Batang Kankaloo Surge Past Shoemasters to Claim Top Spot

Caloocan captured the solo lead in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 season after dominating Marikina, 84-71, on Friday at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna.

The Batang Kankaloo, powered by Eric Camson, built a commanding 78-56 lead before cruising to their fifth consecutive victory, overtaking Gensan (4-0) in the round-robin elimination of the 28-team, two-division tournament.

Camson led the way with 17 points and eight rebounds, receiving strong support from Kymani Ladi, who posted 19 points, five rebounds, three steals, and two blocks. Kean Baclaan contributed 11 points, six assists, and three rebounds, while Dom Escobar added 10 points and six boards.

Caloocan leveraged their size advantage to dominate the glass, 45-32, translating into a 38-26 edge in points in the paint.

Marikina dropped to 2-3 despite Louie Vigil’s 20 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Jeff Javillonar added 14 points and three assists, while RR Casajeros finished with 13 points, four assists, and two rebounds.

In the nightcap, Biñan Tatak Gel completed a late surge to top Basilan Steel, 80-70, scoring the decisive points in the final 3:10. The game was tied at 70-all before Kenny Roger Rocacurva sparked a 10-0 run, including a three-point play and a driving basket, to seal the win.

Basilan had earlier built a 27-13 advantage, but Biñan responded with a 13-0 run to take a 51-49 lead and maintain control.

Carlo Lastimosa paced Biñan with 16 points, five assists, and three rebounds, while Rocacurva contributed a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds along with three assists. Nic Cabanero and Pamboy Raymundo chipped in 11 points each.

Basilan slipped to 2-3, led by John Byron Villarias and Gab Cometa with 13 points apiece. John Wilson added 12 points, six rebounds, five assists, and two steals.

The league resumes on Saturday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre, with defending champion Abra Solid North facing San Juan at 8 p.m. Other matchups include Parañaque versus Mindoro at 4 p.m. and Cebu taking on Bataan at 6 p.m.