Jasha Gamao

Biñan, Laguna - The AFP Cavaliers are the undisputed champions of the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off 2025, capturing the title in a dramatic Game 2 victory against the Judiciary Magis on October 12 at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna. 

The Cavaliers clinched the championship with an unblemished record throughout the entire tournament, a spectacular feat that cements their place as one of the league's all-time great teams.

The championship victory was a true test of grit and determination. For three quarters, the AFP Cavaliers found themselves struggling, trailing a determined Judiciary Magis squad that looked poised to force a Game 3. However, the Cavaliers, known for their discipline and team spirit, rallied for one final, championship-defining push. 

They executed their offense and locked down on defense in the crucial late stages of the fourth quarter to finally seize the lead and secure the hard-fought win. 

"Buti na lang nung huli, medyo naka-catch up 'yung mga player. Nag-adjust kami. Nakuha naman nila 'yung mga instruction namin," the AFP coach remarked, emphasizing the team's ability to execute under extreme pressure.

The AFP’s flawless run—finishing the season with an unblemished win-loss record since the elimination round—is an exceptional achievement. Their success was led by the tournament's most celebrated player, Paul Carbajal, who swept the major individual honors, being named both the Season MVP and the Finals MVP. 

Despite the personal accolades, Carbajal made it clear the awards belonged to the entire squad. “Ito is for the team,” Carbajal said. "It’s always a team effort. Itong MVP ko, Finals MVP at saka 'yung MVP ko sa season is just the manifestation ng magandang team effort."

More than just a trophy, the victory secured a substantial ₱2 million prize for the Cavaliers' chosen beneficiary, the Educational Benefit System Office (EBSO). Carbajal stressed the importance of the prize, explaining that the funds will go to the children of their fellow soldiers who need assistance with their education. 

Even the Judiciary Magis coach acknowledged the thrilling nature of the series, stating, "It was a good game actually, I'm very happy na maganda 'yung nilaro namin ngayon sa Game 2". 

Once again, the UNTV Cup proved that public service and charity are the true winners on the hardcourt—the heart and soul of every championship run.

The UNTV Cup Executive Face Off was rocked by an exhilarating performance on October 8, 2025 at the Amoranto Arena, as the BJMP Greyhounds soared to a decisive 90-75 victory over the veteran Ombudsman Graftbusters to secure the coveted Battle for Third place. 

This final game, a showcase of the league's competitive spirit, saw the Greyhounds dominate the court, leaving no doubt about their determination to finish the tournament on a high note. The victory is not just a statistical win; it solidifies the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology’s team as a major force to be reckoned with in the public service basketball league.

This bronze finish is particularly historic and impressive for the BJMP Greyhounds, a team considered the "rookie sensation" of the Executive Face Off. Entering the league with no prior experience, they were the clear underdogs, facing established teams with deep rosters and seasoned players. 

However, their campaign was a continuous display of grit, heart, and teamwork that consistently defied expectations, culminated by this significant win over one of the league's formidable opponents, the Ombudsman Graftbusters. Their journey from dark horse to a top-three contender is a thrilling narrative of an upstart proving its mettle against all odds.

Leading the charge for the Greyhounds' monumental victory was their standout player, Ricky Pegalan, who put on a spectacular show to earn the Best Player of the Game honors. Pegalan was a force on both ends of the court, delivering a blistering performance of 31 points, along with 2 assists and 3 steals. 

His scoring explosion was the engine that powered the team's offense, allowing the Greyhounds to pull away from the Graftbusters and maintain a comfortable lead throughout the closing periods.

The spectacular third-place finish by the BJMP Greyhounds is a testament to the fact that sheer determination can overcome a lack of experience. Having battled their way through the elimination and quarter-final rounds with stunning upsets—a feat in itself for a new team—they now stand proudly on the podium. 

The team's rookie run will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration, demonstrating that in the UNTV Cup, where wins equate to charity for their chosen beneficiaries, every drop of sweat and every game-winning shot brings them closer to a noble cause.

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The championship series of the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off exploded into action on October 8, 2025 at the Amoranto Arena in Quezon City, with the AFP Cavaliers delivering a commanding performance in Game 1 of the best-of-three Finals against the Judiciary Magis.

The Cavaliers imposed their will from the opening whistle, suffocating the Magis’ offense and showcasing their trademark balanced attack. By the final buzzer, the scoreboard told the definitive story of their dominance, with the AFP securing a resounding 75-47 victory. The Magis now face a must-win scenario, as the defending champions have seized a critical 1-0 lead, placing themselves on the very cusp of the coveted EFO title.

The Cavaliers' relentless defense and fluid execution were spearheaded by the sensational play of Paul Carbajal, who was undeniably the Best Player of the Game. Carbajal delivered a monstrous stat line that highlighted his all-around impact on the court. He poured in 19 points, grabbed a jaw-dropping 16 rebounds for a double-double, swatted away 4 blocks, and dished out 3 assists. 

His defensive presence was suffocating, altering shot after shot and anchoring a Cavaliers defense that held the powerful Judiciary team to a mere 47 points—a championship-level performance that completely swung the momentum in AFP's favor.

With the 1-0 advantage in hand, the AFP Cavaliers are now just one win away from etching their name into the UNTV Cup EFO history books and claiming the ultimate prize. More significantly, the championship winner will take home a grand prize of 2 million pesos for their chosen beneficiary, transforming their hardcourt victory into a massive win for charity. 

The stakes could not be higher, as the next game is an all-or-nothing moment for both teams: a coronation for the Cavaliers or a dramatic lifeline for the Magis.

Get ready for an electrifying follow-up! Game 2 of the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off Finals is set to ignite the hardcourt this coming Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna. 

This is the game that could end it all or force a winner-take-all Game 3! The Judiciary Magis will fight with desperate intensity to save their season, while the AFP Cavaliers will be pouring on the pressure to secure the sweep. You simply cannot miss this clash of government executive titans.

We invite all basketball fans, supporters of public service, and enthusiasts of a noble cause to witness the spectacle live! Come and cheer for your favorite team as they battle not just for a trophy, but for 2 million cash for charity! 

Be there this Sunday in Biñan, Laguna, to experience the intense atmosphere and thrilling action that only the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off Finals can deliver. Don't miss this historic Game 2—be part of the excitement and cheer for a greater cause!

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The round-robin semifinals of the UNTV Cup Executive Face-Off 2025 concluded with a thrilling set of games at the Amoranto Arena on October 1, 2025, solidifying the championship pairing. 

The day was packed with intensity, beginning with a heart-stopping Game 1 that saw the BJMP Greyhounds secure a clutch, one-point victory over the Ombudsman Graftbusters, 78-77. The narrow win for the Greyhounds came down to the final possession, denying the Graftbusters a chance to score their first win of the round and showcasing a truly dramatic finish to their respective campaigns.

The excitement continued in Game 2, but with a far more dominant outcome, as the undefeated AFP Cavaliers displayed their championship pedigree. The Cavaliers routed the Judiciary Magis with a lopsided score of 105-58, maintaining their flawless record (3-0) and cementing their status as the top-seed heading into the final round. Even in a loss, the Judiciary Magis' previous performance in the semifinals was enough to earn them the second slot, setting up an electrifying rematch for the title.

With these results, the semifinals standings were finalized: the AFP Cavaliers finished on top with a perfect 3-0 record, followed by the Judiciary Magis at 2-1. Though the BJMP Greyhounds earned a tough win to finish 1-2, and the Ombudsman Graftbusters fought hard to end at 0-3, it is the AFP Cavaliers and Judiciary Magis who now advance to the best-of-three championship series. Their dominance throughout the round robin ensures that the league's two strongest squads will battle for the coveted UNTV Cup EFO 2025 title and the grand prize for their chosen charities.

The overwhelming victory by the AFP Cavaliers over the Judiciary Magis gives the fans a tantalizing preview of what the championship will look like—a clash of titans where the Cavaliers' superior depth and execution will be tested by the Magis' grit and determination. Basketball fans should prepare for an intense and high-octane Finals, as these two powerhouse teams prepare to go head-to-head, not just for the trophy, but for the biggest charitable donation on the line.

The stage is set for a monumental clash! 

On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Amoranto Arena will host Game 1 of the best-of-three UNTV Cup Executive Face Off (EFO) Finals, pitting the flawlessly undefeated AFP Cavaliers against the powerhouse Judiciary Magis. 

This is more than just a championship series; it's a battle for pride, charity, and the right to be called the league's top executive squad. The Cavaliers steamrolled through the season with tactical precision, while the Magis proved their grit with clutch victories—a perfect recipe for an intense, must-watch final.

Fans can expect nothing less than a furious, high-octane encounter in the series opener. The AFP Cavaliers bring a disciplined, lockdown defense and balanced offensive attack that has suffocated every opponent they’ve faced. They will rely on their unmatched team chemistry and superior firepower to try and draw first blood. 

Meanwhile, the Judiciary Magis are not a team to back down. Known for their composure under pressure and a knack for hitting crucial shots late in the game, the Magis will aim to shatter the Cavaliers' perfect record and seize the momentum. Expect a true chess match between the benches, with every possession carrying championship weight.

This is the ultimate clash of titans—the league's two most dominant forces fighting for charity. The AFP Cavaliers, hungry to add another title to their rich history, represent the military's discipline on the court. 

The Judiciary Magis, an equally determined force, embody the relentless pursuit of justice and will fight tooth and nail for the title and their chosen beneficiary. The contrast in styles and the sheer stakes of the game guarantee a legendary series that honors the UNTV Cup's noble mission of "Win in Sports, Win for Charity."

The importance of Game 1 cannot be overstated. For the AFP Cavaliers, a victory will validate their flawless run and put them one step closer to the coveted trophy. 

For the Judiciary Magis, a win would be a massive psychological blow to the seemingly unbeatable Cavaliers, completely swinging the momentum and energy of the series in their favor. 

The atmosphere at the Amoranto Arena is sure to be electric, fueled by passionate supporters from both government agencies and basketball enthusiasts eager to witness history.

Do not miss the tip-off on October 8! Every steal, every block, and every three-pointer in this best-of-three final is a step toward destiny. Whether you're rooting for the military's finest or the court's relentless warriors, this championship spectacle promises drama, elite executive basketball, and a true test of wills. 

Mark your calendars—the AFP Cavaliers vs. Judiciary Magis is the sporting event of the year, and Game 1 is where the legendary rivalry officially begins.

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