Rico scored all but two of his output from kills, while skipper Salvador Depante and Mark Gil Alfafara each scored 18 points for the Tigers, who remained in second place.
The Red Warriors, led by Homer Lauresta’s 17 points, put on a tough stand early but eventually lost steam in the final two sets en route to their fourth setback.
National University, meanwhile, scored a straight set victory over Adamson, 26-24, 25-22, 25-19, to uphold its spotless record (5-0).
Peter Torres had 16 points, including three blocks, while Jan Paglinawan added 13 hits as the Bulldogs pushed the Falcons down to 2-3.