MSD, Heroes to host Founders Run The Media for Sports Development and e-Pub Heroes is ready to host the Founders Run on June 29. The 12 Kilometer, 6 K, 3K and 1.5K runs will utilize the often-used route of Kisad, Military Cut Off and Loakan road and will start and ends at the Baguio athletic bowl, said race director Stephen Felices of Team Malaya. An event with The Mountain Men Creations Co and Way Nasdi, entry fee for the shortest route or Canicross is PhP850, PhP1,050 for the 3K, PhO1,150 for the 6K and PhP1,450 for the 12K. Registrants are entitled to a raced singlet, bib and finisher’s medal. Registration is now open, added Felices and payment is through G-Cash using Smart number 0962 736 2115. The run was supposed to be staged as early as December of last year but delays due to other commitments of the organizers have pushed the event to its final date late next month, said Pigeon Lobien of the organizing MSD and Heroes. The event is a fund raiser for the continuation of the Heroes mural project at the Baguio athletic bowl, particularly the Baguio Running Wall component where past and present athletics greats are painted there now. It also hopes to support the local inter-collegiate games, Baguio Benguet Educational Athletic League. MSD is the organizer of the Cong. Eric Go Yap Congressional Cup Men’s Basketball League and Benguet Women’s Volleyball League. It is composed of sports journalists covering local sporting events including the BBEAL.

By Pigeon Lobien EMA Cup is celebrating its 20th edition, but the fun golf had a much longer history and had supported causes in the three decades it was staged. “It all started in 1992,” said namesake lawyer Edgar M. Avila. He was the Youth Representative to Congress and was behind the construction of the PFVR Youth Center in between the Department of Education – Baguio Division Office and the Quezon Elementary School. Camp John Hay was under then the Bases Conversion Development Authority with Silverio dela Cruz as general manager and the youthful congressman wanted to raise funds “to fund the maintenance of the newly constructed PFVR Youth Center at Upper Session Road.” Actually he was instrumental in putting up the sports/youth facility and named it after then president Fidel V. Ramos which “was a sports center, recreational hall, an everlasting legacy then Cong Ed wanted to leave for the people of Baguio where he was born and raised. It now stands as a symbol for his belief in serving from the heart.” The one-day fun tournament of the Rotary Club Downtown Session Charter President was formalized fiver years later with the staging of the 1st EMA CUP Golf Tournament on February 16, 1997 at the Camp John Hay Golf Course with the PFVR and Action Inc., a Baguio Based Communication Group, as beneficiary. Through the golf event, four ambulances were acquired through the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and were distributed to the Baguio General Hospital Medical Center with two, and one each for the Rotary and the Action Inc., while the latter also got one emergency tow-truck. Some 200 golfers joined the very first EMA Cup with the late President Ramos, the First Lady Amelita Ramos and top officials of Baguio and Benguet as guests. The cup would become an annual sporting event that attracted various personalities including then President Gloria Arroyo, House Speaker Jose C. de Venecia, vice president Jojemar Binay, Sen. Bong Revilla and then Sen Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. among others. It is in fact the very first golf for a cause event staged by a local, much older than the annual Domogan Cup, by congressman-elect Mauricio Domogan or the Bishop Cup, which the late Baguio-Benguet bishop Carlito Cenzon started that raised funds for the construction or improvement of churches in Baguio and Benguet, Avila said. The 20th Edition of the EMA CUP, in a briefer given by the RCDS “would benefit of the various projects” of the civic organization now headed by President Ryan Gumaya and the St. Theresa of Avila Foundation. The expected player-participants registered so far come all the way from Laguna, Manila and of course the Baguio-Benguet Area, the club added. The golf for a cause will “augment the funding of their present and forthcoming medical missions, feeding programs, scholarship programs, and other worthy projects which they have been undertaking for the past years.” It will also provide school toilets, water system in Itogon, to stage medical missions in Kibungan and other parts of Benguet, as well as blood-letting activities, wheelchair -giving, college scholars. The club said that at one point, it was able to raise some P5 million which was given to the BGHMC to provide dialysis for patients with renal problems. The fun golf on June 7 at the PInewood Golf and Country Club will have a ‬ ‭2025 Toyota Vios 1.3‬ as grand prize during the ‭Grand Raffle in the awards ceremony. Other prizes include a 3 days-2 nights stay at the Fairways & Bluewater in Boracay (exclusive of airfare); a Mastiff 125 cc motorcycle; two airline tickets for Hongkong, via Hongkong Express (exclusive of hotel accommodation) and 10 consolation prizes. Avila said that tickets for the tournament inclusive of raffle ticket is PhP5,000 for golfers, while non-players can avail of raffle tickets at PhP1,000. The golf event is backed by Fernando Tiong and the Parkway Medical Center and Residences and Megapines Realty and Development, Inc., Paul Lalwany and the Laafayette Luxury Suits and Mountain Province Rep. Maximo Dalog, Jr. Other sponsors are the Pyesta Diner by lawyer Michael Fred Go, Bureau of Internal Revenues director Douglas Rufino and Emir Pylos Island Resort by Franz Ruzzel Pablo. Hole sponsors are Dr. Sherry Ong-Cunanan and Fortune Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant, Paragon Hotel, Golden Pine Hotel, Metro Bank – Baguio, through area head Nonette DG Silva and Session Road branch Jeffrey Sese, Metro-Baguio Lions Club through president Ray Olarte, Newtown Hotel, Baguio Masonic Lodge No. 87, Pines Estate Gaming Corporation Baguio by Raffy Lajara, lawyer Nicasio Aluiping, Jr., First La Union Lisure Entertainment and Gaming Corporation, San Fernando, La Union by Danilo Arcilla, , Chairman of the Board/President and Nelson Corpus, the Baguio Apaches led by chief Karl Gabaen, the Benguet Electric Cooperative through General Manager Melchor Licoben LICOBEN; RCDS president Ryan Gumaya and past president Katrina Victoria Sevilla- Gumaya, the Puerto San Juan through its president Emmanuel Noel Clemente, Standard Insurance, Rotary Club district Gov. Ariel Jersey, Nippon Safeholdings and Formworks Corp., the Baguio Country Club through GM Anthony de Leon and Manjit Reandi, chairman and president of the John Hay Management Corporation. Other backers are Chinabank, Musar Music Coro through Bernadette Are VC al Avila, Honda Inc., One Loyalty Lending Baguio, Joel Aliping and the Baguio Water District. The Club is also thanking the mayor Benjamin Magalong led Good Governance Alliance, the Bank of Commerce and Kanvass Salon and Cafe. The event has the Amianan Balita Ngayon under editor/publisher Thom Picana, the Big Sound Radio and RNG Luzon as media partners. Tee time is 5AM. Pinewood members will use the System 36 Stableford scoring system, while the medal system applies for guests in the four category, one day tournament.          

CATARMAN, Northern Samar – Northern Samar is set to host the Ibabao Festival 2025 Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race this Sunday, June 1, 2025, as part of the province’s vibrant Ibabao Festival celebrations. In celebration of the 60th founding anniversary of the Province of Northern Samar, 60 athletes will take on the challenge of the Ibabao Triathlon as a highlight of the province’s month-long anniversary celebration. This symbolic race honors both the enduring strength of the Ibabaoan spirit and the evolving future of Northern Samar. The course features a 1.5 kilometer swim in the calm eastern waters of Catarman, followed by a 40- kilometer bike ride through scenic coastal roads and festive towns, and a 10-kilometer run, showcasing the province’s natural beauty and vibrant community spirit. Participants include a lineup of some of the country’s most decorated age group athletesand triathlon community leaders: *Robert Jonah Rivera – 100+ triathlon finishes, Kona and IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship finisher *Mervin Santiago – Top age grouper and first Filipino finisher at the IRONMAN World Championship in Nice *Ronald Molit – Coach and IRONMAN World Champs Kona finisher, multiple IRONMAN 70.3 podiums *Maryfel Aumentado – Among the pioneering Filipinas to finish the IRONMAN World Championship in Nice *Junrox Roque – GoClark Duathlete of the Year 2023 *Chang Hitalia – 25-time IRONMAN 70.3 finisher, 8-time IRONMAN finisher including Kona, and Boston Marathon finisher; representing Century Tri *Joffrey Ano – Longtime leader of CamSur Tri and age group standout with consistent podium finishes in local multisport races *National Athletes Erika Nicole Burgos, Gene Heart Quiambao, Bea Marie Quiambao *Go for Gold Development Team including John Patric Ciron, Sam Corpuz, Jan Javier, James Van Ramona, and Raymund Torio. They will race alongside other members of the Philippine national triathlon team, IRONMAN World Championship finishers, and athletes representing triathlon clubs such as CamSur Tri, Fit PH, Go for Gold, Baguio Benguet Tri, Rockstar Tri, Santé Barley, and Century Tri, as well as individual racers from Northern Samar and across the country. A side event, the Ibabao Festival Sunrise Run, will also be held for invited community runners and guests, offering a non-competitive but equally memorable experience through the heart of the festival grounds. Now on its third year, the Ibabao Festival, a brainchild of Governor Edwin Ongchuan, continues to captivate visitors with its colorful heritage showcases, scenic vistas, and a community spirit that keeps guests coming back for more. “This race is more than a test of endurance. It’s an invitation to connect with the heart of Northern Samar. From the stunning race course to the cheers of the local communities, we want our athletes to feel the unique warmth and pride that make this province unforgettable. Together with the Ibabao Festival, we’re creating moments that go beyond the finish line,” added Ms. Princess Galura, President and Managing Director of Sunrise Events, the Provincial Government’s partner and chief organizer of the Ibabao Festival Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race. The Ibabao Festival 2025 Sunrise Standard Triathlon Recon Race is staged in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Northern Samar, local government units, and event partners, highlighting the province’s commitment to sports tourism and cultural pride.              

The Sports Tourism Forum, to be held on June 5 in Iloilo City, will bring together dozens of professionals in the tourism, sports and education sectors. The one day event is jointly presented by the Department of Tourism Region VI, Sport Turismo Alliance, Inc, the Province of Iloilo and the City of Iloilo. About a hundred participants from across the country will be attending this forum to be held for the first time in Panay Island. ” This is a sports tourism MICE event and we are excited to present the best penal of speakers known in the industry,” revealed Charles Lim, the president of Sports Turismo Alliance, Inc – a non-stock, non-profit organization advocating sports tourism. Leading the distinguished speakers, is Assistant Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Roberto Alabado who is concurrently in charge of Sports Tourism as well as being DOT Regional Director for IVB. Other speakers include Princess Galura of Sunrise Events, Inc the organizers of the IRONMAN and 51.50 triathlons in the Philippines; Patrick Gregorio of DuckWorld PH, chief organizer of the recently revived MPTC Tour of Luzon; Jamelle Camba of multi sports tourism destination awardee, Subic Bay Freeport; Carlo Sampan, Assistant Vice President of Milo Sports Program; Celso Jimenez, Jr, Executive Director of the recently concluded National Big Bike Convention and Cleofe Albiso, Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts. “Numerous cities are seriously exploring to develop their cities into sports hubs to attract more tourists. There are many aspects to look into before this could happen,” explained Lim. “This is what this forum is all about. We are here to assist you in that process.” “Tourists visiting the Philippines for sports activities are increasing by large numbers,” added Lim. “We look forward to the synergy in developing sports tourism in the region. This forum shall be a big stepping stone towards this goal.” The Forum is also supported by top brands such as Cebu Pacific, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts and The Primer Group.      

BAGUIO CITY – A young and promising Baguio-born car racer shared the limelight in the motorsport community following his outstanding performance in the first round of the Formula 4 (Fa) Southeast Asia (SEA) Championships that was held at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia last May 2-4, 2025. Inigo Anton clinched two Rookie Cup wins and achieved an impressive overall podium finish which is a notable accomplishment for any racer, particularly someone in their inaugural season. The Formula 4 SEA Championship is designed to nurture talents and provide young and upcoming racers with the necessary skills and experience to advance in formula racing. The said series offers a competitive environment for racers from different regions to showcase their abilities. Anton’s recent successes highlight his potential to become a significant figure in the world of formula racing. What sets the young Baguio car racer apart is not merely his victories but also his humility, dedication and resilience on the track where as a rookie, he faces unique challenges that demand not only talent but also a kin ability to adapt and learn quickly. Further, Anton’s performances have impressed not only fans but also industry experts, establishing him as a rising start in formula racing. While Anton is carving his path in international motorsport, he is part of a select group of Filipino drivers who have made their mark on the global stage in formula racing. Anton’s accomplishments serve as a source of pride for the nation and inspire future generations of Filipino drivers to pursue their dreams in motorsports. “This once in a lifetime opportunity would not be possible without the incredible support of main sponsor, Motul Philippine Distributors Infiniteserve. I am committed to making the most of this chance as I pursue my dream of winning the F4 SEA championship for the Philippines,” Anton stressed. The sports community continues to rally behind Anton as he embarks on what promises to be a remarkable journey where his achievements inspire aspiring racers across the Philippines and beyond, demonstrating that commitment and hard work can lead to exceptional success. With continue support from Motul, automotive organizations, brands, and fans alike, Anton remains to be poised to become one of the greatest Filipino car racers as the journey ahead is filled with opportunities for learning, growth and new challenges as he sets his sights on winning this year’s F4 SEA championships for the country.        

BAGUIO BOY racing phenom Iñigo Anton to raise the Philippine flag in the 2025 Formula 4 SEA Championship under BlackArts Racing. With the guidance of former F1 driver Alex Yoong, Iñigo is set to embark on his first full season in Formula Cars. Iñigo won back to back rookie wins last year in F4 AUS and he has his eyes set on winning the overall rookie championship this 2025. Iñigo is backed by Motul Philippines Infiniteserv Int’l., Alpinestars, Yokohama BLU Coffee and the Automobile Association of the Philippines. We are all rooting for you. GOD SPEED, Iñigo!

  The MPTC Tour of Luzon 2025 reached its conclusion in Baguio City, as top cyclists faced the legendary uphill route through Kennon Road to Camp John Hay. After 1,074 kilometers of relentless racing over eight stages, Korean rider Dae Yeong Joo of Gapyeong Cycling emerged victorious—winning by a heart-stopping six seconds and earning the ₱1 million grand prize! His triumph capped a race that welcomed international riders from across Asia, reinforcing the Philippines’ growing status as a hub for world-class cycling events. Historically, Baguio has always been the ultimate test—featured in iconic races like the Marlboro Tour and Ronda Pilipinas—thanks to its grueling mountain roads, high-altitude climate, and scenic but challenging terrain. It’s where the strong rise, and champions are forged. Stage 8 was no exception. With the final push into the Cordilleras, the individual classification podium was dominated by Filipino talent: Stage 8 Individual Classification Winners Joshua Pascual (Excellent Noodles Cycling Team) Jan Paul Morales (Standard Insurance – PhilCycling) Jonel Carcueva (MPTC Development Team) Adding to his remarkable performance, #14 Joshua Pascual was also named the MPTC Tour of Luzon 2025 Eagle of the Mountain, clocking in an impressive 04:16:14 on the uphill assault—cementing his place as one of the country’s premier climbing specialists. Organized by DuckWorld PH and presented by Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), this event proved once again that the Cordilleras is more than just a destination—it is a challenge, an experience, and a crown jewel of sports tourism in the Philippines. Come ride where legends are born. Come find yourself in the Cordilleras. Congratulations to all the winners—and hats off to DuckWorld PH and MPTC for bringing back the thrill of the Tour of Luzon!    

It’s official—the Schools Division Office of Isabela is now a back-to-back regional sports champion, reasserting its stronghold in the Cagayan Valley Regional Athletic Association (CAVRAA) Meet with a much-improved performance from last year’s edition. The Isabeleño athletes put on masterclass outings in various sporting events to deliver on their promise of keeping the crown in the Queen’s grasp, racking up 318 medals with 117 golds, 101 silvers, and 100 bronzes. “Ang mindset po naming lahat e i-keep po ang pagdodominate sa swimming para tumaas po tayo sa ranking at hindi po maagaw ang championship,” Eric Virgilio Reyes, a Palarong Pambansa qualifier and one of Isabela’s most decorated swimmers, said. 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐃𝐑𝐈𝐋𝐋 Coming into this year’s CAVRAA Meet, the green armies were primed to prevail as they were in a much better condition after their 40-day training regimen, a 63-percent increase from their 15-day preparation in 2024. “Siniguro natin na talagang maayos at mahaba ang pag-eensayo ng ating athletes para sa CAVRAA. ‘Yung dating 15 days last year, nagawa nating dagdagan sa 40 ngayon, kaya alam kong mas lalo tayong lalaban,” Manolo Bagunu, Isabela Division Sports Officer, said. The training proved to make a difference as the delegation supplied Isabela with enough gold on a daily basis to sustain the lead in the overall standings. 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐑𝐄𝐓 Bagunu also attributed the delegation’s sterling performances to their sports interventions after a thorough study of Isabela’s CAVRAA showings in previous years. “Nagconduct tayo ng comparative analysis ng 2023 at 2024 CAVRAA to carefully look into how we performed in the past two years. Kaya nalaman natin agad kung saan tayo malakas at mahina,” Bagunu said. “So, ang ginawa natin, pinaigting natin ang training ng mga mahihinang events at lalo pa nating pinalakas ang dating gold miners like swimming para sure na sure na talagang atin pa rin ngayong taon,” he added. After last year’s dismal showing, arnis, chess, and taekwondo scaled up their games to haul in a combined 24-gold-medal count. Swimming, which handed Isabela its biggest gold mine with 29, also increased its gold medal reap to five, while athletics truly delivered as one of Isabela’s medal-rich events, doubling its gold reap from 11 to 22. Dancesports also sustained its contribution with seven golds. 𝐊𝐈𝐃𝐃𝐈𝐄 𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐈𝐄𝐒 The delegation found a big chunk of its gold count from the elementary division, rallying Isabela to a commanding lead over other kiddie delegates in the region. For its part, the secondary level kept its pace to secure a one-gold edge over Cagayan. The sports officer said that the same attention was given to both levels during the training, and their standings in their categories were a reflection of their rivals’ performances and athletic qualities. 𝐒𝐔𝐂𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐏𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐒 Isabela Schools Division Superintendent Rachel Llana recognized the effort of everyone who contributed to the Emerald’s successful campaign for another championship title. The superintendent also expressed her most profound gratitude to the Provincial Government of Isabela (PGI), through Gov. Rodito T. Albano III and Vice-Gov. Faustino “Bojie” G. Dy III, the whole officialdom of the PGI, and all LGUs for their utmost support to the division from the preparations to the actual regional sports festivity, The 117-gold-medal finish of Isabela in this year’s CAVRAA Meet, a 35-gold medal clear of its closest rival Cagayan, is the division’s best performance so far since 2010. (DepEd Isabela)

CAVRAA MEDAL TALLY UPDATE As of 12:32AM, April 27, 2025 Source: CAVRAA 2025