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Media Source: @chinitaprincess (left) @andersongeraldjr (right) | Instagram The long-silent KimErald fandom found new life online after Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson were seen together at the Star Magical Christmas: Sleigh the Night event last Sunday at Okada Manila. The former love team, who both rose to fame through Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition in 2006, received their loyalty awards at the same time, instantly sending fans into a wave of nostalgia.&nbsp; Social media quickly filled with warm reactions, with many delighted to see the two sharing a moment again after years apart. Because of the reunion, supporters have started wishing for a KimErald comeback film, with most hoping for a mature drama rather than the rom-coms that made them household names years ago. On the other hand, KimPau fans, those rooting for Kim and Paulo Avelino, seemed unfazed by the reunion, saying their tandem remains solid and secure given the pair’s strong on-screen chemistry and current projects. Whether or not the reunion leads to something more, KimErald fans are happily basking in the renewed kilig. Meanwhile, the Star Magical Christmas: Sleigh the Night took on added significance as ABS-CBN and Star Magic honored artists whose talent, dedication, and loyalty have remained steadfast over the years. The 20-Year Loyalty Awardees and Special Honors were presented to: <ul><li>Gerald Anderson</li></ul><ul><li>Jake Cuenca</li></ul><ul><li>Joem Bascon</li></ul><ul><li>Zanjoe Marudo</li></ul><ul><li>Sam Milby</li></ul><ul><li>Enchong Dee</li></ul><ul><li>Kim Chiu</li></ul> Meanwhile, the Special Recognitions were awarded to: <ul><li>Esnyr Ranollo – Shein’s Sleighable Look of the Night</li><li>Jessy Mendiola – Metro’s Best Dressed (Female)</li><li>Brent Manalo – Metro’s Best Dressed (Male)</li><li>Francine Diaz &amp; Seth Fedelin (FranSeth) – Couple of the Night</li></ul>

KimErald Fans Celebrate Surprise Reunion of Kim Chiu and Gerald Anderson

Media Source: Philippine Concerts | Facebook It was pure kilig overload last Saturday’s Puregold Hakot Relay Run in Burnham Green Park, Luneta, thanks to the hit love team MikBrent (Mika Salamanca and Brent Manalo). Brent opened the Sunset Concert with a string of romantic songs, followed by Mika who performed emotional, hugot-filled tracks.&nbsp; The highlight of the night came when the two reunited for their duet, “What If Tayo?” Fans begged for a kiss, but the pair playfully dodged the request. Backstage, Brent told us he’s hoping for family time soon but confirmed that he and Mika will be spending Christmas together to promote their movie “Call Me Mother.”&nbsp; Just then, Mika entered their tent, and Brent was caught feeding her popsicle ice cream — a moment that sent fans into another frenzy. Later, Mika explained why they didn’t grant the requested kiss, “Hindi po nagki-kiss ang mag-best friend.” Puregold’s three-kilometer Hakot Relay added a unique spin to the usual fun run.&nbsp; Teams of three raced not for speed but strategy, filling their sling bags with grocery items before tagging the next member.&nbsp; Mika and Brent’s natural onstage chemistry kept the crowd entertained, especially when fans again egged them on to kiss.&nbsp; Mika teased Brent until he joked, “Ang corny nito.” Though still no kiss, the pair delighted everyone by joining the relay afterward. Puregold President Vincent Co, who led the first batch of runners, said, “Wins come in many forms.” He added, “This is a new one for us, as Puregold tries to create a moment where families, friends, and communities can connect. This Hakot Relay Run gave us a chance to do exactly that!” Also performing at the Sunset Concert were KAIA, G22, and Press Hit Play. All participants went home with a Finisher’s Medal, race singlet, a custom grocery sling bag, and the grocery items they collected.

Mika Salamanca and Brent Manalo Send Fans Screaming at Puregold Hakot Relay Run

Media Source: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://PEP.ph">PEP.ph</a> | Website Filipino breakout actor Rabin Angeles believes South Korean superstar Song Joong-ki would be proud of the Philippine adaptation of A Werewolf Boy. During a media chat with his leading lady Angela Muji, Rabin shared that tackling such an iconic character initially overwhelmed him.&nbsp; He watched only selected clips from the 2012 Korean hit, careful not to imitate Song Joong-ki’s performance.&nbsp; Instead, he wanted to craft a version that would feel distinct, grounded, and uniquely Filipino. According to the young actor, some scenes demanded a physical and emotional intensity unlike anything he had done before.&nbsp; One particularly difficult sequence required him to cry with wide, unblinking eyes—an expression meant to capture the character’s non-human nature.&nbsp; “Sobrang hirap po sa akin ng scene na yon kasi umiiyak ka na nakamulat kasi hindi ka tao… Pero sa pinakaunang take na yon, feeling ko, sumanib sa akin si Song Joong Ki,” Rabin shared. Rabin also admitted he wasn’t sure how to approach it at first, but once the cameras rolled, he found himself slipping instinctively into the role with surprising ease, almost as if the original actor’s energy was guiding him. The film’s emotional weight, gritty transformation scenes, and physical demands left Rabin exhausted yet fulfilled.&nbsp; Rabin said, “Kung mapapanood po niya ito, feeling ko kahit paano matutuwa siya sa akin. Tsaka ito talaga yung pinaka-confident akong project na ginawa ko.” Beyond the buzz surrounding the movie, Rabin is also excited for something more personal: coming home to Pampanga for Christmas. Because of his tight work schedule, he rarely gets to spend quality time with his family.&nbsp; He revealed that he had even considered buying himself a new phone for his birthday but decided against it, choosing instead to save up so he could bring gifts home for the holidays.

Rabin Angeles Hopes Song Joong-ki Would Appreciate PH A Werewolf Boy Remake

Media Source: Mark Anthony Fernandez&nbsp;| Facebook Actor Mark Anthony Fernandez found himself at the center of an unexpected online discussion last week after a viral clickbait post falsely claimed that he had passed away.&nbsp; The misleading rumor spread quickly on social media, alarming fans and even some close to him. Coincidentally, Mark Anthony Fernandez was at the Viva office on Friday for what appeared to be a meeting with Boss Vic del Rosario, and according to an article published by Abante Una sa Balita, their team encountered him at the same office. When he spotted the Abante team, he greeted the group cheerfully—completely unaware that, just hours earlier, the internet had already “killed” him in a viral clickbait post. The team immediately informed him of the circulating rumor, telling him that even Tita Annabelle Rama had believed something might have happened after seeing a content creator’s misleading claim online.&nbsp; The Gutierrez matriarch had phoned the Abante staff earlier that day, clearly alarmed and eager to confirm whether the shocking headline was true.&nbsp; Her concern highlighted how harmful careless clickbait and fabricated celebrity death announcements can be, especially when they reach people close to the personalities involved. Mark was surprised but quickly brushed off the hoax with good humor. Since he was standing right beside the team, they decided to call Tita Annabelle on the spot so she could speak to him directly.&nbsp; As soon as she picked up, Mark reassured her himself, “Tita, salamat po. Nag-worry raw po kasi kayo. Pero ok naman po ako. Huwag po kayong mag-alala at buhay po ako!” After their brief conversation, Mark admitted that he had even been approached by a few people earlier in the day who asked whether the rumor was true.&nbsp; He said he found it absurd how quickly false information about a celebrity’s death can circulate online, especially when created purely for clicks and views.

Mark Anthony Fernandez Shuts Down Death Rumors

Media Source: Miss Universe | Facebook The energy in the venue reached its peak every time the Philippines was called—Filipino supporters made sure Ahtisa Manalo received the loudest cheers throughout the Miss Universe 2025 competition.&nbsp; Their excitement only grew when Ahtisa secured her spot in the Top 12, joining delegates from Chile, Guadeloupe, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia, Cuba, China, Thailand, Malta, and Côte d’Ivoire. During her interview segment, Ahtisa shared her heartfelt journey in pageantry. She revealed that she began joining competitions at a young age to help support her family, and through the years, pageants have become her platform to push advocacies close to her heart, youth empowerment and gender equality.&nbsp; Her sincerity, combined with her calm confidence, resonated strongly with the audience and judges. But one particular moment truly captivated viewers around the world: Ahtisa’s signature slow walk paired with a piercing stare into the camera.&nbsp; That single glance created waves online, with many praising her poise, elegance, and commanding presence. Visually, Ahtisa did not disappoint. She stunned in an ethereal luminous white gown paired with a sophisticated updo.&nbsp; The gown was crafted by renowned Filipino designer Mak Tumang, the creative mind behind her earlier Pinctada gown and the iconic lava dress worn by Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.&nbsp; The design highlighted Ahtisa’s grace and radiance, making her one of the standout beauties of the night. Ahtisa advanced further to the Top 5, following Thailand. The remaining finalists included Venezuela, Mexico, and Côte d’Ivoire.&nbsp; This year’s Miss Universe format introduced a twist: instead of moving from Top 5 to the traditional Top 3, all five finalists faced two rounds of questioning, the usual Miss Universe Q&amp;A and a single final question posed to all of them. After an intense and emotional finale, the results were announced: <ul><li>4th Runner-Up: Côte d’Ivoire </li><li>3rd Runner-Up: Philippines (Ahtisa Manalo) </li><li>2nd Runner-Up: Venezuela </li><li>1st Runner-Up: Thailand </li><li>Miss Universe 2025: Mexico </li></ul>Though Ahtisa finished as 3rd Runner-Up, she left the stage celebrated, admired, and deeply loved—especially by her fellow Filipinos who never stopped cheering her on.&nbsp; Her journey, elegance, and purpose-driven answers earned her global recognition and reaffirmed her status as one of the Philippines’ brightest pageant stars.

Ahtisa Manalo Earns the Loudest Cheers as She Shines at Miss Universe 2025

Media Source: @iamhearte | Instagram Heart Evangelista is proving once again that she’s far above the noise. Despite the nonstop barrage of criticism from bashers back home, the global fashion icon remains unfazed, continuing to shine on the international stage with even greater impact. Heart has been invited as a special guest and inspirational speaker at the Kraam International Symposium 2025 in Bangkok, an elite gathering themed “Hands Across Culture.”&nbsp; The honor is even more meaningful because she was reportedly handpicked by Vogue Thailand for the role. While Vogue Thailand’s social media announcement featuring Heart drew heavy bashing from detractors, the publication simply carried on—proudly highlighting Heart’s involvement and showing no signs of being swayed by the negativity.&nbsp; Their post even emphasized her key role: “For the first time, influential fashion influencers such as Heart Evangelista and @ideservecouture will share an exclusive story about the transmission of culture in the digital world.” Supporters celebrated Heart’s appearance on the Fashion Community stage on Thursday, where she was warmly received by the Vogue Thailand team.&nbsp; Many Filipino fans are also hopeful she’ll cheer on Ahtisa Manalo in the 74th Miss Universe, since both are currently in Bangkok. According to an insider, Heart has long learned how to tune out her bashers. Even with what seems like a synchronized wave of attacks, none of her brand endorsements have dropped her—contrary to rumors spread online.&nbsp; Every partnership remains intact, reinforcing just how strong her standing is within the fashion industry. The symposium, officially opened by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, further elevated the prestige of the event where Heart plays a spotlighted role. Heart expressed her gratitude on social media, writing: “The warmest welcome to the KRAAM International Symposium 2025: Hands Across Culture. Grateful to begin this celebration of culture, creativity, and the chance to keep sharing my craft with the world #KraamInternationalSymposium2025.” Her followers quickly flooded her page with supportive messages.

Heart Evangelista Unbothered as She Shines at Kraam International Symposium 2025

Media Source: Manila Bulletin Lifestyle | Facebook Wolfgang’s Premiere Lounge becomes Philippines’ first and only cinema restobar to offer Wolfgang’s Steakhouse’s premium menu.&nbsp; Cubao’s Gateway Mall 2 now officially houses “Wolfgang’s Premiere Lounge” that offers diners and watchers the restaurant’s world-famous menu.&nbsp;&nbsp; Watching Avengers or Final Destination will surely be a treat with Wolfgang’s Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich, Roast Beef Sandwich, or the famous Classic Wolfgang Burger.&nbsp; Tickets are <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.spot.ph/eatdrink/the-latest-eat-drink/111687/wolfgang-premiere-cinema-gateway-cubao-a6866-20250511?s=ohfrhius8dhj4eps6ur4hp8s2b">reportedly</a> ₱990, inclusive of a meal—where moviegoers can choose among the three options—and a movie of their choice. Wolfgang’s Premiere is reportedly located in cinema 13 and 14 in the Mall’s Cineplex 18. Together, they offer a total of 120 premium La-Z-Boy recliner seats, all of which are split into pairs with side tables in between. The Wolfgang-infused cinema experience officially opened its doors just May 3, featuring laser projection and Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound. Wolfgang enthusiasts who simply want to enjoy a meal can also visit the lounge without watching a movie and simply experience a world-class dining experience.&nbsp; Enjoy cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, and full rice meals in the premium lounge designed with an all-wood and vintage Hollywood-inspired aesthetic. For many moviegoers, the cinema menu may not always be where they get a full or even a delicious meal, but this new cinema restobar aims to change that. Wolfgang's Steakhouse History Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is a global brand with a flagship store in Manhattan. The restaurant is regarded as a “New York legend” as it’s widely regarded as one of the best steakhouses in the world. Wolfgang Zwiener, founder of the world-famous restaurant, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2025/1/27/wolfgang-zwiener-founder-of-wolfgang-s-steakhouse-passes-away-at-85-1456">passed away</a> at 85 years old earlier this year. The American chain giant was a mere waiter in another legendary steakhouse “Luger’s.” Zwiener “<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/johntamny/2025/03/06/wolfgang-zwiener-a-reminder-that-the-talented-will-always-outrun-pols/">reinvented</a>” himself before starting his very own restaurant back in 2004. The American steakhouse chain now has over 40 locations worldwide.

Wolfgang’s Premiere Lounge Poised as the Country’s Most Luxurious Cinema

MEDIA SOURCE: Jim Vondruska A number of prominent American celebrities are facing strong backlash from supporters of Donald Trump after endorsing U.S. Vice-President Kamala Harris in her recent presidential campaign. Trump won the U.S. election held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lopez, Robert De Niro, Cher, Tom Hanks, Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, John Legend, Olivia Rodrigo, Julia Roberts, Harrison Ford, Will Ferrell, Viola Davis, and George Clooney are receiving heavy criticism from Trump’s allies, who have targeted them with harsh comments and accusations. Much like recent events in Philippine politics, unproven allegations have surfaced, claiming that these stars were "paid endorsers" who accepted compensation from Harris to support her campaign.&nbsp; Trump’s supporters are celebrating his victory while strongly condemning the public figures who backed his opponent.

Hollywood Celebrities Face Backlash from Trump Supporters After Endorsing Kamala Harris in Presidential Race

MEDIA SOURCE: Jonas Peradilla Amidst the wrath of severe tropical storm Kristine, rescue and relief operations have been ongoing outside of government efforts, with Donny Pangilinan at the frontline—delivering relief goods himself to Angat Buhay’s office.&nbsp; With Naga and the rest of the Bicol region being one of the most severely hit places in the country, a lot of netizens have been calling for help on their behalf in the spirit of bayanihan. Consequently, rescue and relief operations—care of the Angat Buhay NGO—have been ongoing since yesterday, October 24, 2024.&nbsp; Donny Pangilinan—among others—has been seen personally bringing in-kind donations to the non-government organization’s headquarters and has amassed praise from netizens.&nbsp; “Saludo ako sayo, sir Donny,” one netizen commented.&nbsp; “Pogi na matutulungin pa,” another comment mentioned.&nbsp; “Tama behavior Donny Pangilinan,” said another comment. Grateful for Donny’s efforts, the organization also published a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/qggzRZVkrXt5hVMh/">post</a> thanking the young actor for his initiative.&nbsp; In addition to Donny’s efforts, netizens have also begun raising cash donations to provide assistance for STS Kristine’s victims in Bicol and in other heavily-hit places outside of the region.&nbsp; Netizens that are interested in giving cash and kind donations may visit Angat Buhay and Tanging Yaman’s Facebook pages to learn more.

Donny Pangilinan earns praises for quick typhoon response

PHOTO SOURCE: Miguel de Guzman/Philippine Star ‘WAG PO, MAY INTERVIEW AKO, PLEASSEEE! NANGHIRAM LANG AKO NG DAMIT,” In a viral post, a Facebook user posted a screengrab of an anonymous user from an FB group who claimed she begged not to be soaked because she has an interview to attend. Despite begging, an anonymous user said in her post that a group of teenagers still soaked her. “Pero hindi sila nakinig. Pinasiritan ako ng tubig sa mukha mula sa hose. "At ‘di pa sila nakuntento. Binuhusan ako ng ilang timbang tubig. Kaya halos basang-basa ako. "Yung hawak ko na envelope kung nasaan original requirements ko ay nabasa din. Halos mabura ang mga details ko kasi basang-basa."Halos umiyak ako noon kasi two hours ako nag-byahe tapos hindi rin pala ako makakapunta sa interview,” she said. The original post from a certain Rod Lina garnered 148K reactions. Netizens sympathized with the anonymous user who claimed to be a single mom of three children. In the latter parts of the post, the anonymous user who claims to be a single mom explained why her interview was important since she was the only one who sustained her children’s needs. “Sana napasaya namin kayo. Napakalaking bagay po na makaka-alis ako ng bansa dahil solo ko na binubuhay mga anak ko. Nakiusap ako. Nagmakaawa. Pero hindi kayo nakinig. Umiyak, pero nagtatawanan pa kayo. Happy Fiesta. ‘Yung isang araw na fiesta ninyo, isang buong pangarap ko po ang naglaho,” she said. Here’s the full story from the anonymous user’s post: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/iamrod15/posts/pfbid02HMmGXKsEv1H4D5qLUQtXbZhb1eJyB3CbzMjSy5naSS3pXUQLS6MoCwnmMcgg27eMl">https://www.facebook.com/iamrod15/posts/pfbid02HMmGXKsEv1H4D5qLUQtXbZhb1eJyB3CbzMjSy5naSS3pXUQLS6MoCwnmMcgg27eMl</a>

VIRAL: Single Mom lost job opportunity due to San Juan Basaan Festival

PHOTO SOURCE: Rappler (YouTube) and Instagram (Vice Ganda) “Nasan na si Teacher Rubilyn?,” Vice Ganda jokingly asked an ‘It’s Showtime’ staff member that looked a bit too much like Alice Guo, the controversial mayor of Bamban City, Tarlac.&nbsp; “Your honor, hindi ko na po maalala,” the staff answered—referencing the answers of the Bamban mayor in majority of the senate hearings she has been in all May. While being the subject of many memes recently, Alice Guo has been in and out of the senate due to her alleged involvement in a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) that was raided back in March 2024.&nbsp; Since then, the Philippine Senate has launched an investigation into her involvement or lack thereof in the POGO operations situated in Bamban.&nbsp; When asked to identify specific details of her childhood, most of Guo’s answers would be “hindi ko po maalala,” casting more and more doubt on her background and whether she did actually have a childhood in the country or—as many have accused her of—actually a Chinese spy that enabled the POGO operations in Tarlac.&nbsp; The most compelling evidence found by the investigation has been the inconsistencies in her birth records. According to the investigation, she was already 17 when it has been filed with the Philippine Statistics Authority.&nbsp; As the senate probes into Alice Guo’s identity piqued the attention of the general public, they have become the subject of many memes.&nbsp; Vice Ganda alluding to the controversial mayor’s lookalike is only one. “Your honor, hindi ko na po maalala,” being quoted here and there is another.&nbsp; Recently, “lumaki po ako sa farm,” has also been another one of her quotes that has become the subject of memes. This comes after her insistent replies that she has grown up in the Philippines on a ‘farm’ and not in China.&nbsp; On May 22, 2024, during the most recent probe into Guo’s background, she was questioned about the inconsistencies related to her lineage. The investigation is still ongoing and is keen on finding further developments.&nbsp;

Vice Ganda alludes to Alice Guo’s senate hearings after seeing a ‘lookalike’ of the controversial mayor

PHOTO SOURCE: Philippine News Agency Just last week—May 6, 2024, 61 OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers) have opted to avail voluntary repatriations and are set to arrive in NAIA any time soon. The voluntary repatriation is a government-led effort—through the Department of Migrant Workers—to assist OFWs who would like to go back home to the Philippines.&nbsp; May 16, 2024 — Israel’s defense minister announced that they will continue to send Israeli troops to the last Hamas refuge. This comes even after the U.S. and its allies warn them against a full-scale invasion of Rafah.&nbsp; While the incursion of the Gaza strip occurred in October 2023, the Israelian occupation of Palestine has been ongoing for years.&nbsp; By April 2024, Israel has conducted over 60 aerial strikes in Central Gaza, injuring 30 in a Zarqa residential building. The conflict continued on, and in three-days time, there had already been two mass graves found in the Gaza strip.&nbsp; In May 2024, developments further ensued with news of Israelian troops moving into Rafah where 1.5Million Palestinians have taken shelter. This comes after Israel heeded warnings from the international community to refrain from any military action directed at the area. Efforts to rescue hostages from Gaza have been ongoing since 2023, yet have remained unsuccessful.&nbsp;

61 OFWs are set to arrive in PH in the aftermath of the Rafah attacks

MEDIA SOURCE: Philippine Navy Carlos Yulo, the famous Filipino gymnast, has officially become a part of the Philippine Navy Reserves. He formally took his oath as a reservist on October 1, 2024.&nbsp; Yulo expressed his gratitude and desire to serve the country through this new role. “I am proud to have the privilege of being enlisted in the Philippine Navy Reserve Force, a recognition I never expected in my lifetime. Wearing this Navy uniform fills me with immense pride,” Carlos Yulo said. "With all my heart, I thank the Philippine Navy for this prestigious recognition. I will uphold its core values and inspire today’s youth, showing them that through sports, they too can serve our country,” he added. The Naval Public Affairs Office stated that Yulo was welcomed into the Philippine Navy Reserve Force as a Petty Officer First Class. Major Gen. Joseph Ferrous Cuison announced Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr.'s message regarding Yulo's appointment, highlighting Yulo's dedication, discipline, and drive as qualities that will benefit the Philippine Navy.&nbsp; Adaci expressed confidence that Yulo would bring the same commitment to his role as a reservist, working alongside those dedicated to protecting the nation. Yulo's joining is seen as a great inspiration to Filipino youth who continue to contribute to the nation in various fields.

Carlos Yulo Appointed Petty Officer 1st Class in Navy Reserves

MEDIA SOURCE: Reuters Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo made history at the 2024 Olympics held in Paris. On consecutive days of competition, he brought home two gold medals for the Philippines. On Sunday, August 4, Carlos Yulo secured his second Olympic gold medal by dominating the men's vault finals at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This victory followed his first gold medal win in the floor exercise finals just the day before. Yulo delivered an impressive 15.433 on his first vault, featuring one of only two routines with a difficulty rating of 6.000. The 24-year-old gymnast followed up with a strong 14.800, scoring an average of 15.116 for the two vault routines. This remarkable performance set the tone for his success, showcasing his exceptional skill and determination in the competition. Today, Yulo is the Philippines' most successful gymnast, the second Olympic gold medalist, and the first to win multiple Olympic golds.

Carlos Yulo Earned 2 Gold Medals at the 2024 Olympics

PHOTO SOURCE: @sarnovanessa/Instagram MANILA, Philippines —&nbsp;Vanessa Sarno, a young and promising Filipina, qualified for her first-ever Olympic Games by winning the International Weightlifting Federation World Cup in April.&nbsp; Making her debut in the Olympics, Sarno declared that she wasn't going to Paris for the experience alone. No matter how challenging the objective may be, the Bohol weightlifter is aiming for at least a bronze medal. Sarno said.&nbsp; "Gusto ko pong i-break yung mentality na ganun. As first timer po, kaya namang mag medal," continued the Tagbilaran City, Bohol native, who also shared her humble beginnings of learning the sport before she went on to make a name for herself here and at the international level. "Goal ko po talagang mag-medal sa Olympics. Sa lahat po kasi, iniisip nila na as first timer pag Olympics, lahat sinasabi na for exposure lang,"&nbsp; Sarno placed sixth in the women's 71kg Olympic Qualification Rankings, earning her a spot at the Paris Games. Each weight category's top ten winners qualified to compete in the Olympics. Dubbed as the successor apparent to the first-ever Filipino gold medallist in the Olympics, Sarno said that she is more looking forward to her trip to Paris than nervous. "Yung sa mentality ko po ngayon. Alam ko po sa sarili ko na kaya ko pong i-improve pa po yung standing ko po ngayon. Sa ngayon kasi na nag qualify kami, back to zero kaming lahat. Hindi po namin alam kung sino yung malakas." Sarno stated.&nbsp;

Vanessa Sarno aiming for a medal in Paris

PHOTO SOURCE: NCAA MANILA, Philippines — In the NCAA Season 99 women's volleyball tournament on Tuesday at FilOil EcoOil Centre, Colegio de San Juan de Letran rallied in the fourth set to defeat previously unbeaten Lyceum of the Philippines University, 24-26, 25-20, 25-22, 25-22, and strengthened its Final Four bid. The Lady Knights fought from a two-game grind to move to 5-2 owing in large part to rookie player Gia Maquilang, who had a double-double performance of eight receptions, 16 points, and 16 digs. In an attempt for a comeback up for a scoreless performance in their four-set defeat to Mapua last week, Yen Martin, a rookie, turned in a spectacular performance. Her 16 markers were based on 13 attacks and three blocks.&nbsp;The Lady Pirates, who were hoping to secure a spot in the semifinals if they won, broke a 9-all tie by going on a 5-0 spree, leaving the Muralla team looking at a five-point deficit in the fourth and final set. Despite this setback, the Lady Knights remained unfazed as Maquilang produced consecutive hits and the game was tied at 19 owing to a single block by Judiel Nitura on Johna Dolorito. Meanwhile, a Maquilang assault gave Letran a crucial 22-19 lead. Letran's aggressive setter, Natalie Estreller, then opened two consecutive aces. Even yet, Lyceum responded with a pair of consecutive points, highlighted by an ace from Venice Puzon, the two-time top setter, to reduce their deficit to just one, 22–21.&nbsp; Letran won the four sets, nevertheless, because to a net fault made by Hiromi Osada, a rookie middle blocker for LPU.

NCAA: Letran breaks LPU's flawless record and solidifies  hold on third place

PHOTO SOURCE: Shakey's Super League MANILA, Philippines — Last Sunday night, the National University's women's volleyball team emerged victorious against La Salle in the UAAP tournament. The Lady Bulldogs won with a score of 22-25, 25-23, 25-16, 25-22, not only ending a string of losses that dated back to last season but also positioning themselves well for a top-two spot in Season 86. More than 11,000 fans watched as National University star Bella Belen spoke after the hard-earned win.&nbsp; “Our mindset was to really beat them today,” she said.&nbsp; “We really had to give it our best because [we knew] it was not going to be easy. La Salle is a champion team. They also wanted to win, but we showed that we wanted it more.” The Bulldogs are now tied for the lead with Santo Tomas at 10-2, having beaten Adamson and Far Eastern University in their last classification-round matches. If the Bulldogs win their last two games, they will still face off against Santo Tomas and La Salle at the end of the elimination round.&nbsp; The match between the Golden Tigresses and the Lady Spikers could determine which team gets the second twice-to-beat spot. The Bulldogs won against the Lady Spikers, breaking their six-game losing streak. Vange Alinsug had 22 points from 20 attacks, Belen had 14 attack points and 14 excellent receptions, and Alyssa Solomon contributed 13 points from 12 attacks and a block.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Bulldogs are taking it one game at a time and this game could be their most significant one this season.

UAAP: NU beats La Salle for top-two spot

PHOTO SOURCE: UAAP La Salle made it to the Final Four spot for the Women’s Volleyball Tournament in the UAAP Season 86. But according to their assistant coach Noel Orcullo, it was a ‘bad win.’&nbsp; “Like coach (Orcullo) said, it was a bad win. There’s so much more that we could have done better,’’ said Shevena Laput, one of the middle blockers for the team.&nbsp; Angel Canino, their prolific hitter and ace, had to sit the game out due to injuries caused by an undisclosed accident. Orcullo said that Canino already began to receive therapy on her hand.&nbsp; “She’s being monitored. She began to receive therapy on her hand, so let’s see when Angel would be able to heal fully,’’&nbsp; The Lady Spikers now share the top spot with University of Santo Tomas Tigresses and are ensured of making it to the final four along with National University.