Firestop-Starmobile tops JCI Manila caging

MANILA, Philippines - Firestop-Starmobile turned back Honda-Bobson, 85-78, to sweep its best-of-three series for the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Manila Basketball League tournament at the Niagara gym in Caloocan City recently.

With Nestor Ng Jr. on the firing end, Firestop-Starmobile took control of the match then hung tough in the clutch to fashion out the seven-point romp. Ng went on to bag the Finals MVP plum.

“I’m very happy that we’re able to find the right formula to win the championship,” said team owner JJ Dequito. “The title sweep was a result of the team’s dedication and commitment. I congratulate all the participating teams and the Sports Committee for a successful season.”

The Lester del Rosario-mentored squad advanced to the finals by beating FR Sevilla-Harrix. Del Rosario was ably assisted by Melo Navarro.

JCI Manila is eight-time best chapter in the world.

Aside from Firestop, the nation’s leader in fire protection innovation, other teams that took part were Avery Dennison-Kopiroti, Delta Plus, Henry’s-K-Plast, Hombre-Republika, One Tagaytay Place, Quadcore, and Metroasia-Palarca Law.

Other members of the squad co-owned by Uly Lao and managed by Lexington Chua are JR Ng, Jeff Ang, Dr. Rich Pasion, Steve Siy, Dr. Dino Vargas, Jop Esquivias, JP Cruz, Dick Escalona, Don Coeli, Carlo Villegas, Judd Reyes, Aaron Sy, Chris So, Ervinne Que, Earl Yu and Randy Manaloto.

Firestop-Starmobile’s win marked the first time that a team won the championship via sweep.