Samsung continues commitment towards sutstainable development with Galaxy Earth Day Run 2025

Earth Day Run

Running enthusiasts will have the opportunity to combine their passion and their care for the planet with the 2025 edition of the Galaxy Earth Day Run, which is presented by Samsung.

Done in collaboration with Runrio and the Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines, the event will take place on April 27, at three different locations: the SM Mall of Asia Complex in Manila, City Di Mare in Cebu, and Azuela Cove in Davao.

Each location has its own scenic route that will cater to its runners of 5K, 10K, and 21K. The Manila Bay will serve as the backdrop for those in Manila. The coastal breeze that runs alongside the South Road Properties greets the Cebu runners, while those at Davao will be passing through a lush, green environment that also offers a glimpse of the Davao Gulf.

For this year's edition, the theme is "Run with Purpose." According to Runrio Managing Partner Andrew Neri, "It’s a simple yet telling call to action for everyone and a reminder that every step we take is a step to a more sustainable future."

Tzu Chi Foundation Commissioner Jane Sy adds, "This isn’t just any run. It increases the awareness of each person in making a difference for our planet."

Representing title sponsors Samsung, Galaxy Ecosystem Product Marketing Manager for Samsung Electronics Philippines Nic Rodriguez says, "Samsung's partnership in the Galaxy Earth Day Run 2025 signifies our belief that technology should empower action, not just track it. We're uniting thousands to run with purpose, proving that every kilometer logged is a step towards a more sustainable world, powered by innovation."

Designed with an emphasis towards heightened awareness about environmental protection, as well as to help advocate the importance of conserving resources and reducing our carbon footprint, the Galaxy Earth Day Run is set to implement waste reduction strategies, including optimized water distribution to reduce plastic bottle usage and utilizing eco-friendly materials for event collaterals. Having the partnership with the Tzu Chi Foundation reinforces such a commitment, as the latter will handle waste management and recycling efforts during and after the run.

Organizers are expecting around seventeen thousand participants, with almost sixteen thousand already signed up across the three locations.

The event is a neat way to test run those who have their new fitness smartwatches, especially from Samsung: the Galaxy Watch Ultra and the Galaxy Watch 7. The former is  a premium, rugged smartwatch with its titanium body and sapphire crystal glass, built to withstand the demands of any runner, while the latter is a stylish, high-performance smartwatch with a sleek design and various durable features that make it an ideal companion for participants aiming to track their personal wellness in a compact device.

Both devices reflect Samsung's commitment towards durability and longevity, which aligns with the Galaxy Earth Day Run's message of sustainability.

For those interested in the event, details are available through https://earthdayrun.org/.

La Salle earns postseason berth, takes out Ateneo's hopes

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Baseball Standings

*NU 7-1
*DLSU 6-2
AdU 4-4
UP 3-5
UST 3-5
x-Ateneo 1-7
*- Final Four
x - Eliminated

Games on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, starting at 7am
Ateneo vs NU
AdU vs UP*
DLSU vs UST*
*Law of immediate succession

DE LA SALLE University secured the second spot in the UAAP Season 87 Baseball Final Four with a hard-fought 9-5 victory to eliminate archrival Ateneo de Manila University, Wednesday afternoon at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium.

The Green Batters also kept their hopes alive for earning the other twice-to-beat advantage, improving to a 6-2 record and second place, just behind the National University Bulldogs (7-1), who have already secured a semifinal berth.

De La Salle will aim for the other Final Four bonus when it faces University of Santo Tomas in Sunday’s third game, following the crucial match between Adamson University (4-4) and the University of the Philippines (3-5).

"Ang gameplan namin kasi is at least makalaro 'yung ibang second stringers namin. So, ang sabi ko daain lang sa magandang depensa, tulungan 'yung pitcher. Although, si Agorn (De Vera) kaya niyang trabahuhin ang mga batters. At as much as possible makatulong rin sila sa offense, malaking bagay na 'yon sa team. Tong mga relievers naman nakapag-deliver," said long-time head coach Joseph Orillana, whose team secured its third consecutive win in the second round.

("Our game plan is to at least give our second-string players some playing time. So, I told them to focus on solid defense and help out the pitcher. Although Agorn (De Vera) is capable of handling the batters. And as much as possible, they should also contribute to the offense; that’s a big help to the team. As for the relievers, they delivered.")

Although some usual starters were rested for this game, rookie Barry Oñas remained in the starting lineup and took his usual spot as one of the first batters for De La Salle.

The freshman from Faith Colleges in Batangas came one home run short of a cycle, hitting a single in the first inning, a triple in the fourth, and a double in the sixth. Oñas played a key role in the Green Batters' offense, which totaled nine hits.

De La Salle’s seven runs in the first four innings proved to be enough, as they limited Ateneo to just two runs in the final five innings. Yuan Sumague and Liam De Vera stepped up in relief, helping to preserve the strong performance from team captain Lord Aragorn De Vera, who started on the mound.

De Vera was credited with the win after allowing just three runs on two hits over four innings. His rookie relievers, Sumague and his younger brother Liam, were both awarded saves for their contributions.

"Napaka-importante sa 'min nito kasi sabi ko nga hindi kami basta dapat umasa sa first nine namin. May mga times na 'tong first nine namin wala talaga sa laro nila. So, dapat mag-step up sila and makapag-deliver para sa team. Nakapag-contribute naman ngayon, kaya napakalaking tulong sa team," Orillana added.

("This is really important for us because, as I said, we can’t just rely on our first nine. There are times when our first nine isn’t really performing well. So, they need to step up and deliver for the team. They were able to contribute today, so it was a huge help for the team.")

Ateneo, now 1-7, was the first team eliminated from Final Four contention.

No Blue Eagle recorded more than one hit—Luis Mendoza led the team with a single in two at-bats, and Fabella drove in an RBI with his lone hit in the fifth inning.

Pitcher Manuel Senador took the loss, allowing the first four runs and giving up four hits in just two innings of work.

Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
Ateneo 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 1 0 5 7 3
DLSU 3 1 2 1 0 2 0 0 x 9 9 2

FEU claims solo third spot

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L
*NU 10-2
DLSU 8-3
FEU 8-4
UST 7-4  
UP 5-6
AdU 4-7
Ateneo 4-8
UE 0-12
*Final Four

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

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

Far Eastern University firmed up its grip of the third seed with a 25-23, 22-25, 25-22, 25-13 gutsy win, eliminating Ateneo de Manila University from Final Four contention in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament at the Philsports Arena on Wednesday.

The Lady Tamaraws elevated their record to 8-4 at solo third over idle UST Golden Tigresses at 7-4. They are also just half a game behind second-running De La Salle Lady Spikers at 8-3.

FEU, a 29-time champion which last won in 2008, seeks to secure   its second straight Final Four appearance on Saturday when it takes on Adamson University at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“Going against Ateneo, masyadong dedicated ang Ateneo sa pagbalik nila sa Final Four tapos sa amin naman, eager din kaming mag-stay sa position na yun. Mahirap for us to maintain yung ganong klase kasi pareho kami ng goal. It’s just a matter kung sino yung may desire na makarating sa Final Four,” said FEU head coach Tina Salak.

("Going up against Ateneo, they're really dedicated to making it back to the Final Four, and for us, we're also eager to stay in that position. It's hard for us to maintain that kind of level because we have the same goal. It’s just a matter of who has the greater desire to make it to the Final Four.")

Gerzel Petallo, Chenie Tagaod, and Karyll Miranda teamed up for the Lady Tamaraws’ 10-3 start that deflated the spirit of the Blue Eagles.

Although Ateneo managed to cut the deficit to within 8-12, Miranda and Clarisse Loresco retaliated for FEU establishing a fresh 17-9 lead that put the game away after two hours and three minutes.

Knotted at 21-all in the third, it was the Blue Eagles who helped the Lady Tamaraws by committing two errors while Faida Bakanke unleashed two points - a block on Lyann de Guzman and an off-the-block hit - to regain control of the match, 25-22.

“Sobrang happy na nagbubunga ‘yung mga effort na ibinibigay namin sa team and ngayon na (malapit) na ulit kami makapasok sa Final Four, kailangan muna manalo ngayong Saturday para makuha na talaga namin ‘yung Final Four,” said Tagaod, who made 12 points, 13 excellent receptions, and five digs.

("I'm really happy that the efforts we’ve been putting into the team are paying off, and now that we're close to making it to the Final Four again, we need to win this Saturday to secure our spot in the Final Four.")

Congolese opposite hitter Faida Bakanke led the Lady Tamaraws with 19 points built on 15 spikes and four blocks, while Petallo had another all-around game of 13 points, 14 receptions, and 12 digs.

Miranda and Loresco, who were only utilized in the third and fourth frames, still contributed greatly with the setter tossing 11 excellent sets with five points while the middle blocker had seven points on four attacks and three blocks.

The Blue Eagles, who finished fifth last year, will miss the post-season festivities for the third straight season.

Ateneo absorbed its third consecutive defeat to drop to 4-8 but would shoot to end its campaign on a high note against National University and University of the East in that order.

AC Miner spearheaded the Blue Eagles’ fight with 17 points and eight digs, while Jihan Chuatico got 13 points on nine attacks and four blocks.

Lyann De Guzman, Ateneo’s top gun, was held to just seven points on 7-of-32 spiking clip.

NU bounce back from stunner to dismantle UE

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

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

Reeling off a shock loss, National University responded in the most dominant way, overpowering also-ran University of the East, 25-8, 25-22, 25-12, to inch closer to a twice-to-beat edge in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Final Four on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena.

Despite missing the high-scoring Alyssa Solomon for a second straight game due to a mild left ankle sprain, the Final Four-bound Lady Bulldogs rose to 10-2, a win away from securing a twice-to-beat incentive in the semifinals which they can attain on Sunday when they take on the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“I’m very happy na nakabawi ‘yung team kasi medyo masakit sa part namin ‘yung nangyari last game which is natalo kami. Lagi ko lang niremind ‘yung team na dapat ‘yung mga susunod na laro namin, dapat ‘yung performance namin mataas hindi porket ‘yung kalaban namin is lower-ranked team, mababa na rin ‘yung performance namin,” said two-time MVP Bella Belen, recalling their 23-25, 25-15, 26-28, 22-25 loss to Adamson University last weekend.

The Lady Bulldogs entered the opening frame barking, not allowing the Lady Warriors to gain any momentum, cruising to a 25-8 victory with five of UE’s points even coming from NU’s errors.

The defending champions then unleashed a massive finisher in the third to end the game in one hour and 38 minutes, turning a 12-10 close call to a lopsided 25-12 clincher with Vange Alinsug, Aisha Bello, Erin Pangilinan, and Belen delivering the heavy hits.

“I’m so happy and all thanks to the coaches and my teammates for trusting me even though opposite is not my natural position but I’m trying to put my effort so I’m so happy to show what I am,” said Bello, who earned the start in lieu of Solomon.

Bello, a Nigerian middle blocker converted to an opposite spiker, tallied nine points and four digs, while Alinsug also made nine points in two sets of action.

Belen, aiming for a third MVP award, also had a stellar game of 16 points on 14-of-29 spikes and two aces along with 13 digs and eight receptions.

NU homegrown rookie Celine Marsh had seven points in one set while Pangilinan got seven as well in two sets played.

UE sustained its 12th straight defeat with two more chances to secure its breakthrough win in the forgettable season.

The Lady Warriors will next face the UST Golden Tigresses on Saturday before closing the season against the Blue Eagles.

The trio of Khy Cepada, Van Bangayan, and Riza Nogales tallied six points apiece in the loss.

Nogales alone out-blocked the entire Lady Bulldogs’ crew with five blocks, a rejection better than their foes. However, the Lady Warriors fell hard in the attacking department, 18-49.

NU also dominated the service category with seven aces compared to none for UE.

NU batters UP to earn first available postseason ticket

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium

7 a.m. - Ateneo vs NU
AdU vs UP*
DLSU vs UST*
*Law of immediate succession

NATIONAL University secured the first ticket to the UAAP Season 87 Baseball Final Four, bouncing back with a 12-5 victory over University of the Philippines, Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

With the win, the Bulldogs also claimed the first twice-to-beat advantage, solidifying their hold on the top spot with a 7-1 win-loss record. They are ahead of second-place De La Salle University, which stands at 5-3.

The Green Batters are currently facing the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles (1-6) as of publishing.

The win also came at the right time after NU suffered its first loss of the season against University of Santo Tomas last Wednesday, 10-12.

The defending champions relied on another explosive inning to fuel their offense, scoring seven runs in the second inning. Most of these runs came against UP starting pitcher Daniel Badrina and hits directed toward Fighting Maroons captain Ian Mercado.

After Badrina struck out Kevin Maulit, Herald Tenorio, Gio Gorpido, Kyle Hardillo, and Nigel Paule each fired booming hits to shallow centerfield and toward Mercado, extending the Bulldogs' lead to 5-0.

Mercado finally made a catch against Jherick Timban in left-center field, but two more hits directed his way from Kenneth Maulit and Tenorio drove in two more runs. Fortunately for UP, first baseman Razhley Santos recovered the ball in an ensuing play that caught Tenorio attempting to steal third base on a throw to third baseman Axl Ross Vispo.

The seven-run inning turned out to be the difference, as the Bulldogs held on for the win.

Kenneth Maulit led NU's offense with four hits in five at-bats, producing three RBIs, while Tenorio added three hits in four at-bats, contributing one more RBI.

"It was a wake-up call for us kasi siguro nag-relax kami at 'yung mga bata. Ang team kasi talaga ng tournament na 'to is 'Respect your opponents' talaga; na kahit sino 'yung opponent mo, huwag mong mamaliitin. Every inning, every pitch, dapat pukpok talaga. 'Yun dapat ang attitude ng mga players," said second-year head coach Romar Landicho.

("It was a wake-up call for us because maybe we got relaxed, including the younger players. The real team mindset for this tournament is 'Respect your opponents'; no matter who your opponent is, never underestimate them. Every inning, every pitch, you have to really attack. That should be the attitude of the players.")

"Learning from our loss talaga; actually similar 'yung nangyari from our previous game. Kaya pinapaalala naming mga coaches, dinikdik namin sa mga utak nila na huwag ng mangyari 'yon kasi nga medyo mabigat sa loob namin. Ang importante, may natutunan kami," Landicho added.

("We're learning from our loss; actually, what happened is similar to our previous game. That's why we, as coaches, remind them and drill it into their minds to make sure it doesn't happen again because it’s really tough for us. The important thing is, we learned from it.")

UP had several opportunities to score in the fourth and sixth innings after NU pitcher Amiel De Guzman gave up walks, including three straight in the fourth. However, the Fighting Maroons could not capitalize on their baserunners, with the reigning Best Pitcher cleaning up his mistakes with strikeouts.

De Guzman completed a nine-inning game, allowing just nine hits and two earned runs, while limiting last year's MVP Mercado to just one hit in three at-bats.

Meanwhile, UP slipped to 3-5 and now faces must-win situations against fellow semifinal contenders Adamson University (4-4) and the University of Santo Tomas (3-5) after suffering their second loss of the second round to the defending champions.

Badrina took the loss, surrendering six of the eight runs the Bulldogs scored in the first two innings. Relievers Kiel Agojo and Ram Matanguihan combined to allow just four runs in the final seven frames for NU, but UP’s batters could not recover from the deep hole they dug in the second inning.

Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
NU    1 7 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 12 14 5
UP    0 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 5 9 3

Newcomers shine in FEU's men's volleyball triumph

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men's Volleyball Tournament Team Standings

Team W-L
*FEU           11    1
*NU             10    2
UST             7    4
DLSU          7    4
Ateneo        6    6
UP               3    8
AdU            2     9
UE               0    12
*Final Four

Games on Saturday at the SMART Araneta Coliseum

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

When Far Eastern University’s main hitters were misfiring, the Tamaraws leaned on unsung but timely heroes to clinch a twice-to-beat Final Four advantage in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament.

Amet Bituin made the most out of his first Season 87 start, while Lirick Mendoza hosted a block party as FEU sent Ateneo de Manila University to the verge of elimination, 25-21, 19-25, 25-23, 25-23, on Wednesday afternoon at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

With their collective efforts, the Tamaraws gained a timely playoff incentive to boost their redemption campaign, improving to an 11-1 win-loss card through 12 outings.

“Kahapon pa sa inensayo, tinry na ni coach na ako i-start. Kahit medyo may confusion sa akin, mas pinagkatiwalaan ko lang yung coaching staff at yung teammates ko na naguup sa akin kahit minsan down ako,” the FEU-Diliman High School product shared, who tallied a team-high 17 points on 16 attacks and one block with nine excellent receptions.

("Yesterday during practice, coach tried to have me start. Even though I was a bit confused, I just trusted the coaching staff and my teammates who supported me even when I was feeling down.")

A narrow third-set escape over Ateneo gave FEU much-needed momentum, opening the fourth set with a dominant seven-point, 17-10 lead fueled by two straight attacks from Dryx Saavedra, a block by Congolese middle blocker Doula Ndongala, and an ace from Bituin.

An attack error by Bituin, a crosscourt hit by Salarzon, and an ace by MVP frontrunner Kennedy Batas fueled the Blue Eagles’ 7-1 run to trim the deficit to 22-20.

Despite the late rally, the Tamaraws remained composed as a costly service error by Batas and a down-the-line hit, and a game-sealing crosscourt attack by Bituin sealed FEU’s 11th win in one hour and 55 minutes.

In a back-and-forth third-set affair, FEU broke a 21-all deadlock behind a block by Saavedra and a Mendoza denial on Batas, but Ateneo rallied behind two straight Amil Pacinio hits to knot the frame again at 23-all.

However, Pacinio committed a costly service error, while Mendoza once again denied Batas to propel the Tamaraws to a 2-1 set advantage.

“Magkaiba na yung season na previous sa season ngayon. Kailangan lang namin magtiwala ulit. Yung moment ng Season 86, nasurpass na namin ‘yon ‘eh. Ngayong season, medyo iba rin yung taya ng tao natin sa loob dahil sa mindsetting din. Nakamoveforward na kami doon, onto the next na kami,” FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo said.

("This season is different from the previous one. We just need to trust again. The moment from Season 86, we've already surpassed that. This season, there's a different level of expectation from our team because of our mindset. We've moved forward from that, we're onto the next.")

Mendoza added 12 points on a season-high performance of eight blocks and four attacks, while Saavedra tallied 11 points on 10 attacks. Top rookie Mikko Espartero chipped in 10 points on eight attacks and two blocks with six excellent receptions.  

Mendoza's blocks total is the most by any player since Obed Mukaba had nine in NU's 22-25, 22-25, 25-14, 25-22, 15-6 first-round win over UE on March 12, 2023.

Ariel Cacao tossed in 26 excellent sets in the triumph, while rookie libero Vennie Ceballos contributed 23 excellent receptions and six digs.

FEU will next face also-ran Adamson University on Saturday, April 12, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

The Blue Eagles’ third consecutive defeat proved to be the most costly as Ateneo is now on the brink of elimination after falling to a 6-6 record, one and a half game behind third-running De La Salle University and University of Santo Tomas, who both share identical 7-4 slates.

Amil Pacinio paced the Blue Eagles in the loss with 21 points on 18 attacks and three aces, while Batas- the division’s top scorer with 222 points- was limited to 12 points on 8-of-29 attack efficiency with three aces and one block with 16 excellent receptions.

Salarzon also struggled with nine points on 9-of-30 attack efficiency but still tallied 13 excellent receptions.

Ateneo looks to avoid elimination when it clashes against defending champion National University on Sunday, April 13, at the same Cubao dome.

NU at cusp of women's tennis crown

c/o UAAP Media Team

 

Ties on Saturday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center inside Rizal Memorial Sports Complex

7 a.m. - UST vs. NU (Women’s Finals Game 2)
2 p.m. - UST vs. NU (Men’s Finals Game 2)

NATIONAL University is on the verge of claiming the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Tennis championship after securing a 3-1 victory over University of Santo Tomas in Game 1 of the Finals, Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila.

The Lady Bulldogs are now just one win away from clinching their fourth consecutive title and eighth overall in this tournament also supported by Wilson Philippines.

They have the opportunity to seal the title in Game 2, set for 7 a.m. on Saturday at the same venue.

“‘Yung game plan talaga namin, ‘yung bawat player sinasabihan namin na kailangan laruin na nila ‘yung laro nila at saka mostly makadalawa kami sa singles… so sabi namin na huwag lang i-pressure ‘yung sarili. Total, sanay naman sila na nakarating sila finals. Kumbaga sa experience, medyo lamang kayo sabi ko, [so] laruin niyo lang ‘yung laro niyo,” said NU coach Ronard Joven.

(“Our game plan was for each player to just play their game. We also emphasized winning at least two singles matches. We told them not to put too much pressure on themselves. They’re used to being in the finals, so with their experience, they have the upper hand. I told them to just play their game.”)

“Iba kasi talaga ‘pag nakuha mo ‘yung Game 1 kasi nangyari na samin last year noong Game 1 natalo kami so iba ‘yung pressure na nabibigay ‘pag natalo ka ng Game 1. Ito ngayon kasi nanalo sila ng Game 1 so medyo mas mataas ‘yung confidence nila ngayon sa laro,” he added.

(“It’s different when you win Game 1, because last year we lost it, and the pressure really builds after that. But now, winning Game 1 gives them higher confidence going into Game 2.")

Rovie Baulete and Adi Abadia delivered the pivotal win in the series opener, defeating Judy Padilla and Debbie Gom-os 6-2, 6-2 in the first doubles match, giving the defending champions a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three final.

“Winning Game 1 is very important for our team, as it eases the pressure for the next game,” Baulete said. “It’s also crucial that we remain united and trust each other. The key is to stay focused on the game and trust that we can handle every match we face.”

In a composed second singles outing, Jasmine Jaran outmaneuvered Patricia Lim 6-3, 6-4, claiming the opening point for the Lady Bulldogs.

In a spirited comeback, Kaye Emana bounced back after losing the first set, defeating Danna Abad 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 in the first singles match, putting UST back in the race.

However, Elsie Abarquez seized control of the third singles match, dismissing Mica Emana 6-3, 6-1 in straight sets, and giving NU a 2-1 lead in the tie.

Adamson gets leg up in baseball postseason chase

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, starting at 7am

Ateneo vs NU
‎AdU vs UP*
‎DLSU vs UST*
‎*Law of immediate succession
‎
‎ADAMSON University kept its Final Four hopes alive after completing a come-from-behind 10-5 victory over the University of Santo Tomas, snapping a two-game losing skid in the UAAP Season 87 Baseball Tournament, Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.
‎
‎The Soaring Falcons soared to solo third in the standings with an even 4-4 record, just ahead of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons (3-4), who were still playing against the league-leading National University Bulldogs (6-1) as of press time.
‎
‎Trailing 4-5 at the bottom of the sixth inning, Kier Plaza jumpstarted a three-run rally with a booming double along the right foul line.
‎
‎Two consecutive walks issued by UST starter Prince Harry Geronimo to Mark Montoya and JM Tupig loaded the bases for John Matanghuihan.
‎
‎Two fielding errors by Season 85 MVP Justine Rosales, combined with a well-placed hit from rookie James Nisnisan, allowed Plaza, Montoya, and Tupig to score — giving Adamson a lead they would never surrender.
‎
‎The San Marcelino-based squad tacked on three more runs in the eighth inning off reliever Jesus Cabigao to put the game out of reach and secure their fourth win of the season.
‎
‎"Yun nga, nagsimula ang second round na natalo kami do'n sa finalists (last season), sa NU at saka sa La Salle. Ang sabi ko, kung hindi man kami manalo do'n sa dalawa, dito sa mga remaining games na kailangang manalo para may pag-asa sa top four. Top three na nga kami ngayon. Sinabi ko rin sa kanila na lahat ng games must-win; kaya mabuti itong sa UST naipanalo namin," said long-time head coach Lando Binarao.
‎
‎(“We started the second round with losses against last season’s finalists, NU and La Salle. I told the team that even if we couldn't win against those two, we had to make sure we win the remaining games to keep our Final Four chances alive. Now, we're even in the top three. I reminded them that all games are must-win, so it's good we were able to pull this one off against UST.”)
‎
‎Rookie pitcher Milko Go Jr. was key in Adamson’s comeback, holding UST scoreless in the final four innings — including a gutsy ninth-inning stand when the Golden Sox threatened to mount a comeback.
‎
‎After Cabigao was retired on a foul fly by Plaza, UST’s JR Vargas hit a single to right-center, but Go held firm, retiring Cedrick Marquez and Raniel Cardio in succession to end the game.
‎
‎Go, a freshman from San Miguel High School, earned the win after pitching 5.2 shutout innings, allowing only three hits and striking out three — including the final two batters.
‎
‎Offense also clicked for the Falcons, driving in 13 hits, mostly coming from those huge innings, with Kean Matanguihan leading the way with a four-on-five hitting clip and four RBIs.
‎
‎Nisnisan added three hits on four at-bats and two RBIs.
‎
‎UST had a strong opening stretch, scoring all five of their runs while Kenneth Delos Reyes was on the mound.
‎
‎Doubles from Marquez, Mhigeil Cerda, and Sean De Leon helped the Golden Sox build an early lead in the first four innings.
‎
‎However, Adamson eventually broke through against Geronimo in the fourth inning and capitalized on UST’s defensive miscues.
‎
‎With the loss, the Golden Sox dropped to 3-5, snapping a two-game losing streak.
‎
‎With Final Four spots still up for grabs and another key matchup against fellow contender UP on the horizon, Binarao is calling on his players to finish strong.
‎
‎"Ang gusto ko lang makita is 'yung makapag-deliver sila sa opensa and at the same tame 'yung pitcher is maka-hold. Tulung-tulong ba, opensa at depensa, 'yan naman ang kailangan diyan," said the seasoned mentor.
‎
‎(“What I want to see is everyone stepping up — producing on offense while the pitchers hold the line on defense. It has to be a total team effort. That’s what we need at this point in the season.”)

Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
UST  1 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 5 8 5
AdU  2 1 0 0 1 3 0 3 x 10 13 1

NU locks in postseason berth in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Saturday at the SMART-Araneta Coliseum

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

NATIONAL University secured the second Final Four ticket in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament with a dominant 25-21, 25-17, 25-16 sweep of last-place University of the East on Wednesday morning at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

After cruising to their fourth consecutive win, the five-peat seeking Bulldogs improved to a 10-2 card to secure a return to the Final Four for the 10th consecutive season since Season 75.

The win also allowed NU to reaffirm its dominance over an also-ran UE squad, winning its 23rd straight game over the Red Warriors since a second round win in Season 73 last 2011.

“Thankful ako sa naging performance namin today. Nadominate namin yung laro at nadictate namin yung tempo. Naging factor talaga yung blockings namin today. We’ll continue lang yung ginagawa namin everyday heading into the Final Four,” Bulldogs head coach Dante Alinsunurin said.

“Sa nagiging resulta ng bawat game namin, nabubuhayan na ulit yung mindset ng mga player namin sa bawat laro. Hindi lang sa skills, kundi sa kundisyon ng bawat player ko na nakikita ko, nandoon na sa gusto namin,” he added.

In the third set, UE remained within striking distance at 13-10, but Congolese middle blocker Obed Mukaba uncorked a personal 3-0 run -- built on two consecutive blocks and a quick attack -- to give NU a comfortable 16-10 lead.

That proved to be all the cushion that the Bulldogs needed as two straight attacks by Leo Ordiales, an off-the-block hit from Jade Disquitado, a Shan Camaymayan attack error, and a quick attack from Mukaba to seal the 74-minute win.

Despite being marred by 11 errors in the first set, the Bulldogs found their footing in the second frame, turning a slim 12-11 lead to a 20-14 cushion to build a 2-0 set advantage.

Michaelo Buddin fueled NU’s triumph with 15 points on 13 attacks with seven excellent digs and nine excellent receptions, while Mukaba provided ample support with 14 points on a game-high seven blocks and seven attacks.

Ordiales added 12 points on 11 attacks, while team captain Leo Aringo tallied eight points on seven attacks with 17 excellent receptions and seven excellent digs.

Greg Ancheta orchestrated the Bulldogs’ offense with 23 excellent sets and one ace.

NU aims to secure a twice-to-beat incentive when it clashes against Ateneo de Manila University on Sunday, April 13, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Meanwhile, the drought continued for the Red Warriors as they stumbled to their 12th consecutive defeat in as many Season 87 matches. This loss also marked UE’s 18th straight loss dating back to its second round opener last season.

Isiah Roca and Raquim Aceron paced UE in the losing effort with 10 points each, while Axel Defeo chipped in five points.

Rookie hitter Roy Piojo was limited to two points on 2-of-19 attack efficiency in the loss.

The Red Warriors will next face the University of Santo Tomas Golden Spikers on Saturday, April 12, at the same Cubao venue.

NU seeking tenth wins in collegiate volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Collegiate Volleyball standings

Women
*NU 9 2
DLSU 8 3
FEU 7 4
UST 7 4
UP 5 6
Ateneo 4 7
AdU 4 7
UE 0 11

Men
*FEU 10 1
NU 9 2
UST 7 4
DLSU 7 4
Ateneo 6 5
UP 3 8
AdU 2 9
UE 0 11
*Final Four

Games Wednesday at the Philsports Arena

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

NATIONAL University hopes to regain its winning ways against last-place University of the East on Wednesday, as the defending champions press their drive for a twice-to-beat advantage in the Final Four of the UAAP Season 87 women's volleyball tournament at the Philsports Arena.

The Lady Bulldogs have already matched their last season's loss total after dropping two of the last three matches, all against lower-ranked teams.

Although NU remains on top of the standings, reigning MVP Bella Belen stresses the need for her squad to play with a sense of urgency in the 1 p.m. contest.

The Lady Warriors have yet to log a win in 11 matches, and the Lady Bulldogs are not willing to be their first victims.

"Dapat huwag namin intayin na ibigay sa amin yung game. Dapat kami, kailangan namin gustuhin at kailangan namin kunin kasi parang opportunity din siya sa amin na hindi porket galing kami sa talo, hindi na kami capable manalo," said Belen after NU dropped a 23-25, 25-15, 26-28, 22-25 decision to Adamson University last Sunday.

(“We shouldn’t wait for the game to be handed to us. We have to want it, and we have to take it—because it’s also an opportunity for us to prove that just because we’re coming off a loss doesn’t mean we’re no longer capable of winning.")

"Kailangan namin trabahuin yung game namin against UE kasi hindi siya magiging madali talaga kasi yung UE, palaban din sila kahit sabihin natin na winless -- marami sila pinahirapan na teams. Dapat kami, gustuhin namin yung game namin sa Wednesday para manalo," she added.

(“We need to work hard for our game against UE because it definitely won’t be easy. UE may be winless, but they’ve given a hard time to a lot of teams. We need to really want that game on Wednesday if we want to win.")

Alyssa Solomon, who was sorely missed in the Lady Bulldogs' defeat against the Lady Falcons, due to a mild ankle sprain, remains a doubtful starter as her timetable for an immediate return is still uncertain.

NU is holding a two-game cushion over Far Eastern University, which plays Ateneo at 3 p.m., and University of Santo Tomas, in the race for the second twice-to-beat slot in the Final Four.

With a 7-4 record, the Lady Tamaraws not only gained the needed separation in the race for the No. 4 slot, but they also still have a clear shot of securing a twice-to-beat berth in the Final Four.

Already much ahead of fifth-running University of the Philippines (5-6), FEU is just trailing No. 2 De La Salle (8-3) by just a game, as coach Tina Salak remains confident of her team's chances for a better ranking after the eliminations.

"Doon pa rin kami sa goal, every game na goal. Focus kami kung ano bang gameplan kasi hindi naman biro lahat ng teams ngayon. Lahat nag-iimprove this second round, ang laki ng inadjust din," said Salak after the Lady Tamaraws bested the Fighting Maroons, 25-21, 25-16, 14-25, 26-24 last Sunday.

(“We’re still focused on our goal—one game at a time. We stay locked in on the game plan because every team is no joke right now. Everyone’s improving in the second round, and there have been big adjustments.")

"Hindi rin namin pwedeng gawin na maging complacent sa standing namin. It’s because baka mawala rin sa amin. Kailangan naming panghawakan lahat ng games. Kailangan naming ipanalo yung games. Kailangan naming pagtrabahuan lahat ng skills and also dun sa mga videos na kailangan naming panoorin and aralin," she added.

("We also can’t afford to get complacent with our current standing because we might lose it. We need to hold on to every game. We need to win every game. We have to work hard on all our skills, and also study the videos we need to watch and learn from.")

The Blue Eagles, who are tied with the Lady Falcons in sixth place at 4-7, have lost two in a row and are three games out of the No. 4 spot. Another defeat will push Ateneo on the brink of missing the Final Four for the third straight season.

In the men's division, league-leading FEU seeks to secure the twice-to-beat incentive as it plays Ateneo at 11 a.m.

With the Blue Eagles desperately seeking a victory after losing their last two matches to crash out of the Final Four range, coach Eddieson Orcullo wanted his Tamaraws to remain aggressive to prepare well for the tougher battles ahead.

"Yung Ateneo, sigurado pupukpok yan. I think magiging maayos naman yung takbo, huwag lang maging kampante sa galaw natin," said Orcullo as FEU aims to improve its 10-1 record.

(“Ateneo will definitely come out swinging. I think the game will go well as long as we don’t get complacent with how we play.")

The Blue Eagles are at 6-5 and are one game out of the No. 4 spot.

Five-peat-seeking NU, sitting in second place with a 9-2 record, seeks to formalize its entry to the Final Four and move on the cusp of claiming a twice-to-beat bonus, plays also-ran UE at 9 a.m.

Coach Dante Alinsunurin is satisfied to see the Bulldogs heading in the right direction after hitting some rough patches in their campaign.

"Nagbago yung naging approach siguro namin ng coaching staff and players sa relationship namin kasi dahil doon, talagang nagkaintindihan na kami sa gusto naming mangyari," said Alinsunurin.

(“Our approach probably changed—both from the coaching staff and the players—when it comes to our relationship, and because of that, we really started to understand each other and what we wanted to achieve.")

"Dati kasi, parang wala kaming direksyon, may kanya kanyang direksyon yung coach at players. Ngayon, mas nagkaintindihan na at mas nalinawan na sa gusto naming mangyari kasi ‘yon yung importante dahil ‘yon yung susi para mas gumanda pa yung performance namin," he added.

(“Before, it felt like we had no direction. The coaches and the players each had their own path. But now, there's more understanding and clarity on what we want to happen, and that's important because it’s the key to improving our performance.")

FEU, Ateneo, UST, NU split inaugural UAAP blitz chess titles

c/o UAAP Media Team

FAR Eastern University, Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas, and National University-Nazareth School each took home a championship in the inaugural UAAP Season 87 Blitz Chess Championships held Saturday at the Adamson Gym.

The Tamaraws dominated the men’s division with a commanding 4-0 victory over top-seeded UST in the finals.

Tournament MVP and FIDE Master Mark Bacojo led the charge for FEU, securing four wins in four matches on the top board against Chester Reyes.

De La Salle University clinched third place in the men’s division after defeating the University of the Philippines, 3-1, in the battle for the bronze.

In the women’s division, Ateneo secured its first-ever chess championship via tiebreaker after forcing a 2-2 draw against FEU in the finals.

Ateneo head coach Yves Ranola breathed a sigh of relief following a nerve-wracking finals series that came down to the wire.

"Up to the last game yung laban. Yung naging decider yung sa Board 2. Kailangan namin at least makatabla. Eh nakuha sa dasal and may halong swerte na rin. Alam mo sa blitz kelangan hindi lang magaling ka eh. Dapat may kasamang swerte ka rin," said Ranola, after women’s division MVP Ma. Elayza Villa forced a crucial draw with FEU’s Mhage Sebastian on Board 2, salvaging the title despite Ateneo trailing after the first half of the finals.

"Pinanggalingan ko kasi FEU eh. Lagi kaming champion dati kaya ang mindset ko talaga is fight for championship lagi. Anything less, syempre malungkot tayo. Ngayon, lumaban sila nang husto sa blitz saka rapid. First time to sa Ateneo eh kasi ngayon lang kami nakalapit sa championship. Mixed emotions. Syempre masaya rin. Yung sa blitz nakabawi kami. Sa rapid kasi natalo kami sa finals, FEU rin yung kalaban," Ranola added, referring to their earlier loss to FEU in the rapid finals despite entering as the top seed.

De La Salle also took third place in the women’s division after edging UST, 2.5-1.5, in the bronze medal match.

Meanwhile, UST added another crown by winning the boys’ division, thanks to FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri’s perfect 16-match win streak on Board 1 during the eliminations, earning him MVP honors.

Despite suffering consecutive 3-1 losses in Rounds 1 and 2 of the finals, UST bounced back with a 4-0 sweep in Round 3 and secured a 2-2 draw in the last round to win the championship via tiebreaker, anchored by Nouri’s strong performance on Board 1.

In the girls’ division, National University-Nazareth School stunned FEU by forcing a 2-2 draw in the finals and clinching the title based on total points scored.

Sara Dalagan spearheaded the victory for NUNS, defeating national team standout and Woman FIDE Master Ruelle Canino in back-to-back matches during the first two rounds, setting the tone for the Sampaloc-based squad.

NUNS coach Jose Aquino Jr. praised Dalagan for flawlessly executing their strategy, which he said was key to their unexpected championship run.

"The truth is yung game plan namin is yung dalawang players nila (FEU) sa gitna. Sabi ko sa players ko yung Board 2 and 3, sina Canino and Claros, yun ang ineutralize natin. Kung one of the them matablahan niyo lang, magchachampion tayo. Ayun nagawa naman. Si Dalagan naka 2-2 eh kay Canino. Kasi yung sa amin, very confident ako sa Board 1 ko na mananalo talaga," shared Aquino.

"Actually unexpected ito dahil alam naman natin yung FEU talagang mighty team yan and going into the finals, we were not expecting anything. Kumbaga, bonus na lang samin ang magchampion. Super happy na kami na second place na kami. Pero yun nga binigay pa rin samin ni Lord kaya thank you kay Lord talaga binigay niya samin to," he continued.

NUNS’ Jersey Marticio was named MVP of the girls’ division.

Adamson University and UST finished third in the boys’ and girls’ divisions, respectively.

In the rapid event, FEU’s Franklin Andes and Joyce Rianna Rueda were named MVPs of the boys’ and women’s divisions, respectively. UST’s Daren dela Cruz (girls) and Chester Reyes (men) also claimed MVP honors in their respective divisions.

Sampaloc Skirmish set to commence for Tennis

c/o UAAP Media Team

Ties on Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center inside Rizal Memorial Sports Complex:

7 a.m. - UST vs. NU (Women’s Finals Game 1)
2 p.m. - UST vs. NU (Men’s Finals Game 1)

A decade after their last championship clash, University of Santo Tomas and National University are set to rekindle their rivalry in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Tennis Finals.

Tie 1 of the men's tournament, supported by Wilson Philippines, kicks off at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Malate, Manila.

Meanwhile, the women’s division will also witness a finals rematch between the Lady Bulldogs and the Female Tennisters, marking their second straight title duel.

Tie 1 begins earlier at 7:00 a.m. at the same venue.

The Male Tennisters, reigning champions from Seasons 85 and 86, are aiming for their 17th UAAP men’s tennis title. They enter the finals with strong momentum, having swept the second round of eliminations and securing a convincing 4-1 victory over the UE Red Warriors in the Final Four.

Leading the way for UST is Season 86 MVP and team captain Nilo Ledama, who remains undefeated this season.

Despite the high stakes, UST head coach Alexander Diego expressed confidence in his veteran-laden squad, which includes Steven Sonsona, Symon Jaculan, Ericjay Tangub, and Sebastian Santos—all of whom are competing in their third straight finals appearance.

“Sanay na kami sa pressure. Every time we compete in the UAAP, from the start, there’s always pressure. Also the players, I think they know how to handle kasi ‘yung experience nila for the last two seasons, sila pa rin ‘yung players na maglalaro so I think we have the advantage of that kasi they know already how to handle the pressure,” said Diego.

(“We’re already used to the pressure. Every time we compete in the UAAP, there’s always pressure from the very beginning. Also, the players—I think they know how to handle it because they’ve had the experience from the last two seasons, and they’re still the same players competing now. So I think we have the advantage there, because they already know how to deal with the pressure.")

On the other side, National University, seeking its sixth men’s title, clinched second place in the elimination round with a 10-2 record. The Bulldogs punched their ticket to the finals with a gritty 3-1 win over the UP Fighting Maroons in a do-or-die Final Four match.

NU will rely heavily on rookie sensation Andrei Padao, their top singles player, who has also maintained a spotless record this season.

Despite facing a formidable opponent in the back-to-back champions, NU head coach Ronard Joven is optimistic about his squad’s chances.

“Sa amin, hindi namin masabi ‘yung laro kasi for sure, back-to-back champion ‘yung UST. Kami, kumbaga, nothing to lose kami diyan pero lalaban kami,” said Joven. “Kailangan talaga focus then preparation up to Wednesday para sa finals.”

(“For us, we can’t really predict the match because UST is a back-to-back champion for sure. For us, it’s like we have nothing to lose, but we will definitely fight. We really need to stay focused and prepare all the way until Wednesday for the finals.”)

The men’s teams split their elimination round matchups, with NU handing UST its only loss in a 3-2 first-round win. UST answered back with a dominant 4-1 victory in the second round.

In the women’s division, NU is aiming for a fourth straight championship and eighth overall. The Lady Bulldogs completed the elimination round with a 7-1 record and will count on the veteran trio of Danna Abad, JM Carcueva, and Elsie Abarquez—each making their third consecutive finals appearance.

“Back to training na naman po to prepare for the finals at saka with teamwork po talaga,” said co-captain Carcueva. “Mas dodoble kami ng kayod sa training at saka magfo-focus kami doon sa mga kulang namin na skills.”

(“We’re back to training again to prepare for the finals, and we’re really focusing on teamwork. We’ll double our effort in training and focus on the skills we still need to improve.”)

UST, which also finished with a 7-1 record, is determined to reclaim a title they last won in Season 80 and match NU’s eight overall championships. The Female Tennisters will be led by last season’s Rookie of the Year Kaye Emana, who went undefeated in eliminations, as well as veterans Debbie Gom-os, Minette Bentillo, and Justine Maneja.

“For the second time, NU pa rin [ang kalaban]. Parang ang nangyayari is hindi dapat i-underestimate ang defending champions, so parang feeling namin it all boils down to kung sino ang gustong manalo,” said UST head coach Dennis Sta. Cruz.

("For the second time, it's still NU [as our opponent]. It seems like the situation is that you shouldn't underestimate the defending champions, so we feel like it all boils down to who wants to win more.")

Just like in the men’s division, the women’s teams handed each other their only losses in the elimination round. NU edged UST 3-2 in the first round, but the Female Tennisters returned the favor with a 3-2 win in the second.

Adamson stuns National University, keeps flickering postseason hopes alive

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Standings
Team W-L
*NU 9-2
DLSU 8-3
FEU 7-4
UST 7-4
UP 5-6
Ateneo 4-7
AdU 4-7
UE 0-11
*Final Four

Games on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena

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

Shaina Nitura continued to run the show for Adamson University, and this time, her 32-point explosion finally resulted in a timely win.

The Lady Falcons staved off elimination by staging a monstrous upset over the Alyssa Solomon-less National University Lady Bulldogs, 25-23, 15-25, 28-26, 25-22, to pump life to its dimming Final Four chances in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

This was Nitura’s second consecutive 30-point outing and fourth overall, after unleashing 36 points in a five-set defeat to University of Santo Tomas on Wednesday. It was also a bounce-back performance by the 20-year-old sensational rookie after being held to a season-low 13 points in their first round matchup against NU.

“We praise and thank God for the win kasi kapag will ni Lord no one can stop. I’m very proud sa mga bata ngayon kasi una pa lang pagsalang pa lang nila unang point pa lang alam ko na na maglalaro sila na gusto nilang manalo sa game na ito,” said Lady Falcons head coach JP Yude after the two-hour, 22-minute battle.

This victory marked Adamson’s first win over NU since March 23, 2019, a 25-15, 25-19, 25-22 first round decision in Season 81, ending an eight-match losing streak.

Adamson also stopped a two-game skid to improve its record to 4-7, tying Ateneo de Manila University for sixth to seventh spots. They are three games out of the fourth seed with three games left in their respective schedules.

And it all happened because of Nitura, now not a one-man show and ably backed up by her teammates.

In the tight third frame, Nitura took it upon herself to give Adamson the edge by hammering a crosscourt kill, then a sharp backrow hit for the 28-26 win and the 2-1 set advantage.

Then, in the fourth, with Nitura guarded, rookie setter Fhei Sagaysay turned to her other teammates

Tied at 20 all, Jen Villegas gave the Lady Falcons back the lead with a hit off an overreceived ball, and then Eloi Dote followed it up with a solid block on Bella Belen before Frances Mordi made it three straight points for them, 23-20.

Belen answered but Erin Pangilinan threw her service long to give Adamson the match point, 24-21.

Although the two-time MVP was able to get another point for the Lady Bulldogs, Mordi completed the upset with a hit that pierced through the blockers for the win that allowed the Lady Falcons to avoid elimination.

“Syempre pampaboost ng confidence ng team na maniwala pa sa sarili namin pare-pareho, hindi namin dapat maliitin yung sarili namin kasi alam namin na may ibubuga kami every game and God’s grace talaga na nanalo kami kasi nung last games namin medyo pababa na talaga ‘yung kumpyansa namin. ,” said Nitura, who made her 32 points on 30 spikes and two blocks along with 10 digs and six receptions.

Mordi added nine points while Mayang Nuique chipped in eight points as well with the Lady Falcons also benefitting off the Lady Bulldogs’ 27 errors.

Adamson looks to stay in contention on Saturday when it clashes with Far Eastern University at the Big Dome.

Meanwhile, the Final Four-bound NU slipped to 9-2, absorbing its second loss in the last three games. Its first loss came at the hands of University of the Philippines.

Belen led five Lady Bulldogs in double figures with 19 points to go with 21 excellent receptions and nine digs, while Alinsug added 16 points.

Chams Maaya delivered 12 points despite not playing in the first set while Erin Pangilinan contributed 10 points.

Arah Panique, who replaced Solomon in the starters, produced 10 points as well.

The 6-foot-2 Solomon, who had 30 points last game against FEU, was sidelined due to a mild left ankle sprain.

NU looks to regain its winning ways on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena when it takes on winless University of the East.

UP ends back-to-back skid with revenge triumph over Ateneo

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Baseball Standings

NU    6-1
DLSU    5-2
AdU    3-4
UP    3-4
UST    3-4
Ateneo    1-6

Games on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, starting at 7am

AdU vs UST
UP vs NU*
DLSU vs Ateneo*
*Law of immediate succession

UNIVERSITY of the Philippines secured a crucial comeback victory in the UAAP Season 87 Baseball Tournament, defeating first-round tormentor Ateneo de Manila University, 11-7, Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

After suffering two disappointing losses to Adamson University and De La Salle University, the Fighting Maroons needed this win to improve their record to 3-4, placing them in a tie for third with Adamson and UST in the tight race for the Final Four.

The victory was fueled by a pivotal second inning, where the Fighting Maroons capitalized on the Blue Eagles' defensive mistakes and delivered timely hits, building a comfortable lead by the fourth inning.

Aaron Nicha drove in the tying run at 2-all, with LM Basañes scoring off his single to the left side. VJ Mangahas then extended the lead to three, 5-2, with a powerful hit to the middle of the field, bringing in Ian Mercado and Eman Javier. Nicha added another run on a passed ball that sent Razhley Santos home.

Santos was eventually retired with a fly ball caught by Juan Carlos Dela Rosa, but the damage was done as UP went on to score five more runs in the next two innings.

"Breaks of the game 'yon, nangyayari't nangyayari talaga; ang importante is ma-overcome nila 'yon. Do'n mo makikita 'yung team spirit, 'yung team effort. Hopefully, magtuluy-tuloy. Talagang ups and downs ang nangyayari sa team naming eh: may mga injury, may mga games na talagang (kinakapos); pero 'yun nga sana magtuluy-tuloy na ito at mas tumibat sila at sana mas maging smart maglaro," said first-year head coach Iking Jimenez.

("Those are the breaks of the game, it really happens; what's important is that they overcome it. That's where you can see the team spirit, the team effort. Hopefully, this will continue. Our team has really had its ups and downs: there have been injuries, there have been games where we really came up short; but hopefully, this will keep going, they’ll become stronger, and play smarter.)

Ateneo fought to claw back into the game, scoring in the next three innings and putting pressure on UP's pitcher, Kobe Torres, forcing him to make adjustments that could open up opportunities for the Blue Eagles.

Torres, a fifth-year Physical Education major, struggled briefly, issuing a walk to Matthew San Juan. Two straight hit-by-pitches to Alfonso Tueres and Dela Rosa led to two runs for Ateneo in the fourth inning.

Fortunately for the Fighting Maroons, not only did Torres hold his ground, but their defense also stepped up, retiring the last six batters they faced in the eighth and ninth innings.

For his efforts, Torres secured his second win of the season, going the distance without relief. He allowed the Blue Eagles four earned runs of their seven, surrendering six hits and four hit-by-pitches, while striking out four—his final one coming against Khristian Ferrolino to end the game.

"Sabi ko sa kanila is 'start string, finish strong' and, though, merong mga late inning kami na hindi naka-score, buti na lang may mga innings na maganda 'yung score namin. Kailangan hangga't kaya, score lang ng score, para 'pag dumating sa dulo na hirap na 'yung pitcher, tulad ngayon, may puhunan," added Jimenez, who also coached the De La Salle Zobel high school program.

("I told them, 'Start strong, finish strong,' and although we had some late innings where we didn't score, thankfully there were innings where we had good scores. The key is to keep scoring as much as possible, so when it comes down to the end and the pitcher is struggling, like now, we have a cushion.")

Ateneo dropped to a 1-6 record, putting them on the brink of elimination from Final Four contention despite a gallant performance from rookie pitcher Luis Atendido.

The freshman from PAREF Southridge School was also on a no-relief assignment, holding the Fighting Maroons scoreless from the fifth through the eighth innings after allowing 11 runs—six of them earned—in the first four.

FEU avenges first round defeat to UP

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Wednesday at the PhilSports Arena

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

Far Eastern University survived a thrilling fourth-set rally from their first-round shock tormentor University of the Philippines, clinching a 25-21, 25-16, 14-25, 26-24 victory to strengthen its position in the UAAP Season 87 Women’s Volleyball Final Four race, Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Lady Tamaraws erected an early 12-3 lead in the back-and-forth fourth set but the Fighting Maroons, through Kianne Olango’s attacks and Julia De Leon’s steady hands at the service line responded with a 17-4 fiery blast to even take a 20-16 advantage.

FEU retaliated, though, as Faida Bakanke, Chenie Tagaod, and Jazlyn Ellarina pushed their side to match point, 24-22.

UP, had one last run in them as Irah Jaboneta and Kassy Doering made back-to-back hits to force a 24 all tie, only for Olango to make a crucial attack error in the next play before Tin Ubaldo’s single block on Joan Monares sealed the deal.

“Para akong nanonood ng action tapos biglang drama, ang hirap para sa amin i-maintain ‘yung lead pero nakita ko ‘yung maturity ng players kung paano namin i-handle ‘yung behind four points. Very happy na nagkaroon kami ng ganoong turnout,” said FEU head coach Tina Salak.

("It felt like I was watching action, then suddenly drama. It was hard for us to maintain the lead, but I saw the maturity of the players in how we handled being behind by four points. I’m very happy with how the turnout turned out.")

The Lady Tamaraws elevated their record to 7-4, tying the UST Golden Tigresses for third and fourth spots. FEU, however, holds the tiebreak due to the win over the other rule.

This important victory that gave the NU Lady Bulldogs a Final Four ticket also pushed the fifth-running Fighting Maroons down to 5-6, two games behind the fourth spot.

UP extended the match to a fourth set after dominating the third, leading 19-8 due to the combined efforts of outside hitter Joan Monares and American middle blocker Kassy Doering.

But the Lady Tamaraws were not to incur another loss against the Fighting Maroons, just like their shock 23-25, 25-23, 25-17, 25-23 first round defeat.

“Syempre po sobrang important ng game ngayon kasi laging sinasabi sa amin na must-win game. Hindi naman sa naghahabol pero kailangan pa namin mas i-angat ‘yung standings namin,” said Tagaod, who made 14 points and 18 excellent receptions.

("Of course, this game is really important because we’re always told that it’s a must-win game. It's not that we’re chasing, but we still need to improve our standings.")

Bakanke, a Congolese opposite spiker, fired a game-high 20 points and seven digs, while Gerzel Petallo had an all-around brilliance of 14 points, 13 receptions, and 10 digs.

FEU will next face Ateneo de Manila University on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena.

Olango, Monares, and Jaboneta led the Fighting Maroons with 13 points each with the last player also tallying 14 receptions and nine digs.

UP aims to regain its confidence when it battles De La Salle University next Sunday still at the Big Dome.

La Salle doubles up Adamson to remain in solo second

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium, starting at 7am

AdU vs UST
UP vs NU*
DLSU vs Ateneo*
*Law of immediate succession

DE LA SALLE University leaned on two massive offensive barrages to overpower Adamson University, 14-7, and notch its fifth win in the UAAP Season 87 Baseball Tournament, Sunday at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium in Malate, Manila.

The victory strengthened the Green Batters’ grip on second place with a 5-2 record—two games ahead of their victims, the Soaring Falcons, and the University of Santo Tomas Golden Sox, who are both at 3-4. De La Salle now trails only the league-leading National University Bulldogs (6-1).

Trailing 3-4 in the bottom of the fifth inning, the Green Batters erupted for six runs to seize a commanding 9-4 advantage. The rally was sparked by solid hitting from nearly the entire batting order, led by senior second baseman JR Alcontin, who drove in two runs to extend the lead to 7-4.

Rookie Barry Oñas padded the cushion with a two-run single to right field. John Mark Tupig mishandled the ball, allowing Pio Villamiel to score on the bases-loaded play, followed by another run from Alcontin.

The onslaught only ended when Adamson reliever Milko Go struck out Marco Flores to finally stop the bleeding.

“'Yon din ang bilin ko sa kanila—one game at a time. Importante 'tong game na 'to kasi ito 'yung mga part na kukuha kami ng panalo para ma-secure namin 'yung top four. So, ang sabi ko, walang magre-relax. Ang importante we treat each game like a championship game, so ando'n 'yung focus at drive to win nila," said long-time head coach Joseph Orillana.

(“That’s also what I reminded them—take it one game at a time. This game is important because it’s one of those wins that can help us secure a spot in the top four. So I told them, no one should relax. What’s important is we treat each game like a championship game, and that’s where their focus and drive to win came from.")

"It was good pitching and good defense, and of course, 'yung paluan talaga. Sabi ko kasi 'pag game, mag-focus on line drives. Do'n kami mananalo. Kasi depensa, 'pag malakas ang pitcher, anytime tatamaan, pero may depensa naman. Pero kailangang labanan talaga sa paluan," he added, emphasizing how De La Salle’s offensive discipline carried them back into the game.

(“It was good pitching and good defense, and of course, it was really about the hitting. I told them, during games, focus on hitting line drives. That’s where we’ll win. Because on defense, even if the pitcher is strong, hitters can still connect—but we have our defense. Still, we really have to fight through our offense.")

With the offense clicking, the pressure eased on relief pitchers Jasper Crisostomo and Yuan Sumague, who held Adamson to just two runs in the final three innings. Crisostomo picked up the win after allowing only one run on one hit in 2.1 innings of work. Sumague closed it out with 1.2 innings of one-run, one-hit pitching to earn the save.

De La Salle now turns its focus to a crucial matchup against Ateneo de Manila University on Wednesday in the day’s final game—a clash that could determine postseason fate. Orillana challenged his team to bring out the true character of La Salle baseball in the final stretch.

“Gusto ko paganahin nila kung paano maglaro 'yung La Salle. For how many years, andiyan na tayo na lumalaban sa ganiyan, so ipakita niyo 'yung pagiging beterano niyo at matilo niyo sa laro," said the Green Batters icon.

Despite the loss, rookie James Nisnisan delivered a solid performance for Adamson with two hits in four at-bats and an RBI, while Joao Sverino added two hits and two runs.

Dan Rommel Bacalla took the loss after surrendering De La Salle’s first five runs, putting his bullpen in a tough spot early in the game.

Although Milko Go eventually managed to cool off the Batters momentarily, the additional five-run burst in the seventh proved too much for the Soaring Falcons to overcome.

Linescores:
Team   1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
AdU    2 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 7 11 5
DLSU 0 0 3 0 6 0 5 0 x 14 12 8

Aussies cap off successful Nuvali Open campaign

c/o AVC

AUSTRALIA gained a big boost well ahead of its hosting of the 2025 World Beach Volleyball Championships after sweeping the men’s podium in the Rebisco Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Beach Tour Second Nuvali Open in the City of Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Paul Burnett and Luke Ryan defeated Ben Hood and Oliver Merritt for the gold medal, 21-13, 21-18, on Saturday at the world-class Nuvali Sand Courts.

Reigning Asian Seniors champions D’artagnan Potts and Jack Pearse, also of Australia,, claimed the bronze with a 20-22, 21-19, 20-18 victory over Iran’s Amerali Ghalehnovi and Bahman Salemiinjehboroun.

“We’re really proud of this and really happy because it’s very important for us for the World Championships at the end of the year to do well in these Asian Tour events,” Burnett said.

Adelaide is hosting the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships from November 14 to 23, following the Philippines' hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship from September 12 to 28.

“We couldn’t be more proud for everyone to go one, two and three on the podium,” Burnett added.

The champions bagged $2500, the runners-up $2000 and the third placers $1500.

There’s more to it obviously than the winner’s cheque.

“We have a really competitive environment in training back home and so we always want to beat each other, really wanting to win. I think most teams went into that really wanting to come out on top.”

The 26-year-old Burnett, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist, and 20-year-old Ryan, a grant recipient from the Sport Australia Hall of Fame Scholarship and Mentoring program, looked in danger of dropping the second set after a dominating opener.

From 0-5 down, Burnett and Ryan fought to tie it at 12, took the lead for the first time at 15-14, and held on for a straight-sets win, the only two-setter in the medal round on a scorching afternoon.

Australia also won the gold medal in the women’s division as Stefanie Fejes and Jasmine Fleming overcame New Zealand’s Shaunna Polley and Olivia MacDonald, 21-13, 13-21, 17-15.

The Aussies also bagged the bronze medal as Lizzie Alchin and Georgia Johnson of Australia defeated Japan’s Asami Shiba and Reika Murakami, 21-17, 17-21, 11-15.

“We were down quite a bit in the second so I thought it might be getting close but we managed to bring it back and get it done in two, which I’m very happy about.”

NU secure postseason playoff in men's volleyball

c/o UAAP Media Team

UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Standings

Team W-L

*FEU 10-1
NU 9-2
UST 7-4
DLSU 7-4
Ateneo 6-5
UP 3-8
AdU 2-9
UE 0-11
*Final Four

Games on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena

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

National University made swift work of also-ran Adamson University, 25-17, 25-16, 25-15, to secure at least a playoff for a Final Four spot in the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Volleyball Tournament on Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Bulldogs, four-time defending champions, raised their record to 9-2 with their third straight win, boosting their chances to reach the Final Four for a ninth straight season.

NU is two games above joint-third UST Golden Spikers and De La Salle Green Spikers at 7-4.

“Ito na siguro ‘yung hinihintay namin na sitwasyon na tumaas ‘yung percentage namin sa side-out kasi ‘yung pasa namin talagang nagiging problema namin mula simula, buti kanina gumanda ‘yung pasa namin kaya na-execute namin ‘yung gusto naming gawin sa loob ng court,” said NU head coach Dante Alinsunurin.

("This is probably the situation we've been waiting for, where our side-out percentage improved because our passing has really been a problem from the start. Thankfully, our passing improved earlier, so we were able to execute what we wanted to do on the court.")

The Soaring Falcons were sticking with the Bulldogs midway through the third, 12-14, but Michaelo Buddin, Leo Aringo, Obed Mukaba, and Leo Ordiales pushed NU to the victory after one hour and 21 minutes with a decisive 11-3 finisher.

This victory by NU was a statement after needing to execute a reverse sweep in its first-round encounter against Adamson, 20-25, 17-25, 25-18, 25-19, 15-12.

The Bulldogs can clinch a spot in the semifinals with a win over the hapless UE Red Warriors on Wednesday, 9 a.m., at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

Buddin led NU with 16 points on 15-of-24 spikes and an ace, while Aringo chipped in 12 points, 12 excellent receptions, and five digs.

Ordiales, who had regained the starting opposite position in lieu of Jade Disquitado, added 11 point,s while Mukaba had nine points on 5-of-6 spikes, two blocks, and two aces.

“Personally, I’m very happy because my performance before was not as good as I was expecting but now, with the help of the coaches I’m trying to improve so now I’m very happy for me and the team,” said the Congolese middle blocker, who was the 1st Best Middle Blocker of Season 85.

On the other hand, the eliminated Soaring Falcons dropped to 2-9 at seventh.

Adamson looks to escape out of its three-game slump on Saturday against the league-leading Far Eastern University at the Big Dome.

Off-the-bench Joel Menor paced the Soaring Falcons with seven points while Leo Coguimbal and Marc Paulino had six points each.

Jude Aguilar was held to another personal season-low of just three points after being limited to four points last game against University of Santo Tomas.

NU formalizes Sampaloc Skirmish finals matchup in tennis

c/o UAAP Media Team

Ties on Wednesday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center:

7 a.m. - NU vs. UST (Women’s Finals Game 1)
2 p.m. - UST vs. NU (Men’s Finals Game 1)

FOR the first time since Season 81, National University is heading to the UAAP Season 87 Men’s Tennis Finals after defeating No. 3 seed University of the Philippines, 3-1, in a do-or-die Final Four match, Sunday at the Felicisimo Ampon Tennis Center in Manila.

Holding a twice-to-beat advantage, the Bulldogs bounced back from a narrow 2-3 loss on Saturday. They needed both ties to finally eliminate the Fighting Maroons and secure a spot in the championship round, where they will compete for their sixth overall men’s title in this tournament supported by Wilson Philippines.

“Sobrang happy namin na nakapasok kami sa finals. Kasi sa Final Four, twice-to-beat kami tapos natalo kami kahapon so sabi namin [sa players], ‘Laruin niyo lang ‘yung laro niyo’, kasi wala na eh, kumbaga do-or-die kailangan talagang gapangin,” said NU head coach Ronard Joven.

("We're really happy that we made it to the finals. In the Final Four, we had the twice-to-beat advantage, but we lost yesterday. So we told the players, 'Just play your game,' because there's no more tomorrow, it's do-or-die, we really had to push through.")

NU will face No. 1 seed and three-peat seeking University of Santo Tomas in the best-of-three championship series, which begins at 2 p.m. on Wednesday at the same venue. The women’s final will feature the same matchup, with NU and UST vying for the title earlier in the day at 7 a.m.

Tie 1 will also break the tie between the Bulldogs and the Male Tennisters this season as the eliminations ended with a split. NU won the first round to deal UST its first loss, 3-2, but the defending champions bagged the second-round meeting, 4-1.

Team captain EJ Tugade delivered when it mattered most, securing a nail-biting 7(11)-6(9), 4-6, 6-3 win over Miguel Iglupas in the third singles match to send the Bulldogs to the championship.

Andrei Padao led NU’s charge in the first singles match, dominating Aslan Carbonilla 6-0, 6-0 in a statement performance.

Loucas Fernandez breezed past Lazaro, dropping just three games on his way to a 6-3, 6-0 victory in the third singles match, giving the Fighting Maroons their only point.

In a hard-fought 6(5)-7(7), 6-4, 10-5 victory, Angil Balaoing and Christian Padilla battled through a grueling three-set match against Raymund Goco and Lance Fernandez, giving the Bulldogs a crucial 2-1 lead.

The second doubles match between NU’s Aljon Talatayod and Gab Bandoquillo, and UP’s Andrei Jarata and Karl Miguel, was later abandoned at 6-1, 5-5, with UP leading.

“So sabi ko, laro lang talaga sila tapos buti naman naniniwala sila sa sarili nila, sa kakayahan nila kasi hindi rin biro kalaban ‘yung UP kasi kumpleto din sila. So ngayon, swerte lang talaga ‘yung laban namin ngayon na nanalo kami. Kumbaga para sa amin talaga ‘yung laro na ‘to," added Joven.

("So I told them, just play their game, and thankfully they believed in themselves and their abilities because UP is no joke; they're also complete. So right now, we just got lucky in this match that we won. This game really meant a lot to us.")

FEU fends off UP upset bid

c/o UAAP Media Team

Games on Wednesday at the Philsports Arena

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

DRYX Saavedra rose to the occasion when it mattered the most.

With Far Eastern University on the ropes, the Season 86 Best Opposite Hitter exploded for 29 points as the Tamaraws denied the reverse sweep bid of the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons, 25-19, 25-21, 20-25, 29-31, 15-12, to clinch the first Final Four ticket in the UAAP Season 87 Men's Volleyball Tournament, Sunday morning, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Reeling from a tough five-set loss to the National University Bulldogs last Sunday, the Tamaraws rebounded in thrilling fashion, improving to a 10-1 record to clinch the first postseason ticket in the eight-team field.

FEU will make its sixth consecutive Final Four appearance dating back to Season 79 and is now eyeing to secure a twice-to-beat bonus with three matches left in the eliminations.

The win also reaffirmed FEU's dominance over UP, clinching their 12th straight victory over the Fighting Maroons which started in Season 79 last March 1, 2017.

“Yung sinabi nga ni coach sa amin na kahit hindi pa naguumpisa yung game, dapat ready ka na kung ano ‘man mangyari. ‘Yon talaga palagi ko iniisip ‘eh. Kanina, naexperience ulit namin na kami yung naghahabol, pero buti na i-apply yung maturity na palagi namin sinasabi," Saavedra said, who scored 29 points with a 28-of-44 attack efficiency and one ace.

("What coach told us is that even if the game hasn’t started yet, you should already be ready for whatever may happen. That's really what I always keep in mind. Earlier, we experienced being the ones chasing the game, but thankfully, we were able to apply the maturity we've been talking about.")

Deadlocked at 10-all in the decisive fifth set, an off-the-block attack from Nigerian wing spiker Olayemi Raheem and a center line fault from Mikko Espartero sent UP to a crucial 12-10 advantage.

However, third-year setter Ariel Cacao activated the Tamaraws’ middle blockers at the perfect time as two quick hits by Charles Absin and Lirick Mendoza, along with an off-the-block attack from Saavedra, allowed FEU to regain a slim 13-12 cushion.

Eager to make up for a crucial error in the fifth set, Espartero redeemed himself in the clutch.

An out-of-system attack and a block from the 20-year-old outside hitter from Antique sealed the Tamaraws’ five-set heist of the Fighting Maroons.

“Maganda yung kapit ng bawat isa [in the fifth set]. Medyo all the way, naging lamang din [ang UP] ‘eh. Naghiwalay lang yata nung dulo na. Ang pinakamaganda lang sa nangyari sa amin is ready kami sa kung anong sitwasyon ‘man yung dumating at yung love ng bawat isa sa bawat isa, nandoon,” FEU head coach Eddieson Orcullo said.

("The team’s connection was great [in the fifth set]. UP had a lead for a while. I think it only separated at the end. The best part of what happened to us is that we were ready for whatever situation came, and the love for each other was there.")

Mendoza achieved 15 points on 13 attacks and two blocks, while Congolese middle blocker Doula Ndongala also scored 15 points on 12 attacks and three blocks.

Espartero added 16 points on 12 attacks, three blocks, and one ace with six excellent digs and six excellent receptions, while team captain Jelord Talisayan chipped in five points and 10 excellent receptions.

Cacao orchestrated the Tamaraws’ offense with 25 excellent sets with one ace, while rookie libero Vennie Ceballos shined with 29 excellent receptions and six excellent digs.

The Tamaraws look to boost their hunt for a twice-to-beat incentive when they clash against the Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles on Wednesday, April 9, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

The loss, on the other hand, eliminated the Fighting Maroons from Final Four contention alongside the University of the East Red Warriors and the Adamson University Soaring Falcons, dropping to a 3-8 card to remain at sixth place. They will miss the postseason festivities for the sixth consecutive UAAP season, a drought that began in Season 79.

Raheem paced UP in the heartbreaking defeat with 25 points on 23 attacks, one block, and one ace, while rookie hitter Tommy Castrodes provided 17 points on 15 attacks with 19 excellent receptions and seven excellent digs.

Angelo Lipata added 11 points and 17 excellent receptions, while Angelo Aballe dished out 22 excellent sets in the losing effort.

UP will face De La Salle University next Sunday, April 13, at the same Cubao venue.