Gymnastics sensation Carlos Yulo and tennis star Alex Eala were hailed as Co-Athletes of the Year at the 2025 Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Annual Awards Night, held Monday, February 16, at the Diamond Hotel Manila.
The awards recognized the two stars for their stellar performances on the global stage. Yulo, who claimed gold at the 53rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, and Eala, champion of the WTA Guadalajara Open and a gold medalist at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games, made history as the first male and female co-Athletes of the Year in 22 years.
The last time the honor was shared was in 2004 by boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and golfer Jennifer Rosales.
Volleyball’s Brightest Stars Shine
In volleyball, Bella Belen of Alas Pilipinas Women and Capital1 Solar Spikers earned the Ms. Volleyball title, celebrated for her standout performances in both collegiate and professional circuits.
Meanwhile, Bryan Bagunas, captain of Osaka Blueton and the Philippine men’s national team, was named Mr. Volleyball after leading the Philippines to a breakthrough appearance in the FIVB Men’s World Championship and securing a SEA Games bronze in Thailand.
Basketball Honors Go to June Mar Fajardo
San Miguel Beermen’s June Mar Fajardo, who clinched his 12th PBA championship, a 5th Finals MVP, and 13th Best Player of the Conference award, was recognized as Mr. Basketball, further cementing his legacy as the league’s dominant force.
Special Recognitions
The President’s Award went to former coach and Pampanga 1st District Representative Yeng Guiao for his advocacy that led to the Supreme Court ruling directing PAGCOR and PCSO to remit full amounts to the National Sports Development Fund, a victory for Philippine athletes.
Golf legend Frankie Miñoza was enshrined as a Hall of Famer, honoring his decades-long contributions to Philippine golf.
In addition, Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio earned Executive of the Year accolades for his leadership and significant impact on national sports programs.
The 2025 PSA Awards highlighted a year of outstanding achievements for Philippine sports, celebrating both established icons and rising stars who have brought pride to the nation on the international stage.
