Kathmandu, Nepal – October 7, 2024: The Philippine Volcanoes men's and women's rugby teams have made history by both securing gold medals at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy tournament in Nepal. The remarkable double triumph is a testament to the teams’ hard work, skill, and dedication as they displayed outstanding performances throughout the tournament.

The men’s squad delivered a series of powerful performances, showcasing their speed, agility, and tactical precision in each match. In the finals, the men's team faced Chinese Taipei in an exhilarating encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats. With clinical execution and remarkable teamwork, the Volcanoes secured their gold with a convincing score of 27 - 12. The squad line-up  consistently drove the team forward with their exceptional play.

Meanwhile, the women’s team demonstrated their dominance in every match of the tournament, impressing spectators and competitors alike. In the final match, they took on the formidable India team and secured their victory with a last minute penalty award to win 7 - 5. The women’s squad showcased their passion and drive to claim their well-deserved gold.

“We are immensely proud of both our women's and men's teams for their performances and dedication,” said Ada Milby, President of Philippine Rugby. “Winning double gold at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy is a historic achievement for Philippine Rugby, and it reflects the hard work of the athletes, coaches, and support staff to make it happen. We are excited to see the continued growth and success of rugby in the Philippines.”

The tournament in Nepal marked a significant milestone for Philippine Rugby, highlighting the strength and potential of both the men’s and women’s programs. The squads, led by Samantha Scott for the women and Darryl Suasua for the men, have been building towards this success through an intensive training camp and a competitive selection process . Their achievements in Nepal not only bring pride to the country but also signify a bright future for rugby in the Philippines.

For detailed match reports and full squad line-ups, please refer to the official Philippine Rugby website: https://www.philippines.rugby/news/prfu-announces-the-philippine-team-line-up-for-the-2024-emirates-arst

by Mark Villamora

The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) named the official lineup of the Philippine Volcanoes men’s and women’s teams set to compete in the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy (ARST) at Dasharath Stadium, Nepal, on October 4-5.

These top 12 men’s and women’s Volcanoes players were selected from a pool after an intensive 10-day training camp in New Clark City, Tarlac:

MEN'S PHILIPPINE TEAM

1. Co-Captain: Kai Ledesma Stroem
2. Co-Captain: Harrison Carceller Blake
3. Dayton Iobu
4. Donald Canon Coleman
5. George Rosal Nield
6. Jake Soriano
7. Jonel Madrona
8. Michael Gomez Blatties
9. Ned Plarizan Stephenson
10. Rafael Julian Phillips
11. Reed Santos
12. Tristan Quirante Leffers

Head Coach: Darryl Suasua
Team Manager:  Lalaine Bacus
Physiotherapist: Declan Drake

WOMEN'S PHILIPPINE TEAM

1. Captain: Rassiel Sales
2. Vice-Captain: Pearl Opolentisima Kellie
3. Alana Lee Donaire Grace
4. Janin Lara Puig
5. Naomi Kate Palis Stroem
6. Kayleigh Corpuz Foster
7. Lauryn Nazareno
8. Loramhel Mateo
9. Patricia Mandon Mangahas
10. Sylvia Tudoc
11. Takiah-Lani Joy Buchanan
12. Vanessa Hachiles Cifuentes

Head Coach: Samantha Scott
Team Manager: Mark Villamora
Physiotherapist: Harry Fardell

The Philippine Volcanoes men's and women's teams arrived in Kathmandu, Nepal, on October 1, receiving a warm welcome from the host, Nepal Rugby Association. The jersey presentation is also scheduled for October 3 at the Lemon Tree Premier Hotel.

"On behalf of the Philippine Rugby Football Union, I am proud to announce the official lineup of the Philippine Volcanoes for the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy. This team represents the best of our talent, a good combination of experience and youth. Our athletes, coaches, and management have trained tirelessly, and I have no doubt they will showcase their skills and PUSO on the international stage. We are excited to see them continue the proud tradition of Philippine Rugby and inspire the next generation of players." said PRFU Head of Rugby and Development, Acee San Juan.

The Philippine Men’s Rugby team won gold during the 2017 Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy, while the Philippine Women’s Rugby team bagged gold during the 2019 Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy.

The PRFU, along with the coaching and management staff, and the entire Volcanoes team, aims for the top spot at the 2024 Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy to advance to the Asia Rugby Sevens Series. 

The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRRU) would like to thank the generous support of our sponsors and partners. We extend our gratitude to Philippine Sports Commission, KMC Solutions, Pillar Sports, and Fitness First for their commitment to the High Performance Program (HPP) in the Philippines.

| Photo: Nepal Rugby Association
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​About Philippine Rugby Football Union
The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) is the governing body for the sport of rugby in the Philippines. Established in 1998, PRFU is dedicated to the development and promotion of rugby across the country, from grassroots to elite levels. PRFU oversees various rugby programs, competitions, and national teams, aiming to make rugby a major sport in the Philippines.

For inquiries, please contact: 
[email protected]

The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) is proud to announce the strengthening of its partnership with ChildFund Rugby (CFR) as the official social impact partner of the union. This collaboration is a testament to both organizations’ commitment to using rugby as a vehicle for positive change in communities across the Philippines and beyond.

As part of this significant partnership, ChildFund Rugby’s logo will be proudly displayed on the jerseys of the Philippine Volcanoes, the national men’s and women’s rugby teams, as they compete in the Asia Rugby Trophy Sevens Tournament, scheduled for October 4-5, 2024, in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Volcanoes, known for their passion and determination, will now also represent a beacon of hope, carrying the message of social impact and youth empowerment through the sport.

A Partnership for Lasting Impact
The PRFU and ChildFund Rugby partnership is rooted in a shared vision of using rugby to transform lives, particularly among marginalized youth. Integrated learning products like Pass It Back, teach life skills through rugby, empowering young people in vulnerable communities. To date, this partnership has positively impacted thousands of children, promoting inclusion, leadership, and resilience.
“We are excited to deepen our partnership with ChildFund Rugby,” said Ada Milby, President of PRFU. “Having their logo on our jerseys in such a prestigious tournament shows that our collaboration goes beyond the field. This is about making a difference. Our players are proud to represent not only the Philippines but also the powerful mission of ChildFund Rugby.”

ChildFund Rugby’s Global Reach
ChildFund Rugby has long been recognized for its impactful work across the globe, using rugby to promote education, child rights, and community development. By aligning with PRFU’s goals of rugby growth and social responsibility, ChildFund Rugby’s influence continues to resonate through each match, training session, and program.

“Our partnership with PRFU is a shining example of how rugby can unite people to tackle societal challenges,” said Chris Mastaglio, Director of ChildFund Rugby. “Seeing the ChildFund Rugby logo on the Volcanoes’ jerseys reinforces the idea that sport can inspire change. Together, we are creating opportunities for young people to develop essential life skills, build strong communities, and strive for a brighter future.”
Vince Davo, Head of Operations and Strategy at PRFU, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with ChildFund Rugby exemplifies the true spirit of rugby—a game that transcends boundaries and fosters community engagement. By wearing the ChildFund logo, our athletes not only compete for victory but also stand as champions of social responsibility and empowerment.”

Philippine Volcanoes Ready to Take on Kathmandu
The Philippine Volcanoes, both men’s and women’s teams, are prepared to bring their talent, heart, and commitment to the Asia Rugby Trophy Sevens Tournament in Nepal. Having undergone extensive preparations, the teams are eager to showcase their skills and the social values they now represent on an international platform.

As the tournament kicks off on October 4-5, 2024, the Volcanoes will proudly represent not only the Philippines but also the transformative work of ChildFund Rugby, showing that rugby can be more than just a game—it can be a catalyst for social change.

Join the Movement
The PRFU invites fans and supporters to rally behind the Philippine Volcanoes as they take the stage in Kathmandu. With ChildFund Rugby’s mission visibly emblazoned on their jerseys, the Volcanoes are not just athletes; they are advocates for a brighter future.
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Follow the journey, cheer for the Volcanoes, and become part of the global movement where rugby drives meaningful change. #PRFUChildFund #VolcanoesOnTheRise #RugbyForGood