Adamson, UP set for UAAP Softball Finals

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Tuesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

8 a.m. - AdU vs UP (Finals Game 1)
10 a.m. - UST vs DLSU (Battle for 3rd)

Adamson University stands at the brink of history as they chase an unprecedented 12th consecutive UAAP softball championship.

But standing in their way, once again, is a University of the Philippines squad hungry to break their reign.

The best-of-three finals series for the UAAP Season 87 softball championship begins today (Tuesday) at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, where Adamson looks to extend its golden era while UP fights to rewrite its own.

The Lady Falcons are determined to maintain their position as the team with the longest active championship streak in the collegiate division and to surpass University of the East's 11 consecutive titles in high school boys' fencing, a competition that will take place next month.

Just last Saturday, the University of Santo Tomas ended the longest title run in the league, which was held by Far Eastern University-Diliman with 12 consecutive championships in High School Boys' Football.

The first pitch is set at 8 a.m.

Adamson secured the championship title in Season 85 (2022–23) with a series sweep, but they faced a challenging 0-1 series deficit against UP in Season 86 (2023–24).

The Lady Falcons clinched their 11th title with a hard-fought, come-from-behind victory, winning the final game 4-3.

Head coach Ana Santiago emphasizes the importance of staying focused on the present, as Adamson is aware that the path to the championship will not be easy.

"Siguro 'yung mindset nila towards the game; kung paano nila i-a-approach 'yung championship (games) kasi that's championship na eh. Lagi ko namang sinasabi sa kanila na basta huwag lang nilang i-pressure 'yung sarili nila and at the same time, trust the process. Magtiwala lang sila sa kung ano 'yung pinag-ensayuhan nila; pagkatiwalaan lang nila 'yung sarili nila. And focus lang do'n sa goal," the concurrent RP Blu Girls head coach shared.

("Mindset towards the game is crucial; it's all about how they approach the championship games. I always tell them not to pressure themselves and to trust the process. They should have faith in what they’ve practiced and trust themselves. We need to focus on the goal.")

"Mag-focus lang kami, one game at a time. Mag-focus muna kami sa Game 1 namin; huwag muna naming isipin 'yung ibang bagay. Hopefully, 'yung mindset nila, ma-i-ayos nila," Santiago added.

("We will focus on one game at a time, starting with Game 1; we shouldn’t think about anything else right now. Hopefully, they can find the right mindset.")

The Lady Falcons seniors, led by team captain Remelie Herrero and powerhouse hitter Alaiza Talisik, will take the field one last time in their UAAP careers to secure the championship.

Their top pitchers, April Minanga and Glory Alonzo, are ready to dominate from the mound.

On the other hand, the Fighting Maroons are eager to move past the disappointments of the previous two seasons, particularly in Season 86, where they won Game 1 of the series 3-2 but fell short in the decisive Game 3 during extra innings.

To claim their first UAAP title since Season 70 (2007-08), the season hosts must effectively execute the small details better than they did in their last elimination-round game against University of Santo Tomas.

"Preparation namin 'to for the championship pero hindi pa ko satisfied. Marami pang dapat i-improve kung gusto talaga nilang manalo. So, pagbalik namin sa training, mag-focus kami sa mga maliliit na concerns na dapat ma-adjust namin. Pag dating sa Finals kasi, mag-iiba na 'yan eh. One hit, two hits, OK na 'yon eh, basta no errors; depensa lang din talaga na maayos. And at the same time, may kailangan talaga kaming i-adjust sa opensa namin," said fourth-year mentor Ron Pagkaliwagan.

("This preparation is for the championship, but I’m not satisfied yet. There’s still much to improve if we really want to win. When we return to training, we need to focus on the small concerns that we must adjust. In the Finals, everything changes. One or two hits can make a difference, as long as we avoid errors; it’s all about solid defense. We also need to make adjustments in our offense.")

"From the start talagang aim na naming makarating ng Finals, so napaghandaan na namin 'yung gusto naming gawin. Basta hiling ko lang sa kanila, mag-one hit lang bawat isa sa kanila every game, OK na sa 'kin. One hit and then no error (sa depensa)," he concluded.

("From the start, we have aimed to reach the Finals, so we have prepared for what we want to achieve. My hope for them is that each player gets at least one hit each game; that would be satisfactory to me. One hit with no errors in defense will be key.")

Season 85 Athlete of the Year Nickole Dela Cruz aims to carry her strong elimination-round performance into the Finals.

Meanwhile, her longtime teammates, KC Valino and Reuel Caoagdan, will help anchor UP's defense as the squad's main battery.

Later in the day, at 10 a.m., De La Salle University will compete for its first podium finish since Season 81 (2018–19) when it faces last year's bronze medalist Tiger Softbelles.

UP claims third seed, UST finishes on top heading into postseason

UAAP Season 87 Tennis Standings

Men's

**UST 11-1
**NU 10-2
*UP 8-4
*UE 7-5
ˣAteneo 3-9
ˣAdU 2-10
ˣDLSU 1-11

Women's

***NU 7-1
***UST 7-1
ˣUP 4-4
ˣDLSU 2-6
ˣAteneo 0-8

*Final Four
**Twice-to-beat
***Finals
ˣEliminated

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines secured a decisive 4-1 victory over the University of the East, avenging their first-round loss and solidifying their third seed position in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Tennis Tournament, Sunday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila.

Andrei Jarata and Karl Miguel clinched the overall win in an intense second doubles match, overcoming Kent Morales and RJ Baje with scores of 7-5, 6-4.

“What the team showed today was the adjustments we wanted to make, and it was so successful today. That’s why as a team captain, I’m so happy with how they performed; so I guess maintain that energy, that will to win, and I think we’ll be fine,” said UP team captain Loucas Fernandez.

“Coming into the Final Four, we’re already behind; so, I think the mindset is just to win the first [tie]. If we think na we have two [ties] to win pa, mentally it’s gonna seem like a big mountain to climb so honestly, just win the first [tie] and then don’t think about the twice-to-beat advantage. Just win the first [tie] and after that anything can happen na.”

The Red Warriors initially took the lead when JB Aguilar defeated Aslan Carbonilla with a score of 6-3, 6-2 in the third singles match. However, the Fighting Maroons quickly retaliated as Miguel Iglupas dispatched Gerald Gemida with a score of 6-3, 6-2 in the first singles.

Loucas Fernandez then shifted the momentum in UP's favor, dominating Romeo Largo with a swift win of 6-2, 6-1, which pushed them into the lead, setting up the clincher from Jarata and Miguel.

In a tense three-set battle, Lance Fernandez and Raymund Goco secured the Fighting Maroons’ fourth match victory, defeating Marc Suson and Kiz Bryan Cinco with scores of 6-3, 3-6, and 5-1 (ret.) in the first doubles match, effectively ending the tie.

The Diliman-based squad concluded the elimination round with an 8-4 record, securing third place and a Final Four matchup in this tournament also supported by Wilson Philippines against the second-seeded and twice-to-beat National University Bulldogs.

Conversely, the Red Warriors (7-5) secured the fourth seed and will face the top-ranked University of Santo Tomas Male Tennisters in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, riding a wave of momentum into the Final Four, NU secured its second consecutive victory by decisively routing Adamson University, 4-1.

Andrei Padao's strong performance, winning 6-3, 6-2 against Miecoz Candelasa in the first singles match, set the tone for the Bulldogs’ overall triumph.

“Napaka-importante na makuha namin yung advantage ng twice-to-beat kasi mas lalong magkakaroon kami ng kumpiyansa lalo na sa paglalaro. At least alam namin na ‘yung laro… mas easy way na magkakaroon kami ng chance na makakaabot kami ng finals,” said NU team captain EJ Tugade.

“Di pa rin po kami magre-relax. Still, ibibigay po namin yung best namin … kasi ‘yung kalaban namin ay mabigat din po and stay positive lang lalo na sa laro and trust lang po sa mga teammates namin.”

Jules Lazaro opened the match with a convincing victory, winning 6-2, 6-1 against Adamson's Lander Butcon in the third singles match. Maintaining the pressure, Tugade succeeded in the second singles, defeating Lander Butcon with a score of 6-2, 6-0.

The Soaring Falcons managed to secure a point through Nikko Lumahang and Angelo Rosales, who won the first doubles match 6-4, 6-2 against Aljon Talatayod and Gab Bandoquillo.

The tie concluded with NU pair Angil Balaoing and Christian Padilla winning 7-5, 7(7)-6(4) over Herald Aton and Emmanuel Pedrosa in the second doubles match.

The Bulldogs finished the elimination round with a 10-2 record, securing second place, while the Soaring Falcons ended their season in sixth place with a 2-10 record.

On the other hand, defending champion University of Santo Tomas replicated their dominance over Season 86 finals opponent Ateneo de Manila University, securing a 4-1 victory.

Ericjay Tangub’s 6-1, 6-0 victory over JB Cuarto in the second singles provided the seamless finish, earning the Male Tennisters the overall victory.

UST quickly established its authority, with Season 86 MVP Nilo Ledama delivering a commanding 6-0, 6-0 victory over Gab Quintana in third singles. The Male Tennisters continued their strong start as Christopher Sonsona followed with a decisive 6-0, 6-1 win against Rafa Mendoza in first singles, putting UST up 2-0.

Despite UST's early dominance, Ateneo's JD Velez and Stef Gurria fought back, displaying remarkable resilience to win first doubles 6-3, 6-1 against Steven Sonsona and Brent Cortes.

The tension mounted in second doubles, where Male Tennisters Richard Bautista and Geo Serino finally closed out the tie with a hard-fought 7-5, 4-6, 12-10 victory over JJ Llavore and Gian Camingue.

The win propelled UST to an 11-1 record, maintaining its first-place standing, while Ateneo ended its season in fifth place with a 3-9 card.

In the lone women’s tie of the day, De La Salle University concluded its season on a positive note, earning a 4-1 victory over Ateneo for their second win.

The overall win was finalized by Amor Idjao and Precious Miranda's 6-2, 6-1 victory over Adriana Cabahug and Audrey Ruiz in the first doubles match.

Jam Madis demolished Ateneo’s Reizel Coco, 6-0, 6-0 in the second singles match. Maikee Vicencio continued the Lady Tennisters’ surge with a 6-1, 6-0 shutout of Althea Martirez in the third singles.

La Salle’s Arianne Nillasca and Althea Liwag then added a swift 6-1, 6-1 victory in the second doubles, dispatching Zaina Omar and Angela Buyante. But Ateneo’s Chelsea Roque snatched a point, navigating a tough 6-4, 7-5 win over Bea Gomez to avoid the sweep.

The Lady Tennisters' season concluded with a 2-6 record, placing them fourth. Meanwhile, the Blue Eagles finished their campaign without a win in eight ties.

FEU, UST make early headway in inaugural edition of UAAP Blitz Chess

c/o UAAP Media Team

FAR Eastern University and University of Santo Tomas made strong opening statements in the high school and collegiate divisions, respectively, as the UAAP Season 87 Blitz Chess Championships kicked off, Sunday at the Adamson Gym.

Their performances mirrored their dominance in the rapid event that saw FEU win the women's and boys' divisions while UST took the men's and girls' side, establishing them as early frontrunners in the tournament.

The UST Male Woodpushers, fresh from their rapid chess title win, swept all their matches in the single-round robin elimination round, securing the top spot with 10 match points from five consecutive victories.

Jan Clifford Labog spearheaded UST’s campaign with a stellar performance, scoring at least three out of four points in each round and remaining unbeaten in five head-to-head matchups. He amassed an impressive 16.5 points out of a possible 20.

With their dominant run, UST enters the playoffs as the top seed and will face University of the Philippines in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, second-seeded FEU will take on third-placed De La Salle University in the men's division.

In the women’s division, UST also went unbeaten through five rounds, securing four consecutive wins to top the standings with eight match points.

Precious Yecla led the charge for the UST Female Woodpushers, overcoming three opponents and scoring at least three points per round to finish with 12.5 points out of 16.

Meanwhile, FEU-Diliman continued its dominant streak in the girls’ division, remaining undefeated through five rounds to finish with a perfect eight match points.

Woman FIDE Master April Joy Claros played a key role in FEU-D’s success, delivering a steady performance without dropping a single match. She tallied 10 points out of a possible 12, securing her team’s place in the finals against National University-Nazareth School.

In the boys' division, the Baby Tamaraws edged out the Junior Male Woodpushers for the top spot.

Both teams finished with seven match points, courtesy of three wins and a draw, after their head-to-head matchup ended in a tie.

FEU-D, led by Franklin Andes, will now battle UST, spearheaded by FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri, for the boys' division championship.

Rounds 6 and 7 of the women's division are set for Wednesday, April 3, while the semifinals and finals across all divisions will take place on April 6.

Solomon 30-piece strengthens NU grip on lead

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L
NU 9-1
DLSU 6-3
FEU 6-4
UST 5-4  
UP 5-5
Ateneo 4-5
AdU 3-6
UE 0-10

Games on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. - UST vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women)

Alyssa Solomon unleashed a 30-piece, helping National University rediscover its winning ways but not without a tough challenge from Far Eastern University, carving out a 25-22, 24-26, 26-24, 25-18 victory in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Sunday.

The Lady Bulldogs, fresh off a painful 24-26, 25-23, 25-17, 23-25, 12-15 loss to the UP Fighting Maroons, bounced back to strengthen their grip of the top spot at 9-1, two and a half games above second-running De La Salle Lady Spikers at 6-3.

With its aim of jumping straight to the Finals vanished, NU is now training its eyes of finishing in the top two after the eliminations.

"Syempre, thankful talaga kami kasi nakarecover kami from last game. Yun naman yung pinaka importante palagi, makarecover kami sa loss namin, maka-move on so start ulit. Start ulit para makakuha ng twice-to-beat,” said NU head coach Sherwin Meneses.

Camilla Lamina tossed a beautiful combination play that saw the Lady Tamaraws’ blockers jump early, resulting in a Vange Alinsug off-the-block hit to put the Lady Bulldogs in set point in the third before Bella Belen finished it off to put them ahead, 26-24.

Then the defending champions channeled all the momentum they got from that close win as Alyssa Solomon wreaked havoc in the fourth leading to a huge 19-10 advantage on the way to the bounce back win.

FEU launched a fiery comeback, closing in within 17-20 but NU was too poised to squander its nine-point cushion, finishing with a 5-1 closer to avoid going to a deciding set just like they did in their first round encounter, a 25-15, 23-25, 24-26, 26-23, 15-8 escape for the Lady Bulldogs.

Solomon, Erin Pangilinan, Bella Belen, and Alinsug banged in the final five points to secure the win after two hours and 25 minutes.

“Thankful ako sa nangyari sa UP game namin kasi para sa akin nakita ko siya as wake up call na dapat di kami maging complacent talaga kahit number one kami. After ng game na yon, nag move forward agad kami at trinabaho namin kung ano yung mga dapat trabahuin and thankful naman kami kasi marami kaming lessons na nakuha sa game na yun,” said Solomon, who made 26 attacks, three blocks, and an ace.

Two-time MVP Belen added 18 points, 14 digs, and 13 receptions, while Alinsug had 13 points.

Lamina delivered 30 excellent sets while Shaira Jardio registered 27 excellent digs and 12 receptions.

NU looks to get another winning streak going when it battles Adamson University next Sunday at the Big Dome while FEU seeks to rebound against University of the Philippines on the same day.

Meanwhile, the Lady Tamaraws slipped to 6-4 at solo third but with fourth-place UST Golden Tigresses not far behind at 5-4.

Congolese opposite hitter Faida Bakanke carried the fight for FEU with 21 points while middle blockers Jean Asis and Jazlyn Ellarina got 16 and 15 points, respectively.

Outside spikers Gerzel Petallo and Chenie Tagaod only made nine and eight points, respectively, but shone defensively with the former tallying 11 digs and 10 receptions while the latter collected 14 receptions and 10 digs.

UP just on the outside looking in postseason race

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. - UST vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women)

RIDING from the momentum of its stunner over National University, University of the Philippines booted out University of the East, 25-21, 25-18, 25-17, to fan its Final Four aspirations in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Sunday.

The Fighting Maroons evened out their record at 5-5, now at solo fifth spot and just half a game below fourth-running UST Golden Tigresses at 5-4.

Despite the win though, UP head coach Benson Bocboc was far from satisfied even if his team nabbed its first straight-set win since Season 84, a 25-10, 25-19, 25-7 victory against Far Eastern University.

“Medyo magulo, medyo magulo ‘yung galaw ng team ngayon. So maraming errors ‘yung kalaban kaya nagkataon, we got the game. Pero sa amin, kulang. Kulang pa so siguro medyo shaky pa nung umpisa pero darating ‘yung time… kasi second round na eh, hindi na pwede ‘yung ganun na shaky,” said Bocboc.

(“The team’s movement is a bit messy right now. The opponent made a lot of errors, so it just so happened that we got the game. But for us, it’s not enough. We’re still lacking, and maybe we were a bit shaky at the start. But the time will come… since it’s already the second round, we can’t afford to be shaky anymore.")

Knotted at five in the third set, Irah Jaboneta, Kassy Doering, Kianne Olango, and Joan Monares teamed up for seven straight points, 12-5, that put the game away for the Fighting Maroons, finishing the match in just 83 minutes.

Monares led UP’s offense with 15 points while Irah Jaboneta showed a well-rounded display of 13 points, nine digs, and eight receptions.

Doering and Olango also had eight points each while libero Giesha Capistrano tallied 11 excellent digs and nine receptions.

“I’m just trying to be at my best as much as I can and try to do my best for my team. These stats don’t happen just on one’s own. It comes from the pass, it comes from the set, it comes from everyone so for me, it’s just being at my best and staying disciplined in everything that I do.,” said the one-and-done American middle blocker Doering.

UP will seek a third straight win next Sunday when it faces FEU at the Big Dome.   The Fighting Maroons defeated the Lady Tamaraws early in the season.

On the other hand, UE fell out of Final Four contention after receiving its 10th straight defeat. The Lady Warriors return on Saturday against De La Salle University.

Van Bangayan was the lone bright spot for UE with 13 points, while Khy Cepada was held to just four points in the first two sets before being replaced in the third.

NU ends FEU's undefeated run in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L

FEU 9-1
NU 8-2
Ateneo 6-3
UST 5-4
DLSU 5-4
UP 3-7
AdU 2-7
UE 0-10

Games on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. - UST vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women)

National University reminded the UAAP Men’s Volleyball competition that it is still the team to beat despite key losses, handing Far Eastern University its first loss of the Season 87 tournament.

Flaunting their championship form, the Bulldogs clawed their way back from the brink, rallying back for a 17-25, 25-21, 17-25, 25-14, 15-9 victory, Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

With the win, five-peat-seeking NU not only strengthened its title defense but also secured a traditional Final Four format after the elimination round, improving to an 8-2 record—just one game behind FEU, which dropped to 9-1.

“Sobrang thankful sa sitwasyon namin na kahit down kami ng set, pinilit namin na maibalik yung laro namin, makita yung pasensya namin sa loob ng court. Lumabas ‘yung laro ni Leo. Buti nung huli nacontrol namin, kami ‘yung nagdictate ng tempo at nakuha namin ang panalo,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

After dominating the fourth set, the momentum never left NU’s side in the decider.

The Bulldogs overwhelmed the Tamaraws with a commanding 9-2 start, fueled by a balanced attack from middle blockers Peng Taguibolos and Obed Mukaba, who combined for five points, alongside key contributions from Michaelo Buddin, Leo Ordiales, and Leo Aringo.

In that scorching opening run, NU scored four points from solid blocks, four from spikes, and one from an ace, leaving the Tamaraws scrambling to recover.

The Bulldogs never let up since then, sealing the statement win after two hours and five minutes to remind the league that the road to the championship still runs through them.

“Sa mindset lang namin kasi wala pa silang talo, sila ‘yung may pressure, kami po wala kaya ginawa lang namin ‘yung best namin at sumunod lang kami sa sistema. Tapos kailangan lang talaga ng direction para makuha namin ‘yung panalo,” said Ordiales, who came off the bench and produced a career-best 19 points on 14 spikes, three blocks, and two aces.

Buddin ably backed him up with 16 points on 11 attacks, three aces, and two blocks along with seven digs and seven receptions, while team captain Aringo held the Bulldogs together and made 14 points, 20 receptions, and five digs.

Taguibolos and Mukaba also chipped in 10 and six points, respectively, including two and three blocks out of their team’s 14 rejections, eight more than their opponents.

NU will look to extend its winning streak to three when it takes on Adamson University next Sunday at the Big Dome, while FEU will aim to bounce back against the UP Fighting Maroons on the same day.

Dryx Saavedra paced the Tamaraws with 20 points while Mikko Espartero had 15.

Ariel Cacao, who had 21 excellent sets in a four-set win over University of the East last time out, could not deliver the ball well this time, tossing just 15 excellent sets in the five-setter.

FEU, UST split inaugural UAAP rapid chess titles

c/o UAAP Media Team

FAR Eastern University and University of Santo Tomas each secured two championships as the inaugural UAAP Season 87 Rapid Chess Championships came to a close Saturday at the Adamson Gym.

The Baby Tamaraws reaffirmed their dominance in the boys' division with another undefeated run to the crown, capped by a commanding 3-1 victory over the Junior Male Woodpushers in the finals. Meanwhile, the Lady Tamaraws overcame two early setbacks in the tournament to stage an impressive comeback and claim the women's title.

In the boys' division finals, Jerish John Velarde set the tone for FEU by defeating FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri on the top board. Franklin Andes followed suit with a win over Jian Carlo Rivera on Board 3. Oscar Cantela and Lemmuel Adena sealed the triumph with crucial draws against John Cyrus Borce and Sumer Oncita on Board 2 and Board 4, respectively.

"Yung women's team namin, I think they're the most unexpected na magpopodium finish kasi nung eliminations, first day pa lang nakadalawang talo na sila. Of course, we were hoping for the best na magchampion pero realistically, nung kakasimula pa lang ng laban, medyo tumagilid. But we talked to the players and nagtraining naman din kami," said FEU assistant coach Janelle Frayna, reflecting on their championship run in the women's division. The Lady Tamaraws upended league-leader Ateneo de Manila University with a dominant 3.5-0.5 win in the finals.

("Our women's team, I think, was the most unexpected to reach the podium because, in the eliminations, they already had two losses on the first day. Of course, we were hoping for the best and aiming to become champions, but realistically, at the start of the tournament, things weren’t looking good. However, we talked to the players, and we also trained.")

"Minsan yung mga bata, they doubt their capabilities. I think that's what happened in the first day. Now, we just treated it one game at a time. Yung first na laban sa La Salle sa semis was very close. Maybe may luck factor din. Then dito sa finals, unexpectedly na 4-0 namin ang Ateneo. That's a very decisive advantage I guess kasi next match isang draw lang, champion na," added Frayna, a Woman Grandmaster and UAAP Season 77 Athlete of the Year.

("Sometimes, young players doubt their capabilities. I think that’s what happened on the first day. So, we just took it one game at a time. Our first match against La Salle in the semifinals was very close. Maybe luck also played a factor. Then in the finals, we unexpectedly swept Ateneo 4-0. That was a very decisive advantage, I guess, because in the next match, we only needed a draw to secure the championship.")

Ateneo topped the elimination stage with an undefeated record but failed to replicate its earlier 3.5-0.5 victory over FEU in Round 1.

FEU demonstrated its chess supremacy by reaching the finals in all four divisions. However, the Tamaraws suffered upset losses to UST in both the girls' and men's divisions, despite emerging as the top seeds in the single-round robin elimination stage.

In the girls' division, UST's Daren Dela Cruz and Iana Sotaridona secured crucial victories over Woman FIDE Master April Joy Claros and Kate Ordizo on Board 1 and Board 4, respectively. Kara Meneses then drew against Lyn Getubig, clinching the title for the Tigresses.

UST head coach Ronald Dableo acknowledged that luck played a role in their double championship triumph.

"May kasamang swerte yung nangyari. Naunahan kami nung elimination round eh. So everybody's game na yung labanan. Lumabas yung swerte. Tulad nito, losing na yung board 2 ko. Biro mo napakain nang buo yung tore nang kalaban. May luck din talaga. Pero nerve nga yun ng game," Dableo admitted.

("There was some luck involved in what happened. We fell behind in the elimination round, so the competition became anyone’s game. Then luck came into play. For example, my player on Board 2 was already losing, but unbelievably, the opponent ended up blundering their entire rook. There really was an element of luck, but that’s just part of the game.")

The UST Male Woodpushers had a slow start, opening the tournament with a loss and a draw before winning three straight matches to secure the third seed heading into the crossover semifinals. In the finals, they forced a tiebreaker after splitting the two matches against FEU, both ending in identical 2.5-1.5 results.

FIDE Master Christian Mark Daluz's fated showdown with FIDE Master Mark Bacojo became the decisive match, ultimately awarding the championship to UST.

UST had previously fallen to FEU in the girls' division elimination round with a tight 1.5-2.5 loss. However, they made key adjustments heading into the playoffs, which proved instrumental in their title-winning campaign.

Dableo credited UST assistant coach and Grandmaster Darwin Laylo for their strategic preparations, particularly in the girls' division.

"Malaki naitulong ni Coach Darwin Laylo kasi grandmaster to eh. With regards sa preparation, tinatap ko talaga siya. Sabi ko pre linya mo yan. Alam mo na gagawin diyan. Maraming games na napakinabangan ng girls division namin (yung mga preparations niya). Yung tinuro niya, nagamit sa laro kaya naging madali yung laban. Yun ang naging main factor namin laban sa FEU sa girls eh. Yun preparation ni Coach Dar, malaking bagay yun," Dableo remarked after their 2.5-1.5 victory over FEU in the finals.

("Coach Darwin Laylo was a huge help because he's a grandmaster. When it came to preparation, I really relied on him. I told him, 'Bro, this is your line. You know what to do here.' His preparations greatly benefited our girls' division. What he taught them was applied in the games, making the matches easier. That was the main factor in our win against FEU in the girls' division. Coach Dar's preparation was a big deal.")

Following Ateneo at third place in the women's division was De La Salle University, which defeated UST in the battle for bronze.

In the men's division, University of the Philippines edged out La Salle to claim third place.

Meanwhile, Ateneo and National University Nazareth School secured third-place finishes in the boys' and girls' divisions, respectively.

The awarding of podium winners, along with the announcement of individual awards, will take place alongside the UAAP Blitz Chess Championships awarding ceremony on April 5.

UP keeps flickering postseason hopes alive in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Wednesday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Men)
11 a.m. - UST vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. - DLSU vs Ateneo (Women)
3 p.m. - UST vs AdU (Women)

University of the Philippines put life to its dwindling UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Final Four hopes by eliminating University of the East, 25-21, 25-21, 22-25, 25-21, Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Fighting Maroons arrested a two-game slide to improve their record to 3-7 in the sixth spot, just two and a half games behind joint-fourth UST Golden Spikers and De La Salle Green Spikers (5-4) with four games left in their schedule.

This victory also surpassed UP’s two-win total last season.

“Na-highlight ‘yung lapses namin nung third set and we were not able to execute. Going to the next, we just got back to the system, as long as we’re in sync we’re gonna play well naman,” said Fighting Maroons head coach Carlo Cabatingan.

("Our lapses were highlighted in the third set, and we were not able to execute. Going into the next set, we just got back to the system. As long as we're in sync, we're going to play well.")

The Red Warriors extended the match when the 2025 PNVF U21 MVP Isaiah Roca took matters to his own hands. With UP on top in the third, 22-21, Roca unleashed three points while Axel Defeo also served up an ace to give UE the 25-22 winner.

However, first-year players Tommy Castrodes and Olayemi Raheem proved to be too much as they led the Fighting Maroons’ 14-8 strong start en route to the win in two hours and a minute.

“We start palagi sa ensayo. Doon kami kumukuha ng kumpyansa then gagawin lang namin sa actual game. Consistency lang talaga and laban,” said Castrodes, who had 16 points, 16 receptions, and eight digs.

("We always start with practice. That's where we build our confidence, and then we just apply it in the actual game. It's all about consistency and fighting.")

Raheem top-scored for the Maroons with 22 points while converted outside hitter Angelo Lipata added nine points and nine receptions.

Dan Nicolas chipped in eight points while Angelo Lagando got seven with rookie playmaker Louise Aballe lobbing 27 excellent sets.

UP, trying to pull off a late run to the postseason festivities, will have a tough battle ahead though as it will face league-leading Far Eastern University next Sunday, still at the Big Dome.

The Red Warriors stayed winless after 10 games, seeing their long-standing drought extended to 17 matches dating back to Season 86’s second round.

Four players scored in double figures in the defeat led by Raquim Aceron’s 20 points and 30 excellent receptions.

Captain Xjhann Camaymayan made 12 points, while Roca and Roy Piojo had 11 and 10 points, respectively.

UE, despite being eliminated from contention, still continues its chase for the elusive win on Saturday against La Salle at the same venue.

UST, UP earn twice-to-beat advantage in UAAP men's tennis

UAAP Season 87 Tennis Standings

Men's
**UST 10-1
**NU 9-2
*UE 7-4
*UP 7-4
ˣAteneo 3-8
ˣAdU 2-9
ˣDLSU 1-11

Women's
***UST 7-1
***NU 7-1
ˣUP 4-4
ˣDLSU 1-6
ˣAteneo 0-7

*Final Four
**Twice-to-beat
***Finals
ˣEliminated

Ties on Sunday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center

7 a.m. - AdU vs. NU (Men's)
7 a.m. - DLSU vs. Ateneo (Women's)
2 p.m. - UP vs. UE (Men's)
2 p.m. - Ateneo vs. UST (Men’s)

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas and National University secured twice-to-beat advantages in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Tennis Tournament with victories over University of the East and University of the Philippines, respectively, on Saturday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Manila.

The pivotal first doubles match saw Richard Bautista and Nash Agustines fend off a determined Kiz Bryan Cinco and Mark Dave Palanas, 6-2, 6-2, securing a 3-2 victory and bolstering the Male Tennisters’ bid for a third consecutive title in the tournament, also supported by Wilson Philippines.

“Sa Final Four, I think UP at UE ‘yung magtatapat bukas. Kung sino ‘yung kalaban, sila ‘yung makakalaban namin so prepared kami,” said UST team captain Nilo Ledama.

(“In the Final Four, I think UP and UE will face each other tomorrow. Whoever wins will be our opponent, so we are prepared.")

“For me and for my team, isa-isa naming fino-focus ‘yung kalaban namin kasi… for example, [sa] UE, hindi naman lahat [ng player] makakalaban ko so each of us maghahanda sa kalaban namin. Like sa singles, ako pinaghahandaan ko ‘yung tatlong singles nila kasi ‘di ko alam kung sino ‘yung makakalaban ko.”

(“For me and my team, we focus on our opponents one at a time because, for example, with UE, I won’t be facing all of their players. Each of us prepares for our respective matchups. In singles, I specifically prepare for their three singles players since I don’t know who I’ll be up against.”)

Reigning MVP Ledama set the tone early with a composed 6-3, 6-1 victory over Red Warrior JB Aguilar in the second singles match. Ericjay Tangub maintained the pressure, battling through the second singles to claim a 6-3, 6-4 win over UE’s Gerald Gemida.

Marc Suson kept UE’s hopes alive with a gritty 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 triumph over Sebastian Santos in first singles. However, Kent Morales and RJ Baje overpowered Steven Sonsona and Symon Jaculan in second doubles, 7-5, 7(7)-6(4), sealing the tie on a strong note.

UST remained at the top with a 10-1 record, while UE dropped to fourth at 7-4.

Meanwhile, following UST’s victory, NU secured the second twice-to-beat advantage by avenging its first-round loss to UP with a 4-1 win.

Jules Lazaro weathered a tough challenge from Aslan Carbonilla in the third singles, ultimately prevailing 1-6, 6-4, 7-5 to clinch the tie for the Bulldogs.

NU asserted dominance early as Andrei Padao cruised to a 6-1, 6-1 victory over Ava Mandac in first singles. EJ Tugade further extended the lead with a hard-fought 4-6, 7-5, 7(7)-6(2) triumph over Miguel Iglupas in second singles.

UP's Lance Fernandez and Raymund Goco fought back in first doubles, overcoming a first-set loss to grind out a 5-7, 6-4, 11-9 tiebreaker victory against Aljon Talatayod and Gab Bandoquillo.

However, NU’s Angil Balaoing and Christian Padilla closed out the tie in second doubles, delivering a 7(7)-6(1), 6-3 win over Loucas Fernandez and Andrei Jarata.

With the win, the Bulldogs solidified their hold on the second seed at 9-2, while the Fighting Maroons, now 7-4, remained tied for third with the Red Warriors.

In the women’s division, defending champion NU capped the elimination round with a commanding 4-1 victory over UP, setting the stage for the finals.

Adi Abadia and Rovie Baulete’s steady play in first doubles secured a 6-4, 6-2 win over Jesha Cervantes and JM Prado, sealing NU’s overall triumph.

UP’s Jufe Cocoy struck first in first singles, dominating Jasmine Jaran 6-1, 6-3.

However, the Lady Bulldogs responded swiftly, with Danna Abad taking a crucial 6-4, 6-2 win over Glydel Guevarra in third singles. JM Carcueva followed up with a commanding 6-4, 6-2 victory against Joshea Malazarte in second singles, extending NU’s advantage.

Elsie Abarquez and Kolin Cornell then secured the tie for NU with a 7-5, 6-2 win over Sydney Enriquez and Anica Cari in second doubles.

The Lady Bulldogs concluded the eliminations at 7-1, tying UST in the standings, while UP wrapped up in third place at 4-4.

Earlier in the men’s division, De La Salle University ended its season on a high note, securing its first win with a hard-fought 3-2 conquest of Ateneo de Manila University.

Yassan Al-Anazi delivered a gritty 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory over Stef Gurria in second singles to clinch the tie.

JT Bernardo made an immediate impact in third singles, overpowering Ateneo’s JB Cuarto, 6-1, 6-0. However, Blue Eagle JD Velez responded in first singles, rallying past EJ Geluz with a 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 victory to level the match.

JJ Llavore and Gian Camingue dominated first doubles, dispatching La Salle’s Fernando Po and Marcus Guinoo, 6-1, 6-2.

But La Salle had the final say, as Leyton Portin and Rupert Tortal delivered an emphatic 6-1, 6-1 win in second doubles, sealing the Green Tennisters’ first and only win of the season.

DLSU finished seventh with a 1-11 record, while Ateneo placed fifth at 3-8.

Story finished: UST ends FEU-Diliman's football reign

c/o UAAP Media Team

AFTER a heartbreaking loss in last season’s final, University of Santo Tomas finished the story, ending the 12-year reign of defending champion Far Eastern University-Diliman to emerge as the last team standing in the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ High School Football Tournament.

Joshua Moleje and James Sunog connived to lift UST to the summit, as the Junior Golden Booters accomplished what no other team had managed for over a decade—dethroning the Baby Tamaraws with a 2-1 triumph, Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

“Since day one, we’ve been working on this, and I know these boys deserve it,” said Moleje, the Grade 10 midfielder from Negros Occidental.

“We owe it to our seniors. Last year, we couldn’t give them the championship. Last year we didn’t win. Now, we’re dedicating this win to our seniors. We just played with our hearts, gave it everything, and God gave us the gold," he added, who is set to join Valencia-based club Levante Unión Deportiva, S.A.D after the conclusion of the season.

(“Since day one, we’ve been working for this, and I know these boys deserve it. We owe this to our seniors. Last year, we couldn’t give them the championship. We didn’t win. But now, we’re dedicating this victory to them. We just played with our hearts, gave everything we had, and God rewarded us with the gold.”)

Moleje, the Best Midfielder awardee, broke the deadlock in the 40th minute with a composed finish from close range.

Sunog then tapped the ball home in the 68th minute to seal the Junior Golden Booters’ first-ever championship in the boys’ high school division, delivering UST its first UAAP football crown since the Lady Booters’ triumph in Season 74.

“Masaya po pero mas masaya po na nakuha namin yung gold at champion po” said Sunog. “Hindi ako makapaniwala kasi yung momentum ng FEU-D po, malakas po at hindi basta-basta na kalaban yung FEU-D.”

(“I’m happy but happier that our team won the gold and the championship. It’s hard for me to believe since FEU-D had so much momentum, and they’re not just any opponent.)

The UST duo’s goals offset FEU-D’s equalizer in the 44th minute.

Sambher Nash Abrenica, starting in place of first-choice striker Jerriemy Biton, unleashed a strike from outside the box that slipped past UST goalkeeper Edcel James Lauron.

Biton, who was subbed in at halftime, had a subdued performance in the second half but nearly salvaged the match for FEU-D in stoppage time.

However, Biton’s header went straight into the hands of Lauron, who held firm when it mattered most.

The Baby Tamaraws had one final opportunity to force extra time in the dying moments of stoppage time, but their last attempt hit the side netting.

Seconds later, the final whistle sounded, officially crowning UST as the new kings of UAAP high school football.

UST’s path to the title was anything but easy.

Finishing second in the eliminations with 22 points, the Junior Golden Booters suffered two defeats against FEU-D and had to battle past De La Salle Zobel in the Final Four to reach the championship match.

“So proud of the boys,” said assistant coach David Basa, who led UST from the sidelines throughout the season. “Lahat talaga binigay nila. Last minute, ang daming atake ng FEU-D pero hindi sila bumigay. Gusto talaga nila makuha yung final. Alam nila sa sarili nila na kaya nila manalo sa UAAP eh.”

(“So proud of the boys. They gave it their all. In the final minutes, FEU-D launched multiple attacks, but we held our ground. They really wanted to win the final. They knew deep inside that they could become UAAP champions.”)

This marks the first time since Season 72 that the high school football title does not belong to FEU-D.

The Baby Tamaraws topped the elimination round with 28 points from nine wins and one draw before narrowly edging guest school PAREF Southridge 1-0 in the semifinals. However, their dynasty came to an abrupt end in the final.

Despite the heartbreak, Biton still had plenty to celebrate, claiming multiple accolades in his impressive Season 87 debut. The 16-year-old striker from Negros was named Rookie of the Year, Best Striker, and Golden Boot winner after scoring 10 goals throughout the campaign.

De La Salle Zobel’s Bacchus Ekberg secured the Best Defender award for the second consecutive year, while Southridge’s Paolo Tansingco was honored as Best Goalkeeper for his standout performances during the Admirals’ Cinderella run.

UST’s Stephen Flores earned the Most Valuable Player award for anchoring the Junior Golden Booters’ rock-solid defense.

Aside from the silver medal, FEU-D also took home the Fair Play Award for accumulating the fewest yellow and red cards this season.

Meanwhile, De La Salle-Zobel secured the bronze medal for the second straight year.

La Salle rides on Canino season-high to outlast UST

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

Battling through pain and adversity, Angel Canino delivered a season-high performance to will De La Salle University past University of Santo Tomas in a thrilling 15-25, 25-17, 24-26, 25-20, 16-14 victory in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament second round, Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Refusing to back down despite her struggles, including an inadvertent knee of an out-of-balanced Shevana Laput to her head early in the fourth, Canino led the Lady Spikers in snapping a four-game losing streak against the Golden Tigresses, who had dominated them since Season 86—including a five-setter in the first round, 25-12, 22-25, 13-25, 25-23, 15-13.

The Season 85 rookie MVP left it all on the court with 27 points, including two blocks, 13 digs, and 13 receptions.

After the final whistle, the former MVP bowed down to the ground in relief and exhaustion before being rushed to the Makati Medical Center.

“Actually, after the game syempre emotional. Actually, naapektuhan din siya nung [natamaan] siya ni Shevana sa batok, medyo nahilo, parang nahihilo so yun nga after the game although naging emotional, before pa sinasabi na sa amin na si Angel medyo hindi maganda ‘yung ano so kinuha agad nung PT namin and doctor namin,” said De La Salle deputy Noel Orcullo after the two-hour, 44-minute marathon, providing an update on Canino's condition.

"Hopefully, maging maayos, hindi naman maging malala ‘yung naging tama sa kanya."

(“Actually, after the game, of course, it was emotional. Actually, she was also affected when Shevana hit her in the neck; she got a bit dizzy, like she was feeling lightheaded. So yeah, after the game, although she became emotional, even before that, she was telling us that Angel wasn’t feeling well, so our PT and doctor immediately took care of her. Hopefully, it will be okay, and it won’t be anything serious.")

A successful challenge by UST coach Kungfu Reyes that saw the finger of Lilay Del Castillo grazing the ball spiked by Angge Poyos put the Golden Tigresses at a 2-1 set advantage, 26-24.

But Alleiah Malaluan, Amie Provido, and Canino willed La Salle in the fourth stanza to force a decider.

Then in the fifth, the two sides literally just changed points up until 14 all.

Shevana Laput’s back-to-back hits on a backrow kill and a solid block on Poyos gave the Lady Spikers the match point at 14-13 but Regina Jurado knotted the game anew with a solid off-the-block hit.

Laput, who had been giving power hits throughout the set, bluffed the blockers with an off-speed hit for another match point for La Salle then Provido clinched the game by closing the crosscourt angle of Jurado for the emotional triumph.

“Sabi nga namin sa mga bata umpisa pa lang, gustuhin niyo manalo, ito labanan ng puso. Yan yung lagi naming sinasabi sa kanila na hindi pupwedeng papasok tayo sa loob na ang umiiral sa atin ‘yung takot,” said Orcullo.

("As we always tell the kids from the start, you may want to win, but this is a battle of the heart. That's what we always remind them, that we can't go in there with fear leading us.")

“This has been a long time coming. This is something we’ve been wanting ever since last year. This is a big hugot for us. I’m proud of us for getting through this,” said Laput, who had 16 points on 15 attacks and a block.

Prior to victory, La Salle’s most recent conquest against UST was on May 3, 2023, 26-24, 25-22, 20-25, 25-19, to advance to the Season 85 Finals.

With this grind-out victory, the Lady Spikers improved to 6-3 to join the FEU Lady Tamaraws at second to third with the former holding the tiebreak due to their first round win against the latter, heating up the race for twice-to-beat slot in the Final Four

UST dropped to 5-4, just a game ahead of Ateneo and University of the Philippines in the race for the No. 4 slot. The Golden Tigresses absorbed their third straight loss.

Provido ended up with 12 points including four blocks while Malaluan made 10 points in the win that La Salle dominated the spiking (63-55) and service department, 7-0, to atone for its 38 errors, 13 more than UST.

Mikole Reyes also shone with 26 excellent sets and four points while Lyka De Leon notched 23 receptions and nine digs.

La Salle will next face archrival Ateneo de Manila University on Wednesday still at the Big Dome.

UST will look to stop its slide when it faces struggling Adamson University on Wednesday.

Jurado led the Tigresses with 22 points and 14 digs, while Angge Poyos struggled with just 12 points on 12-of-41 attacking clip.

Cassie Carballo still netted 27 excellent sets and four points while Detdet Pepito had 21 receptions and 22 digs.

Adamson outlasts UP in extras in resumption of postponed baseball matchup

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Baseball Standings

NU 5-0
DLSU 3-2
AdU 3-2
UP 2-3
UST 1-4
Ateneo 1-4

AFTER five days and 19 hours, Adamson University finally completed its dramatic comeback against University of the Philippines.

The Soaring Falcons wrapped up their first round of the UAAP Season 87 Baseball tournament with a thrilling 19-17, come-from-behind win in 10 innings against the Fighting Maroons, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

Rookie infielder James Nisnisan played a crucial role in Adamson’s third victory of the season—matching their total wins from Season 86—by anchoring the defense and shutting down any UP rally attempts.

Fighting Maroons captain Ian Mercado kept UP’s hopes alive in the tenth inning, putting runners on the corners for last year’s Rookie of the Year, Aaron Nicha, after reaching first base on an error by Adamson third baseman Mark Montoya.

However, Mark Vincent Simbajon came up with a clutch defensive play, throwing out the reigning MVP as he attempted to steal second. Shortstop Raizen Pacquiao made the tag, stopping UP’s momentum.

That sequence proved to be the turning point, as UP could only muster a single run from Nicha’s hit, which brought home Eman Cahilo—far from enough for a comeback.

Nisnisan, who started at center field, delivered a perfectly placed pitch to Eman Javier, setting up his substitute, Zerge Madarimot, for the crucial catch and the final out.

The game had initially been called off due to darkness last Sunday, March 23, with Adamson holding a 16-14 lead after an explosive ninth-inning rally where they scored ten runs.

Down by eight runs at 6-14, the Soaring Falcons staged the improbable comeback, with their second-stringers stepping up for the San Marcelino-based squad.

Joao Severino delivered two hits and two RBIs in the ninth, but it was Montoya—who batted for Kurt Cabanillas—and Kier Plaza—who replaced Dan Rommel Bacalla—who provided the spark.

Montoya’s sacrifice fly to left field allowed Nisnisan and Madarimot to score, while Plaza came through with two hits and two RBIs, bringing Montoya and Severino home.

“Patapos na ‘yung game eh, so ang initial plan nila Coach (Lando Binarao) is pagpahingahin na ‘yung mga first stringers. Suddenly, ang nangyari nga is nadepensahan namin and nag-connect-connect ‘yung hitting ng second stringers,” said Adamson team captain Ivan Jonson.

“Alam ko naman na ‘tong mga kasabay ko sa second stringers eh sobrang gigil eh. Four games na eh, four games na ‘yung hinintay namin. Buti nag-connect, ‘yung puso namin lalong tumibay kaya nakuha namin ‘yung lamang. And ang sinabi nga namin, tatapusin namin ‘to ngayon.”

UP attempted to mount a response, scoring two runs in the bottom of the ninth by capitalizing on Adamson’s defensive lapses and key plays from Razhley Santos and LM Basañes, including a well-placed bunt.

However, Adamson re-established a three-run cushion, 19-16, in the tenth inning.

An uncharacteristic fielding error from Mercado allowed Christian Bacarisas and Nisnisan to score, while Madarimot crossed the plate off a throwing error by shortstop Nicha.

Teams 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 R H E
AdU   0 0 2 0 2 0 0 2 10 3 19 12 4
UP      1 0 1 6 2 0 2 2 2 1 17 18 7

Ateneo extends winning streak to three

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

Learning the lessons from its first round encounter, Ateneo de Manila University finished off Adamson University in straight sets this time, 25-23, 25-14, 25-23, to secure its third straight win in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.

The Blue Eagles faced the Lady Falcons in their season opener and were a recipient of a stinging 25-21, 25-20, 12-25, 15-25, 12-15 reverse sweep with Shaina Nitura breaking the then UAAP rookie scoring record with 33 points.

Ateneo took the lessons of that heartbreaker and made sure not to repeat its mistakes this second round.

“I think our best skill today was our serves. Our serves did a lot of damage to the opponent. This is important, and in the hard moments, my team continued to focus,s and it’s the best to do for this moment,” said Blue Eagles head coach Sergio Veloso as his squad dominated the aces department, 12-5.

Ateneo now holds a 4-5 record for joint-fifth and sixth spots with University of the Philippines.

The sweep became possible when Ateneo turned a 16-19 deficit to a 25-23 win in the first set, thanks to the tandem of Jihan Chuatico and AC Miner.

That momentum cascaded in the second frame, where the Blue Eagles just dominated the Lady Falcons, 25-14.

But Adamson did not go easily in the third with Ateneo at match point, 24-21, as Nitura delivered back-to-back hits to inch within a point, but the sensational rookie in the next play grazed the net on a block attempt, giving the Blue Eagles the victory in one hour and 39 minutes.

“For this game everyone contributed, like everyone put the effort and they are focused inside the court. We just fight kahit anong mangyari, just push through every point,” said setter Taks Fujimoto, who tossed 17 excellent sets to go with five points on three attacks and two aces.

Miner led the balanced offense of Ateneo with 13 points, while Lyann De Guzman turned in another all-around performance with 12 points, 13 digs, and 13 receptions.

Zey Pacia also delivered 10 points and eight digs in the win that saw the Blue Eagles make more spikes, 40-33, and commit fewer errors, 17-21.

Ateneo eyes another win on Wednesday when it clashes with rival De La Salle University at the same Cubao venue, hoping to get back one of the teams it lost in the first round. The Lady Spikers have won their last 15 duels with the Blue Eagles.

Nitura still unleashed 21 points, 11 receptions, and seven digs in the loss, but she had no help.

Frances Mordi had nine points, while the rest of Adamson scored just four points or less.

The Lady Falcons, who dropped to solo seventh at 3-6, will look to rebound on Wednesday as well against the UST Golden Tigresses.

Ateneo locks in third spot in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men's Volleyball Standings

FEU 9-0
NU 7-2
Ateneo 6-3
UST 5-4
DLSU 5-4
UP 2-7
AdU 2-7
UE 0-9

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

ATENEO de Manila University strengthened its hold of the third spot in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament after taking down Adamson University, 25-21, 19-25, 25-16, 25-17, for its third straight win on Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Blue Eagles, who missed the Final Four in the past two seasons and finished at fifth both times, now hold a 6-3 record - a game ahead of closest pursuers University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers and De La Salle Green Spikers with identical 5-4 slates.

“Happy ako kasi kahit ilang sets pa yan basta panalo is panalo sa akin kasi tinrabaho yan ng players. Nagtiwala sila sa amin, nagtiwala kami sa kanila kaya ito yung nagiging result namin,” said Ateneo head coach Vince Mangulabnan after the one-hour, 52-minute battle.

("I'm happy because no matter how many sets it takes, a win is a win for me since the players worked hard for it. They trusted us, and we trusted them—that's why this is the result we achieved.")

The Blue Eagles regained control of the match after the Soaring Falcons tied the game at one set apiece, thanks to superb defense that limited their foes in the third set.

In the third frame, Adamson only scored five attack points and one ace while its other 10 points came from the errors of Ateneo.

Then the Blue Eagles finished off the Falcons with a strong finisher in the fourth, turning an 18-16 close game to a 25-17 clincher, thanks to Kennedy Batas and Amil Pacinio’s efforts.

“Honestly, nung first two sets lousy ‘yung galaw ng isa’t isa so sinabihan ko lang sila na mag-smile kayo kasi malaking tulong yan and don’t be encouraged kasi nawala kami sa focus nung second set. In the latter part ng game, we were able to overcome ‘yung ganoong challenges,” said Batas, who got 20 points and 11 receptions.

("Honestly, in the first two sets, everyone was moving sluggishly, so I just told them to smile because it helps a lot. I also reminded them not to get discouraged just because we lost focus in the second set. In the latter part of the game, we were able to overcome those challenges.")

Jian Salarzon chipped in 19 points and eight digs, while Pacinio had 15 points.

Lorenzo Gutierrez steered the Blue Eagles with 24 excellent sets, while libero Lance De Castro delivered 14 excellent receptions and 10 digs.

Ateneo looks to continue its streak on Wednesday when it faces La Salle also at the Big Dome.

The Soaring Falcons, on the other hand, slipped to 2-7, joining the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons at sixth and seventh places.

Jude Aguilar was the lone bright spot with 16 points on 13-of-42 attacks and three blocks.

Adamson, looking to regain its winning form, will collide with UST on Wednesday as well.

Adamson shutout completes softball eliminations sweep

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Softball Standings

x-AdU 8-0
x-UP 6-2
y-UST 3-5
y-DLSU 3-5
Ateneo 0-8

x-Finals
y-Battle for Third

REIGNING 11-time champion Adamson University completed an elimination-round sweep of the UAAP Season 87 Softball Tournament in dominant fashion, shutting out De La Salle University 9-0 in five innings, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Falcons will carry their perfect 8-0 record into Game 1 of the best-of-three finals series against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, set for Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Lady Batters will battle the University of Santo Tomas Tiger Softbelles on the same day in a one-game playoff for the bronze medal.

"At least ngayon, mas maganda 'yung hitting namin against La Salle compared sa previous game. So, I think, 'yun nga, nire-ready na rin nila 'yung sarili nila (for the Finals) kasi sila mismo sinasabi nila hindi madali ang championship ngayong taon," said head coach Ana Santiago.

("At least now, our hitting against La Salle was better compared to the previous game. So, I think they are already preparing themselves for the Finals because they themselves acknowledge that winning the championship this year won’t be easy.")

"At least, what is important is, sabi nga nila, nasa championship pa rin kami," added the concurrent Blu Girls head coach.

("At least, what’s important is that, as they say, we’re still in the championship.")

Offense—an area Santiago and her coaching staff had been focusing on in recent games—was in full display as Adamson secured its eighth consecutive victory. Neomay Mahinay and Mae Langga set the tone as the team’s lead-off batters.

Mahinay delivered a flawless performance at the plate, going two-for-two, while Langga, who replaced Chastene Jover, smashed a double in the fifth inning.

Senior Alaiza Talisik played a crucial role in the Lady Falcons’ fourth-inning surge, recording a double that drove in two runs. Jeelyn Pajotal and Roma Jane Cruz extended the lead to 7-0, and Talisik later scored on a hit by Madaelene Domaug, pushing the margin to 8-0.

On the mound, April Minanga took over from Glory Alonzo and maintained Adamson’s shutout, holding La Salle scoreless over two innings despite surrendering three hits—one each to April Gonzales in the fourth and Glecilyn Alipato and Julian Gail Moral in the fifth.

Alonzo, who secured the win, allowed just one hit from Cassandra Inot in the third inning, leading to three scoreless innings for De La Salle.

Lady Green Batters pitcher Joerjette Jordan absorbed the loss, giving up four runs in the first two innings before being pulled from the game.

Teams 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 R H E
AdU    2 2 1 3 1 x x 9 9 2
DLSU 0 0 0 0 0 x x 0 4 4

Tiger Spikers snap skid

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games Sunday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. - UE vs UP (Men)
11 a.m. - NU vs FEU (Men)
1 p.m. - UE vs UP (Women)
3 p.m. - NU vs FEU (Women)

UNIVERSITY of Santo Tomas stood firm against Noel Kampton’s 30-point outing, overcoming a third-set slip to outlast De La Salle University, 25-22, 25-22, 16-25, 25-22, and snap a three-game skid in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament, Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Refusing to be rattled after Kampton powered La Salle to a dominant third-set win, the Golden Spikers regrouped and delivered in the clutch, securing their second victory over the Green Spikers this season and wheeling back to Final Four contention.

UST improved to 5-4, forcing a tie for fourth and fifth spots with La Salle. The Golden Spikers hold the tiebreak advantage due to their head-to-head wins.

“Thank you sa team for the wonderful birthday present. We’re back sa win column and about doon sa errors namin, doon sa ending nahihirapan, nadidistract to close out the game. Yun yung inayos namin actually for the past week, and I think it was quite a success,” said UST head coach Odjie Mamon, who celebrated his birthday last Friday.

(“Thank you to the team for the wonderful birthday present. We're back in the win column, and regarding our errors, especially at the end when we struggle and get distracted in closing out the game—that's what we worked on this past week. I think it was quite a success.")

The Golden Spikers were too poised to be broken by their third set loss, rediscovering their form in the fourth to clinch the victory.

Ahead by just 18-19 in the fourth period, UST made a 5-2 blitz courtesy of Josh Ybañez and JJ Macam to reach match point, 24-21.

Although Kampton managed to get a point back, Trevor Valera finished it for the Golden Spikers with a quick hit for the triumphant rebound after one hour and 51 minutes.

“Sobrang thankful talaga ako kasi always ko inaalala kagabi na birthday gift namin kay coach Odjie ay manalo ngayon. I think that’s the best na maibigay namin kay coach. Sa performance ko naman siguro mas kaya ko pa siyang lamangan,” said Ybañez, who experienced his first win this season.

(“I’m really grateful because last night, I kept thinking that the best birthday gift we could give Coach Odjie was a win today. I think that’s the best thing we could offer him. As for my performance, I believe I can still do better.")

Prior to this, UST lost all four games he played in.

The reigning MVP provided a personal season-high of 21 points on 15 spikes and six aces, along with 16 excellent receptions and four digs.

Dux Yambao orchestrated the offense with 27 excellent sets with five points as Popoy Colinares and Jay Rack Dela Noche notched 15 and 11 points, respectively.

Kampton delivered a career-high 30 points on 27-of-51 attacks to go with two aces and a block, but all went down the drain.

He was the only Green Spiker in double digits as Maglinao was the next highest scorer with eight points to go with 16 excellent receptions and four digs.

Both teams will be back on Wednesday, still at the Big Dome, with La Salle seeking a bounce back at 9 a.m. against Ateneo de Manila University and UST eyeing a win streak at 11 a.m. against Adamson University.

UP ready for Softball finals rematch

c/o UAAP Media Team

FINALS-BOUND University of the Philippines wrapped up its UAAP Season 87 Softball elimination round campaign on a high note, defeating University of Santo Tomas, 6-1, Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The Fighting Maroons finished with a 6-2 record heading into the Finals, while the Tiger Softbelles dropped to 3-5, currently sitting in fourth place.

Game 1 of the Finals between UP and the still-undefeated Adamson University (7-0) is set for Tuesday, with the game time yet to be determined.

Meanwhile, UST awaits the result of the ongoing matchup between De La Salle University (3-4) and Adamson. The Tiger Softbelles are hoping for an elimination round sweep by the reigning champion Lady Falcons, which would force a playoff for the bronze medal.

"Preparation namin 'to for the championship, at hindi pa ako satisfied. Marami pang dapat i-improve kung talagang gustong manalo. So, 'pag dating sa training, i-focus pa namin 'yung maliliit na concerns, dapat ma-adjust pa namin," said UP head coach Ron Pagkaliwagan.

("This is our preparation for the championship, and I'm not satisfied yet. There are still many things we need to improve if we really want to win. So when it comes to training, we need to focus on the small concerns and make the necessary adjustments.")

UST struggled against UP pitcher Celine Chang in the first three innings before the Fighting Maroons made adjustments that paid off. Danica Aquino ignited the offense in the fourth inning with a well-placed bunt, reaching base safely and setting the stage for UP’s scoring surge.

Captain Nickole Dela Cruz delivered the first of her two hits, bringing Aquino home for the go-ahead run. Shortstop Aila Subaldo followed with a game-changing hit, driving in two RBIs as Erika Ocampo and Reuel Caoagdan crossed the plate, extending UP's lead to 4-0.

That offensive burst proved to be enough, as the Fighting Maroons tightened up on defense. Ace pitcher KC Valino relieved starter Diane Pasco and played a key role in securing the win.

Valino faced early pressure, walking Royeve Palma, the first batter she encountered, but quickly made a crucial defensive play. She caught a short fly ball from Anne Patricio and then threw to first baseman Martine Francisco, catching Palma off base for a double play.

UST had opportunities to close the gap but only managed to break through in the seventh inning. Pinch hitter Jenny Mae Teves and reigning Rookie of the Year Helga Campos combined for the Tiger Softbelles' lone run. Teves, who came in for Palma, smashed a double before scoring off a single from Campos.

Valino sealed the victory with a pinpoint pitch to Shenna Mae Europa, which was cleanly fielded by third baseman Generose Torremocha. The San Miguel National High School product allowed just one run on three hits in her three-inning relief appearance while striking out three.

Pasco was credited with the win after holding UST scoreless through four innings, conceding only two hits while striking out three batters.

For UST, Campos was the lone bright spot with one hit and one RBI. Chang absorbed the loss after allowing two earned runs on three hits, all in the fourth inning. Mary Jane Beronilla surrendered UP’s insurance runs in the seventh inning, sealing the Fighting Maroons' dominant performance.


Teams    1    2    3    4    5    6    7    R    H    E

UP    0    0    0    4    0    0    2    6    7    0

UST    0    0    0    0    0    0    1    1    5    2

La Salle, UST seek better postseason positioning

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Volleyball Standings

Women
NU 8 1
FEU 6 3
UST 5 3
DLSU 5 3
UP 4 5
AdU 3 5
Ateneo 3 5
UE 0 9

Men
FEU 9 0
NU 7 2
Ateneo 5 3
DLSU 5 3
UST 4 4
AdU 2 6
UP 2 7
UE 0 9

Games Saturday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum

9 a.m. – DLSU vs UST (Men)
11 a.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Men)
1 p.m. – Ateneo vs AdU (Women)
5 p.m. – DLSU vs UST (Women)

DE LA SALLE and University of Santo Tomas go for a piece of second place today (Saturday) in the UAAP Season 87 women's volleyball tournament at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Both teams are recipients from defending champion National University's shock loss to University of the Philippines last Wednesday, as this season is now assured of a Final Four format.

Far Eastern University, which defeated University of the East also last Wednesday, currently sits in solo second with a 6-3 card.

Expect the Lady Spikers and the Tigresses, both holding 5-3 records, to go all out in the 5 p.m. contest to catch up to the Lady Tamaraws at No. 2.

"Kailangan lang namin matutunang mag-enjoy especially when we’re up. Kapag gitgitan, at least meron kaming paghuhugutan sa mga situation na dapat mas matibay yung mga decision-making. Doon na kami nakafocus somehow sa maturity ng team as a whole," said coach Kungfu Reyes as UST tries to arrest a two-match slide.

(“We just need to learn how to enjoy the game, especially when we’re ahead. When the match gets tight, at least we have something to draw from in situations where stronger decision-making is needed. Our focus now is on the team’s overall maturity.")

The loser will drop to fourth place and will now only hold a one-game lead over the Fighting Maroons (4-5) in the race for the last Final Four spot.

With UP making a strong push for the No. 4 spot, Ateneo and Adamson University, both sporting 3-5 slates, are expected to play with a sense of urgency to remain in the Final Four chase at 1 p.m.

The Blue Eagles were coming off a week-long rest following an energy-sapping five-set win over the Fighting Maroons.

The Lady Falcons, on the other hand, opened the second round with a straight set romp of the Lady Warriors.

"It will be a good test for us because we are on the same path, and now we'll cross and clash for positioning. We need to think match by match, set by set, and point by point, and now our next match against Adamson is probably our most important game of the season. We need to think, focus, and prepare properly," said Ateneo coach Sergio Veloso.

Despite a challenging start of the Shai Nitura era, the Lady Falcons remain upbeat to have a better performance at this stage of the season to have a shot at the Final Four.

"Number one thing, we must hope for the best and then work hard for it. Kasi for me naman, walang imposible, we’ll continually encourage lang yung mga bata to work for it talaga kasi doon kami magsstart ‘eh so that na every game, kaya namin ipanalo. We’ll always rely also kung ano will ni Lord for this team kasi marami kami natutunan sa mga nangyayari, but we’ll still hope for the best and kailangan namin na we’ll give our best everytime rin," Adamson coach JP Yude said.

(“The number one thing is that we must hope for the best and work hard for it. For me, nothing is impossible. We’ll keep encouraging the players to really work for it because that’s where it all starts—so that we can win every game. We will also rely on God’s will for this team because we’ve learned a lot from everything that has happened. But no matter what, we’ll still hope for the best and make sure to give our best every time.")

In the men's division, De La Salle and UST, separated by one game in the race for the No. 4 spot, clash in the 9 a.m. opener.

Ateneo, also a game ahead of UST, plays Adamson at 11 a.m.

The Green Spikers and the Blue Eagles are in joint third at 5-3, while the Golden Spikers, who are mired on a three-match skid, are now outside the top four range with a 4-4 slate.

"Paghahandaan namin every game, kahit pa natatalo UST over the past games, alam namin kalibre nila kaya paghahandaan namin. We make plans for every game and we see to it na mareach yung gusto namin mangyari. No expectations namin, basta expect na we'll fight for every point sa laro na 'yon," said De La Salle coach Jose Roque.

(“We will prepare for every game. Even though UST has been losing in their past matches, we know their caliber, so we will be ready. We make plans for every game and ensure that we achieve what we want to happen. We have no expectations, but one thing’s for sure—we will fight for every point in that match.")

Coach Vince Mangulabnan, on the other hand, is pushing his troops very hard as he tries to steer Ateneo back to the Final Four after missing the bus in the past two seasons.

"Sabi ko nga sa kanila na this past week, hindi na tayo uulit or we won't make the same mistake of the past two years. Every game, aaralin namin nang maigi. Every game, nakafocus kami on the game itself. Sabi rin nila na pagttrabahuan namin bawat game para sa Final Four kasi nung past two years, nakafocus kami agad sa dulo 'eh. Pag nakatingin ka kasi sa dulo, madadapa at madadapa ka talaga. Pero ngayon, yung bumpy roads na papagdadaanan namin, sama-sama naming dadaanan ito," said Mangulabnan.

(“I told them that this past week, we won’t repeat the same mistakes of the past two years. We will study every game carefully and stay focused on the game itself. They also said that we will work hard for every match to reach the Final Four because in the past two years, we were too focused on the end goal. When you look too far ahead, you’re bound to stumble. But this time, we’ll face every bumpy road together.")

At 2-6, the Falcons are three games out of the last Final Four slot, but coach Raffy Mosuela is not giving up on the season.

"Yung mga previous games namin na mga 'almost,' doon ako tumitingin ng positive na kailangan namin puro polishing na lang para yung mga 'almost' na iyon, makuha na namin yung game or yung set. Yung consistency lang talaga across sa every individual skill need namin to get over the hump," said Mosuela.

(“In our previous games, we had a lot of ‘almost’ moments. I look at that positively because it means we just need to polish our game, so those ‘almost’ moments can turn into actual wins—whether it’s the game or the set. We just need consistency across every individual skill to get over the hump.")

UAAP High School Football title set for decider

 

c/o UAAP Media Team

Match Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium

5 p.m. — UST vs FEU-D

DEFENDING champion Far Eastern University-Diliman and University of Santo Tomas will clash for the UAAP Season 87 Boys’ High School Football title in a rematch of last year’s final today (Saturday) at 5 p.m. at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.

For the Baby Tamaraws, the stakes are high as they aim to clinch their 13th consecutive title and complete the school’s fourth treble in history.

Meanwhile, the Junior Golden Booters are determined to claim their first division championship and deliver UST’s first football crown since Season 74, when the Lady Booters last lifted the trophy.

Following FEU-D’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Season 87’s Cinderella team, PAREF Southridge, in the semifinals, head coach Jake Morallo emphasized the importance of maintaining their winning mentality heading into the final.

The Baby Tamaraws, led by rookie forward Jerriemy Biton and his league-best nine goals, are riding an 11-game unbeaten streak this season. However, beyond UST, Morallo knows their biggest challenge is avoiding complacency.

“I think all top four teams deserve naman makapasok sa Final Four,” said Morallo. “So sa makakalaban namin sa finals, pagplanuhan namin 'yung game, (at) pag-aaralan din namin 'yung strengths and weaknesses ng kalaban namin by that time. Prepare lang talaga kami sa training. Kailangan pa rin namin 'yung winning mentality.”

("I think all top four teams deserve to make it to the Final Four. As for our opponent in the finals, we will plan for the game and study their strengths and weaknesses by that time. We just need to prepare in training. We still need to have a winning mentality.")

While FEU-D watched from the sidelines, UST secured the second final berth with a gritty 2-1 victory over De La Salle Zobel.

As the Junior Golden Booters celebrated their hard-earned win, the memories of last year’s 3-0 defeat were nowhere to be found.

Instead, hopes are soaring behind standout goalkeeper Edcel Lauron and Spain-bound midfielder Joshua Moleje, as they look to finally make this season their moment of triumph.

“Syempre i-ready namin 'yung mindset ng players at 'yung katawan ng players,” said UST assistant coach David Basa. “Nakakapagod din 'yung game na 'to, so one-week recovery 'tong plano namin. Siguro pag-usapan namin kung paano namin paghahandaan ang FEU.”

("Of course, we will prepare the players' mindset and physical condition. This game was exhausting, so our plan is a one-week recovery. We'll probably discuss how we will prepare for FEU.")

Following the championship match, individual awards—including Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, Golden Boot, Best Striker, Best Midfielder, Best Defender, and Best Goalkeeper—will be presented to the season’s top performers.

Additionally, the Fair Play Award will be given to the team with the fewest disciplinary infractions throughout Season 87.