during the pandemic, he spent a lot of time with him to feel relaxed. “Best memory ko yung nakuha ko si Zion nung pandemic. Tuwang-tuwa ako everytime na gigising ako, siya agad yung pinupuntahan ko,” he says.
Loyal family members
More than anything, dogs are important members of the family. They are like children and siblings you take good care of, even spoiling them with yummy food and cute toys. At the same time, they repay the love you give with loyalty and companionship.
UAAP Season 85 MVP Malick Diouf with his pet
UAAP Season 85 MVP Malick Diouf considers his two dogs, Emma and Bellie, as great company. They’re always there for him whenever he feels down, so he can count on them whenever he needs a pick-me-up.
Meanwhile, Fil-Am player Sean Alter shares that he can’t wait to see his dog Wicky when he goes home to the US. The small white Maltese-Poodle is “always happy” to see Sean, and always cuddles with him. “It’s a lot of responsibility to take care of a dog, but having [a dog] to cuddle when you are feeling lonely or down, it’s the best feeling,” he says.
The UP Maroons always make sure to dedicate time and energy to their pet babies, regardless of whether they live with or without them. They may not always be present due to their demanding schedules, but they are aware of what is best for them, which includes providing them with nutrient-rich TopBreed dog food on a daily basis.
All athletes, UP Maroons included, are deeply committed to their sport. The UP Maroons, however, aren’t afraid to display their caring side with their cherished canines in the midst of pictures and videos of basketball moments. Their dogs and loved ones will be there to welcome them home whether they win or lose games.
Puerto Princesa City, which forms part of the Philippines’ Last Frontier, is first on the list of ideal destinations of travelers, adventure-seekers, and nature lovers. With a good number of sports tournaments being held in the city, it is now solidifying its status as the “Sports Capital of the Philippines.”
Unstoppable. Phenomenal. Unbreakable. That’s what Puerto Princesa is as it plays host to world-class sports activities such as marine events like kite-boarding, wakeboarding, water skiing, banana-boat ride, tube riding and hookah diving. The city also regularly hosts the “Motocross Masters of Asia.” the Philippine leg of the FIM UAM Asian Motocross Series, Puerto Princesa International Motocross Grand Prix, Thai Riders, Pinoy Riders, Mountain Bike XC Challenge, and Boxing Eve “Hamon sa Puerto Princesa”
Puerto Princesa understands that sports and tourism are interrelated and complementary driving forces for the promotion and sustainable economic development of the city as an attractive tourism destination. It continues to boost its tourist arrivals by hosting and organizing more sporting events.
The city is blessed with natural resources and landscape to hold excellent mass-participation events such as triathlons and marathons, mountain bike and motor cross races, beach volleyball, and other water sports competitions.
“Talagang naka-project na ang Puerto Princesa sa sports tourism. Syempre yung hinahabol nating sports tourism yung mayroong international flavor,” City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron said.
Mega sports events such as Ironman and dragon boat festival can be catalysts for tourism development in Puerto Princesa if successfully leveraged in terms of destination branding, infrastructure development and other economic, cultural, and social benefits.
IRONMAN 70.3 PUERTO PRINCESA-ASIA TRI-CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
The second year of the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa – Asia Tri-Club Championship, the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and strength, capped off the Philippines’ triathlon season. It was successfully held in Puerto Princesa on November 12.
A total of 523 foreign and Filipino triathletes from 38 countries participated in the amazing race. Satar Salem (4 hours, 22 minutes, and 25 seconds) and Leyann Ramo (5 hours, 2 minutes, and 56 seconds) both of Tri SND Barracuda dominated the top overall age group for the male and female categories, respectively.
China’s Junyu Cao finished the race in second place at 4:23.13 while Dutch Olympian Eric Van der Linden rounded off the top three finishers in the male category with 4:24.41. Ramo’s teammate Lyllian Grace Banzon trailed her at second place in 5:29.23 while American Catherine Wood completed the top three in the women’s side with the time of 5:36.26.
Tri SND Barracuda of Lanao del Norte netted the country’s top triathlon squad a whopping P500,000 purse put up by Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron.
The competition was divided into three segments: a 1.9-kilometer swim in Puerto Princesa Baywalk, a 90-kilometer bike ride through the city’s southern part, and a 21.1-kilometer run. The grueling course covered 113.0 kilometers, or 70.3 miles.
City Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron expressed his gratitude to the organizers, participants, and spectators for their support for Ironman 70.3. He also showed confidence that the competition will be successfully held again in the city next year as more local and foreign delegates are expected to attend.
THIRD LEGENDS RIDE 2023
The city understands that one of the most popular ways to experience a destination is through a sports event. It allows sports enthusiasts as well as tourists to better engage with local people, nature, and culture.
That happened when about 200 local and visiting riders participated in the 3rd Legends Ride 2023 held on November 18 in Puerto Princesa. The sports activity is part of the successful Subaraw Biodiversity Festival 2023.
From the starting point at Caltex Junction 3, the riders of different groups from all over the country, led by the Tamilok Motorcycle Group, marched together. The other participants were the Big Bikes, Palawan Street Monkeys, Himass Motorcycle Group/Hijos, United Sports Bike of Palawan (USP) and others on small bikes.
The route took the legend riders to Puerto Princesa landmarks such as the Montible Junction, Napsan at the Villa Francesca Resort in Simpocan, the Tala Beach Resort and straight to the Tennis Covered Court of the Ramon V. Mitra Sports Complex, inside Balayong People’s Park.
“Thank you very much for bringing the Legends Ride to our city. Because you enjoyed it, you will definitely come back here. You are always welcome here in Puerto Princesa City,” said City Mayor Bayron at the fellowship dinner at the Tennis Covered Court as he congratulated the organizers, riders, guests, and sponsors for the successful holding of the Legends Ride 2023.
Jun Diagono, president of the National Federation of Motorcycles said they are very happy with the success of Legends Ride 2023. He set two goals in going to Puerto Princesa City: first was to unite all the big bikes clubs in the Philippines; and second, to invite various groups to the National Motorcycle Convention on April 26-27, 2024, at the Subic Bay Convention Center.
Diagono also convinced Puerto Princesa City bike legend Edward Butch Chase to hold the national convention in the city next year. He also promised to bring LMFI’s 54-member bike clubs to participate in the upcoming event, including the Federation of Bikes Club based in Mindanao.
At the awarding, the youngest rider was Blu Andre Rausa, 19 years old; and the oldest rider was Bob Del Rosario, 74 years old. The Most Organized Group is Evo Riders Club Philippines and Biggest Group is Palawan Street Monkeys. A Special Citation was given to Philip Dulatas as the overall chair of the event, and a Certificate of Greatest Appreciation for the support of William Genato, Naj Abdul, and Elroy John “Clink: Hagedorn. The Living legend award was given to Edward Butch Chase.
The other participating groups were the Legends Ride are Binuang, GBC, Bandits, Baghawi Rider Club, Bundakan Motorcycle Club and Widows Son Masonic Riders Association.
2ND INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL 2023
The 2nd International Dragon Boat Festival 2023, held on November 19, attracted teams from Chinese Taipei, Manila, Cebu and Siargao which competed in the just-concluded 200-meter event. From this series of international activities, it has been proven that it is possible to raise the level of programs and activities in Puerto Princesa.
Strength, strategy, paddling speed, and teamwork were the advantages of the ‘paddlers’ who won the championship in the final competition. They showed the audience a breath-taking fight. Everyone wants to get away and no one wants to be left behind. So even on a sunny day, the applause and screams from the audience were loud and clear.
In the Women’s Category, the Alliance of Masters from Manila won the championship; 1st runner-up is the Philippine Titans – Manila; Fire Dragons A is 2nd runner-up – Manila; and Rampage is 3rd runner-up – Manila.
In the Men’s Category, Mr. Canoe from Chinese Taipei won the championship. Followed by Philippine Titans in second place, Dagun Pilipinas A in third place and Alliance of Masters in fourth place.
The battle in the Mixed Category was also uneventful where the Siargao Dragons from Surigao del Norte proved that they deserve to be champions. The Alliance of Masters placed second; Hongkong China Canoe took third place followed by SAG-1 from Manila in fourth place.
In the Masters Category where those aged 40 and above were given the opportunity to show their skills, the Sugbo Mighty Dragons from Cebu became champions; followed in second place by the Alliance of Masters; Rampage in third place; and Blue Phoenix from Manila in fourth place.
Praise and admiration were showered on the leadership of the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragon Boat Federation, or PCKDF, for taking the lead in organizing the international sports event in the city.
Also heavily praised were the efforts shown by Mayor Lucilo Rodriguez Bayron in the tremendous success achieved by the municipal government for the competition.
“It was not easy but we know that we can win these big international events of ours. Of course with the support of department heads, city hall employees and the citizens who are there to support what we do. And even the organizations that trust us for big events. I am very grateful,” said City Mayor Bayron. “Please also expect that there are many more activities to look forward to that will definitely make the city recognized by the whole world not only for its eco-tourism wealth but also to become famous as the Sports Tourism Capital of the Philippines!”
