Chris Tiu uses star-status to save lives

Anyone who’s turned on a television over the past couple of years should know who Chris Tiu is.

After achieving great success as the talismanic leader of the Ateneo Blue Eagles collegiate basketball team, the mercurial 24-year-old has gone onto a larger stage in professional basketball, playing for the Smart Gilas team. He also is a celebrated TV host, with two popular shows – “Pinoy Records” and “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” – on GMA-7, as well as a popular image model and a sitting barangay kagawad. Rounding out his list of accomplishments are degrees in Management Engineering and Mathematical Finance. Clearly, Chris is all about worthy ventures.

Chris’ latest may be his most important one. The basketball superstar and all-around nice guy is now looking to parlay some of his fame and renown in teaching others about the dangers of HPV infection and the importance of prevention. He is at the helm of a new campaign against the disease called Help Fight HPV, with a TV commercial in the works that’s set to premier sometime before the end of the month.

He recently joined us at the Good Times booth to talk about his new found advocacy.

“HPV, which is short for human papilomavirus, is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the world today,” said Chris. “But while we all know that HPV can lead to cervical cancer, no one really talks about how men are threatened by the virus as well.”

Chris makes a good point. Women have known about the risks posed by HPV infection for years. In the country, about 12 Filipino women die each day of cervical cancer, a disease linked with HPV. The virus is also seen as a cause of vaginal and vulvar cancers.

But while doctors estimate that up to 50 percent of sexually active people will catch HPV in their lifetime, few seem to know about just how commonplace the infection is, with a great number of cases going undiagnosed.

Even more are unaware of the equally serious threat that HPV poses to men. Certain HPV types cause highly contagious genital warts – a disease that affects both men and women – and that is passed on to about 32 million people around the world each year.

“Abstinence really is the surest way of preventing HPV. The good news though is that, today, both men and women can prevent HPV infection through vaccination,” added Chris. “So I urge everyone to go ask their doctor about getting vaccinated.”

Source: DJ MOJO JOJO  | Manila Bulletin

Smart Gilas Pilipinas routs South Wales in Aussie tour

MANILA, Philippines - Smart Gilas Pilipinas walloped South Wales Institute of Sports, 82-63, for its fourth win in as many games in its Australian tour.

The RP training team earlier downed the Canberra Gunners, 101-84, topped Australia team B, 79-73, edged Australia Under-19 squad, 78-76, then fought Australia team B to a 73-all standoff.

Smart Gilas will conclude its Australian training tour with a game versus the Sydney team tonight.

“Every game is a learning process for the team and we hope to keep on learning and getting tough,” said Smart Gilas team manager Frankie Lim.

After their Australian tour, the Gilas team flies to Serbia for a series of exhibition games against tall European squads.


Smart Gilas, mentored by Serbian Rajko Toroman, is in deep preparation for the 2011 FIBA Asia Championship where it hopes to snare a berth in the 2012 London Olympics.

Source: Joey Villar  | Philstar.com

PBA Fiesta Conference on: Kings, Texters renew grudge match

MANILA, Philippines - Barangay Ginebra and Talk n Text, two teams which figured in a highly charged, highly emotional all-Filipino quarterfinals confrontation, face each other again right on opening day of the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum today.

Emotions could still be high as the Kings and the Tropang Texters clash at 6:30 p.m., succeeding the 4 p.m. setto between Barako Energy Coffee (formerly Barako Bull) and Sta. Lucia Realty.

Noelle Cassandra, Asia’s only female harpist, singer and songwriter, and Christine Love, Viva record’s new female artist, provide entertainment during the halftime breaks.

The Kings and the Texters engaged in a passionate and melodramatic quarters battle in the recent Philippine Cup marked by Talk n Text’s infamous walkout in Game Four of the best-of-five series.

Both went short of their bids in the end, and they’re returning in the Fiesta Conference with retooled lineups, hoping to do better than what they achieved in the Philippine Cup.


After settling for fourth place in the all-Filipino tourney, the Kings made two trade deals, acquiring big men Yancy de Ocampo and John Ferriols. Ginebra also reactivated Junthy Valenzuela from the injured list.

Talk n Text, meanwhile, gave up De Ocampo and Renren Ritualo to get solid role players in JR Quinahan, Mark Yee and Aaron Aban.

Ginebra has NBA veteran Awvee Storey as import while Talk n Text will be reinforced by former Air21 resident import Shawn Daniels.

The opening game pits two teams which also effected changes in their lineups after the Philippine Cup.

Barako changed its coach and team name, then acquired four new players with hopes of regaining their old fire following back-to-back last-place finishes.

Junel Baculi makes his debut as PBA head coach, up against the Sta. Lucia team which is determined to redeem itself from a sorry playoffs fold-up in the Philippine Cup.

Sta. Lucia has given up wingman Joseph Yeo to soup up its backcourt with its acquisition of Bonbon Custodio.

The Realtors are upbeat as they’re reunited with versatile import Anthony Johnson.

The Energy Coffee Masters, however, have also high hopes on their import Sammy Monroe, known to be an energetic player remembered for smashing a backboard in the NBA-D League.

Derby Ace (formerly Purefoods), which completed a fairytale ride in the Philippine Cup, won’t see action in the tourney until April 4.

Coach Ryan Gregorio and his troops return to practice only today.

Source: Nelson Beltran  | Philstar.com

PBA: By the numbers

Here are 10 numbers to keep in mind as the PBA inaugurates its Fiesta Conference at the Araneta Coliseum today.

23 – players who saw action in at least one game in the last Philippine Cup but are not listed in any opening-day lineup for the Fiesta Conference. The absentees are Japeth Aguilar, Erwin Sotto, Benedict Fernandez, Alex Crisano, Bruce Viray, Magnum Membrere, Adonis Sta. Maria, Gec Chia, Kevin White, Johnny Abarrientos, Cesar Catli, Francis Allera, Dale Singson, Rodney Santos, Ronjay Enrile, Nur Jam Alfad, Chris Calaguio, Ardy Larong, Chris Pacana, Chito Jaime, Mark Benitez, Orlando Daroya and Jonathan de Guzman.

15 – players moving to new teams from last conference. The transferees are Mike Cortez, Rich Alvarez, Ren-Ren Ritualo and Doug Kramer of Air21, Sam Eman of Alaska, Yancy de Ocampo and John Ferriols of Barangay Ginebra, Chito Lanete of Coca-Cola (traded last Jan. 4 but hasn’t suited up for the Tigers), Alex Cabagnot and Joseph Yeo of San Miguel Beer, Bonbon Custodio and Donbel Belano of Sta. Lucia Realty and Mark Yee, J. R. Quinahan and Aaron Aban of Talk ‘N’ Text.

12 – players undrafted since 2005 but in lineups in the Fiesta Conference. The late bloomers are from the 2005 pool, Christian Coronel and Jerwin Gaco, from 2006, Dennis Daa, Chad Alonzo, Don Dulay, Lanete, Erick Rodriguez and Al Vergara, from 2008, Yee and from 2009, Josh Urbiztondo, Bryan Faundo and Ramsey Williams.

8 – players returning from injuries or whatever reason after sitting out last conference. The comebacking veterans are Rodriguez of Air21, Coronel, Rob Wainwright and Vergara of Barako Coffee, Junthy Valenzuela of Barangay Ginebra, William Antonio of Coca-Cola, Allan Salangsang of Rain Or Shine and Kelvin Gregorio of Sta. Lucia Realty. Coronel, Wainwright and Vergara saw action in the inaugural season of the Asean Basketball League (ABL). Antonio, who hasn’t played since 2007, retains his position as assistant coach with Coca-Cola.


5 – new imports signed up for the Fiesta Conference. Barako Coffee’s Sammy Monroe smashed a backboard on a breakaway dunk en route to powering the Rochester Razorbacks to a 142-112 win over the Arkansas Impact in the 2008 Premier Basketball League title game. He did it again in Rochester’s 152-115 romp over the Battle Creek Knights in retaining the crown the next year. Both shatters caused a 45-minute delay to replace the damaged boards. Alaska’s Diamon Simpson is a Chuck Hayes play-alike and finished his St. Mary’s career as the all-time leader in rebounds, blocked shots, steals, free throws made and free throws attempted. He averaged 16 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists for the Los Angeles Defenders in the NBDL this year. Simpson was among the Golden State Warriors’ final cuts last October. Ginebra’s Awvee Storey played for New Jersey, Washington and Milwaukee in the NBA and led the Wonju TG Sambo Xers to the Korean league championship in 2005. Air21’s Keena Young was a 2006-07 honorable mention All-American after averaging 17.4 points, shooting .543 from the floor and .803 from the line, as a senior for Brigham Young, the same school that produced Danny Ainge and Kresimir Cosic. B-Meg Derby Ace’s Lorenzo Wade is fresh from playing in Greece and was a star in three years at San Diego State whose coach Steve Fisher described him “as athletic a player as there is in the league ... extremely confident, intelligent and a big-time player, he carries himself in a fashion that he expects himself to be successful.”

5 – assistants in B-Meg Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio’s staff. No other team has more than four assistants. Gregorio’s lieutenants are Ronnie Magsanoc, Koy Banal, George Gallent, Rey Evangelista and Dayong Mendoza. Teams with four assistants are Alaska (Joel Banal, Dickie Bachmann, Luigi Trillo, Jojo Lastimosa), Rain Or Shine (Richard del Rosario, Mike Buendia, Jay Legacion, Jericho Ilagan), San Miguel Beer (Gee Abanilla, Biboy Ravanes, Pido Jarencio, Freddie Abuda) and Talk ‘N’ Text (Nash Racela, Aboy Castro, Patrick Fran, Joshua Reyes).

3 – team name changes. Burger King is back as the Air21 Express. Barako Bull is now the Barako Coffee Energy Masters. And the Purefoods Tender Juicy Giants are the B-Meg Derby Ace Llamados.

1 – rookie free agent breaking into the league. Jerwin Gaco, 29, was not picked in the 2005 PBA draft where Jay Washington was the top overall choice. The 6-1 1/2 forward from Quezon was an anchor for the Harbour Centre franchise that established a dynasty in the PBL. In 1999, the former La Salle standout teamed with James Yap, Paul Artadi and Erick Arejola to lead a crack Philippine selection to the Nike high school invitational championship in Taipei under coach Gallent and assistant Trillo. Gaco played for the Philippine Patriots that just won the ABL title and will suit up for Barako Coffee.

1 – new head coach. Junel Baculi takes over from Leo Isaac as Barako Coffee head coach. Isaac remains with the team as consultant. Baculi served briefly as one of coach Yeng Guiao’s assistants at Burger King last conference. Baculi’s assistants with the Energy Masters are Raymond Celis and former Letran hotshot Elmer Bola-bola.

1 – team with no roster changes from last conference. B-Meg Derby Ace, formerly Purefoods, made no lineup moves and retains the same cast that took the team to the Philippine Cup title. Gregorio begins practice tomorrow at the Green Meadows gym with import Wade booked to plane in early this morning on a Philippine Airlines flight.

Source: Joaquin Henson  | Philstar.com

Marquez, Margarito, Valero next for Pacman

MANILA, Philippines - Floyd Mayweather Jr. is not on the short and early list of candidates for Manny Pacquiao’s next opponent.

Those being mentioned as a potential opponent for the Filipino pound-for-pound champion when he returns to action in November are Venezuelan knockout artist Edwin Valero, disgraced champion Antonio Margarito and old-time Pacquiao rival Juan Manuel Marquez.

Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, said he wants the undefeated Valero who has a strong penchant for knockouts. He has knocked out all his 27 opponents, his first 18 fights ending right in the first round. The 28-year-old wrecking ball had said time and again he wants to lay his hands on the Filipino icon.

Roach said he’d like that to happen.

“I’ve been watching him a little bit. I know he’s a big puncher. He’s a southpaw and does pose some difficulties. He’s better than just a guy who could punch but I think that’s the best marketable fight out there for us,” Roach told boxingscene.com.


“Valero is licensed in Texas. If we do the fight there we could sell out the whole place. You don’t have to close half of it down,” said Roach, referring to the massive Cowboys Stadium where close to 51,000 fans came to watch Pacquiao last week in his lopsided 12-round clash with Joshua Clottey.

The stadium, built by Texas tycoon Jerry Jones for $1.2 billion, can house 108,000 fans, but for the Pacquiao fight, actually the first boxing match ever held at the venue, the uppermost section was curtained off. Roach thinks that a Pacquiao-Valero can fill the entire place.

Valero is licensed to fight in Texas but nowhere else in the United States after he failed a medical in New York years ago due to a skull injury he suffered during a motorcycle accident. He has plied his trade in Japan, Panama, Venezuela and Mexico over the last couple of years and would fight Pacquiao on the moon.

Arum, however, wants Margarito next, because Valero is a “nobody” in the US.

“Freddie is the greatest trainer in the world, but he needs to leave this up to the promoters. Valero might be the best but frankly he’s an inside story in boxing. The public at large don’t know who the hell he is,” Arum told boxingscene.com, after reports came out that Pacquiao is being lined up for a November fight.

“That (Valero’s status) can change, and that’s my job as Valero’s promoter, to change that, but I don’t think I can accomplish that job that quickly. We’re all on the same team but I’m not a miracle worker. We need someone the country is familiar with and Margarito (also under Top Rank) is someone they are certainly familiar with,” said Arum.

Margarito was suspensded after he was found using illegal wraps in his fight with Shane Mosley in January last year. He was supposed to fight in the undercard of the Pacquiao-Clottey but, with no license to box, ended up with a date in May. Then after another fight sometime in July, Arum think’s he’d be ready for Pacquiao in November.

Mayweather, the self-proclaimed pound-for-pound king, will face Mosley on May 1 in Las Vegas. A victory by Mosley will further keep a Pacquiao-Mayweather fight from happening because of a rematch clause in their fight contract.

Source: Abac Cordero  | Philstar.com

NAIA readies red carpet for Pacman

MANILA, Philippines - A hero’s welcome once again awaits world pound-for-pound boxing champion Manny Pacquiao upon his return in the country tomorrow.

Pacquiao, who successfully defended his WBO welterweight boxing title versus Ghanaian challenger Joshua Clottey in Arlington, Texas Sunday, will arrive on board Philippine Airlines flight PR 103 from Los Angeles, California.

Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) general manager Melvin Matibag has instructed all terminal managers and airport police officers to prepare a warm welcome for the Filipino boxing idol.

Matibag said uniformed policemen would escort Pacquiao from the plane to his waiting car.

Matibag also said they would issue passes to friends and officials who are going to welcome Pacquiao, but there would be limitations or restrictions inside the airport.

Source: Author Unknown  | Philstar.com

Pharex gains final slot; Cobra loses sting

MANILA, Philippines - Pharex B-Complex steadily pulled away in the second half en route to a 96-83 win over Cossack Blue and the first slot in the 2010 PBL PG Flex Erase Placenta Cup finals at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig yesterday.

Vic Manuel poured in 27 points while Marlon Adolfo tossed in 21 as the Maroons eased out the Spirits, gaining a crack at the championship either against the Excelroof 25ers or the Cobra Energy Drink Ironmen.

Excelroof outlasted Cobra in a gripping battle, pulling off an 89-81 decision to force a sudden death match in their semis duel.

The 25ers and the Ironmen meet in a do-or-die game Tuesday at the San Juan gym.

“We’re truly blessed. We hope we can sustain this run to win the coveted crown,” said Pharex coach Aboy Castro.


Manuel dished out a big game, scoring 11 points in the homestretch to personally write finis on Cossack’s bid.

“Same old story, Vic put on another huge game. Definitely, he (Manuel) is the best player in this conference. He is so hardworking,” said Castro of Manuel who also got away with 12 rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block in 26 minutes of action.

Adolfo, a former Far Eastern University star, also played a key role, drilling in clutch shots that helped Pharex B-Complex build a 65-55 lead after the third quarter.

The Spirits waged a comeback early in the final period, coming through with a 9-4 run to come to within five at 64-69.

They had a chance to come closer but JR Taganas lost his balance on an attack, ramming into Nestor David for an offensive foul.

Cossack coach Rena Baena wildly protested the call and incurred a technical infraction, and the team yielded the momentum.

Adolfo later converted two free throws that sparked a telling 14-4 run.

Source: Author Unknown  | Philstar.com

Pacquiao’s next fight in November

If indeed Manny Pacquiao’s next fight will be held in November, it would be the longest time that the Filipino star will be away from his ring duties.

Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum told the Bulletin Fruday from his Las Vegas home that the earliest Pacquiao will be seen by his fans wearing a pair of gloves and stripped from the waist up will be in November – not October – as what had been previously thought about.

“It won’t be in October because of the World Series (of Major League Ball) but November,” said Arum.

Pacquiao is coming off a lopsided win over Joshua Clottey in Dallas, Texas, and will be out of the ring for the next eight months.

Arum is willing to wait that long because Pacquiao has a tougher assignment in less than two months albeit outside the ring.

Pacquiao is running for a congressional seat in Sarangani province and Arum said he would only be able to say something concrete after the May 10 elections.

In the event Arum and Pacquiao both agree that the next fight to be made should be in November, that would leave Pacquiao inactive for eight months.

Ever since he turned professional in the mid-1990s, Pacquiao has made it a point to fight regularly.

In the last few years, Pacquiao has fought an average of three fights a year and the longest time he was inactive was in between the May 2004 split draw with Juan Manuel Marquez of Mexico and the December 2004 knockout win over Fahsang 3k Battery of Thailand.

As to the name of the opponent that Pacquiao will face in November, Arum and another key member of Pacquiao’s party, trainer Freddie Roach, are both on the same page although they slightly differ when it comes to who should be prioritized.

"There’s (Antonio) Margarito, (Edwin) Valero, or (Juan Manuel) Marquez,” said Arum.

Roach also mentioned the same names but in different order.

“Valero, Marquez, or Margarito,” said the celebrated corner man.

Source: Nick Giongco  | Manila Bulletin

Pacquiao wants next fight again at Cowboys Stadium

Manny Pacquiao is not discounting the possibility of fighting again at the Dallas Cowboys Stadium when he gets back on the ring later this year.

The 31-year old boxing champion made the insinuation in the light of the historic attendance generated by his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title defense against Joshua Clottey last week.

The 12-round bout won by the Filipino behind a lopsided unanimous decision, attracted a crowd of 50,994, the third biggest in modern day boxing history after the Muhammad Ali-Leon Spinks rematch at the Superdome in 1977 and the Julio Cesar Chavez-Pernell Whitaker showdown at the Alamodome in 1993.

That Pacquiao was able to pack the marvelous $1.2 billion-stadium owned by billionaire Jerry Jones despite taking on an opponent who has not really established a fan base in the U.S. is a tribute to the status of the Filipino southpaw as boxing’s top draw today.

What more if Pacquiao was to face next a marquee challenger who considerably has a big cult following especially in a predominantly Latino state such as Texas.

Pacquiao has not minced a word about his desire to fight again at the Cowboys Stadium, which he describes as an “amazing arena."

“It’s a great experience to fight in Dallas. I want to fight back here," he said shortly after the Clottey bout. “I hope this would not be my last fight here. So it’s up to Jerry Jones. That’s his decision."

Trainer Freddie Roach also expressed his desire to come back in Dallas and has already envisioned knockout artist Edwin Valero and long-time Pacquiao nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez as possible foes for the world’s top pound-for-pound fighter.

Roach even hinted the possibility of a blockbuster showdown should Pacquiao and Valero, two of boxing’s fearsome punchers today, finally squares off in the ring.

“If we do Valero there, we could sell out the whole place. You don’t have to close half of it down," said Roach.

Jones is also amenable to seeing Pacquiao fight in his multi-billion stadium again, saying the record attendance of his meeting with Clottey was beyond his expectations.

“The crowd can be special to boxing. I believe we can have a fight that can do that in boxing with Manny Pacquiao and Bob Arum around," said the Dallas Cowboys team owner and general manager.

Arum, Top Rank Promotions’ big boss, hasn’t categorically agreed to do another Pacquiao fight at the Cowboys Stadium, but was obviously impressed with the turnout of the first ever major boxing event in Dallas.

“It’s one of the grandest spectacles in the history of boxing. I’ve never, ever seen boxing presented that way," Arum said.

Source: Author Unknown  | GMANews.TV

Beermen, Aces determined to win Fiesta Cup title

San Miguel wants to keep the Fiesta Cup crown while Alaska hopes to finally nail a 13th title so they can finally join the legendary Crispa Redmanizers as the two most winningest franchises in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

This was according to Gee Abanilla and Dicky Bachmann, the assistant coaches of the Beermen and the Aces, during Friday’s SCOOP sa Kamayan weekly session in Manila.

The PBA’s Fiesta Conference opens on Sunday, March 21, at the Araneta Coliseum with the Sta. Lucia Realtors taking on the Barako Energy Coffee Masters (Barako Bull) in the 4 p.m. opening game while the Barangay Ginebra Kings battle the Talk ‘N Text Tropang Texters at 6 p.m.

San Miguel and Alaska became victims of eventual champion Purefoods (now the Derby Ace Llamados) in the recently concluded Philippine Cup with the Giants eliminating the Beermen in the semifinals. Purefoods then scored a 4-0 sweep of Alaska in the finals series.

The Beermen, who captured the same tournament at the expense of sister team Ginebra, beefed up their already formidable lineup to assure themselves of a back-to-back Fiesta Cup crown.

The Aces, likewise, revamped their lineup to avenge their embarrassing loss.

Abanilla said bringing back last year’s best import winner Gabe Freeman is one of the moves San Miguel has down to show its determination that they want to keep the crown in the import-laced tournament.

The Beermen also traded playmakers Mike Cortez and Bonbon Custodio in favor of Air21’s Coca-Cola’s Alex Cabagnot and Sta. Lucia’s Joseph Yeo.

Bachmann, on the other hand, said during their acquisition of Beermen Samigue Eman from the free agent market midway through the Philippine Cup, is exactly what the Aces needed to strengthen their almost intact roster.

The Aces, who actually are eyeing a 13th championship that would tie them with the Redmanizers as the second winningest ballclub in PBA history, will be parading a new reinforcement in Diamon Sampson.

Sampson’s impressive showing in the National Basketball Development League impressed Alaska head coach Tim Cone.

“Let’s just say that we’ve learned our lessons in the last conference which we believe have already been addressed," Bachmann said, admitting that the Alaska management was disappointed in what happened to the Aces last conference.

Ginebra team manager Samboy Lim, who spoke in behalf of coach Jong Uichico, said that addition of Yancy de Ocampo from Talk ‘N Text and John Ferriols from Alaska strengthened the Gin Kings’ frontcourt.

Lim said the Ginebra coaching staff is satisfied in choosing Awvee Storey, who played alongside Gilbert Arenas with the Washington Wizards, as their reinforcement.

“Ang Ginebra naman lagging contender ke malakas o mahina ang lineup. This is because of our do-or-die style of play which we will maintain in the Fiesta Cup," Lim said.

Also present were Freeman, assistant coaches Cholo Martin of Sta. Lucia Realty, Nash Racela of Talk ‘N Text and newly-appointed coach Junel Baculi of the Coffee Masters.

Martin said Yeo’s absence would hardly be felt with Custodio’s arrival and Felix Belano returning in a Sta. Lucia jersey.

He added that unlike last year where Kelly Williams and Ryan Reyes spent most of their time on the bench due to injuries, the Realtors expect to have a healthy and injury-free lineup this year.

Tal ‘N Text believes they already solved its defensive woes when it acquired Aaron Aban and Mark Yee from Air21 and having Shawn Daniels as its reinforcement.

Baculi, who replaced Leo Isaac, said mainstays of the ASEAN Basketball League champions Philippines Patriots would help the Photokina franchise reclaim its old winning form.

The Coffee Masters recruited Rob Wainwright, Jerwin Gaco and Christian Coronel from the Patriots.

“Being last placers in the previous conference, the teams, I believe can go nowhere but up," said Baculi, a former assistant of Burger King coach Yeng Guiao.

Source: Author Unknown  | GMANews.TV

RP youth booters stun Brazilians in Deloitte World Cup

Filipino booters finally lived up to their “Miracle Team" billing with a huge 6-2 upset of Brazil no less last Thursday in the Deloitte Street Child World Cup indoor football tournament in Durban, South Africa.

Shrugging off a 2-0 loss to Tanzania two days ago, the Jess Landangan-coached RP squad worked like a well-oiled machine, surging to a 4-1 halftime lead before scoring two more goals in the next period to wrap up the monumental win in front of a roaring South African gallery.

It marked the first time that the Philippines beat world football power Brazil at the international level and boosted the charges of British co-manager Craig Burrows into the shield competition after finishing the Group B preliminaries with a 1-2 win-loss slate.

“We prayed for a breakthrough for the RP ‘Miracle Team,’ and it was answered in a big way with this win over the Brazilians," said co-manager Ed Formoso.

Formoso also cited the Henry V. Moran Foundation, which staged the tryouts that led to the formation of a competitive squad to the South African soccerfest.

“It seems that the Tinikling footwork beat Samba footwork," noted RP women’s team skipper Marielle Benitez when informed of the historic win.

Benitez, a member of the world-famous Bayanihan dance troupe, earlier gave the RP members lessons in the popular folk dance that requires nimble feet between two bamboo poles as part of the team’s off-pitch extracurricular activity.

The Philippines next play Ukraine on Saturday with the winner facing the victor of the other Shield semifinals between host South Africa and Brazil on Sunday.

Source: Author Unknown  | GMANews.TV

Pharex, Cobra try to seal PBL showdown

Pharex B Complex and Cobra Energy Drink try to seal their 2010 PBL PG Flex-Erase Placenta Cup finals showdown when they face separate rivals on Saturday at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

The Fighting Maroons and Ironmen need to win just once against the Cossack Blue Vodka Spirits and the Excelroof 25ers to make it to the best-of-three championship series. Pharex and Cobra enjoy Coach Abboy Castro, who steered Pharex to the No. 1 seeding after the single round elimination with a 6-1 record, said they are aiming to win the title in the season-opening conference.

“I was really expecting this team to be in the Final Four but being on top is a blessing. But we want to be number one and I expect the players to play their best this Saturday to make it to the Finals," said Castro.

The Maroons are favored to beat the Vodka Spirits in their 1:45 p.m. contest by virtue of their 96-66 rout in the elimination round.

But the lopsided loss might be an added motivation for the Rene Baena-mentored Cossack squad to raise its level of play in order to force a deciding match on Tuesday.

The Spirits have also lost three straight games.

Cobra also holds the psychological edge against Excelroof after its 66-65 win in the elimination round.

Despite the win, coach Lawrence Chongson said he expects to face a different Excelroof team since the 25ers have shown better chemistry compared to the Ironmen.

“We have beaten the two best teams by one point and the worst team by only two points. That’s how we are playing right now. I just hope the players’ refusal to lose and their pride to help this team will be there in the semifinals," said Chongson.

Standings
W-L
x-Pharex 6-1
x-Cobra 5-2
x-Excelroof 5-2
x-Cossack Blue 4-3
Ascof 4-3
AddMix 3-4
Fern-C 1-6
Ani-FCA 0-7

x - semifinalist

Games Saturday
(Ynares Sports Arena)
1:45 p.m. – Pharex vs Cossack
3:45 p.m. – Cobra vs Excelroof

Source: Author Unknown  | GMANews.TV

Arboleda starts signature drive in PBA return bid

Banned Air21 guard Wynne Arboleda is hoping the captains of the 10 participating teams in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) would support his signature drive so he could play in the coming Fiesta Cup.

Arboleda, the Air21 team captain who is seeking to get a second chance in his basketball career, was suspended for the rest of the season after attacking a heckling fan last year.

The Express’ stocky 5-foot-9 playmaker already collected four signatures as of press time with Alaska’s Jeffrey Cariaso, Jimmy Alapag of Talk ‘N Text, Asi Taulava of Coca-Cola and Air21 assistant captain Carlo Sharma threw in their support.

Arbolda expects other team captains to support his bid of asking the PBA board to lift his season-long ban and allow him to play in the import-laced Fiesta Conference.

“Medyo kumikilos tayo ng kaunti at humihingi ng tulong sa kapwa natin team captains na payagan na tayong lumaro," Arboleda told GMANews.TV. “Sa palagay ko, sapat na yung naranasan ko na penalty."

“So far, nakaka-tatlo pa lang kami. But I’m confident na makakakuha pa kami ng pirma from other team captains."

Arboleda’s name was included in the Air21 line-up that was submitted to the PBA office. His inclusion fueled speculations that he might be reinstated anytime and could suit up for the Express in the Fiesta Cup.

PBA chairman and Air21 team manager Lito Alvarez said the reason for Arboleda’s inclusion doesn’t mean the four-time All-Defensive Team member is now allowed to play.

Alvarez added they cannot replace Arboleda’s spot as teams are prohibited to replace a suspended player.

“And even if nilagay namin siya sa lineup, may open and close parenthesis doon which states suspended. It is also one way of thinking positive na baka we can persuade commissioner Sonny Barrios to reinstate him. We feel enough na rin yung penalty na naibigay sa kanya."

Barrios wasn’t surprised to see Arboleda’s name in the lineup.

“It’s short of saying Air21 wants to have a positive outlook," said Barrios. “There’s nothing wrong with that."

But Barrios clarified he hasn’t received any formal letter from Arboleda’s camp seeking for the lifting of his suspension.

“The truth is, I have yet to receive any letter from them," said Barrios. “But if they’re gathering signatures from the team captains, I assume na isasabay na nila dyan yung letter or wait and see if they can get more signatures."

“Parang gaya ng sa mga tatakbo na gumawa ng signature campaign. They want to know first if they can get more signatures before they run."

Source: Author Unknown  | GMANews.TV

Pacquiao pay-per-view way below target

MANILA, Philippines - It seems very unlikely that the pay-per-view sales for the recent Manny Pacquiao-Joshua Clottey fight at the Cowboys Stadium in Texas will come close to the average PPV numbers the Filipino icon has posted in his last three fights.

Top Rank chief Bob Arum has come up with numbers to expect from the recent fight, and they’re way below the 1.25 million PPV buys for Pacquiao’s battle with Oscar dela Hoya and Miguel Cotto, and the 850,000 hits with Ricky Hatton.

“All we have is the satellite numbers and they are very strong,” Arum told ESPN’s Dan Rafael, five days after Pacquiao, the pound-for-pound champion, turned Clottey’s body into a punching bag and ran away with a unanimous decision.

Arum said while nothing is definite yet, the numbers for the March 13 fight should exceed 650,000.

“We’re not giving out any numbers yet because we have very little (information) from the cable systems, which you need. The cable numbers are very fragmented, so it could be a few days. But the number that you can’t go any lower than is 650,000 for the fight.


“That is the worst it would do, but it should be a lot higher,” said Arum.

Pacquiao was guaranteed $12 million for the fight, and should get a couple millions more from his PPV shares. If the numbers get stuck at 650,000, it will translate to around $32.5 million from which the boxers get a share.

Clottey was given $1.2 million for taking on the sport’s hottest figure, and he seemed so content that he gave up his chances of pulling off a victory. For 12 rounds, he was so busy defending and just trying to stay on his feet.

A crowd of 50,994 came to watch the fight at the $1.2 billion stadium.

Pacquiao has averaged a little over a million PPV buys in his fights with Dela Hoya, Hatton and Cotto when a few years ago he was so happy doing around 350,000 for his bouts with Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera or Juan Manuel Marquez.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao’s business adviser, Eric Pineda, yesterday said the 31-year-old Pinoy champion is scheduled to arrive in Manila on Monday, a day ahead of the original plan.

Pacquiao was scheduled to hold a concert in Hawaii this Sunday, but it was called off due to poor ticket sales. Instead, Pacquiao and his wife, Jinkee, will push their departure date to Saturday (LA time).

Pineda said from the airport he will be taken straight to his hotel for a brief rest. Then he attends his traditional Thanksgiving Mass at the Quiapo Church and will probably proceed to the GMA-7 headquarters.

Pacquiao has skipped his routine visit to the DENR headquarters in Quezon City, and according to Pineda, the boxer has yet to receive any word or any invitation for him to drop by at Malacañang for an audience with the President.

Pacquiao flies to his hometown in Sarangani on Tuesday to get ready for his campaign for the May 10 elections.

Source: Abac Cordero  | Philstar.com

San Mig, Derby Ace teams to beat in Fiesta

MANILA, Philippines - San Miguel Beer, the defending champion, and Derby Ace (formerly Purefoods), the Philippine Cup winner, are among the teams to reckon with in the 2010 PBA Fiesta Conference, which comes off the wraps tomorrow at the Araneta Coliseum.

Coaches also pointed to Alaska Milk, Talk n Text and Barangay Ginebra as the teams likely to figure prominently in the fight for the championship in the event won by the Beermen over the Kings last year.

The others, however, are not totally discounted with the coaches stressing the imports role in the reinforced tourney.

They mentioned Rain or Shine last year when the Elasto Painters made the Final Four for the first time in franchise history behind hard-working import Jai Lewis

Barako Energy Coffee and Sta. Lucia Realty clash in the 4 p.m. curtain-raiser then Ginebra and Talk n Text collide in the 6:30 p.m. main setto on opening day.


On Wednesday also at the Big Dome, Barako squares off with Coca-Cola at 5 p.m. then Air21 tangles with San Miguel Beer at 7:30 p.m.

However, San Miguel, Derby Ace, Alaska, Ginebra and Talk n Text remain the favorites to fight it out for the crown.

Coaches say the Beermen, the Llamados, the Aces, the Kings and the Tropang Texters have the built-in advantage with their solid local crew.

Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio said San Miguel and Alaska are the teams to beat but the Llamados will be out there to contend for a possible double championship.

For Alaska coach Tim Cone, San Miguel, Derby Ace and Ginebra are the teams that could well pose biggest problems to his troops.

“It’s hard to make predictions without seeing all the imports, but the SMC teams (San Miguel, Derby Ace and Ginebra) will all be favored, especially SMB with returning import Gabe Freeman. Purefoods, as the all-Filipino champion, will be there as well as Ginebra since they went to last year’s Fiesta Conference finals,” said Alaska coach Tim Cone.

“But as I always say, it’s not about getting the best import. It’s about getting the import that best fits your team. San Miguel has shown that already,” Cone added.

Bo Perasol and Siot Tanquingcen are two coaches which rated Talk n Text in the Top Three. Chot Reyes and Boyet Fernandez, meanwhile, included Alaska Milk in their lists. Jong Uichico picked San Miguel, Derby Ace, Alaska and Talk n Text but not necessarily in that order.

“San Miguel should be there because it’s the defending champion, Purefoods should also be a top choice since it’s the all-Filipino champion, then there’s Alaska with its great import,” said Reyes.

“Purefoods should be there. Talk n Text is also tough with Shawn Daniels. Ginebra will be a tough contender with the return of Rudy Hatfield, the addition of Yancy de Ocampo, the continuous improvement of JC Intal and the presence of healthy Mark Caguioa and Jayjay Helterbrand. Rain or Shine, to me, is a contender with Jai Lewis and its young, energetic local crew,” said Tanquingcen.

“San Miguel, Talk n Text and Purefoods are strong contenders with their solid local lineups,” said Perasol.

Aside from Freeman, Daniels and Lewis, other imports seeing action in the tourney are James Penny for Coca-Cola, Anthony Johnson for Sta. Lucia, Lorrenzo Wade for Derby Ace, Keena Young for Air21, Diamon Simpson for Alaska, Sammy Monroe for Barako and Awvee Storey for Ginebra.

Source: Nelson Beltran  | Philstar.com

Rubillar in title rematch but pay will be less

MANILA, Philippines - Filipino five-time world title challenger Juanito Rubillar is hoping his luck will turn when he takes on newly crowned IBO lightflyweight champion Hekkie (The Hexecutioner) Budler in a rematch at the Emperor’s Palace in Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa, on June 19 but he’ll be paid $2,500 less than in their first controversial meeting.

Rubillar’s manager Gabriel (Bebot) Elorde Jr. said yesterday the smaller purse is inconsequential as is the fact that promoter Shona McTaggart of Golden Gloves is providing for one less plane ticket.

“I can’t complain,” said Elorde. “Juanito is the challenger, not the champion, and I’m just happy to be given a second chance. I’m grateful to Shona and Rodney Berman (Golden Gloves chairman) for agreeing to the rematch.”

Last month, Rubillar lost to Budler via a majority 12-round decision for the vacant IBO 108-pound title at Emperor’s Palace where the 20-year-old South African has fought 12 of his 14 bouts. The verdict was widely criticized by sportswriters, prompting IBO president Ed Levine to order an immediate rematch.

A point of dispute was the presence of three South African judges two of whom unconscionably saw it for Budler despite Rubillar’s dominant showing. For the record, Lulama Mtya had it, 117-113, and Deon Dwarte, 115-113, both for Rubillar while Isaac Tshabalala scored it, 114-all.


Chicago referee Pete Podgorski appeared to throw neutrality out of the window. In the late going, Rubillar dropped Budler with a legitimate blow but Podgorski ruled it a slip after counting to two. Elorde said the fight tape provided by Golden Gloves was only up to the seventh round and conveniently missed the knockdown.

Podgorski, 56, was the same referee who abruptly halted IBF flyweight champion Nonito Donaire’s fight against Raul Martinez in the fourth round at the Araneta Coliseum last year. Martinez was floored and skidded to the canvas. Podgorksi didn’t bother to count or check Martinez’ condition and suddenly, waved it off, raising eyebrows from a few veteran referees at ringside.

“Budler went down from a punch and Podgorski started to count,” said Elorde. “When he reached the count of two, he looked at us and ordered one of our seconds (Archer Villamor) to wipe the water on the canvas near our corner. Then, Podgorski forgot about the count, ruled it a slip and let the fight continue. I couldn’t believe what he did. It was the first time I saw anything like it.”

Elorde said he was advised by friends to protest the verdict but decided against it as the case would’ve meant an investment of $1,000 as filing fee.

“I e-mailed Mr. Levine and forwarded stories from the press questioning Budler’s win,” said Elorde. “A hometown decision is nothing new in boxing. You learn to live with it. But in this case, I asked Mr. Levine for a rematch and I’m grateful that Rodney and Shona agreed.”

To be fair, Elorde said he was approached by McTaggart right after the bout and offered a rematch although no terms were discussed. The contract for the return fight arrived a week ago and Elorde has signed it.

In the first bout, Rubillar was accompanied by trainers Ding Cabanela and Villamor and Elorde as Golden Gloves provided four plane tickets. In the rematch, only three tickets are in the budget and even Rubillar’s purse will be cut by $2,500.

Elorde said he’s not in a position to bargain for neutral judges. The word is two of the three judges in the rematch will be Americans and one will presumably be South African.

“Both Golden Gloves and the IBO have recommended that a rematch take place in order for the result to be free of contention,” said Berman, quoted by the South African press. “Not that we are questioning the credibility of the three judges but since they were all South Africans and the contest was fought at such a fast pace, it was understandable that there would be allegations of a hometown bias. I know that Budler himself would like nothing more than the opportunity to reinforce his status as the new world champion as this would considerably benefit his reputation.”

Budler’s trainer Colin Nathan said he welcomed the opportunity to set the record straight. “It was a credible fight but as champions, we accept the challenge,” he said. “We felt that we won it fair and square but all I can say is that history will repeat itself and we will beat Rubillar more convincingly.”

Elorde said Rubillar fought cautiously in the first four rounds, wary that an accidental headbutt would result in a no-contest or technical draw. He turned on the heat starting the fourth round and Budler took a bad beating.

“We’ll do the same in the rematch,” said Elorde. “We’ll go to the body like we did before but this time, we’ll be even more aggressive so we won’t rely on the scorecards to win.”

Elorde said Budler’s youth and inexperience will prove to be his undoing. Budler was only four years old when Rubillar made his pro debut in 1994. Rubillar’s record is 48-14-7, with 23 KOs, compared to Budler’s 14-0, with five KOs. Rubillar has lost in five bids for the world title, starting in 1999 when he bowed to another South African, Zolani Petelo, for the IBF minimumweight crown in Cambridgeshire, England.

Source: Joaquin Henson  | Philstar.com

Mommy D to persuade son to retire

KORONADAL CITY, Philippines – Saying her son has had enough of boxing, Manny Pacquiao’s mother Dionesia yesterday said she would do anything to persuade the Filipino icon to retire from the brutal sport.

“Handa akong lumuhod at umiyak sa harap ng anak ko para lang mapahinto ko siya sa boxing (I’m ready to kneel down and cry in front of my son to convince him to retire from boxing),” Mommy Dionesia said.

She said she would do it when Pacquiao returns to their hometown in Sarangani province next week.

Pacquiao, who is coming off a one-sided victory over Joshua Clottey in Texas last week, is running for a congressional seat in Sarangani against Roy Chiongbian, a well-known businessman and said to be the “gatekeeper” of the Chiongbian’s business empires in the country.

“Masakit tingnan na nakikita mo ang anak mo na nakikipagsuntukan sa loob ng ring habang naghihiyawan ang mga tao. Masakit tingnan na nakikita mo ang anak mo na tumutulo ang dugo sa mukha habang sinusuntok (It pains when you see your son fighting in the ring while the fans roar. It pains when you see blood flowing down on your son’s face as he is being punched),” Mrs. Dionesia said.


Mrs. Dionesia admitted that she cried when she saw her son’s bloodied face against Clottey.

“Noong maliliit pa ang mga anak ko iningatan at inalagaan ko sila. Masyadong masakit sa akin na makita ang mukha ng mga anak ko na puro mga pasa dahil sa mga suntok ng ibang tao (When my children were still young, I took care of them. It hurts when you see your children’s swollen face because of the punches),” Mrs. Dionesia said.

When asked about Pacquiao’s plan to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr., Mrs. Dionesia said she does not want the fight to push through.

“Sana pakinggan naman ako ni Manny. Sana huwag na niyang habulin ang makukuha niyang premyo sa planong paglaban nilang dalawa ni Mayweather (I hope Manny will listen to me. I hope he won’t go after the prize money in the planned bout between him and Mayweather),” she said.

Mrs. Dionesia said she believes that Pacquiao would listen to her, saying “dahil para rin naman sa ikabubuti ni Manny ang hinihingi ko sa kanya (I’m asking this favor for his own good).”

Pacquiao’s father Rosalio, on the other hand, said it will all depend on Manny whether to retire from boxing or not.

Rosalio said if his son does not want to retire from boxing, the only choice of his mother is “to support Manny in his decision.”

Source: Author Unknown  | Philstar.com

Smart Gilas slams Canberra Gunners

MANILA, Philippines - Smart Gilas Pilipinas continued its impressive showing Down Under as it blasted the Canberra Gunners, 101-84, to remain undefeated in its six-game Australian Tour at the Belconnen Basketball Stadium Thursday night.

Dylan Ababou, the reigning UAAP MVP, exploded for 20 points he spiked with five triples while Mac Baracael and skipper Chris Tiu chipped in 15 and 14 points, respectively, to anchor the lopsided win for the Filipinos.

It was the third win by the Nationals, who downed Australia’s Under-19 team, 78-67, and Australia’s second team, 79-73.

Their other game ended up in a 73-all draw.

The Smart Gilas team was playing NSWIS last night and is scheduled to face a club from Sydney City tomorrow.


“We’re doing great,” said Smart Gilas team manager Frankie Lim. “But more than the wins, we hope to toughen up and learn many things from training games like this.”

The win over the Gunners, one of the top teams in the Southeast Australia cage league, came as a big surprise since the host team did not only have size advantage but was also backed by foreign-bred players like Glenn Baird, who played college ball in the US NCAA, and Zlatko Todorovski, a Macedonian-born player.

Fil-Am Greg Slaughter continued to dish out solid games as he finished with nine points, five rebounds and two shot blocks after scoring a combined 29 points in the last two games.

Jason Ballesteros also returned after sitting it out in the team’s previous game as he turned in nine points, 11 rebounds, one shot block, a steal and an assist.

After struggling for just a pair of triples the last time out, the Filipinos torched the rim with 13 treys with Ababou leading the attack.

Source: Joey Villar  | Philstar.com

PBA: Early grudge showdown

Two teams that figured in a controversial quarterfinal series in the previous conference face off right on opening day of the KFC-Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) Fiesta Conference on Sunday at the Araneta Coliseum.

Barangay Ginebra and Talk ’N Text, which battled in a Philippine Cup quarterfinal series marred by a walkout that cost the Texters more than P1 million in fines, square off at 6:30 p.m. right after the opening game tussle between the “new look” Barako Coffee Masters and Sta. Lucia Realty at 4 p.m.

Ginebra, which lost to sister team San Miguel Beer in the semifinals of the All-Filipino tournament, strengthened its frontline by acquiring Yancy de Ocampo in a trade with Air21 and signing free agent John Ferriols.

Plus, the Kings are expecting 32-year-old rebound demon Rudy Hatfield to rejoin the team next month.

“He’s [Hatfield] always a positive addition and I’m sure he still has the same heart and intensity,” said Uichico, who now faces a dilemma on who to relegate in the reserve list once Hatfield joins the team.

“Also, he is a stabilizing presence, not only in the locker room and on the court but also even in practice. Kaya siguradong makakatulong siya, not only with my team pero kahit na saang team,” he added.

Hatfield played six seasons in the PBA and was part of the Ginebra team that ruled the 2006-07 Philippine Cup before returning to the US to help his bride-to-be Bethany sort out some problems from her previous marriage.

Uichico said that aside from resuming his basketball career in the country, Hatfield will also be involved in missionary work.

The Kings are parading former National Basketball Association campaigner Awvee Storey, whom Uichico described as an all-around player

“He’s a hard worker, nothing flashy. A defender, rebounder and a team player,” he said.

Talk ’N Text, also added three role players in a trade with the Express, giving up de Ocampo and Renren Ritualo.

Debuting for the Tropang Texters are Mark Yee, JR Quinahan and Aaron Aban, while coach Chot Reyes decided to get back import Shawn Daniels after their original choice, Erick Hicks, fell short of expectations.

“I’m very pleased with our practice the past week and I’m looking forward to a great conference for us,” said Reyes, who failed to defend their Philippine Cup title after losing to the Kings in a quarterfinals marred by a walkout.

Reyes added that the new additions, including the burly Daniels, will provide new dimensions to the team known for its scoring prowess.

“Iyung mga basurero, mga pulot-pulot, depensa, hustle,” he said. “Sila ’yung magbibigay ng ibang dimensions sa team namin and I’m very happy with them.”

Daniels, who is fresh from a stint in Puerto Rico, arrived on Thursday morning.

“He’s exactly the kind of import we need, a team player who can complement the locals and has the defensive attitude,” said Reyes.

Source: Joel Orellana  | BusinessMirror.com.ph

How do you improve PBA officiating?

As the PBA Fiesta conference opens this Sunday, it will be another three months of watching the teams get used to the personnel changes and the imports.

It’s always fascinating to see which imports stay for the long haul or are dismissed for their inability to fit into a coach’s system.

But let’s face it. Officiating will also have its fair share of the limelight with frustrated teams howling to the heavens how life is so unfair and with coaches and players nit-picking almost every call.

From the simplest out-of-bounds decision to the intricacies of charging and blocking, there will always be a bone of contention among the dramatis personae in a game.

You can’t blame the players, coaches and team owners. Everybody wants to win.

* * *

Some say basketball is almost impossible to officiate. It is arguably the most frenetic of sports with the ball changing hands quickly and 10 individuals fighting for position and possession.

Attempts at the basket happen at least twice in every minute of play with a slew of possible violations along the way.

Hank Nichols, once in charge of officials in the US NCAA, said in Last Dance, John Feinstein’s engaging book on the Final Four, that what coaches are begging for is consistency in the way calls are made and discernment at crucial times of the game.

Thus, what the game needs are uncommon men (and women, perhaps in the future) who will referee the game ably in all its complexity.

* * *

This is perhaps the end in mind of PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios during his watch: To have officials with integrity and the skills to officiate the game as best they can, fully aware of the stress on teams to win and the demands of a discerning public.

Barrios is not a wishful dreamer who hopes that walkouts or a critical endgame call will never happen again.

In the PBA pressure cooker of intense competition, anything can be triggered by frustration or perceived unfairness.

Barrios has been in the league long enough to understand how the heat of battle can shape perception on the way the games are called. Talking with him, you sense he does not believe that nothing can be done about officiating.

Barrios is striving to find individuals who will face the challenge of better basketball officiating straight in the eye. He has underscored the fact that his office has been unceasing in holding training programs and post-game evaluations for the refs.

And yet, he remains open to suggestions on how officiating can further improve and be consistent without imposing on the flow and appreciation of the games.

* * *

On that note, let’s begin with personnel. If teams travel far (which includes scouting for Fil-Ams) to look for talent, the PBA has to do its own talent search and not merely rely on walk-in applicants.

So far, the commissioner has warmed up to the idea of doing talent searches in the cities the league will hop to in the upcoming conference.

There are diamonds in the rough among the whistle blowers in the north as well as in the Visayas and Mindanao that are hoping for a chance to do PBA games.

Being a previous player or having ref experience shouldn’t be the main criteria for acceptance, though. Attitude, body language and communication skills should also be of paramount importance.

That’s because the complaining will never really go away. What are needed are refs who can stand the heat and still call the game as best they can.

Source: Sev Sarmenta  | Philippine Daily Inquirer