MPBL: Pasay, Caloocan prevail as elimination stage ends

MANILA, Philippines — The Pasay Voyagers and Caloocan Batang Kankaloo bared their readiness for the playoffs with victories over different opponents in the SportsPlus MPBL (Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League) 2026 Season elimination phase at the Pasay Astrodome. Pasay thwarted Pasig City, 78-69, in the nightcap while Caloocan bested Zamboanga Sikat, 82-78, in the opener of the double-header, ending the round-robin elimination phase of the two-division, 26-team tournament. The Voyagers improved to 14-11, similar to the Meycauayan Marilao Gems, but settled for fifth place as they lost to the Gems, 82-77, in their encounter. Pasay also qualified for the playoffs outright, along with sixth-ranked Ilagan Isabela (13-12). Pasay's Lennard Santiago posted 18 points, 4 rebounds and 2 steals, but Cyril Gonzales was chosen the SportsPlus best player with 17 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists. Christian Fajarito supported with 14 points, including two triples, 4 assists and 3 rebounds. Sinking 9 of 18 triple attempts, the Voyagers led by as many as 58-39 before the Pasiguenos rallied to 72-67 midway through the fourth quarter. Pasig finished at 11-14 and eighth place in the North Division. Jeff Manday scored seven points in the last 1 minute and 41 seconds to lift Caloocan's record to 20-5 and third...