MANILA, Philippines – The Arellano University Chiefs fended off the University of Perpetual Help Altas, 63-55, last Saturday at the resumption of the 12th Fr. Martin Cup Collegiate Open basketball tournament at the Arellano University gym in Legarda, Manila.
Jiovani Jalalon and Kent Salado led with 18 and 13 points, and helped the Chiefs post their first win in as many games.
Jalalon’s three charities in the last two minutes frustrated the Altas’ efforts to fight their way out of an eight-point deficit at endgame.
This handed the Altas their first loss in three games in Group B.
In other games, the Philippine Merchant Marine School Mariners swamped the College of St. Benilde Blazers, 64-38, for their second straight triumph.
Reggie Debulcos and Mark Matillano showed the way with 12 points for the Mariners.
Reigning Division 2 champion Ateneo got 14 points from Jaymar Perez as they subdued Letran-B, 87-49, while Letran-A turned back Adamson, 55-51.
Salado’s penetration with 6:24 left gave the Chiefs a 12-point edge, 36-24, in the second period.
They ended the first period with a 20-11 lead off John de Guzman’s attacks.
Bright Akhuetie led the Altas with 28 points while AJ Coronel shot 10.