PhilHealth keeps UNTV Cup lead

MANILA, Philippines — Philhealth notched its third win in as many starts after a 76-61 rout of Malacañang in the 2nd UNTV Cup at Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City over the weekend.

Jesson Alfeche and Alex Noriega combined for 43 points while Paul Yamamoto and Joseph Besa added 11 points each to keep PhilHealth on top of Group B.

PhilHealth erected a 30-18 lead after the first 10 minutes and never looked back. Malacañang fell to 1-3.

In other matches, Armed Forces of the Philippines survived a late rally by Local Government Unit for a 101-98 win while Metro Manila Development Authority whipped Department of Justice, 104-87.

After Joel Jabar sank two free throws in the final two seconds, AFP watched a long triple try by LGU’s Jayson Souza bounce off the rim, enabling the Cavaliers to keep second place in Group A with a 3-1 card.

Winston Sergio finished with 25 points while Alvin Zuñiga produced 21 points, 7 assists and 3 steals for AFP, which was leading by 12 points, 99-87, before LGU tried to come back.

Actor Ervic Vijandre finished with 40 points while Francis Adriano added 31 for LGU.

MMDA, meanwhile, banked on Peter John Villanueva’s team-high 21 points.