Batangas, Biñan Keep Winning Ways in MPBL 2026

Batangas and Biñan sustained their impressive form on Tuesday in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) 2026 Season at the One Arena in Cainta, Rizal.

The Batangas City Tanduay Athletics edged the Mindoro Tamaraws, 77-71, while the Biñan Tatak Gel dominated the short-handed Iloilo United Royals, 114-64, to strengthen their positions in the round-robin elimination stage of the 28-team, two-division tournament.

Former Mindoro standout Ino Comboy spearheaded Batangas with 14 points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Kraniel Viloria contributed 12 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals, while Abdul Sawat chipped in 10 points and three rebounds.

Mindoro attempted a late rally, but Marion Magat’s follow-up basket and two-handed slam only narrowed the gap to 68-75 with 24.3 seconds left after he split his free throws.

The victory marked Batangas’ sixth consecutive win, improving its record to 8-2. The Athletics remain in pursuit of league frontrunners Caloocan Batang Kankaloo (10-0), GenSan Warriors (10-0), Quezon Huskers (8-0), San Juan Knights (7-1), and Abra Solid North Weavers (7-1).

Mindoro slipped to 5-5 despite Magat’s 15 points and seven rebounds. Bambam Gamalinda also delivered 14 points, seven rebounds, and two steals.

In the second game, Biñan extended its winning streak to five games and improved to 8-3. With Iloilo dressing only six players, the Lagunenses controlled the contest from the opening tip and never looked back.

Local talent John Barba led Biñan with 16 points and three rebounds. He received strong support from Michael Mabulac, who posted 14 points, eight rebounds, and three assists; Nic Cabanero, who added 14 points, seven rebounds, and two assists; Jonah Jacob with 13 points and four rebounds; and Pamboy Raymundo with 10 points, six rebounds, and five assists.

Iloilo fell to 2-9 despite the efforts of Carl Sumalacay, who scored 25 points with two rebounds. Dan Sara contributed 16 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, while Jasper Longalong added 12 points and six rebounds.