PNP downs Malacañang, wins UNTV Cup – at last

Philippine National Police (PNP) finally ended three years of frustration by downing Malacañang, 68-55, to win its first-ever UNTV Cup championship before a huge crowd Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

With the presence of Gen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, the Responders came through with a decisive run late in the third quarter to rip the game wide open before quashing the Kamao’s late uprising to quench their thirst for success after being thrice.

“Finally, we won the UNTV Cup, but I hope this won’t be the last, kahit hindi na ako PNP chief mananalo pa rin sila,” said a jubilant PNP chief who likewise thanked UNTV president and CEO Daniel Razon for the network’s continued support to the UNTV.

The P4 million top prize, Dela Rosa said, will benefit the Police Community Relations Group "Drug Rehabilitation Program".

The P2 million won by the Kamao, on the other hand, will go to the Philippine Children's Medical Center.

PNP’s telling 10-3 was highlighted by a triple each by Alejandro Yanquiling III and Japhet Cabahug, giving them a 51-42 lead going into the final 10 minutes.

Olan Omiping, as expected, led the Responders with 22 points but it was Harold Sta. Cruz who made the difference. The ABL veteran scored 12 points but it was defense and blocking that mattered most to earn the Finals MVP.

Omiping 22, Sta. Cruz 12, Jamisola 11, Yanquiling 10, Cabahug 7, Tolentino 2, Criste 2, Abaya 2, Bayabao 0, Elopre 0, Cabrera 0, Ongutan 0. Luanzon 14, Garrido 12, Dela Cuesta 7, Besa 7, V. Javier 6, MIgnario 5, N. Javier 2, R. Abalos 2, P. Yamamoto 0, G.Gadong . 0, J. Jimenez 0. Quarters:16-13, 36-35, 51-42,68-55.