MANILA—The Senate Defenders staged a thrilling fourth-quarter surge to override the PhilHealth Health Insurers, 62–57, in their UNTV Cup Season 12 clash on Sunday at the Paco Arena. 

For the majority of the match, Health Insurers dictated the pace, utilizing a disciplined tempo to maintain control from the opening tip through the third period. 

However, the Defenders refused to fold, flipping the script in the final frame with a defensive lockdown and a clinical offensive execution that left the Health Insurers reeling.

Jojo Duncil proved why he is a force to be reckoned with, earning Best Player of the Game honors after a masterful all-around performance. 

Duncil exploded for 26 points, while contributing 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals to lead the Senate charge. 

His scoring outburst in the clutch served as the catalyst for the Defenders' comeback, effectively erasing PhilHealth's long-standing lead and securing a hard-fought win for the legislative squad.

In a post-game interview, Duncil credited the victory to the team’s resilience and evolving chemistry under a new system. 

“Nakapag-adjust na kami nung mga third and fourth eh, syempre one week pa lang si Coach Japs, nag-aadjust pa lahat kami.”

"We were just able to adjust our game in the third and fourth quarters," Duncil noted, acknowledging that the roster is still acclimating to the plays of new head coach John Paul Cuan. 

The transition has been eased by the deep-rooted connection between the two; Duncil and Cuan share a storied history dating back to their collegiate days at the University of Santo Tomas. 

“Gamay na ako ni Coach Japs eh, noong araw talagang matagal pinagsamahan namin niyan tsaka si Coach Dizon.”

"Coach Japs and I are very familiar with each other; we go a long way back, along with Coach Dizon.", Duncil emphasized that this long-standing familiarity was pivotal in executing the late-game adjustments that ultimately sealed the game.