MANILA—The PNP Responders delivered a dominant performance to open their UNTV Cup Executive Face Off 2026 campaign, crushing the PhilHealth Health Insurers, 104-59, on September 9 at the Paco Arena. 

PNP asserted control from start to finish, completely outplaying their opponents to secure a commanding 1-0 record in the tournament while dropping PhilHealth to a 0-1 start.

Rookie officer Lieutenant Colonel Alex Abonita spearheaded PNP’s offensive onslaught, earning Best Player of the Game honors with an outstanding double-double. 

Abonita dished out 10 assists and poured in 10 points, consistently setting up his teammates and breaking down PhilHealth's defense to seal the victory.

Expressing his gratitude after the game, Abonita highlighted the hard work behind their triumph. 

“Unang-una nagpapasalamat ako sa team PNP na dumating na sa point na naging executive na ako, nakapaglaro na ako dito… nagpa-practice kami twice a week so siguro that resulted na maganda yung pinakita namin sa court,” he said, reflecting on his journey to the executive division.

The Responders executed their game plan seamlessly, leveraging rigorous preparation into a high-powered, high-scoring offense that left the Health Insurers scrambling. 

PNP's relentless pressure on both ends of the floor ensured PhilHealth never found a rhythm, extending the lead well into double digits.

With this emphatic opening win, the PNP Responders set a formidable tone for the rest of the season. 

Looking ahead, the squad aims to build on this momentum and maintain their sharp form as the UNTV Cup EFO 2026 tournament progresses.

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