AFP flaunts firepower

MANILA, Philippines — Defending champion Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) rode on another torrid shooting from Boyet Bautista to subdue Malacañang-Philippine Sports Commission, 77-65, to clinch an outright semis berth in the 8th UNTV Cup held over the weekend at the San Juan City gym.

The 5-foot-7 former Letran star scored all his 24 points from the three-point zone apart from posting five boards, three steals and two assists as the Cavaliers recovered from a shock defeat to Judiciary the last time.

With a 7-1 record, the Cavaliers will still advance automatically to the semis even if they drop their last assignment in the second round of the elims as the Kamao, who fell to 5-3 – the same record of National Housing Authority.

Newcomer Department of Environment and Natural Resources still leads the standings with an immaculate 6-0 mark in the event organized by UNTV president and CEO Dr. Daniel Razon for public servants.

The Judiciary Magis continued their rise as they clobbered the PhilHealth Plus, 112-86, to move to a share of fifth to seventh places with Department of Agriculure and PITC.

Christopher dela Cruz starred for the Magis this time, scoring nine of his 24 points in the first half where the two-time champions erected a 61-35 advantage.

The NHA Builders likewise boosted their bid for the second outright semis berth with a 71-63 win over the PITC Global Traders in the event offering P4 million to the chosen charity of the champion team.