The Bobcats staged a dramatic comeback against Scorpions/Kenn in the championship game of the 13 and Under division of the 4th Acster Cup “Pasalamat sa Pag-Asenso” 2025, held at the Willy and Nolita Au Court of Bacolod Tay Tung High School (BTTHS).
Trailing 33-26 at halftime, the Bobcats leaned on the 20 point effort of Zion Gabriel Onggada to stay within striking distance. Lito Nelrey Mangilan, who only had 6 points in the first half, then exploded in the final quarter with 14 points to lead his team to a 66-57 victory. The latter’s 24 point finals performance earned him the Most Valuable Player honors.
Despite leading through most of the match, Scorpions/Kenn struggled in the critical final frame, scoring only 8 points. They were led by Charles Casipe’s 21 points, Remart Molabin added 11, Jairus Herminado chipped in 8, and Emem Vivero had 7. Supporting the Bobcats’ scoring load were JB Montalbo with 7 points, and Bon Andrew Bañaco and Ruben Igdang added 6 points apiece.
The Mythical 5 for the 13 and Under Division were Charles Casipe, Ruben Igdang, Emem Vivero, Lito Nelrey Mangilan, and Zion Gabriel Onggada.
In the 11 and Under championship game, Bacolod Tay Tung High School (BTTHS)-Willtrade secured a 67-57 victory over Scorpions/Kenn. Charles Benedict Parohinog led the way for BTTHS with a standout 21-point performance, earning MVP honors. Jaireb Rhynon Punzalan added 13 points, while Andrei Colonia and Ervin Ezekiel Guadalupe scored 9 points each.
MJ Pelegrino led a valiant effort from Scorpions/Kenn with 16 points, followed by Ryan Abesia and Andrei Comeros who each scored 10.
The Mythical 5 for the 11 and Under Category were Jaireb Rhynon Punzalan, Charles Benedict Parohinog, Andrei Colonia, MJ Pelegrino, and Ryan Abesia.
Both BTTHS and the Bobcats received the Championship Trophy and a cash prize of 50,000 pesos. Scorpions/Kenn, who finished first runner-up in both divisions, were awarded trophies and 30,000 pesos in cash prizes.*
