UP sweeps to seal inaugural PIBC crown

Your podium finishers (L-R: UP, PUP, Ateneo, San Beda)

The University of the Philippines made their case for the upcoming UAAP season in badminton, as they clinched the inaugural Philippine Intercollegiate Badminton Championships at the badminton courts of Centro Atletico in Quezon City.

The Fighting Maroons did it in impressive fashion, winning all three matchups to lock in the title over San Beda on Sunday afternoon.

Jason Vanzuela and Michael Clemente secured the tie with a 21-16 21-11 victory over Arjhay Lazareto and Ramon Timothy Santos in men's doubles.

The Maroons shook off errors in the first set before settling things in the second to net the victory.

Kervin Llanes started things off for UP with a 21-13 22-20 triumph in men's singles against Laurence Alejo, with the latter's miscues late costing him the matchup.

In contrast, Anthea Gonzalez dominated her singles matchup against Dana Navarro, sealing the matchup, 21-7 21-7, setting up Vanzuela and Clemente's heroics.

By winning the PIBC, UP took home PhP 50,000, medals, a championship trophy, and Apacs rackets.

Lea Inlayo shares post-competition, "Since marami po kaming freshies medyo nag-aadjust pa kami. Pero hindi naman tumitigil ng support sila Tito Conrado (Co, UP's team manager), at happy po kami na after two years tuluy-tuloy pa rin po kami."

She adds, "Makakatulong po talaga to sa campaign namin (sa UAAP) para maging mas confident kami 'pag dating ng Season 85. Mas nabigyan kami ng boost and pride going into the season."

Completing the rest of the championship side are Susmita Ramos, Enzo Rivera, Jaja Andres, Paul Gonzales, and Althea Rio Fuentespina.

San Beda received PhP 20,000 as the runner-up, while Ateneo and PUP earned PhP 10,000 for finishing as the second-best team in their respective groups.

This tournament is organized by the Philippine Badminton Association, powered by SMART Communications, and supported by the MVP Sports Foundation, Ducksports, Young, and Apacs.