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 Emirates Asia Rugby 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

Women’s Division

The Women’s SKF Makati Mavericks clinched a streak of clean sheets, leaving their opponents scoreless throughout Leg 1.

The SKF Mavericks began with back-to-back shutout victories against the Manila Nomads Rogues and Eagles RFC, with scores of 27-0 and 48-0, respectively, advancing to the Leg 1 finals as the only undefeated team in the women’s division.

​In the Leg 1 finals, the Mavericks faced the second-seeded Eagles RFC, who had earned their spot after a 27-15 win over the Rogues. The Mavericks once again left the Eagles scoreless, claiming a dominant 50-0 victory.

The SKF Women’s Mavericks have consistently practiced at least once a week since Leg 1, and increased their focus on fitness and scrimmages despite the weather conditions.

“Actually, nanghinayang kami kase napostponed yung Leg 2. Excited pa naman ang buong team kase alam namin na mas challenging sana kase for sure, pinaghandaan din kami ng aming opponent, pero mukhang ang panahon ang hindi prepared samin,” said Sylvia Tudoc of SKF Women’s Makati Mavericks.

Colts Division

​The Gorillas Rugby Juniors and SKF Makati Mavericks made their debut in the newly revived Colts Division after a 5-year hiatus, providing an exciting match in Leg 1 for these developing players.

The Gorillas Juniors started strong with a 10-5 lead in the first game, but the SKF Makati Mavericks kept pace, forcing a 14-14 draw in the second match. The deciding game of Leg 1 favored the Gorillas Juniors, who secured a 7-point advantage, winning 26-19.

​Leg 2 will once again feature familiar faces competing in back-to-back matches throughout the day, with 13 teams participating from the men's, women's, and colt divisions, although the Eagles Ostrich will not be competing in Leg 2.

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]

by Mark Villamora

The annual Rugby 7s Series, organized by the Philippine Rugby Football Union, will introduce a newly reestablished division this season, providing teams of rugby players under 20 with a spot in the Luzon 7s Series stage once again.
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This reinstated Colts Division, which had been dormant for five years due to the pandemic, will feature two teams competing alongside the nine men’s teams and three women’s teams for leg 1 of the series. The SKF Makati Mavericks and Gorillas Rugby are the teams that will fill the Colts Division.

Meanwhile, in the men’s division, the roster includes teams from Eagles RFC (Eagles, Ibons, and Ostrich), teams from the Manila Nomads with the Carabaos, two teams from SKF Makati Mavericks with the Roosters team, and two teams from Gorillas Rugby.

For the women’s division, three teams are in the lineup: Eagles RFC, SKF Makati Mavericks, and Manila Rogues.

The Leg 1 of 2024 PRFU Luzon 7s Series will feature a total of 14 teams competing in this year’s season, with the this leg starting at 9 AM on Saturday, August 17, at the Alabang Country Club in Muntinlupa City.

The divisions for Men’s, Women’s, and Colts will play game after game, followed by an awards ceremony at 6 PM.
This 7s series will feature three legs, scheduled to take place on the following Saturdays: August 17, September 14, and October 19.

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]

by Mark Villamora

No matter if they’re half Filipino, a quarter, or even just have a trace of Filipino blood from a grandparent, they gave their whole heart to the Philippines. The North American Magandaquins and UK Maharlikans are heritage Filipino rugby players who may have been born and raised on the other side of the world, but their passion to wear the Philippine jersey and immerse themselves in the Filipino community is undeniable, making it impossible not to call them our own.

The North American Magandaquins

From the Filipino word 'maganda' itself, the North American Magandaquins is a group of Filipina rugby players from North America, specifically athletes based in the United States and Canada.

These Fil-Am and Fil-Can players are part of the 'Rising Stars' development team, one of the pathway programs of the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU), from which the pool for the Philippine Volcanoes National Team is selected.

Driven by a desire to get more playing time with fellow Filipinos after competing in the Asia 7s series in 2022, four Fil-Am and Fil-Can Philippine Volcanoes players—Erica Legaspi, Vanessa Cifuentes, Lora Mateo, and Lauryn Nazareno—founded the US Magandaquins.

This program bridges the PRFU in scouting players for the national team pool by training North American-based Filipina youth and equipping them through various regional games, such as the Los Angeles Invitational (LAI) 7s and Stampede 7s in Calgary, where they represent the Philippine flag.

​“Individually, we know we have the talent and athleticism to be able to compete against the top teams in Asia, but due to the structure of the national team program, we believed it was our on field connection that needed to be strengthened to truly compete,” said the co-founder Erica Legaspi.

Through their hard work & passion to represent the Filipino flag, 4 new North American Magandaquins players have been identified and added to the national team player pool of the Philippine Volcanoes following their recent tour.

But beyond improving their athleticism alongside fellow Filipinas, these Magandaquins build a close-knit bond, working on various causes to connect with their roots while showcasing their Filipina flair to the world.

“...this cohesion has extended to our off-field connections, building a sisterhood and culture that, like a tsinelas, hits differently,” said Erica Legaspi.

These US and Canadian Filipina players also completed their third tour together, competing in the Bloodfest 7s in Austin, TX, last June. There, they showcased an educational and cultural presentation of their Filipino roots, a tradition they have maintained even in their previous tours.

The Magandaquins are thrilled by the support they are receiving from fellow Filipinos, including Fil-Am, 2024 Olympics BRONZE medalist, USA Eagle Alena Olsen, who has spoken positively about their recent program, as well as from Filipinos around the world.

“Filipinos are a passionate group, and we’ve seen unmatched support whether it’s online or in person,” shared Erica Legaspi.

​The Philippine Maharlikans

Meanwhile, there is also a group of male rugby players called the 'Maharlikans,' named after the feudal warrior class of ancient Tagalogs. This team consists of Rising Star athletes from four different continents.

The Magandaquins were inspired by the national team pathway program of their counterpart, the Maharlikans, which was established in 2019. Founded by Philippine Volcanoes players and Australia-based Sean Lynch, Tommy Gilbert, and UK-based Vince Young, the program holds the same goal of enhancing team cohesion and skills while based outside the Philippines, as they returned to their own countries.

The geographic scope of the Maharlikans expanded after the COVID-19 pandemic, as the members took the opportunity to reach out to aspiring Filipino rugby players while in their hometowns across the UK and Europe, in the effort to connect more top local talent to the Philippines.

Through various fundraising projects and charity events, the Maharlikans' pathway program has expanded to the US, New Zealand, and Hong Kong, China, participating in over 20 competitions globally.

During the Domestic XVs Finals in June, the Maharlikans donated Php 150,000 to the PRFU Youth Development Program in Olongapo and Angeles, a fund they raised from the Hatfield College StoneX Game.

​The Maharlikans also aim to achieve UK charity status by 2024 to become a well-known and respected charity with a tangible impact on developing grassroots rugby in the Philippines.

“We are committed to pushing these projects forward. We will continue organizing charity matches against teams like Durham University's Hatfield College, and Cambridge University, along with many other clubs and national sides in Europe. Our goal is to double or triple our donations next year, further supporting the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) in developing grassroots rugby across the country,” said Maharlikans co-founder Vince Young.

Whether representing the Philippine flag or responding to the call for service, the North American Magandaquins and Philippine Maharlikans are always striving for excellence and service to the Filipino people.​

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]