Gilas Pilipinas 3×3 men and women teams powered into the quarterfinals of the Asian Beach Games, providing a lift for Team Philippines as it held on to third place in the overall standings. The development came even as the Alas Pilipinas beach volleyball squads bowed out in the Last Eight.

At press time, the Philippines remained third with three gold, two silver, and two bronze medals in the 45-nation competition. Host China continued to lead the tally, followed by Thailand, as Filipino athletes stayed competitive across multiple events.

The country’s campaign is supported by the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission, with strong performances coming from various disciplines including jiu-jitsu and athletics.

Gilas 3×3 teams advance to quarterfinals

The Gilas Pilipinas 3×3 men advanced to the knockout stage despite absorbing a 14-21 loss to Iran in their final Pool A game. The team still topped the group with a 2-1 record, emerging ahead via total points.

Jeff Manday led the scoring effort with eight points, while Nic Cabañero added six in the loss. Despite the setback, the team secured the top seed in the group and will await its quarterfinal opponent.

Coach Patrick Fran emphasized the importance of the achievement, noting that the team’s progress reflects its preparation and hard work. The focus now shifts to maintaining momentum heading into the next round.

The Gilas Pilipinas 3×3 women also booked a quarterfinal slot after sweeping Group C with a 21-15 victory over Kyrgyzstan. The team overcame an early deficit before asserting control late in the game.

Mikka Cacho and Tantoy Ferrer led the charge, combining for key baskets to turn the tide. Gabi Bade and Kaye Pingol contributed in crucial moments as the team completed a perfect group stage run.

Mixed results across other Philippine campaigns

While the 3×3 teams advanced, the Alas Pilipinas beach volleyball squads saw their campaigns end in the quarterfinals. Sunny Villapando and Grydelle Matibag fell to Japan’s Ren and Non Matsumoto in straight sets.

Khylem Progella and Sofiah Pagara also exited after losing to a strong Thai pair in the Last Eight. The defeats halted the country’s medal hopes in beach volleyball despite earlier strong performances.

In teqball, the Philippine men’s doubles team of Prince Agustin and Anel Pacis Jr. bowed out after consecutive losses. The mixed doubles pair of Precious Tabucol and Klyde Polca also exited following defeats in the preliminary round.

Team Philippines’ medal haul continues to be anchored by standout performances from jiu-jitsu and athletics, including gold medal finishes from Annie Ramirez, Alexandria Luz Enriquez, and Leonard Grospe.

With more events still underway, the Philippines remains in contention for additional medals while maintaining its position among the top-performing nations in the Asian Beach Games.