MANILA, Philippines – Hubert Cani took over late, lifting the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws to a 68-64 win over the retooled Colegio de San Juan de Letran Knights in the 25-Under division of the 2018 SMART City Hoops Summer Classic held at the indoor court of Greenhills West in San Juan City on Saturday, April 14.   

"This is our second tournament since the UAAP. Ang goal namin this year (Our goal this year) is to get as many games as possible," Tamaraws head coach Olsen Racela said about joining this tournament presented by Chooks-to-Go.

Faced with a 5-point deficit midway through the final frame, it was FEU's battle-tested core that made sure that they would go home with the win.

"Well, the nice thing about this team is that any player can take charge at any moment," Racela said.

Behind new recruits Christian Fajarito, Bonbon Batiller, and Fran Yu, Letran was able to go on a 9-0 run to pick up a 57-52 lead.

Wendel Comboy was able to stop the bleeding with a 3-point play before Cani scored 9 straight points to gain a 64-57 lead with 1:15 left.

"Si Hubert took charge for us sa offense, while si Richard [Escoto] nag-take charge naman on defense," Racela explained. "Lahat naman are capable of stepping up. Hubert stepped up and the others recognized that, that is why they were giving him the ball."

(Hubert took charge for us on offense, while Richard took charge on defense. Everyone is capable of stepping up, Hubert stepped up and the others recognized, that that is why they were giving him the ball.)

Cani finished the game with a game-high 15 points on 6-of-8 shooting, while Escoto had 11 markers and 4 boards.

Former Adamson Baby Falcon EJ Agbong, who finished the game with 8 points spiked by two triples, tried to spark Letran but was too late.

Batiller paced Letran with 14 points, while Fajarito tallied a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Bong Quinto and Jeo Ambohot did not suit up for Letran. On the other hand, Prince Orizu was called up by Nigeria to play in the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

UP vs Lyceum

Meanwhile, Bright Akhuetie and the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons took a dominant 88-68 wire-to-wire win over the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates.

With their PBA D-League campaign still ongoing, the Pirates decided to field a squad composed of their Team B players for the meantime.

Akhuetie, a transferee from Perpetual Help, towed UP with 18 points and 15 rebounds. Incoming super senior Paul Desiderio chimed in 17 markers.

UP led by as much as 32 points in the lopsided contest, 84-52, late in the final frame before settling for the 20-point victory.

Renzo Navarro made his debut for Lyceum, scoring 10 points in 20 minutes of game time. Kim Cinco and Casper Pericas led the Pirates with 11 points apiece.

On April 18, the Ateneo Blue Eagles will open their campaign against FEU in the first game, while the Fighting Maroons will take on the Knights afterwards. 

The Scores:

First Game:

FEU 68 - Cani 15, Escoto 11, Inigo 8, Tolentino 6, Comboy 5, Tuffin 5, Bienes 4, Bayquin 3, Stockton 2, Ebona 2, Parker 2, Ramirez 2, Tchuente 2, Nunag 1, Jopia 0.

CSJL 64 - Batiller 14, Balanza 11, Fajarito 10, Agbong 8, Muyang 7, Celis 4, Yu 4, Galvelo 2, Villanueva 2, Reyson 1, Lociano 1, Valdez 0, Taladua 0, Balagasay 0, Banez 0, Mandreza 0.

Quarterscores: 16-14, 34-34, 48-48, 68-64.

Second Game:

UP 88 - Akhuetie 18, Desiderio 17, Murell 11, Manzo 7, Jaboneta 7, De Liano Ja. 7, Vito 6, Tungcab 6, Longa 3, Esparada 0.

LPU 68 - Cinco 11, Pericas 11, Navarro 10, Lawig 8, Remulla 8, Baltazar 6, Santos 5, Guinto 5, Salo 2, Barbero 2, Japzon 0, Mahinay 0, Valencia 0, Alamo 0.

Quarterscores: 25-18, 46-32, 69-49, 88-68. – Rappler.com

2364, United Kingdom – Manchester City moved to within touching distance of a 5th English league title after bouncing back from a bitterly disappointing week to beat Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 at Wembley on Saturday, April 14. 

Defeat for Spurs handed Chelsea a glimmer of hope in the fight for Champions League places after they came from 2-0 down to beat Southampton 3-2, but Liverpool strengthened their position in the top 4 as Mohamed Salah scored his 40th goal of the season in a routine 3-0 win over Bournemouth.

City blew the chance to seal the title by losing 3-2 at home to local rivals Manchester United last weekend, and were then dumped out the Champions League  at the quarter-final stage 5-1 on aggregate by Liverpool in midweek.

However, Pep Guardiola's men showed why they have been compared with the all-time great teams of the Premier League era by inflicting Spurs' first league defeat since the sides last met at the Etihad in December.

"I said after 10-15 minutes we will be champions," said Guardiola of his side's fast start. "After what happened and how the people reacted, these guys are fantastic. They are awesome, they are incredible.

"What they lived in the last week was so unfair but they deserve (to win the league) and now we have a match ball. We had the first one against United, we could not do it and now we have another one against Swansea with our 60,000 people and we are going to try to be champion."

City host Swansea next Sunday but could even be confirmed as champions as early as Sunday if United lose at home to rock bottom West Brom.

Gabriel Jesus raced in behind an unsettled Spurs defence to drill home the opener on 22 minutes and Ilkay Gundogan slotted home the second from the penalty spot 3 minutes later as Hugo Lloris wiped out Raheem Sterling, although replays suggested the contact took place outside the area.

Just like against United last weekend when a 2-0 half-time lead disappeared in 16 minutes, City threatened to let another promising position slip away when Christian Eriksen brought Spurs back into the game just before the break with a bit of fortune when Aymeric Laporte's clearance ricocheted off the Dane and past the helpless Ederson.

However, this time there was no second-half collapse as City should have ran out even more convincing winners.

Jesus and Sterling passed up huge chances to add to their lead before Sterling – who also missed two great opportunities when City were 2-0 up on United last weekend – finally found the roof of the net after Lloris parried another Jesus effort.

Salah has the 'wow' factor 

City's Champions League conquerors moved ever closer to sealing their place in the competition next season as Liverpool cruised past Bournemouth with Salah again taking center stage.

"What a number. Wow!" exclaimed manager Jurgen Klopp on hearing Salah is the first Liverpool player since Ian Rush 31 years ago to score 40 in a season.

"Mo knows what this means and the way we play suits him," added Klopp. "For him, for the boys, it’s fantastic and today he certainly didn’t look like he doesn’t want to score in the next few games."

All of Liverpool's prolific front 3 were on target as Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino struck either side of Salah's deft header to take their combined tally for the season to 82.

Chelsea kept their faint hopes of Champions League football next season alive by closing to within 7 points of Spurs with a stunning 8-minute fightback to deepen Southampton's predicament in the bottom three.

Saints led 2-0 with 20 minutes remaining through Dusan Tadic and debutant Jan Bednarek.

However, Olivier Giroud came off the bench to finally kickstart his Chelsea career with his first two Premier League goals for the club either side of Eden Hazard's leveller.

"As long as it is mathematically possible we will believe we can reach the top four," said Giroud. "We have got five finals to play, after that we will see."

Crystal Palace had been set to drop into the bottom three on goal difference prior to Chelsea's comeback.

However, they now enjoy a 6-point cushion over Southampton thanks to a thrilling 3-2 win over Brighton at Selhurst Park with Wilfried Zaha scoring twice.

Huddersfield look well set for a stay up as Tom Ince netted in stoppage time beat Watford 1-0 and open up a 7-point lead on the bottom 3.

Swansea couldn't make home advantage count against Everton, but also opened up a 5-point lead on Southampton just above the relegation zone with a 1-1 draw.

At the other end of the table, Burnley closed to within two points of 6th-placed Arsenal as a fast start was enough to secure a 2-1 win over Leicester. – Rappler.com

ILOCOS SUR, Philippines – Palarong Pambansa 2018 opens in Vigan City at 1 pm on Sunday, April 15, with around 15,000 student athletes competing in the Philippines' largest youth sporting event. 

The Department of Education (DepEd) said the elementary and high school athletes at Palarong Pambansa come from 17 provinces. (READ: Things to know about Palarong Pambansa, PH's largest youth sporting event) 

At 12:30 pm, the national competition kicks off with a parade of athletes, who will pass by Bantay town, go through the heritage city of Vigan, and return to Bantay's President Elpidio Quirino Stadium for the opening ceremonies. (READ: What you need to know about 2018 Palaro host, Ilocos Sur)

No less than President Rodrigo Duterte is set to deliver a speech before thousands of athletes, their coaches, and other spectators in Ilocos Sur on Sunday. 

Elimination games for all the sports will be held from Monday to Thursday, April 16 to 19. The semi-final and final games are scheduled on Friday, April 20. (READ: LIVE UPDATES: Palarong Pambansa 2018 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur) 

Victorious athletes will be determined by Saturday, April 21, the day set for the championship round. (READ: MEDAL TALLY: Palarong Pambansa 2018) 

The awarding and closing ceremonies will be held on Saturday at 1 pm. 

Davao City is set to host Palarong Pambansa in 2019. – Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – The 61st Palarong Pambansa opens on Sunday, April 15 in Ilocos Sur. 

In a press statement released by the Department of Education (DepEd), Secretary Leonor Briones has primarily cited the province’s state-of-the-art sports facilities in choosing the host province for this year’s Palarong Pambansa. (READ: DepEd, Ilocos Sur ink partnership for Palarong Pambansa 2018)

Palarong Pambansa gathers more than 12,000 young Filipino athletes from all over the country, playing in different sports and disciplines to promote camaraderie and sportsmanship among students.

Often cited as the culmination of year-long competitions, student-athletes from elementary and high school look forward to getting a spot in the roster to represent their region in the annual national competition. (READ: Things to know about Palarong Pambansa, the PH's largest youth sporting event)

This year, DepEd also tied up with the Philippine Sports Commission in training campus journalists to cover the annual schools-based sports event. (READ: DepEd, PSC to train campus journalists for Palarong Pambansa 2018 coverage)

Palaro 2018 medal tally

{source}{module 3960}{/source}

Follow all updates from Rappler's team in Vigan, Ilocos Sur on Rappler's live blog below:

#PalarongPambansa2018 - Curated tweets by RapplerSports

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws are on track to clinching the second seed as they defeated the National University (NU) Lady Bulldogs in 4 sets, 25-21, 25-22, 16-25, 25-20, on Sunday, April 15, at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

NU's back-to-back errors gave the momentum to FEU, as the Lady Tamaraws closed out the game with a 5-0 run capped off by captain Bernadeth Pons' attack.

The Lady Tamaraws ended the elimination round with a 10-4 record, while the Lady Bulldogs finished with 7-7 – their only second round win coming from their match against the University of the East. 

FEU will clinch a twice-to-beat advantage if Ateneo de Manila University loses to defending champion De La Salle University. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Ask jiu-jitsu world champion Meggie Ochoa about her life outside the sport she loves, and she'll probably have a hard time answering you.

Not that it matters to her.

Ochoa has found her life's purpose in jiu-jitsu. What was just a recreational activity, she now considers her calling.

She uses jiu-jitsu to help end child sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation of children.

"Para kasing sobrang immersed ko na doon e. Sobrang immersed ako sa sport and advocacy na parang...hobbies?" said Ochoa. (I feel like I am so immersed in the sport and in my advocacy like...hobbies?)

Around 90% percent of her week is dedicated to jiu-jitsu and her advocacy, Ochoa said. That is, 45% for jiu-jitsu, 45% for her advocacy. The remaining 10% is for her family.

She is not complaining, though, since she is changing other people's lives.

Finding her path

It all started after reading a CNN article about a Mexican woman who said she was raped 43,200 times. That woman, Karla Jacinto, said she was sexually abused by around 30 men every day in a span of 4 years.

Back then, Ochoa was participating in her second world championship late 2015. She was competing abroad using the money she got through crowdfunding, and was at a crossroads, asking herself why she was using doing it. Then she read the story.

Ochoa had sleepless nights, and felt she cannot live her life without doing anything about this. 

Through research, Ochoa found out that child sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation of children are also rampant in the Philippines. In fact, in a Unicef report last December 2017, the Philippines was said to be one of the top global sources for child pornography.

Even children as young as two years old were subjected to sexual abuse and human trafficking through livestreaming on the internet.

"All along," Ochoa said, "alam mo 'yun, in-enjoy ko lang 'yung buhay ko. Lumalaban lang ako, alam mo 'yun? Shucks, nangyayari pala 'to dito?" (All along, I was just enjoying my life. I was just competing, and shucks, this is happening here in our country?)

In February 2016, Ochoa said she surrendered herself to the Lord and it all became clear. She was meant to use jiu-jitsu as a platform to help those who were abused and traumatized.

Jiu-jitsu addict

The 27-year-old is a self-confessed jiu-jitsu "addict." She even quit her job at Bantay Kalikasan 4 years ago to focus on her first world championships.

"Gustong gusto ko 'yung job ko e pero mas minahal ko yung jiu-jitsu. Tsaka 'yung naisip ko, parang hindi na rin ako bata. I'm in the last few years of my prime so kailangan kong ito 'yung bigyan ng oras ngayon kasi 'yung tulong, puwede ko ring gawin 'yun at the same time eh. Puwede kong gawing mas full-time after I retire," said Ochoa.

(I really liked my job but I just loved jiu-jitsu more. I also realized that I was not getting any younger. I'm in the last few years of my prime so I need to dedicate my time for jiu-jitsu since I can help at the same time. I can help full-time after I retire.)

Since then, Ochoa has won an estimate of 40 awards, although she said she does not count her accolades anymore.

She is a 3-time International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) World Champion, and a two-time IBJJF Asian Champion. She also took home gold medals at the 2016 Asian Beach Games and 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games.

{source}<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BVDblxqg9l_/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:33.28703703703704% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BVDblxqg9l_/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">With the one and only prof. @angelicagalvao  Thank you sooo much for just absolutely everything! There is no one like you. We didn&#39;t get the result we hoped for this year but with your help and guidance, no doubt we will at the right time. So blessed by you!  Photo by @atosjiujitsuhq</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/meggie_ochoa/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> meggie ochoa</a> (@meggie_ochoa) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-06-07T21:34:20+00:00">Jun 7, 2017 at 2:34pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>{/source}

While winning medals is not necessarily a bad thing, jiu-jitsu, Ochoa said, is "beyond competition" for her personally.

"It's really more about empowering others, about making a positive impact on the lives of those that need it the most."

Through jiu-jitsu, Ochoa has touched the lives of kids from Safe Haven. According to its official website, Safe Haven is a home for children who have "experienced severe trauma, abject neglect, abandonment, and various forms of abuse."

Since December 2016, Ochoa and her team at Jiu-Jitsu Manila have been teaching Safe Haven kids the sport.

It was a challenge at the beginning, however, knowing that some of the children were hesitant to do certain jiu-jitsu moves because of what they have experienced.

But as soon as the children got the hang of it, they also fell in love with the sport just like Ochoa did.

"Nakausap rin namin 'yung may-ari ng home. Grabe 'yung mga sinabi nila. 'Yung iba sa kanila, parang before 'yung tingin sa sarili, sobrang baba. As in, parang, as in, alam mo 'yung 'pag may traumatic experience ka, 'yung self-worth mo, 'yung tingin mo talaga sa sarili mo, parang wala, as in ganoon, para akong wala," Ochoa shared.

(I talked to the owner of the home. The other kids had really low self-esteem. When you have a traumatic experience, your self worth, how you see yourself, it gets affected. Some see themselves like they are nothing.)

"Pero noong nag-jiu jitsu siya, as in, grabe, noong nakita ko siyang lumaban, grabe, as in hindi talaga siya walang gana, ganadong ganado siya. Sobrang nakakataba ng puso na sinabi sa akin na, 'Ate Meggie, ang saya lumaban, 'no? Gustong gusto ko lumaban kahit na panalo o talaga.'"

(But one kid who learned jiu-jitsu, I saw that he/she had a lot of fight in him/her, as in, he/she did not feel like he/she did not enthusiasm, he/she showed a lot of zeal. And it warms my heart when he/she said, 'Ate Meggie, isn't it delightful to fight? I really want to fight even if I win or lose.')

"So parang, 'Wow, oh my gosh.' The fact na something na mayroon siyang something na ganoon siya katuwa na ginagawa, alam mo yun, that's something." (And I was like, 'Wow, oh my gosh.' The fact that he/she is experiencing joy like that, that's something.) 

The Safe Have kids are already winning medals in various local jiu-jitsu competitions. But more than that, the children's fortitude when facing tough positions during matches is more important in the bigger scheme of life, Ochoa said.

{source}<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg6F1cvgA2z/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bg6F1cvgA2z/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">#latepost Jiujitsu is such a beautiful art and sport. When taught by the right people to the right people with the right attitude and behavior, it becomes a tool for change.  Everytime our @safehavenmanila kids compete, my heart is filled with so much joy regardless of the result, although the results are always awesome. I’m just so so grateful to the Lord for the opportunity to share His love for them together with @atosphwolfpack @atosjjphilippines through jiujitsu. Last Sundayin the BJJFP International Open, they once again competed and all of them were amazing and showed so much heart and they just all show constant improvement and each one brought home medals again!!  Oh Lord, You are one amazing God!  Congratulations as well to all the @atosphwolfpack ladies who fought out there and who always carry themselves as true champions on and off the mats. So so proud of our @jiujitsumanila kids and beginners as well who competed, especially those who took the big step of doing it for the first time! Everyone’s progress is exciting!!  Thank You to the Source of all things, whose plan is beyond what our limited human minds can fully grasp. I look forward to each step of that plan unfolding because I know I will be experiencing every moment of it with You. Because of Your love through our Lord Jesus that we cannot contain, we overflow and do everything out of that love. And living each day with that love brings us Spirit-filled joy that transcends all circumstances. @underarmourph @sanctband.global @sanctbandclubph @hyperflyasia #nlexcorp @anytimefitnessphilippines @anytimefitnessgh @anytimefitnesswilson</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/meggie_ochoa/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> meggie ochoa</a> (@meggie_ochoa) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2018-03-29T12:47:48+00:00">Mar 29, 2018 at 5:47am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>{/source}

"Lessons like that, you bring that outside of the mats eh. For me, that's what matters even more dito sa sport na ito (in this sport). It has that kind of empowering factor."

Ochoa said some of the Safe Haven kids are aspiring to be world champions in the future. Almost all of them, meanwhile, want to share and teach jiu-jitsu to those who have gone through the same experiences as them.

"Ngayon kasi, empowered na sila enough to empower others, gusto na nila magturo. Pero they have to be equipped. (Now, they are empowered enough to empower others, they want to teach. But they have to be equipped.) So 'yun 'yung next phase. It's equipping them to teach others, meaning other kids. That's the expansion plan of Safe Haven," said Ochoa.

Not asking for more

Ochoa said she patterns her life's direction with God's plans for her.

Although getting the black belt and winning medals are still a part of her jiu-jitsu career, building awareness about her advocacy is now Ochoa's top priority.

"Parang nandoon na talaga ‘yung direction ng jiu-jitsu sa life ko," said Ochoa. (That is where jiu-jitsu in my life is headed.)

As far as she is concerned, her life is all about jiu-jitsu and helping child sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation of children.

Ochoa admits she has no idea whether she will ever build a family of her own nor what will happen to her life in the future. 

Still, Ochoa is at peace.

"Hindi ako nagsisisi. Kahit na ito na 'yung buhay ko ngayon, grateful lang ako para sa lahat talaga. Hindi ako naghahanap ng iba pa." (I do not regret anything. Even if this is my life now, I am grateful for all of this. I am not looking for more.) – Rappler.com

ILOCOS SUR, Philippines (UPDATED) – It was an explosion of color in Vigan City and Bantay town on Sunday, April 15, as athletes vying for the Palarong Pambansa 2018 championship conducted their parade.

It was the first time for the heritage city of Vigan, Ilocos Sur’s capital, to host the largest youth sporting event in the Philippines. (READ: Palarong Pambansa 2018: Let the games begin!)

The young athletes and their coaches started gathering outside the Ilocos Sur provincial capitol grounds at 11:30 am. Some even ate their packed lunch along the sidewalks.

At about 12:30 pm, the bands started banging their drums, the flag bearers were instructed to wave their multi-colored banners, and the spectators clapped their hands. The parade has begun! (READ: Things to know about Palarong Pambansa, PH's largest youth sporting event)

In the middle of the parade, athletes and bystanders were delighted to see paratroopers gliding up in the air!

The athletes walked around the streets of Bantay and the famous Calle Crisologo in Vigan. They ended their parade at the President Elpidio Quirino Stadium, where the opening ceremonies will be held. 

It will be at this stadium where the athletes will hear President Rodrigo Duterte deliver his speech at around 3:30 pm. 

Ilocos Sur Governor Ryan Singson will also host a Governor’s Night for politicians, selected delegation officials, and other guests at the Vigan Convention Center. (READ: What you need to know about 2018 Palaro host, Ilocos Sur)

Elimination games will be held between April 16 to 19, while the semi-final and final rounds for various sports are set on April 20. The championship round will happen on April 21, with the awarding and closing ceremonies happening in the afternoon. – Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – After securing a victory in their last elimination round game against National University, the Far Eastern Univesity (FEU) Lady Tamaraws have the momentum ahead of their playoff for a finals slot with the Ateneo Lady Eagles.

With their 4th straight win, the FEU Lady Tamaraws are the favorites to end the reigning finals matchup of Ateneo and De La Salle University, who have been facing each other since Season 76.

However, Ateneo and FEU took one game apiece from each other during the eliminations. Both teams have been head-to-head in the race for the twice-to-beat advantage since Ateneo's disappointing loss to the University of the Philippines. 

"Manalo, matalo, sila pa rin ang kaharap namin eh. So starting tomorrow, ang focus namin is Ateneo kasi ang focus namin every practice, kung sino ang kalaban namin. After ng viewing, makikita din namin kung ano ang weakness at strength," said FEU head coach George Pascua.

(Win or lose, they're still the ones we will be facing. So starting tomorrow, our focus is Ateneo, because every practice, we focus on whoever our opponent is. After the viewing, we will see their weaknesses and strengths.) 

Prior to the Final 4 era, FEU has been the dominating force of the UAAP women's volleyball tournament, tallying a total of 29 championships. Pascua is not just hopeful of ending the Ateneo-La Salle finals era – he's also aiming to bring back the title to Morayta.

If the Lady Tamaraws were to clinch the title in Season 80, they would end a 10-year championship drought and nab their 30th crown.

"Kahit noon pa naman kasi, ang volleyball ay FEU-UST [finals] sa babae. So gusto lang namin ibalik, unang-una, ang pressure dapat, sa mga players kasi [30th championship], tapos kami pa 'yung host," said Pascua. 

(Even before, it's usually FEU-UST in the finals of women's volleyball. So we just want to bring back the pressure for the players because it would be our 30th championship, then we are also this season's hosts.)

From the start of the season, the Lady Tamaraws have been building up their skills for championship-level matches, making sure that they're able to close out games and not succumb to 5th-set pressure. 

Graduating captain Bernadeth Pons is not only grateful for their 4-game winning streak to end the eliminations. She's also confident her team is willing to face the challenges ahead of them in the post-season. 

"Na-ready naman kami ni coach, physically and mentally na ano 'yung possible na mangyari, na kung in case man na mag-playoffs or something, ready pa rin kami," said Pons. 

(Coach prepared us physically and mentally for anything that's possible, so in case of playoffs or something, we'll be ready.) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – In the playoffs, teams, as much as possible, try to avoid going up against the number one squad, especially when it is the defending champion.

That is the predicament National University (NU) faces in its Final 4 campaign when it locks horns with top seed De La Salle University (DLSU). But NU Lady Bulldogs head coach Babes Castillo said he "likes" the matchup. 

"I like that. Always kasi, you always compete with the best. Doon mo lang makikita kung ano'ng meron ka. That is why in that regard, gusto ko 'yun. I like that," said the first-year tactician. 

(I like that. You always want to compete with the best. That is the only time you'll know what you're capable of. That is why in that regard, I like that.)

The Lady Bulldogs were touted to challenge the two-time defending UAAP champions' reign after defeating the Lady Spikers in the first round for an impressive 6-1 record.

But as soon as the second round started, NU entered a downward spiral as it lost 5 straight games, 3 of those against non-Final 4 teams University of Santo Tomas, Adamson University, and the University of the Philippines. 

Although the Lady Bulldogs punched their ticket to the Final 4 with a victory over the University of the East last April 8, they ended the elimination round on the wrong foot following a 25-21, 25-22, 16-25, 25-20 loss to Far Eastern University on Sunday, April 15. 

Still, Castillo believes their string of losses will only mold them heading into their clash against the Lady Spikers, who have played in the UAAP finals for the last 9 seasons.

"Sabi ko nga sa kanila, kung nangyayari ito, kailangan nating pagdaanan iyan para magkaroon naman ng value ang pagkuha natin ng goal. Hindi naman 'yan kaagad-agad," said Castillo. 

(I told them, if this is happening, we need to undergo this experience so there would be value in our pursuit of achieving our goal. Achieving a goal is not an immediate task.) 

The Final 4 begins on Saturday, April 21, at the Mall of Asia Arena. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines (3rd UPDATE) – The De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers trounced archrivals Ateneo Lady Eagles in straight sets, 26-24, 25-17, 25-19, on Sunday, April 15, at the Mall of Asia Arena. 

La Salle was trailing Ateneo in the 3rd set until substitute middle blocker Julia Ipac scored back-to-back attacks to edge out the Lady Eagles by the second technical timeout. Ateneo continued to collapse with errors as Majoy Baron brought it to match point and Desiree Cheng ended the game for La Salle.

The Lady Spikers will advance to the Final 4 as the top seed, finishing the eliminations with a 12-2 record. The Lady Eagles fell to 3rd place with a 9-5 record and failed to clinch the twice-to-beat advantage for the first time in 4 years.

With Ateneo's loss, the Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Tamaraws are officially the second seeded team with the twice-to-beat advantage.

Kim Dy led the Lady Spikers with 13 points, followed by Cheng with 12 points. Michelle Cobb outplayed Deanna Wong in the setting department with 24 excellent sets to 14 while making 7 points off 4 blocks and 3 aces.

Kat Tolentino did most of the work for Ateneo, scoring 15 points off 11 spikes, 3 aces, and one block. Dani Ravena made her first appearance in the second round and she made 11 excellent digs.

The Lady Spikers broke away from the stalemate and reached set point up by 4, 24-20. Ateneo turned it back with a 4-0 run capped off by a Jho Maraguinot ace to extend the set. Maraguinot's service error gifted DLSU with its second set point and Baron closed the set with a quick.

The reigning champions made quick work of the Lady Eagles as they capitalized on Ateneo's errors, pulling away to a 10-point lead, 20-10. The Lady Eagles rallied back too late as their back-to-back errors also gave DLSU a 2-0 advantage.

The Scores:

DLSU (3) – Dy 13, Cheng 12, Tiamzon 11, Baron 9, Cobb 7, Ipac 4.

Ateneo (0) – Tolentino 15, Madayag 8, Maraguinot 6, Samonte 6, Wong 5, De Leon 3, Gequillana 1.

– Rappler.com 

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte led the opening of the Palarong Pambansa 2018, where he called on student-athletes to do their best as it is just the start of their role in nation-building.

It is Duterte's second time to lead the opening of the national sporting event, which is being held in Ilocos Sur this year. (IN PHOTOS: The colorful parade at Palarong Pambansa 2018)

"The [Palarong Pambansa] serves as a training ground for future leaders and nation builders, whose values and principles are founded on perseverance, discipline, teamwork, integrity, and love of country," Duterte said in his speech on Sunday, April 15.

"To student-athletes, congratulations. The fact you're here today is enough proof of your determination and excellence in [your] chosen sports.... that makes all of you winners and champions already," he added.

Duterte told the students that being a delegate is just one of the many "firsts" in their journey toward success. He encouraged them to enhance their skills for their future role in building the nation.

"Embody values, enhance skills, for this is the beginning of your greater participation in nation-building. I look forward to your most significant contributions to society in the days to come," the President said.

Duterte also emphasized the importance of involving the youth in sports to "divert" them from illegal drugs and criminality.

At the same time, he called on students to "balance" their academics and sports, saying this would help them develop the necessary skills for "multitasking, time management, and decision-making."

In his speech, Duterte also thanked the province of Ilocos Sur, which is celebrating its bicentennial anniversary, for hosting the largest sporting event in the Philippines for the 3rd time.

Elimination games will be held from April 16 to 19, while the semifinals and finals for various sports are set for April 20. The awarding and closing ceremonies will happen on April 21.– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Even with a complete roster, the Ateneo Lady Eagles were denied in straight sets by reigning champions De La Salle University Lady Spikers, who played with no pressure to go undefeated in the second round on Sunday, April 15.

The Lady Spikers made it a point to prove that they have recovered from their two losses in the first round against National University and Adamson University. With their game against Ateneo being a non-bearing game, graduating players Kim Dy, Majoy Baron, and Dawn Macandili gave their all to make the statement. 

"We're treating every game like it's our last. Of course, we're all out. It's now or never every game," said Dy in a mix of English and Filipino.

Younger players who stepped up in Sunday's game, like starting setter Michelle Cobb and Tin Tiamzon, are consciously playing their hearts out in the remaining games for the pride of their seniors.

"Siyempre, for our seniors, kasi that's what coach says, we want to give them the grandest exit, so 'yun ang motivation namin as a team," said Cobb. 

(Of course, for our seniors, because that's what coach says, we want to give them the grandest exit, so that's our motivation as a team.)

Although the young DLSU players have been inconsistent, DLSU head coach Ramil de Jesus heaped praise on Cobb, who has earned the trust of her teammates.

"Ngayong second round, kumpleto sila [Ateneo], ando'n na 'yung confidence sa setter natin, nagkaroon ng tiwala sa bawat isa," said De Jesus.

(In this second round, Ateneo is complete, the confidence in our setter is there, there is trust among the team members.)

Cobb has yet to embrace her role as a setter even though she outplayed Ateneo's Deanna Wong in the setting department, 24-14. However, she has become a vital player, scoring 7 points off 4 blocks and 3 aces on Sunday.

"I'm still in the process of embracing my role as we go into the Final 4 and in our remaining games. My goal is to embrace my role.... I think that's gonna lighten it up for the team," said Cobb.

The Lady Spikers aim to continue their winning ways as they face 4th seed National University Lady Bulldogs next Sunday, April 22, at the Mall of Asia Arena. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagles captain Maddie Madayag is making sure her teammates are heading into the Final 4 with their heads held high even if they ended the UAAP Season 80 women's volleyball elimination round on a sour note.

The Lady Eagles were hit with a double whammy on Sunday, April 15, after they failed to secure the twice-to-beat advantage following a 24-26, 17-25, 19-25 sweep by the De La Salle University Lady Spikers. 

A win against the Lady Spikers could have given Ateneo the win-once incentive in the Final 4. But La Salle displayed championship poise from the get-go to relegate Ateneo to 3rd place. 

It's the first time since Season 76 that Ateneo failed to finish the eliminations as a Top 2 team, but Madayag said they will still face the twice-to-beat Far Eastern University Lady Tamaraws with confidence. 

"We're not gonna be complacent but we're going to be confident despite the loss.  We just need to play happy," said Madayag. 

"Like what Coach Tai (Bundit) said, 'Ang ganda ng laro 'nyo sa training tapos ngayon, 'di kayo masaya pagdating sa game.' Kailangan lang talaga mag-enjoy."

(Like what Coach Tai said, "You've been playing well in training, but in today's game, you're not as happy." We just really need to enjoy.)

The Lady Eagles struggled offensively as Kat Tolentino was the only player to breach double figures with 15 points against La Salle, which had 3 finishing in double digits in Kim Dy (13), Desiree Cheng (12), and Tin Tiamzon (11).

Madayag chipped in 8 points in the loss while key cogs Jho Maraguinot and Bea de Leon only had 6 and 3 points, respectively. 

For Madayag, it is only a matter of time before her teammates find their groove back.

"For sure naman babawi sila. Alam naman na nila sarili nila," she said. "'Di naman siguro 'yun something that would bring them down. It's something that would encourage them more to do better in trainings."

(For sure they will bounce back. They know themselves. I don't think it's something that would bring them down. It's something that would encourage them more to do better in trainings.) 

The Ateneo-FEU Final 4 clash is set for Saturday, April 21, at the Mall of Asia Arena. Madayag said they will dedicate the week-long break solely to preparations. 

"Gagawin namin ang best namin. For the week na libre kami before the semis, focus lang kami sa volleyball," she said.

(We will do our best. For the week that we're free before the semis, we'll focus only on volleyball.) – Rappler.com

VIGAN CITY, Philippines – Lydia de Vega, who was once considered Asia's fastest female runner, was honored at the Palarong Pambansa 2018 for her "valuable contributions" to Philippine sports.

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Briones handed the plaque for the Palarong Pambansa Parangal Lifetime Achievement Award to De Vega's daughter, Stephanie, who is a volleyball athlete.

Stephanie said her mother could not come because she's currently coaching in a Singapore tournament.

But Stephanie read her mother's message to the young athletes gathered in Ilocos Sur. (IN PHOTOS: The colorful parade at Palarong Pambansa 2018)

In her message, De Vega urged young athletes not to give up on their dreams, recalling that she failed in her first attempt to get a Palaro gold medal.

"Kapag nagsimula, huwag kang susuko sa gitna. Tapusin mo all the way, manindigan ka para sa pangarap mo," De Vega said.

(If you've already started, don't give up halfway. You need to finish it all the way, stand by your dreams.)

Aside from the plaque, De Vega was also given P100,000 from the DepEd and Ilocos Sur Governor Ryan Luis Singson.

DepEd Undersecretary Tonisito Umali said the award seeks to "recognize the achievements of our athletes " and to inspire future athletes.

De Vega was first recognized in international athletics during the 1981 Asian Games held in Manila, where she brought home gold medals in the 200-meter-dash and 400-meter-dash events and broke records.

She still holds the best record in the 100-meter-dash of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, with 11.28 seconds.

De Vega, in her entire athletics career, notched 9 gold medals in the SEA Games, two gold medals in the Asian Games, and 4 gold medals in Asian T & F meets. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – San Miguel Alab Pilipinas decided that two games were enough in their ASEAN Basketball League (ABL) semifinals campaign, sweeping defending champion Hong Kong Eastern, 79-72, at the Sta Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna on Sunday, April 15.

In front of a packed home crowd, Alab Pilipinas successfully secured an ABL finals berth and now awaits the winner of the semis series between Chong Son Kung Fu and Mono Vampire.

For the second straight game, the Alab Big 3 again finished with a trifecta of double-doubles. Renaldo Balkman followed up his 46-point Game 1 explosion with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Justin Brownlee chipped in 22 points and 11 boards of his own, while Bobby Ray Parks Jr added 13 points and 12 rebounds.

Balkman and Brownlee gave fans an early treat with a 6-0 opening run, including a tomahawk flush on the break from the Ginebra San Miguel star import. However, the defending ABL champions slowly chipped at the deficit and took advantage of an ice-cold Josh Urbiztondo, who went 0/3 from downtown while the Eastern were making a run. Both teams ended the quarter at a 16-all deadlock.

Alab and Hong Kong then went neck-and-neck at the start of the second period, with the Eastern holding at best a one-possession lead. Then the home team finally found a weak spot around the 3-minute mark after a massive blunder by HK's Lee Ki. On a wide-open fastbreak, Lee somehow blew the layup, which led to a go-ahead bucket by Brownlee for the 29-28 lead. On the next possession, Pao Javelona calmly sank a pull-up trey, 32-28, as the Sta Rosa fans exploded in cheers.

At the half, Alab held a 5-point advantage, 37-32, after a buzzer-beater by HK's Tyler Lamb. At this point, Christian Standhardinger had been soundly guarded by the Philippine squad, ending the first half with two points and 5 rebounds on 1/9 shooting.

Despite some struggles from their stars, Eastern again slowly inched towards Alab's lead, finally tying the game up 43-all after a Ryan Moss and-one at the 6-minute mark of the third.

But Balkman put the entire HK team to shame with an immediate 7-0 personal run for the 50-43 lead, including a crushing poster dunk on Moss and an and-one bucket in the next possession. Alab built on this huge momentum boost and clinched a double-digit lead for the first time, 59-48, off a triple from Parks.

Parks again dropped a three to open the 4th quarter at 63-51. Not to be outdone, Brownlee and Javelona nailed triples of their own to break open a massive 18-point lead, 69-51. The Eastern creeped back to as close as 7 points with 50 ticks left in regulation, but ultimately failed to mount a full-fledged comeback for a potential Game 3 match back in Hong Kong. – Rappler.com 

VIGAN CITY, Philippines –  While many athletes competing in Palarong Pambansa 2018 brought courage for them to win, some also said they are ready to face defeat.

Jorie May Amistoso, a swimmer from Leyte National High School, said this is her 6th time to represent Eastern Visayas region. She yearns to be like her idol, Sacho Ilustre.

In those six times she swam, Amistoso failed to get even a single medal.

 (READ: LIVE UPDATES: Palarong Pambansa 2018 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur)  

As she is set to take the Palaro pool for the 7th time, she is as prepared as before, bringing courage to survive despite tough opposition from her opponents from the different parts of the country.

“Courage po talaga. Kasi hindi ka po makakasurvive sa larong ito kung wala ka talagang courage,” Amistoso said.

(It’s courage, really. You cannot survive this game if you do not have the courage.)

Courage to lose

Amistoso, a survivor of Super Typhoon Yolanda, said she has the courage to face defeat for the 7th time.

She said their bout with the wrath of Super Typhoon Yolanda has made her strong enough to face life’s adversities.

The young athlete, however, promised to be better this time.

“Pwede rin po [akong manalo this time],” (I could also win this time.) Amistoso said in a determined tone.

“Kasi nag-tre-training din po kasi kami sa aming sariling places. We know that Palarong Pambansa is consisted of different athletes from different places so nagkakaroon na rin po kami ng sariling training,” she added.

(We had our training from our own places. We know that Palarong Pambansa is consisted of different athletes from different places, so they had their own training also.)

‘Conquer fears’

Maicron Gannaban, an aerobic gymnastics athlete from Cagayan Valley region, said he has fears as he is set to compete in his first Palaro.

This, however, will not make him cow against his opponents.

“Nakakakaba po, pero siyempre po kailangan nating tabunan ‘yung kaba natin dahil kung nauna po yung fears, wala po tayong patutunguhan,” Gannaban said.

(I really get nervous, but of course, I have to overcome it because if it conquer us, it will lead to nowhere.)

He also brought with him a message from his mother.

“Sinabi po ng nanay ko na even if I win or lose, tanggapin ko po 'yung resulta dahil ito po 'yung mag-aangat sa akin. Dahil if there’s no pain, there’s no gain,”

(My mother told me I should accept whether I win or lose because it will lift me up. Because if there’s no pain, there’s no gain.)

The Palarong Pambansa 2018 kicked off in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur on Sunday, April 15, as thousands of athletes from all over the Philippines start to compete for the Palaro gold medal dreams.

(READ: Palarong Pambansa 2018: Let the games begin!)

(IN PHOTOS: The colorful parade at Palarong Pambansa 2018)

–  Rappler.com

VIGAN CITY, Philippines- The Cagayan Valley Regional Athletics Association (CAVRAA) took the early  lead in the partial medal tally for Palarong Pambansa 2018.

As of 11 am on Monday, April 16, CAVRAA was on top with their two gold medals in long jump and shot put.

The National Capital Region (NCR) and Bicol Region collected one gold medal each and were tied at second overall.

Algin Gomez, a high school student from Aparri town in Cagayan province, posted 6.96 meters to get the gold medal for long jump-secondary boys.

Gomez was also a gold medalist for triple jump in Palaro 2017, and will defend his title this year.

For Cagayan Valley's second gold medal, Rashied Faith Burdeos of Tuguegarao North Central School posted 10.13 meters for shot put- elementary boys.

Meanwhile, a barefoot Lheslie De Lima  recorded the first gold medal of Bicol Region for her 3000 meter. De Lima clocked 10:06:54 minutes.

Christian Ampong gave NCR its first gold medal for his victory in javelin throw, hurling 58.5 meters.

More individual events medals were up for heading to the Palaro's second day. – Rappler

VIGAN CITY, Philippines – Moments after garnering the first-ever gold medal of the 2018 Palarong Pambansa in the 3,000m, 13-year-old Lheslie N. de Lima decided to take a nap. Amid her co-athletes at the Bicol Region Athletic Association, she just lied on the bleachers of the Quirino Stadium with a towel covering her face and took a nap for an hour.

In a few hours, she would be participating in the individual trials for 800 m. Later, she would be running the 1,500 meters. Owing to her auspicious performance, De Lima is the favorite in the two later events.

Rolando Merencillo, her coach, said that he saw her potential two year ago when she was in Grade V.

De Lima participated in the 2016 Palaro but did not bring home any medals.

But in Antique last year, De Lima won silver in the 800 meters, 400 meters and 1,500 meters.

This was her first time in the 3,000 meters. De Lima clocked 10:06.54; narrowly beating Camila Tubiano of Region X who took 10:07.07. Grace Tejones of Region V was a far third at 10:52.9.

De Lima ran on the hot Tartan track barefooted.

“We tried to make her wear spikes but she didn’t want to,” said Merencillo.

“Mabigat po,” (The shoes are heavy) the Grade VII student of Baao National High School said.

De Lima is the 5th child of seven children. Her father is a farmer in Baao, Camarines Sur while her mother is a homemaker. Her lolo told her that Sen. Leila de Lima is a close relative.

“Sabihin 'nyo, para sa kanya ito.( Tell auntie, this is for her),” Lheslie said, hiding her laugh. – Rappler.com

ILOCOS SUR, Philippines – Not even the war can stop Prince Najeeb Langitao from going after his dreams.

The 13-year-old boy is the only delegate from Marawi City at this year's Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Sur. It's his first time to join the country's biggest sporting event. (READ: LIVE UPDATES: Palarong Pambansa 2018 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur)

Prince is gunning for the gold medal in the secondary level of boys' tennis, a sport he has been playing for the past 7 years.

His father, who plays tennis as a hobby, inspired Prince to pursue the sport. He was only 6 years old when he started his tennis training at the Mindanao State University (MSU), just a few blocks away from his house. 

"Nagja-jogging [ako] every day po, tapos every hapon nagpapalo, tapos every gabi drills (Every day, I jog, practice my swings in the afternoon, then I do drills at night)," Prince told Rappler.

"Umiiyak ako… kasi every day kasi nagja-jogging ako tapos drills, 'di nag-stop, nonstop po (I would cry, because the daily jogging and drills are nonstop)," he added.

Still, Prince is persistent in attending his training sessions no matter how hard they get.

He is aware of the pains he has to go through if he wants to achieve his goal: to eventually play for the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Tennisters. 

"Gusto ko kapag malaki na [ako], maging varsity ako sa UST tapos scholar (When I grow up, I want to be part of UST's varsity team and be a scholar, too)," said Prince with a grin.

Training despite the war

The road to Palaro has not been easy for the Marawi athlete. (WATCH: Marawi: 153 days of war)

The months-long battle between government troops and homegrown terrorists from the Maute Group and a faction of the Abu Sayyaf Group made Prince fear for his family's safety. 

Prince, his parents, and two of his younger brothers did not evacuate immediately. They then became vulnerable to robbers. 

"Naging mahirap po. Kasi no'ng first nag-giyera, 'di po kami naka-evacuate. Doon lang po kami sa bahay namin. Tapos nanakawan pa kami…. Marami [ang nakuha] – mga pera, mga TV, gano'n," said Prince. 

(It was hard. When the fighting began, we didn't evacuate yet. We just stayed at home. Then we were robbed… They stole many things – money, our TVs.) 

He became scared when he heard members of the Maute Group supposedly sent messages to residents warning of a possible bomb attack at his school. (WATCH: Marawi in 360: Inside the War Zone)

The Langitaos were eventually forced to leave their Marawi home. They stayed at the house of Prince's grandfather in nearby Marantao town.

But did the war stop Prince from playing tennis? No. 

He made the tennis court in Marantao his home during the months they were staying there. He even helped younger players improve their craft.

"'Di ako tumigil kasi baka makalimot akong mag-tennis tapos 'di na ko pasalihin ng tournament. Magsimula na naman mag-training. Iiyak na naman ako," said Prince.

(I didn't stop because I might forget how to play tennis and would not be allowed to join tournaments anymore. I would have to start from scratch. I'll cry again.)

When the siege was over, the Langitaos returned to Marawi.

Mission for glory

Prince's hard work and determination have been paying off so far. 

He qualified for the Palarong Pambansa 2018 after winning the bronze medal at the Palarong ARMMAA (Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Athletic Association) in February.  

It was after his victory in the Palarong ARMMAA when he met his current coach, Sinagmaga Abdullajid, who believes Prince can make it far in tennis.

"'Yung technique ni Prince bilang player, 'yung ginagamit niya ang kanyang physical, mental condition. Malakas siya sa ano, sa serving, sa palo, sa lahat-lahat," said Sinagmaga.

(Prince's technique as a player involves him using his physical and mental condition. He's strong in serving, in his swings, in everything.) 

Sinagmaga considers herself a mother figure for the young athlete.

"Bilang isang ina, itinuturing ko siya bilang isang anak – 'yung hindi ako sumuko sa paga-advise, sa pagmo-motivate. Kaya natin, laban natin [itong] larong ito. Pabayaan ang mga nangyaring sad experience basta't laro-laro. Laban, manalo, matalo," she said.

(As a mother, I consider him as my own child – I don't get tired of giving him advice and motivating him. I tell him we can make it, this is our fight. Forget about the sad experiences in the past. Keep on fighting, win or lose.)

Sinagmaga feels pressure to win gold for Prince. But the young athlete himself is so sure of his victory already. (READ: Palarong Pambansa 2018 athletes bring courage to win and to lose)

"Hindi [ako kinakabahan], 100% confidence ho!" said Prince with a laugh. (I'm not nervous, I have 100% confidence!)

And why wouldn't he be confident? He is proud of being the only Maranao competing in the games.

"Happy po. Maganda po sa pakiramdam na ako lang 'yung [taga]-Marawi… Mission ko po na maging gold medalist po kami, lahat ng kasama ko sa tennis," said Prince. 

(I'm happy. I feel good that I'm the only one from Marawi.... My mission is to be a gold medalist, for me and my teammates in tennis.) – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Cherry Mae Banatao is back in the Palarong Pambansa stage with two goals in mind – to win back the gold medal and to break her standing record in high jump.

Seventeen-year-old Mimi Banatao, a native of San Bonifacio, Burgos, Isabela, is on her 5th Palarong Pambansa stint this year. Since 2014, she has been competing and winning medals in several jumping events in athletics – long jump, triple jump, and high jump. 

In 2016, then 15-year-old Banatao performed beyond expectations and went on to break the 4-year old Palarong Pambansa record in secondary division girls high jump event. Clearing a distance of 1.66 meters, she also tied the 1994 national juniors record. Her record-breaking jump that year was her first first Palaro gold medal for Cagayan Valley.

Seeking for redemption

In 2017, Banatao settled for silver in the Palarong Pambansa secondary girls high jump competition after losing to Iloilo's Alexie Mae Caimoso. Caimoso and Banatao have been battling for the high jump gold since 2016. (READ: Iloilo beauty queen hailed as high jump champion in Palarong Pambansa 2017)

This year, Banatao is focused in aiming to win back the gold medal – and possibly breaking her own record – in secondary girls high jump event.

"Kakayanin kong kunin (I will do my best)," she declared, adding that she felt bad after losing the gold medal to Caimoso last year.

"Sumama po yung loob ko pero natanggap ko naman po (I felt bad but I eventually accepted it)," Banatao said.

Jumping high for family

For Banatao, playing for this year's national competition is all for her family. More than anything, she hopes that by winning in Palarong Pambansa, she will be able to help in paying for the medical expenses of her 6-year-old brother. 

"'Yung bunso ko pong kapatid... gusto ko po s'yang mapagamot (My younger brother... I want to have him treated)," said Banatao, adding that his brother is diagnosed with a low platelet count blood disorder.

Banatao also has high hopes for the future. She is still looking for more college opportunities but she already took the De La Salle University College Admissions Test. She said that her parents wanted her to take BS Education and eventually become a teacher, just like her eldest sibling. But if she can have it her way, she dreams of becoming a cop someday.

"Gusto ko huliin ang mga masasama, yung magnanakaw, pumapatay ng kapwa tao (I want to capture the bad people, those who steal, and those who kill people)," she said.

Banatao's Palarong Pambansa 2018 battle begins on Tuesday, April 17, with the secondary girls long jump event. On Thursday, April 19, she is scheduled to compete in the much-awaited high jump event in the athletics secondary girls division.

Banatao will go back to the Palarong Pambansa field with lessons learned from last year's competition. As she aims for the highest spot on the Palaro podium, she only has one reminder for herself.  

"Kailangan 'wag makampante (I should not be complacent)." – Rappler.com