MANILA—The AFP Cavaliers punched their ticket to the UNTV Cup Season 12 Finals after fending off a resilient PNP Responders squad, 69-65, in Game 2 of their best-of-three semifinal clash on September 2 at the Paco Arena. 

AFP sealed a 2-0 series sweep to eliminate their rival and secure their sixth overall finals appearance in league history.

Demonstrating unrelenting defensive grit down the stretch, the Cavaliers thwarted every comeback surge launched by the Responders. 

The dramatic victory positions the four-time champions back on the league's biggest stage for the first time since 2023, when they captured their fourth title against the Judiciary Magis. 

Now, AFP stands just wins away from claiming a record-extending fifth championship crown in the premier Sports and Charity league.

Leading the charge for the Cavaliers was star player Michael Bañaria, who earned Player of the Game honors for the fourth time. 

Bañaria turned in a dominant all-around performance, dropping 17 points and pulling down 5 rebounds to anchor AFP’s offense and withstand PNP’s pressure.

“Tulad po ng sinasabi ng coaching staff namin, teamwork, hardwork at saka tiyaga lang sa depensa at one game at a time lang po talaga kami,” Bañaria reflected after the hard-fought victory, crediting their collective defense and discipline. 

Looking ahead to the championship clash, he pledged complete commitment: “Ibibigay po namin yung 100% po namin sa laro tsaka patience, teamwork lang po palagi tsaka makinig po palagi sa coaching staff.”

With the semifinals behind them, the AFP Cavaliers are set for a colossal Finals matchup against the Ombudsman Graftbusters. 

Beyond the prestige of agency glory, both teams prepare to clash for the ultimate prize—funding the vital missions of their chosen charitable beneficiaries.

WIN in SPORTS, WIN for CHARITY!