Graftbusters join fray

THE UNTV Cup, a basketball tournament among the country’s public servants, welcomes the Office of Ombudsman as the newest member of the family when it stages its fourth edition on Monday at Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

A brainchild of multi-awarded broadcaster Daniel S. Razon, the event will give public servants another opportunity to help the underprivileged members of society through basketball.

“We are staging this basketball tournament to keep our public servants in tip-top shape and at the same time provide additional help to the needy,” said Razon, known as Mr. Public Service in the broadcast industry.

From six teams during the inaugural tournament four years ago, the event now has 12 teams.

The champion team will donate its P2-million prize to its chosen beneficiary.

Bannered by former amateur aces Ariel Capus and Don Camaso, the Judiciary Magis defeated the Malacañang Patriots in last season’s best-of-three title series.

The Magis donated their P2-million prize to court personnel who suffer from serious ailments or injuries while in the service.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Cavaliers, champions two years ago, finished third after beating the Kenneth Duremdes-mentored Senate Defenders.

Season 3 was highlighted by the showdown between the PBA legends and UNTV All-Stars where the game’s P1-million proceeds went to the family of Samboy Lim for his medical expenses.

Allan Caidic and Alvin Patrimonio were among the PBA greats who played for the PBA Legends.

Other participating teams: Philippine National Police, Senate, House of Representatives, Department of Justice, Metro Manila Development Authority, Bureau of Fire, GSIS and National Housing Authority.