Resma bags twin titles

Fifteen-year-old Roxanne Resma accentuated her dominance of the Olivarez-Philta Open tennis championships presented by Palawan Express Pera Padala recently after bagging two crowns at Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque.

Resma, a product of the Philippine Tennis Academy, stunned third seed Katrina Orteza, 7-5, 7-5, to add the centerpiece girl’s 18-under title to her  16-under division crown won over No. 3 Khim Iglupas, 6-2, 6-3.

Counted as one of Resma’s victims was 18-under top seed Samantha Coyiuto, whom she took out with ease, 6-1, 6-3, in Tuesday’s semifinals.

Philippine Tennis Association president, Rep. Edwin Olivarez, lauded Resma’s feat which he said signaled new growth in Philippine tennis that lagged behind through the years.

“Roxanne’s twin victories underscored the big stride she made the past two years, we aim to give these young talents venue to hone their talents and skills,” said Olivarez.

More fresh talents sprouted as unseeded Vincent Alanis whipped No. 7 Claudio Canlas to barge into the boys 16-under quarterfinals.

But top seed Michael Eala stayed in top form in leading the 10-under unisex quarterfinals cast by beating Miles Vitaliano, 6-1, 6-0. Second seed Diego Dayrit ripped Miguel Vicencio, 6-0, 6-0, to also advance.

In the inter-club event, Pablo Olivarez II powered Team Olivarez to a 7-0 shutout of Lucena City Tennis Club. The son of the Philta chief is making a comeback after finishing his studies at the Western Michigan University and is eyeing a spot in the Philippine Davis Cup team.

Team Elorde drubbed Villamor Tennis Club, 6-1, in the other inter-club duel.