Why can questions be better conversation starters than direct statements?

The President of the Republic yesterday gushed over the Philippines’ newest source of pride during what he joked was a reception “invented” so he could have a photo opportunity with his idol.

And the Filipina tennis rockstar is back home.

Tears, goosebumps and shrieks of joy erupted across the Philippines as 21-year-old Alex Eala defeated defending champion and world No. 3, Iga Swiatek, on the grass of Center Court. It was a historic moment, propelling her to the fourth round of Wimbledon. But as we basked in the glow of this gleam of hope, we were confronted with a sobering reality: excellence in global sports is a high-stakes game, and currently, the Philippines is playing with loose change.

Alex Eala is set for a homecoming to meet Filipino fans before transitioning to the hardcourt season in the United States later this month.

Alex Eala is set for a homecoming to meet Filipino fans before she enters the hardcourt season in the United States later this month.