PNP, NHA subdue UNTV rivals

MANILA, Philippines - Former UE cager Ollan Omiping sizzled with 26 points as Philippine National Police routed Government Service Insurance System, 97-63, to kick off its title campaign in the fourth UNTV Cup at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City last week.

The 6-foot Omiping, who played alongside James Yap for the Warriors in the UAAP, waxed hot early, outscoring the entire GSIS squad in the opening quarter that saw him pour in 15 of the team’s 33 points against the Furies’ 11-point output.

The Responders never looked back and drew 20 points from Antonio Tolentino to complete their romp in their Group B action.

But the two other matches for the day went through a wringer with Season 2 champion Armed Forces of the Philippines outlasting Bureau of Fire Protection, 74-70, in the other Group B action behind Willy Casulla, Rolando Pascual and ex-PBA player Boyet Bautista.

Pascual led the Cavaliers with 16 markers but it was Casulla and Bautista who took over in the payoff period as they combined for 13 points aside from providing defensive muscle that forced the Firefighters to two turnovers.

The win enabled the Cavaliers to tie opening day winner Metro Manila Development Authority, which shocked reigning titlist Judiciary, 76-56.

Also scoring in the annual tournament for public servants was National Housing Authority which downed Department of Justice, 85-79, in another Group A match.

A brainchild of UNTV CEO and president Daniel Razon, the tournament offers P2 million to the champion with the prize going to the team’s chosen charity.