MANILA—The Ombudsman Graftbusters solidified their status again in the UNTV Cup after securing their second consecutive victory by defeating the PhilHealth Health Insurers, 87-79, at the Paco Arena on May 3. 

The Season 11 finalists controlled the tempo early on, capitalizing on a major blow to PhilHealth when their star center, Alex Noriega, suffered an injury during the opening jumpball. 

Noriega’s absence forced him to the bench for the entire first half, leaving a gaping hole in the Health Insurers' interior defense and rebounding that the Graftbusters ruthlessly exploited to build a steady lead.

Despite the setback, PhilHealth showed immense heart as Noriega staged a gritty second-half comeback. 

He managed to provide a spark with 6 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals, but his heroics weren't enough to overcome the disciplined Graftbusters' attack. 

Israel Dela Cruz earned Player of the Game honors, anchoring Ombudsman’s offense with an impressive stat line of 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists. 

His steady hand ensured that even when PhilHealth pushed back, the Graftbusters remained composed to clinch the hard-fought win.