The Provincial Government of La Union proudly congratulates our #BidangLUcal, Kyla Louise Bulaga, for qualifying for the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, to be held in Thailand this December 2025. Kyla will be part of the Philippine swimming delegation, proudly representing the nation in this prestigious biennial event. Good luck, Kyla!
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Some one hundred golfers are expected to join the inaugural staging of the Victory Day Golf Cup scheduled on September 3, 2025 at the Camp John Hay fairway. The 1st Victory Day Golf Cup is one of the activities that had been lined up to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in the country, marking the surrender of Japanese Imperial Army head Gen.Tomoyoki Yamashita that signaled the end of World War 2. Republic Act 11216 declared every September 3 as Victory Day in the country in honor of the courage and sacrifice of Filipino and American soldiers who fought side by side for the country’s freedom but despite its historical significance, the day remains less recognized than other national commemorations such as Araw ng Kagitingan or the Day of Valor. Miguel Angelo Villa-real, 1st vice president for marketing and corporate communications of the Philippine Veterans Bank, said that the golf tournament is more than a sporting event, it is a tribute to heroism and a call to preserve history as proceeds will be used for the refurbishment and development of World War 2 historical markets in the city to ensure that the legacy of the heroes continues to inspire future generations. Further, he claimed that Veterans Bank wants to lead the way in changing the perception of the people on the commemoration of Victory Day by hosting a meaningful and engaging event at Camp John hay, near the site where Yamashita signed his surrender documents around eight decades ago. The Veterans Bank official invited golfers to join the local government in commemorating the historic milestone and help preserve the memory of those who fought for the country’s liberation from the titanic Japanese rule. He said that the proposed refurbishment and improvement of the World War II markers will be rolled out the soonest so that by the next commemoration, of Victory Day, people will be able to witness significant changes to allow them to think and reflect on the significance of the markers in connection to the freedom that they are now enjoying.
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – At only 12 years of age, Daryl Dame Eslay, a budding kickboxing athlete from the Summer Capital, recently made his mark at Batang Pinoy 2024 by winning gold in his event proving that age is no barrier when passion and discipline come together. Daryl began his kickboxing training two years ago, inspired by someone close to home—his uncle, a kickboxing coach and what started as a family influence quickly turned into a passion, as he committed himself fully to the sport. Balancing school and sports is no easy feat for a student-athlete like Daryl, but he has found a rhythm. “We train every day, even on weekends and school days,” he said as he admitted that this kind of setup can be tiresome but that he has gotten used to it to the point that the tiring days of training are now like a walk in the park. This consistent dedication to training prepared him for one of the biggest moments in his young athletic career: representing Baguio City at Batang Pinoy 2024. For Daryl, competing on a national stage was a moment of pride. “I am happy because I got the gold medal,” he stressed. Beyond the win, however, it was his and his teammates’ sense of unity and faith that undoubtedly left him a lasting impression. “What stood out the most for me is whenever we compete in a competition, we pray first.” For Daryl, these shared moments are a reminder that winning isn’t just about strength, but also about camaraderie and shared belief. Behind every successful athlete is a support system and Daryl is no exception as he expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the coaches, teammates and sponsors who have supported him in his kickboxing journey that made his road to winning the gold medal possible. With gold around his neck and fire in his spirit, Daryl Dame Eslay is a reminder that great things come to those who train hard, stay humble and never stop fighting for their dreams.(Heidi Alonzo/Baguio PIO intern/Gaby Keith)
NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — Showcasing its commitment to transforming the Philippines into a hub for world-class sports facilities, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has partnered with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to optimize the use of BCDA properties for national sports development. On Wednesday, August 13, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and PSC Chairperson John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that aims to modernize the country’s sports infrastructure by leveraging key BCDA assets. Under the agreement, BCDA and PSC will form a joint task force to identify and assess BCDA properties that can be developed into premier training and sports facilities. Among the priority locations are New Clark City, which is envisioned to host a national training center and Baguio City, identified for the establishment of an additional high-performance facility. “This partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission is a force multiplier. By linking BCDA’s land development capabilities with PSC’s national sports mission, together we are laying the groundwork for future champions and promoting a healthier, more active Filipino nation,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said. The initiative will also explore innovative funding models like public-private partnerships, implement advanced design and construction methods, and establish professional management to ensure the creation of world-class, sustainable, and self-sufficient sports infrastructure. Furthermore, this collaborative effort will maximize the utilization of government resources, promote long-term sports development, and foster a new beginning of excellence in Philippine sports. “The President’s directive is clear: build from the grassroots. We are building regional training centers across the country to speed up the national sports development agenda. Why? These are investments that combine youth empowerment with economic progress. I am happy the BCDA and PSC are equally committed to creating opportunities for regional development through sports,” PSC Chairman Gregorio said. New Clark City, positioned as the country’s new premier sports destination, boasts top-tier facilities, including World Athletics-certified Athletics Stadium, which has a 20,000-seating capacity with a nine-lane 400-meter track and field, and another four-lane warm-up track; as well as the World Aquatics-approved Aquatics Center, boasting a total seating capacity of 2,000, a 10-lane competition pool, eight-lane training pool and a diving pool. Additionally, the 525-unit Athletes’ Village provides accommodations for participating and training athletes in New Clark City. The rising metropolis also serves as the home for the National Academy of Sports. BCDA’s new initiative strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), bringing both health and infrastructure benefits to our community. It directly contributes to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by creating opportunities for healthy lifestyles at every age. Furthermore, it supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by investing in new, resilient infrastructure and pioneering innovation in sports science and training. Also present to witness the event were BCDA Chairperson Atty. Larry B. Paredes and PSC Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo.
After his inspiring debut at the IMMAF Youth World Championships 2025 in Abu Dhabi, Alexander “The Dreamer” Tagure Jr. is once again preparing to raise the Philippine flag, this time at the 1st Asian Mixed Martial Arts Association (AMMA) Youth Championship in Manama, Bahrain, from August 27 to 31, 2025. According to AMMA, “the event not only showcases rising talents across Asia’s mixed martial arts scene but also serves as the official qualifying tournament for the 3rd Asian Youth Games, which will be staged in Bahrain this October.” This will be Alexander’s second competition abroad, having already proven himself on the world stage. Bahrain now marks his entry into the Asian circuit and a step that keeps his journey moving forward. “If he places high enough or wins in Bahrain, he qualifies for the Asian Youth Games — where MMA will be a medal sport for the first time in history,” his coach, Erwin Tagure, said. Coach Erwin likewise expressed gratitude to those who have supported Alexander since day one. “Iyaman,” he said, recalling the struggles and small victories that brought them here. For him, Alexander’s journey is not only about personal triumph but also about sparking belief in others. “We hope our story inspires more youth to believe in themselves, work hard, and chase opportunities that once felt impossible.” In Abu Dhabi, Alexander faced tough competition from seasoned youth fighters around the globe yet made a strong impression earning respect not only for his skill but also for the spirit he brought into the cage. That debut laid the foundation for his growing reputation as one of the promising young athletes to watch. From Tabuk to Abu Dhabi, and now Bahrain, Alexander carries not only his own hopes but the spirit of every young fighter dreaming of the global stage. And as he sharpens his skills for this next challenge, Erwin is certain of one thing, “The dream did not end in Abu Dhabi. It’s only growing stronger.” (Province of Kalinga Page_ Good luck, Alexander! Photo by: Tribu Banwar
By Pigeon Lobien BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — With Jasmynne Polon finishing her degree at the Baguio College of Technology last summer, two former powerhouses are eyeing a return atop the Baguio-Benguet Educational Athletic Association women’s volleyball podium. University of Baguio and the University of the Cordilleras are dead set to make a return atop the podium of one of the two most sought for crowns in the BBEAL which is set to open either in September or October with the Baguio Central University as host. “It appears that they have intensified their training,” quipped BCT coach Jun Nisperos as he weighs on how to offset the absence of the hard-hitting Sablan, Benguet product. “She is a big loss and the other schools have seen a chance to end our reign,” he added in the vernacular. UB appears to be banking on a former Arellano University player who helped the school in its National College Athletic Association campaigns the past two years. “She is now eligible to play after a one-year residency,” said Nisperos as he now banks on his veterans – setter Abigail Cunanan, middle Shery Estal and outside hitter Hazel Macapinlac. Cunanan, who has taken over the captain position from Polon, is at her best after three years with the school. Nisperos also lost multi-tasker Shanel Toledo, who played her last game last May and who was part of Team Tuba which lost to Sablan in the finals of the Cong. Eric Go Yap Women’s Volleyball League “She wanted to graduate but I asked her to stay to give BCT another fighting chance,” said the BBEAL most bemedaled active coach. With Estal and Macapinlac backing the setter, Nisperos is confident that the Lady Atoms could win their fourth straight title, the fourth longest streak in the BBEAL after Saint Louis University’s eight straight and UC’s six straight during the early until the late 2000s. Nisperos has won a total of nine titles, six with UB where he played as setter during his college days of which four are with the women’s team and two more for the mean’s squad where current UB coach Jomar Guansing, the men’s defending champion, was his player. Polon, Estal and Cunanan played for Sablan in the inaugural women’s V-league where they emerged champion with Polon winning most valuable player during the regular season and finals and where Estal and Cunanan took the middle and setter awards.
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — A shared vision to strengthen the Summer Capital’s sports landscape took center stage at the recent Kapihan sa City Hall – Usapang Sports, July 18, where city officials led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and stakeholders tackled issues on sports development, grassroots engagement, and athlete support. The dialogue, led by the City Sports Division and attended by representatives from local associations, schools and other sectors, addressed key issues such as facility improvements, policy implementation, athlete incentives and organizational support. A major focus was the ongoing rehabilitation of the Baguio Athletic Complex with planned upgrades of the oval, athlete quarters, and swimming facilities to meet international standards. City Sports Division officer-in-charge Honorio Yamoyam shared updates on the city’s sports development initiatives and stressed the importance of cleanliness and discipline in maintaining city-managed sports facilities. “The concept is we make the youth na maging athletic. Sports should be for all… Let’s bring sports to different barangays. We’re on the right track,” he said, adding that to improve accessibility, the city is also working to bring sports closer to the grassroots level. In support of this goal, barangays are now required to submit Local Sports Development Plans in collaboration with the Sports Office, in alignment with the Philippine Sports Commission’s grassroots development agenda. Incentives for athletes also formed part of the discussion, particularly the residency requirements under the city’s Sports Code, which gives priority to those who live, study, or train in Baguio. For his part, the Mayor disclosed that several policies are already being implemented. “It’s about time that we have to be very strict ‘yan sa Athletic Complex. So please bear with us, we’re just doing the right thing for the athletic complex,” Magalong said. To streamline the process, city sports officer Paul Rillorta said his office is accepting school-issued certificates or transcripts in place of barangay clearances and that requirements such as valid IDs and official competition results will also be simplified for faster processing. City officials also reiterated their commitment to fairness and integrity as chances will be given to those who have potential coming from Baguio. The city sports office also clarified the distinction between resident athletes and attached athletes who train in Baguio but reside outside the city with each covered by separate incentive programs under the revised Sports Code. Logistical challenges, particularly in transporting athletic equipment, were raised by the cycling community, which highlighted the need for dedicated transportation for bikes and gear. A coaster is being proposed to assist athletes, coaches, and their equipment during events and training. With strong collaboration between the city government and the sports community, Baguio is taking measured steps toward a more inclusive, athlete-centered, and sustainable sports system that is paving the way for long-term growth from the grassroots up.- Roline Cabantoc/PIO Baguio intern/gabykeith
KALINGA, Philippines — From Kalinga to International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF), Alexander “The Dreamer” Tagure, Jr. proved that greatness doesn’t have to come from big cities or elite training camps. Sometimes, it also rises humble from the mountains, shaped by grit, discipline, and the fueling belief of a community. Representing the Philippines at the 2025 IMMAF World Youth MMA Championships in Abu Dhabi, Alexander stepped onto that world stage carrying not just his nation’s flag, but also the hopes of every young athlete training in small gyms wherever around the country. Hailing from Tribu Banwar, a small yet determined gym grounded in Tabuk City, Kalinga, known for shaping fighters with heart and discipline, Alexander’s journey was not really paved with privilege. His debut on the international stage was more than a personal milestone. It was a culmination of years of steady persistence, long hours of training after school, sessions with fellow young MMA dreamers, a deep trust in his coaches, and a promising journey they committed to. His participation in the IMMAF marked a proud moment not just for his province, but also for the broader community of local MMA athletes and enthusiasts who had followed and supported his progress from amateur bouts to national qualifiers. When the IMMAF Championships finally called, it felt like all their dreams were stepping into that cage with him. Alexander made a strong impression in his first bout, a close split decision that was all the more notable given it was his international debut. In the second fight, he was landing cleaner shots and looked poised for a win, according to Coach Erwin Tagure, but an armbar attempt from his opponent caught him. Due to the strain on his arm, Erwin decided to pull him from the competition as a precaution. Still, Alexander left a strong impression. ‘Proud of you, Alex, usap-usapan ang striking mo,’ ‘Grabe ang lakas ng striking,’ national MMA coaches said, echoing what many observed about how he carried himself against elite-level youth fighters from all over the world. And yes, it wasn’t just about the results, because for many back home, Alexander had already won. This wasn’t just a fight. It was a statement. “Congratulations, Alexander Tagure. At such a tender age, you strived hard to wave that Philippine banner in a sport we might still be young at,” another coach and pro-MMA fighter, Sharma Devaiah posted. For Kalinga, and for gyms like Tribu Banwar, and Alexander’s, this story is already inspiring a new generation of fighters who now know that yes, it is indeed possible that someone like them can make it international. The said IMMAF Youth World Championships, now on its sixth year with over 1,000 young athletes from more than 60 countries, is no small tournament. This is a clear path toward global recognition as UFC Executive Vice President and Head of International and Content, David Shaw, said, “You come to these championships as a stepping stone to the next level of your potential career.” And Alexander, like any young dreamer, is just getting started. The dream is far from over.//KB
At just 16 years old—and a first-timer at that—Syesha Lexa Casel has already proven she’s a force to be reckoned with in the exciting sport of kickboxing. Syesha has not only represented the Summer Capital in Batang Pinoy 2024, but also walked away with a gold medal—an achievement made even more meaningful by the sacrifices she made to get there. She started training in 2023, but her interest in kickboxing began much earlier in Grade 6, where she watched her older brother compete in a kickboxing match and instantly found herself drawn to the sport. The teenager thought it looked cool and interesting—and what started as simple admiration eventually turned into a commitment to the sport. For Syesha, competing in Batang Pinoy 2024 and winning gold on her debut was something fulfilling and unforgettable even as she admitted that preparing for the competition wasn’t easy. She trained every day, including school days, balancing her studies in the morning and training in the evening. While weekends mean rest for others, it means extra hours in the gym to train for her. As a dedicated student-athlete, time management is a challenge she’s learned to face head-on as she admits it’s hard, but she does her best to balance both worlds. During the competition, Syesha said she felt an overwhelming sense of pride and knew how tough the selection process was, so being chosen as one of Baguio City’s representatives was already an achievement in itself. To make things even better, she brought home the gold which she believes is a victory that is a testament that every training, every sacrifice and every challenge she faced had all been worth it. Behind that success was a support system she deeply values and she credits her coaches and teammates for pushing her limits and motivating her as an athlete. She also expressed heartfelt thanks to her family and sponsors, especially to her Tita Jamie, whose financial support made it possible for her to compete. To young athletes, Syesha’s message is simple: keep pushing. “Everyone starts as a beginner,” Syesha said as she believes that as long as you have passion and stay consistent, improvement will follow. When asked what drives her to keep training, Syesha simply said, “myself” as she admitted the need to prove something, which is why she stays motivated by her personal goals and dreams, knowing that every match, win or lose, brings her closer to where she wants to be. So even after Batang Pinoy 2024, she’s not letting up and is already back to training, preparing for upcoming tryouts and future competitions. For her, Batang Pinoy 2024 marks the beginning of something bigger—and she’s just getting started.-Heidi V. Alonzo/Baguio PIO intern/gabykeith
