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Sports

Underdog Triumph: BJMP Greyhounds Stun Judiciary Magis in UNTV Cup Quarterfinals

September 11, 2025 6:50 PM
PST

QUEZON CITY, Philippines - The UNTV Cup Executive Face Off Quarterfinals yesterday, September 10, at the Amoranto Arena, delivered a thrilling night of hoops, with the biggest story being the stunning upset pulled off by the BJMP Greyhounds. In a game that defied expectations, the Greyhounds showcased their determination and teamwork, defeating the number two-seeded Judiciary Magis in a thrilling fashion. The win sends a clear message that in this league, heart and hustle can overcome any standing.

The crowd at Amoranto Arena was treated to a heart-pounding Game 2 showdown between the BJMP Greyhounds and the heavily favored Judiciary Magis. From the opening tip, the Greyhounds played with an intensity that caught the Magis by surprise. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading baskets and momentum. However, it was the Greyhounds' unwavering defense and clutch shooting in the final minutes that sealed their victory, with a final score of 76-67, marking a monumental win for the team and a major shake-up in the playoff bracket.

Leading the charge for the Greyhounds was none other than Ricky Pegalan, who was rightfully named the "Best Player of the Game." Pegalan's stellar performance was a key factor in his team's success, as he poured in an impressive 28 points. His ability to score from different spots on the court and his leadership on the hardwood were instrumental in rallying the Greyhounds to victory. Pegalan's heroics were a testament to the team's relentless spirit and their refusal to back down from a formidable opponent.

“𝐖𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞  𝐀𝐅𝐏 𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲. 𝐊𝐚𝐲𝐚 𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐢 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧, 𝐢𝐟 𝐰𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬, 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐰𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐲𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧, 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞.” Ricky Pegalan said during the post game interview.

In the other quarterfinal matches, the AFP Cavaliers continued their dominant run, easily dispatching the GSIS Furies with a commanding 86-57 victory in Game 1. Their win showcased their efficiency on both ends of the floor, solidifying their status as a top contender in the tournament. In Game 3, the Ombudsman Graftbusters also secured their spot in the next round by defeating the Executive Branch Commanders, 82-64, in a game that highlighted their cohesive offense and stifling defense.

With the quarterfinal stage now complete, the excitement builds as the remaining teams prepare for the semifinal round. The UNTV Cup Executive Face Off continues to prove that it's more than just a basketball league—it's a showcase of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to charity. The road to the championship is now wide open, and with the Greyhounds' upset victory, it's clear that anything can happen in the pursuit of both the trophy and a noble cause.

Stay tuned for more upcoming intense rivalry in the UNTV Cup Executive Face Off on UNTV social media platforms or watch us live at the venue to experience exhilarating games.

Sports

UNTV Cup EFO: AFP Cavaliers and Judiciary Magis Secure Semifinal Slots

September 11, 2025 6:42 PM
PST

Quezon City, Philippines – The UNTV Cup Executive Face-Off (EFO) Quarterfinals are heating up at the Amoranto Arena, with the latest round of games on September 10, 2025 shaping the final team standings and determining who advances to the next stage. The AFP Cavaliers and Judiciary Magis have solidified their spots in the semifinals, showcasing their dominance throughout the tournament.

The AFP Cavaliers, with an impressive 9-0 win-loss record, remain at the top of the standings. Close behind them are the Judiciary Magis, who are also heading to the semis with a strong 7-2 record, despite a loss to the BJMP Greyhounds on September 10th.

The race for the remaining semifinal spots is getting intense, with the Ombudsman Graftbusters and BJMP Greyhounds tied for the third and fourth spots with a 6-3 record. The Ombudsman Graftbusters clinched a vital victory against the Executive Commanders, which ultimately eliminated their opponents from the tournament. The BJMP Greyhounds' victory against the Judiciary Magis has further boosted their chances. Meanwhile, the GSIS Furies, PNP Responders, and DOJ Beacons are all fighting for their tournament lives with identical 5-4 records, making the upcoming games crucial for their aspirations.

As the tournament progresses, the stakes are higher than ever. UNTV Cup EFO invites all basketball fans and supporters of a good cause to come and watch the remaining games. Join us in cheering for your favorite teams as they battle it out on the hardcourt, not just for the win, but for the charities they represent. 

Stay updated on all the action, game highlights, and news by following UNTV Sports on their official social media accounts. Your support goes a long way in helping our public servants make a difference, both on and off the court.

Politics

A House Divided? Rep. Barzaga Pushes for Romualdez Probe Over Flood Control Projects

September 11, 2025 6:45 PM
PST

Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga has ignited a political firestorm, calling for House Speaker Martin Romualdez to be the first person investigated in the ongoing hearings regarding anomalous flood control projects. Barzaga, who now identifies as an independent, alleges that the Speaker is not a bystander in this issue, a claim that could shake the very foundation of the House leadership.

Speaking in a recent interview, Barzaga was unequivocal in his stance, asserting that it is "unlikely for the speaker to have no involvement in such a significant issue." While he admits to not having concrete evidence at the moment, he hints at personal knowledge of Romualdez's potential involvement, stating he is "not yet ready to elaborate." The statement has put a spotlight on the legislative body, with many now questioning the extent of the alleged anomalies and who holds the ultimate accountability.

Barzaga's fiery accusations go further, alleging that "everything's under the speaker," including insertions, kickbacks, and commissions tied to the multi-billion-peso flood control projects. His sudden shift from a Romualdez supporter to a member of the minority has raised eyebrows and suggests a deep rift within the political landscape. The congressman’s bold move has set the stage for a dramatic confrontation, potentially leading to further revelations.

The demand for an investigation is a significant escalation and could have far-reaching implications for the House of Representatives. As Barzaga pushes for greater transparency and accountability, the focus shifts to Speaker Romualdez, who is now at the center of a storm of controversy. Whether Barzaga's claims hold up to scrutiny or are dismissed as political maneuvering remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the issue of the flood control projects is far from over.

Crime & Investigation

Today in history: Remembering the September 11 attacks, 24 years later

September 11, 2025 1:57 PM
PST

#𝗧𝗢𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗜𝗡𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 | 24 years ago, the World Trade Center fell in a series of horrific terror attacks. Today, we honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost, including the brave first responders. We stand in solemn remembrance of the victims and the resilience of a nation that came together in the face of tragedy.

Where were you on this date in 2001?

Politics

Lawsuit and bribery allegations rock Batangas 1st District

September 9, 2025 4:42 PM
PST

A political firestorm has erupted in Batangas's 1st district as Congressman Leandro Leviste and District Engineer Abelardo Calalo trade accusations over alleged bribery and irregularities in infrastructure projects.

The controversy began when Engineer Calalo accused Congressman Leviste of filing a lawsuit against him for his political agenda. In a statement, Calalo claimed the suit was a retaliatory move after he allegedly tried to bribe the congressman to halt an investigation into local infrastructure projects.

However, Calalo vehemently denies the bribery attempt. "For the record, I vehemently deny that I had tried to offer money to Cong. Leviste in exchange for some favor," he stated in a written affidavit, adding that he believes the lawsuit is part of Leviste's political agenda.

Congressman Leviste fired back, urging Calalo to reveal the names of the contractors involved in the alleged payoffs. “Inamin niya nangolekta siya ng pera sa mga contractor para ibigay sa akin, sabi lang niya donasyon ito pero ang pera naman mah kasamang resibo.”

Leviste further challenged the engineer's claim of a "political agenda." He asserted that his true agenda is to "clean up the DPWH in the 1st district of Batangas." Leviste also expressed his desire for Calalo to expose information he knows about other contractors who are involved in irregularities in their district.

The dispute has raised questions about corruption and transparency in public works, leaving many to watch as the conflict between the two officials unfolds.