Oct 25, 2026
Struggling Altas take on Chiefs, seek to end slump
With four games remaining in the elimination round and drifting on a six-game losing streak, University of Perpetual Help seeks to move higher in the Group B standings and make the quarterfinal round of the NCAA Season 102 men's basketball tournament.
The Altas, however, need to win games, starting with its 5 p.m. duel with the Arellano University Chiefs on Monday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
Perpetual Help currently sits at fourth place in the five-team Group B with a 2-7 win-loss record, ahead of winless San Sebastian (0-10).
The Chiefs are at the number two spot with a 5-4 card.
The other two teams in the group are pace-setter Letran (7-2) and third ranked Emilio Aguinaldo College (2-6).
The Altas aim to finish the elims at least in third place to get an outright quarterfinals berth. The fourth and fifth placed teams will clash in a one-game playoff for a seat in the quarterfinal round.
But more than the thought of advancing to the next round, the Altas need to get their acts together and play as a solid unit.
Coach Olsen Racena needs Mark Gojo Cruz, LA Casillo, Ray Allen Maglupay, JM Tulabot, Jim Corpuz, Gelo Gelsano, Ariea Borja and Shawn Orgo to play well on both sides of the court to avenge Perpetual Help’s 88-65 first round loss to Arellano University on Monday.
The Junior Altas, on the other hand, are in a better position in the juniors division.
The Junior Altas enters their game against the Arellano University Braves with a 7-2 record in Group B.
However, the team coached by Joph Cleopas is coming from an 82-86 setback against Group A leader Jose Rizal University.
Still, Perpetual Help is heavily favored to win against Arellano which the Junior Altas defeated in the first round, 104-97.
Expected to lead the charge for the Junior Altas are Louie Rosales, Sizco Roquid, Brian Orca Jr., Lord Dulanas, Sam Villaruel, Arkin Cristobal, Kakai Zamoras and Kurt Patalinghug.
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