Risers keep playoff hopes alive with win over Batang Quiapo

Bataan kept its playoff hopes alive after defeating Manila Batang Quiapo, 110-97, in a high-scoring clash on Friday in the 2026 Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) Season at One Arena Cainta in Rizal.

The victory marked Bataan’s third straight win, improving its record to 9-11 and keeping the Risers within striking distance of North Division playoff contenders Quezon City (9-10), Meycauayan (10-9), and Pasig (9-9).

Tutoy Ramirez led five Bataan players in double figures with 16 points, while veteran Chito Jaime earned Best Player of the Game honors after finishing with 12 points, six rebounds, five assists, two steals, and two three-pointers.

"We just kept up with them in offense," said Jaime. "We also followed the system of our coach (Myk Saguiguit)."

Migs Corteza added 15 points and three rebounds, while Yves Sazon contributed 13 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. Christian Balagasay chipped in 10 points and four rebounds.

Bataan controlled the game from the opening tip and connected on 14 of 30 attempts from beyond the arc. The Risers built their biggest lead at 110-93 late in the contest to secure the victory.

Manila dropped to 2-18 despite a huge performance from Alfred Sedillo, who exploded for 44 points while adding eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals.

John Ashley Faa contributed 17 points, seven rebounds, and two steals, while Mark Doligon finished with 16 points, four rebounds, and four assists.

The MPBL continues on Saturday at Alonte Sports Arena with another triple-header, highlighted by the matchup between streaking teams Abra Solid North and Biñan Tatak Gel at 7 p.m.

Defending champion Abra enters the contest riding a 15-game winning streak and leading the North Division at 17-1, while Biñan has won 13 straight games and sits second in the South Division at 16-3.

The Weavers will be led by reigning MVP Dave Ildefonso, Jake Figueroa, and Raven Gonzales, while Biñan will rely on Nic Cabanero, Kenny Roger Rocacurva, and Carlo Lastimosa.

The other games feature Negros against Ilagan Isabela at 3 p.m. and Meycauayan Marilao against Parañaque at 5 p.m.