Biñan-Tatak Gel reaches semifinals, sends Caloocan packing

Third-seeded Biñan-Tatak Gel punched its ticket to the semifinals of the 2026 Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (WMPBL) after defeating sixth-seeded Caloocan, 87-74, on Wednesday at the Parañaque Coliseum.

Despite missing key players Chack Cabinbin and Eka Soriano due to minor injuries, the Angels leaned on the outstanding performances of Monique Del Carmen and Luisa San Juan to eliminate the Lady Kankaloo and set up a semifinal clash with defending champion and second seed Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire.

Del Carmen spearheaded the victory with an impressive all-around effort of 22 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, three steals, and three blocks, while San Juan added 20 points, six rebounds, and five assists.

Holding a narrow 52-50 lead late in the third quarter, Biñan-Tatak Gel broke the game open with a decisive 13-1 run that stretched into the fourth period. Chicky Faraon capped the surge with a three-pointer at the 9:40 mark of the final quarter, giving the Angels a comfortable 65-51 advantage.

Caloocan was unable to recover from the run as Biñan-Tatak Gel maintained control and kept a double-digit lead the rest of the way to secure the victory.

“Eka Soriano and Chack Cabinbin were unable to play because of minor injuries, and hopefully they can return for the semifinals. It was good to see the other players step up and help us get the win,” said Angels head coach Jack Azcueta.

Faraon also made her presence felt with a double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds, while Chuchi Paraiso contributed 11 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Angel Quingco chipped in nine points.

The defeat ended Caloocan’s campaign, as the Lady Kankaloo absorbed their sixth straight loss and bowed out of the quarterfinals.

Loraine Capilit led Caloocan with 18 points and seven assists, while Dianne Pedregosa posted a double-double of 11 points and 16 rebounds, along with five assists. Joan Camagong added 10 points and six rebounds in the losing effort.