Malacañang rips BFP, retains lead in UNTV

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang posted its third straight victory with a 92-77 rout of Bureau of Fire Protection to stay on top in Group A elims while National Housing Authority stunned House of Representatives, 102-100, in the fifth UNTV Cup at the Pasig City Sports Center last weekend.

The Malacañang Kamao used a big fourth quarter run behind Ian Garrido and John Jimenez to dominate the BFP side and stretch their win run in the annual tournament organized by UNTV president and CEO Daniel Razon.

Protecting a slim 64-61 lead going into the last 10 minutes, the Kamao came through with a decisive run anchored on a solid defensive transition early in the payoff period to pull away.

Garrido finished with 19 points while Jimenez and Erick dela Cuesta chipped in 17 and 11 points, respectively.

BFP dropped to 2-1.

With five players scoring in double figures, the NHA Builders erupted for 32 fourth quarter points to escape with the win in the tournament offering P4 million to the chosen charity of the champion team.

Antonio Lustestica led NHA’s big run and finished with 29 points as they handed the Solons their second straight defeat.

In the other game, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority drew 22 points from Jeff Sanders to beat Senate, 77-70.