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Topic: Our Man in the Philippines

Our Man in the Philippines
Say hello to Marlon Bernardino

Marlon is one of us... A fan of pool, and for as long as I can remember, he has been sending updates and news with a focus on Filipino players competing around the world, and tournaments in the Philippines.

Here you can follow his reports and keep up to date with new names making waves on the Philippine pool scene.

Welcome Marlon.


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Authorised Pro9 forum advertiser/sponsor

Amit, Centeno off to good start in Austria
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA, Philippines –Billiard stars Rubilen Amit and Chezka Centeno got off to a blazing start by posting victories in the opening round of the Predator World Women’s 10-Ball Championship in Klagenfurt, Austria on Wednesday.
Amit, also known as "Bingkay", blanked Yi Yun Su of Chinese-Taipei, 7-0, while Centeno routed Elise Qiu of the Netherlands, 7-0.

The 2013 World Women’s 10-Ball Champion Amit, playing under the banner of businessman/sportsman Aristeo "Putch" Puyat, acknowledged God Father of Philippine Billiards, also will be teaming up with Carlo Biado and Johann Chua in the World Team Championships in the same venue.

World-renowned blogger Leslie “Anito Kid” Mapugay had something to say about our PH bets in Austria:

"To Bingkay, Chezka, Johann, and Carlo: You are our champions on and off the green felt. You represent the best of the best from the Pool Capital of the World. All of you carry the hopes and dreams of an entire nation. I am very, very proud of y'all! We all are! Mahal na mahal namin kayo. Wishing our Team Philippines the very best. Mabuhay," said Mapugay, who is also a co-founder of the Makati Pool Players Association - MAPPA, and is currently one of its Board of Directors, serving as its Public Relations Officer under the able leadership of MAPPA President Arvin Arceo.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Mappa KnightShot 10-Ball Cup
by Marlon Bernardino

Pool player and motorcycle enthusiast Dan Kang will fly in direct from South Korea to participate in the much-awaited Knight Shot 10-Ball Cup - to be presented by Makati Pool Players Association - MAPPA under the leadership of it's president Arvin Arceo- the biggest billiard organization in the Pool Capital of the World.

The Knight Shot 10-Ball Cup gets underway on September 15-18 at the AMF-Puyat Superbowl Bowling and Billiards Center, 3rd floor Makati Central Square (formerly Makati Cinema Square), Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City.
Also joining the tour is 14 -year-old Rhaki Roj Constantino. Together with her parents, Rhaki will also fly in direct from Zamboanga to battle it out with the best of the best in the competition.

Rhaki is the newest member of the Wilde Blu Junior sports team, founded by Mr. Nino Lopez and world-renowned blogger Leslie "AnitoKid" Mapugay. Rhaki will be receiving her new set of world-class pool equipment and accessories from Team Wilde Blu.

Also, up for grabs in the Knight Shot 10-Ball Cup are a brand new 125-cc motorcycle and a Predator pool cue.

"Bongga! Galing! Iba talaga ng MAPPA!" exclaimed Tour Director Patrick Clavel upon seeing the prize and other surprises geared for the 128 pool players participating in the biggest amateur tour for 2022.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Centeno wins; Amit falters
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---PH bet Chezka "The Flash" Centeno played even better in her second game in the Predator World Women’s 10-Ball Championship, turning back Chantal Stadler of Germany, 7-2, to remain unscathed at the SportPark in Klagenfurt, Austria Wednesday night.

Earlier, the inaugural Singapore Asian 9-Ball Women's Champion Centeno won her opening match against Elise Qiu of the Netherlands, 7-0.

Not everything was good news for local billiard fans, though, with Rubilen "Bingkay" Amit, failing to sustain the momentum of her victory over Yi Yun Su of Chinese-Taipei, 7-0, bowing to Ina Kaplan of Germany, 5-7.

From 4-2, Kaplan, the 11 times National Champion of Germany, mounted an incredible 4-0 rally to reach the hill at 4-6.

Amit will battle it out in the B side of the competition against Monika Zabek of Poland according to World-renowned blogger Leslie “Anito Kid” Mapugay.

-Marlon Bernardino-

World Team Championship: Philippines wins opener over Switzerland, 3-1
by Marlon Bernardino

THE Philippine team got its Predator Pro Billiard Series World Team Championship campaign to a good start on Wednesday night, defeating Switzerland, 3-1, in their first match at the SportPark in Klagenfurt, Austria.

After Rubilen "Bingkay" Amit yielded to Claudia Von Rohr, 2-4, Carlo Biado didnt wasted time by blanking Ronald Regli, 4-0.

Then Amit avenge her defeat by beating Von Rohr, 4-2, then Biado trounced Dimitri Jungo, 4-0, to seal 3-1 wins for the national team.

"Team PH wins against Team Switzerland in its first match at the Predator World Teams Championship in Klagenfurt, Austria.

The members of Team Philippines found strength in each other. Depended on one another. And rooted for themselves like there was no tomorrow." said World-renowned blogger Leslie “Anito Kid” Mapugay.

"The respective hearts and commitments of each of our champions were channeled into a collective group effort - one unstoppable force - for the WIN! .
Loud and Proud. And with all our Love For God, country, and famili. Laban Pilipinas," last word of Mapugay, who is also a co-founder of the Makati Pool Players Association - MAPPA, and is currently one of its Board of Directors, serving as its Public Relations Officer under the able leadership of MAPPA President Arvin Arceo.

-Marlon Bernardino-

PH champions beat British counterparts for 2nd straight win in the Predator 10-Ball World Teams Championship
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---Team Philippines wins its second round match in the Predator 10-Ball World Teams Championship, after beating Team England, 3-2 in an exciting showdown at the SportPark in Klagenfurt, Austria on Thursday evening (Philippine Time).

Rubilen "Bingkay" Amit defeated Kelly Fisher, 4-2, then Carlo "The Black Tiger" Biado bested Jayson Shaw, 4-2. However, Team England bounced back and leveled the count at 2-2 after Fisher nipped Amit, 4-2, and Shaw routed Biado, 4-2.

In the finale, the shootout format was used to break the tie.

As per world-renowned blogger Leslie "AnitoKid" Mapugay.
"(Carlo) Biado pockets the 1st, (Jayson) Shaw does the same. (Rubilen) Amit successfully makes it and (Kelly) Fisher misses. Both Johann Chua and Darren Appleton missed their respective shots.

Everyone now is literally on the edge of their seats, and The Black Tiger (Carlo Biado) cometh to finish it off in emphatic form!

Gondo ng laban! One for the books! And I kid you not," said The AnitoKid.

"To say that it was a pretty exciting match between two of the world's powerhouses in pool would be an understatement.

Everyone - from both teams - was all fired up as Team 🇬reat Britain forced the match to a shootout. Lots of emotions, I tell you. One could literally feel the pressure. Grabe, " also said by Mapugay, who is a co-founder of the Makati Pool Players Association - MAPPA, and is currently one of its Board of Directors, serving as its Public Relations Officer under the able leadership of MAPPA President Arvin Arceo.

Meanwhile, Chezka "The Flash" Centeno advanced to the Top 16! Centeno, the inaugural Asian 9-Ball Women's Champion, routed Japan's Chihiro Kawahara, 7-4.

However, Amit's campaign in the Championship came to an end Thursday afternoon (Philippine time) after suffering her second loss. The 40-year-old Amit was beaten by Poland's Monika Zabek, 7-3.

Zabek jump out to an early 3-0 lead before Amit swept back-to-back racks to move within two, 2-3.

But the Polish player proved steadier and banked smart shots in the next five racks of the race-to-seven affair.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Filipino trio Amit, Biado, Chua triumphant as PH wins World Teams 10-ball title
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---The Filipino trio of Rubilen Amit, Carlo Biado and Johann Chua become the 2022 Predator World Teams 10-ball Champions as they hammered Team Great Britain, 3-0, in the final in Klagenfurt, Austria, Sunday, Sept. 11.

Meeting the same team that they defeated through a shootout, 3-2, in the winner’s qualification, the Filipinos made quick work of the British trio of Kelly Fisher, Jayson Shaw, and Darren Appleton to bag the gold medal and the lion’s share of the 40,000 Euros.

Amit gave the Philippines a 1-0 lead after a 4-3 win over Kelly Fisher in the women’s singles set.

A long shot of Biado in the nine ball routed Jayson Shaw, 4-3, in the men’s single set as Team Philippines take a 2-0 commanding lead in the race-to-three series.

The pair of Amit and Chua connived for a 4-1 victory of Fisher and Darren Appleton in the mixed doubles to put on the finishing touches to the Philippine’s unbeaten run in the tournament.

Both Biado and Amit were part of the silver-medal winning team of 2014, when they lost to China in the final.

On the road to the finals, Team Philippines needed to beat Team Poland, 3-1, in the quarter-finals and a a shootout wins against Team Germany, 3-2, in the semi-finals.

“It feels amazing to be champions,” said Amit. “We’re, we’re very, very happy, and very and relieved. Finally, no more matches, we can rest and just enjoy it and enjoy Austria and Klagenfurt!

“Last time we placed 2nd and now we are finally the champions. I am very happy that I have Johann and Carlo as my teammates because they are awesome, they are very good players.”

Biado added: “Finally we made it. My job was to win in this event and with my team, and I want to thank them because we all played well. We have to celebrate now!”

As per world-renowned blogger Leslie "AnitoKid" Mapugay.

"We did it. Our Team PH wins the very prestigious 2022 Predator World 10-Ball Teams Championships."

"Inner strength, fortitude, and passion. That will to win and take it all. To dish out the agony of defeat and realize the thrill of victory. Shut Out, Truth be told, it does not get any bigger than this. All your sacrifices - blood, sweat, and tears - have paid off. Heart of a champion Carlo Biado, Johann Gonzales Chua, and Rubilen Amit, indeed," said by Mapugay, who is a co-founder of the Makati Pool Players Association - MAPPA, and is currently one of its Board of Directors, serving as its Public Relations Officer under the able leadership of MAPPA President Arvin Arceo.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Sy wins Knight Shot 10-Ball Cup
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---JP Sy ruled the Knight Shot 10-Ball Cup held September 15 to 18, 2022 at the AMF-Puyat Superbowl Bowling and Billiards Center, 3rd floor Makati Central Square (formerly Makati Cinema Square), Chino Roces Avenue, Makati City.

Sy defeated Manny Hernandez, 8-2, in the finals to bag the top prize of P50,000 plus Predator Cue and trophy.

Hernandez settled for the runner-up prize of P25,000.
Sy made the finals after beating JR Velasco, 8-4, in the semifinals while Hernandez edged Dexter Barnido, 8-4, in the other semis match-up.

The tournament is being supported by sportsman/businessman Aristeo "Putch" Puyat, acknowledged God Father of Philippine Billiard and Puyat Sports, organized by Makati Pool Players Association (MAPPA) headed by it's president Arvin Arceo, tournament director Patrick Clavel and world renowned blogger Leslie "Anito Kid" Mapugay.

Knight Shot is the biggest and most respected name in billiards, hobbies and recreation in the Middle East.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Architect champion to join J and P 10-Ball tilt set in House of Manila
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---After successful winning the Sharks 9-Ball Showdown last October 28, Architect Eric 'Teod' Salud will now showcase his talent when the J and P 10-Ball Cup 2022 tournament gets underway from Nov.7 to 12 at the House Manila Pool Bar & Lounge, basement 1 of Holiday Inn Express, Resorts World Manila in Pasay City.

“I hope to do well in the upcoming J and P 10-Ball Cup 2022 tournament,” Salud, who hails from Cavite, said, who is also champion in sport of practical shooting.

Other cue artists expected to provide stiff competitions are Edz Yu, Marvin Paringit, Ronald Mabanag, Jhay Ar dela Cruz, Neo Erin Angelo, Rem Cruz, James Lim, Ding Ricohermoso, Michael Cua, Chris Soriano, Philip Marcelino, Paul Avaran, Aries Rosario, Cesar Felix, John Berille and South Korea's Dan Kang.

Jesse Gonzales Cambosa Sr., director of the Billiards Sports Confederation of the Philippines (BSCP) under the leadership of Aristeo “Putch” Puyat shared some words on the upcoming 10-ball event.

“J&P is basically an executive type of amateur pool tournament and acknowledged as the most popular pool amateur tournament in the country,” Jesse Gonzales Cambosa Sr., who is also the top honcho of DMC Entertainment and Production management, said.

Winner will fly to Japan in an all-expenses paid trip to compete in the Japan Tournamentin this Games and Amusements Board (GAB) sanctioned tournament that offers a total pot prize of P150,000 to the winners.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Herrera, 7 others reach round of 32
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---Kyla Herrera, Dave Rogel, Kame Gomez and RS Manglicmot continue their unbeaten romp through the double elimination rounds of the J and P 10-Ball Cup 2022 tournament to advance to the knockout stages Monday night at the House Manila Pool Bar & Lounge, basement 1 of Holiday Inn Express, Resorts World Manila in Pasay City.

The 18 years old Herrera , a 1st year College student of Gardner College started the day with a 6-5 decision win over Raymund Salugao followed by 6-3 thrashing architect Eric Salud and 6-4 dismantled Jeffrey Garcia. The resulting was all that Herrera needed to seal the win.

The 37 years old Rogel from Makati City, Purchasing Manager at Ebdor Construction Inc., on the other hand subdued Larry Lim, Jelo Oliveros and Von Cabrera in a similar 6-4 triumph, in order.

Gomez, meantime nipped Dominic Ong ,6-2, Prince Dela Pena ,6-4, and Rowel Casem ,6-4, respectively while Manglicmot crushed KT Nieva ,6-3, Michael Cua, 6-4 , and Christian Bajaro ,6-2.

Other cue artists make it to the knock out phase via back door in this weeklong event supported by sportsman/businessman Aristeo "Putch" Puyat of Puyat Sports, Ryotaro Horiuchi of Navigator Japan, James Lu of Dubshop, Esteban Robles of Alfa and Mr. Hasnat of Knight Shot UAE are Cua, Bajaro, Cesar Felix and Larry Lim.

Winner will fly to Japan in an all-expenses paid trip to compete in the Japan Tournamentin this Games and Amusements Board (GAB) sanctioned tournament that offers a total pot prize of P150,000 to the winners according to DMC Entertainment and Production management top honcho Jesse Gonzales Cambosa Sr., who is also the director of the Billiards Sports Confederation of the Philippines (BSCP) under the leadership of Aristeo “Putch” Puyat.

Tournament Director was Allan Soliman assisted by Charles Tanasas.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Carlo Biado wins Predator Puerto Rico Open 10 Ball and US$25,000 top prize
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---Carlo Biado of the Philippines has won the lucrative Medalla Light Puerto Rico Open, the last leg of the world 10-ball ranking Pro Billiards Series and the hefty purse that comes with it after vanquishing Daniel Maciol of Poland 2-0 (4-1,4-3) in the final held at Puerto Rico Convention Center on Saturday.

With his latest feat, the Filipino World champion take the title and $25,000 prize money.

Biado swept all his nine matches to complete domination of the four-day tournament.

The former tee boy and caddie at Villamor Golf Club routed Bart Czapala of Poland, 2-0; Japanese Yukio Akagariyama, 2-0; and German Ralf Souquet, 2-1 in the eliminations.

He started the knockout round with a 2-0 result over teammate Johann Chua before beating Taiwanese Ko Ping Chung, 2-1 in the Last 16.

The La Union native Biado continued his winning run after defeating 2021 World 10-Ball champion Eklent Kaci of Albania, 2-1 in the quarterfinals and Venezuelan Jesus Atencio, 2-1 in the semis.

This is Biado's first individual title in the Predator Pro Billiards Series this season which he added to the World team crown he bagged alongside Johann Chua and Rubilen Amit last September.

Biado's win came just after fellow national team member Chezka Centeno finished runner-up in the women's side after bowing to Taiwanese Tzu Chein Wei, 0-2 in the final.

Biado, Chua and other Filipino cue artists will end their season starting tomorrow in the Puerto Rico World 8-Ball.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Caloocan City hosts P212,000 10-Ball Open at Cocoy's Billiard Hall
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---CALOOCAN City will be seeing pool action from the country’s top players at the Esquillo Cup dubbed as Glory Lumber Year of the Rabbit 10-Ball Open Billiards Tournament to be held on January 20 to 22, 2023.
The venue of the three day tournament (January 20, 21 and 22, 2023) at the famous Cocoy's Biliard Hall, Gracepark, Caloocan City.

Leading the strong list of competitors are Carlo Biado, Roland Garcia, Antonio Lining, Rodrigo Geronimo, Jericho Bañares, Anton Raga, Jonas Magpantay and Romeo Silvano.

Players coming from all over the country hail from Metro Manila, Laguna, Bulacan, Cavite, Pangasinan, Mindoro, Iloilo, Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and other cities will also compete for the guaranteed prize totaling P212,000.

The champion getting the lion share of P120,000 plus trophy while the runner-up place will receive P40,000 plus trophy.

Third to Fourth Places will get P10,000 each, Fifth to 8th Places will bring home P4,000 each while 9th to 16th Places will pocket P2,000 each.

The event is presented by Tournament Promoter Mr. Roel Esquillo, supported by Glory Lumber, M.D.C. and Mr. Clive Dee in cooperation with the City of Caloocan, Cocoy's Biliard Hall and CVC Billiard Hall and sanctioned by the Games and Amusement Board.

Esquillo said the meet aims to produce the new batch of Filipino cue artists who will represent and give honor to the country in various international meets, the way the likes of Reyes and Co. did in the past.

"It is my deepest desire that Esquillo Cup dubbed as Glory Lumber Year of the Rabbit 10-Ball Open Billiards Tournament will not just bring joy and entertainment, but also dignity and honor to us all.” said Esquillo, who won numerous in Japan Tournament.

“Billiards enthusiasts have this opportunity to watch the game of professional pool, to see multi-awarded players, and get to know the next generation of athletes who are making a name in the world of pool,” he added.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Reyes, Garcia, Gonzales advance in KO stage of 2nd Olongapo City Open 10 ball tour
By Marlon Bernardino

Olongapo City---Efren “Bata” Reyes, Roland “Kabuto” Garcia and Patrick Gonzales scored decisive wins against their respective opponents to advance to the knockout stage of the 2nd Olongapo City Open 10 ball tournament at the YBC,Hotel Casino Filipino, Olongapo City Sunday night.


Reyes, known as “The Magician” in pool circuit, outplayed Kelly Farrer, 7-2, and Reynaldo Alinal, 7-3, Garcia dismantled Ron Paragatos, 7-1, and Orlyn Biteranta, 7-2, while Gonzales who took a bye in the first round then edged Arvi Tanega, 7-6.

With the win, Reyes, Garcia, Gonzales barged into the knock stage of the competition organized by Engr. Rahni Rubiano, assisted by Garcia and Bong Nicdao in cooperation with PAGCOR, which offers P200,000 to the champion.

Following their steps were Dean Mark Castro, AJ Malonzo, Jolo Aspuria and Ronel Nalaunan.

“Pangalawang pagkakataon na itong ganitong event sa pakikipagtulungan at suporta ng PAGCOR na layuning makatuklas ng future world champion,” said Engr. Rubiano.

Other notable players who participated in this 10 ball tournament are Ronato “Volcano” Alcano, Dennis “Robocop” Orcollo, Jeffrey “The Bull” De Luna, Johann “The Bad Koi” Chua and Jonas “The Silent Killer” Magpantay.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Photo shows Efren “Bata” Reyes playing chess against Ronato “Volcano” Alcano, the friendly chess match of both former WPA 9 ball and WPA 8 ball winner. Looking on National Master and Dr. Gefer Imbuido. (Marlon Bernardino)

"Bata" complete the dramatic come-from-behind victory
by Marlon Bernardino

OLONGAPO CITY---Former world champion Efren "Bata" Reyes rallied past Renemar "Revo" David, 9-8, Monday night in their Round of 32 duels of the ongoing 2nd Olongapo City Open 10-ball tournament at the Hotel Casino Filipino, Olongapo City here.

Making the most out of the alternate-breaks format, Reyes prevailed in the last two racks to complete the dramatic come-from-behind victory.

Reyes’ victory reached the round 16 of the competition organized by Engr. Rahni Rubiano and assisted by Roland Garcia and Bong Nicdao in cooperation with PAGCOR.

The Filipino sports legend then mustered all his might and showed superb mental and physical stamina in the round of 32 matches despite trailing 1-7 with David to advance in the tournament that offers P200,000 to the champion.

"I am nervous at the start, but there is always hope despite the alternate-breaks format,” said Reyes, the 1999 WPA World Nine-ball champion and 2004 WPA World Eight-ball champion.

A dry break in the 14th frame allowed Reyes to tie the game at 7 all. However, David took the 15th rack to reach the hill.

“I got an early lead. 1-7 but due to the dry breaks I ran out-of-luck and he (Efren Reyes) was able to recover in the 14th racks ” said David, a 2007 Sydney, Australia WPA World Junior of Pool quarter finalist.

“It was such an honor to play with the man who is deep in such a prestigious event. Thank you for yet another great match and memory champ (Efren Reyes),” he added.

Still playing as of press time (Tuesday night) for the Round of 32 are Denis Orcollo vs Jemar Selma, Roland Garcia vs Horace Angor, Carlo BIado vs. Resty Labastida, Johann Chua vs Reynaldo Alingal, James Aranas vs John Vincent Vicedo, Jeffrey de Luna vs Dean Mark Castronil, and AJ Malonzo vs Marvin Glinogo.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Johann Chua nips Dennis Orcullo to reach 2nd Olongapo 10-Ball quarters
by Marlon Bernardino

Quarter Finals:

Jayce Garcia vs Dean Mark Castronuevo

Jonald Galve vs Carlo Biado

Johann Chua vs Efren Reyes

James Aranas vs Jolo Aspuria

OLONGAPO CITY-- Johann "Bad Koi" Chua advanced to the quarterfinals of the 2nd Olongapo City Open 10-ball tournament with a thrilling 9-7 win over Dennis Orcullo on Tuesday at the Hotel Casino Filipino, Olongapo City.

Chua won the final rack after a dry break and overcame a series of safeties to earn a trip to the final eight to be played on Wednesday. The championship is also set for later that day.

Chua will take on Efren "Bata" Reyes, who scored a 9-2 win over Romeo Gutierez.

Asked about his chances of another championship run, Chua replied. "Of course, I want to win the championship again. But as you can see from the match today, it takes a combination of skill and luck to keep winning. Hopefully, I can sustain this momentum and at the same time get the lucky breaks I need whenever I'm in a tough spot." said Chua, who won the inauguration of the 10-ball tournament last December, organized by Engr. Rahni Rubiano and assisted by Roland Garcia and Bong Nicdao.

Another round of 16 matches saw Jayce Garcia dismantle Greg Dira, 9-6, Dean Mark Castronuevo nip Ronel Nalaunan, 9-8, Jonald Galve subdue Horace Angor, 9-5, Carlo Biado bested AJ Malonzo, 9-2, James Aranas trounced Marvin Assis, 9-6, and Jolo Aspuria walloped Patrick Gonzales, 9-5.

The Pagcor-backed tournament offers P200,000 to the champion.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Jonald Galve edges James Aranas to rule 2nd Olongapo City Open 10-ball tournament
by Marlon Bernardino

OLONGAPO CITY---Jonald Galve of Surigao del Norte reigned supreme in the 2nd Olongapo City Open 10-ball tournament after beating James Aranas of General Trias City, Cavite on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at the Hotel Casino Filipino in Olongapo City.

Galve drew an 11-10 victory in their race-to-eleven series, alternate breaks format to take home the P200,000 top purse while Aranas, will settle for the runner-up purse of P100,000.

Tied at 10-all, the 34-year-old Galve went on 2 balls and 10 balls combinations to finish off.

On the road to finals, Galve defeated Horace Angor, 9-5, in the round of 16, Carlo Biado, 10-6, in the quarterfinals, and Dean Mark Castronuevo,11-9, in the semifinals to arrange a titular showdown with Aranas, who brought down Marvin Assis, 9-3, Jolo Aspura, 10-4, and Efren "Bata" Reyes, 11-2, respectively.

Reyes eliminated last year's champion, Johann Chua, 10-6, in the quarterfinals while Chua ousted Dennis Orcollo, 9-7, in the round of 16.

"I am very happy with my victory tonight because almost all world-class billiards players from the Philippines is here. I would like to thank Jeffrey de Luna for giving me support in my stint here." said the 34 years old Galve.

It shall be recalled that Chua edged Aranas, 11-10, in the last year's inauguration 10 ball event.

This PAGCOR-backed P420,000 total pot tournament, organized by Engr. Rahni Rubiano and assisted by Roland Garcia and Bong Nicdao.

-Marlon Bernardino-

PH pool masters to join 9-ball tourney in Vietnam
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---The Marboys cue artists squad has been formed to compete in the Peri 9 Ball Open Championship slated October 5-9 and the Hanoi Open Pool Championship to be held on October 10-15 at the Hanoi Indoor Games Gymnasium in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Backed up by Mr. JR Velasco and Mr. Marvin Paringit of Marboys Billiards Club, the team is composed of Jefrey Roda, Bernie Regalario and Marvin Asis.

“Time and time again, our cue athletes have proven their excellence and ability to win medals in cue sports, like in the recent World Cup of Pool in Europe. We want to build on that momentum and further strengthen men’s participation through this event,” said Mr. JR Velasco, top honcho of the famous Marboys Billiards Club.

"We are happy to inform you that we were able to secure a professional contract from Peri Cues for Bernie Regalario for 3 years while Marvin Asis signed with Cueless and Omin Cues along with James Aranas for five years." added Mr. Velasco.

The 23 years old Roda, who hails from Lianga, Surigao del Sur made headlines winning the silver medal in the World Junior of Pool in Shanghai, China, in 2014 and gold medal in the Asian Junior of Pool in Taipei, Taiwan in 2015.

It shall be recalled that Roda displayed steely nerves but wilted on the stretch where it mattered most and settled for the silver medal in the 2019 International Billiards & Snooker Federation World Men’s Championships in November 2018, in Antalya, Turkey.

" I hope to do well in this event in Hanoi, Vietnam." said Roda.
On the part of 18 years old Regalario, the pride of Paranaque City won the Predator-Volturi 9-Ball Cup 2020 tournament held at the AMF-Puyat Makati Cinema Square, Makati City.

" I will do my very best for the flag and the country," said Regalario, much known as Li'l Prince of Philippine Pool.

The 23 years old Asis from Imus, Cavite, meanwhile defeated former World 8 ball and World 9 ball Champion Efren "Bata" Reyes in a series of match-ups.

"I was happy to accept this invitation because this will give me the chance to compete in a World Stage event," said Asis, who has the moniker "Shadow Assassin''.

James Aranas from General Trias City, Cavite will also compete in Vietnam backed up by Marboys Billiards Club.

Aranas, much known "Dodong Diamond" teaming up with Johann Chua earned the country a record fourth World Cup of Pool crown following an 11-7 win over Germany’s Joshua Filler and Moritz Neuhausen in the finale in Lugo, Spain last July 3.

Meanwhile, the triumvirate (Roda, Regalario and Asis) is also scheduled to compete in Singapore on November 29 to December 4.
The team will leave Manila on October 1.

Other notable cue artists playing in the Marboys Billiard Club in Paranaque City are Carlo Biado, Anton Raga, Rubilen Amit, Chezca Centeno, among others.

-Marlon Bernardino-

Photo shows from left
Jefrey Roda, Marvin Asis and Bernie Regalario.
Photo shows from left
Marvin Paringit, Marvin Asis, Bernie Regalario, Jefrey Roda and JR Velasco.
Photo shows from left
Jefrey Roda, Marvin Asis and Bernie Regalario.

Baseth Mocaibat edges Emmanuel Delgado to rule 2023 IPHA Joy Hey International Open dubbed as The Philippine Stop
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---Baseth "Kingpin" Mocaibat of Dasmariñas City, Cavite reigned supreme in the 2023 IPHA Joy Hey International Open dubbed as The Philippine Stop after beating Emmanuel "Moymoy" Delgado of Quezon City on Friday, December 8, 2023 at the A1 Texas billiard club, Ayala Malls Manila Bay (formerly Ayala Malls Bay Area), Parañaque City.

Mocaibat drew an 11-10 victory in their race-to-thirteen series, two hours clock time to take home the US$15,000 top purse while Delgado, will settle for the runner-up purse of US$7,000.

Mocaibat took an early 3-0 lead before Delgado tied the game. However, Mocaibat took control of the entire game with a 10-5 lead. Mocaibat used time to finish off despite Delgado closing the match at 11-10 but the required time was ended.

" This is a race-to-thirteen series but has two hours clock time. I know na mauubusan ng oras ang laro at mananalo ako sa kabila ng humahabol pa sya." explained by the 35 years old Mocaibat about the unique format of the competition.

“I am very happy with my victory tonight because almost all world-class billiards players from the Philippines are here," he added.

On the road to finals, Mocaibat defeated Deo Mark, 7-3, in the round of 16, Jeffrey de Luna, 6-5, in the quarterfinals, and Michael Hill, 10-9, in the semifinals to arrange a titular showdown with Delgado, who brought down Rommel Marmon, 9-4, Johann Chua, 9-8, and Ho So Phat, 11-2, respectively.

This US$50,000 total pot tournament, organized by Mr. Charles Zhang and assisted by DMC top honcho Jesse Gonzales Cambosa Sr., and Mr. Allan Soliman.

No less than World Champion Efren "Bata" Reyes and Chief CIDG Manila District Field Unit PLT Colonel Jose Joey Arandia led the closing rites that includes Cambosa Sr., Soliman and Zhang.

-Marlon Bernardino-


Photograph from left: DMC top honcho Jesse Gonzales Cambosa Sr., Baseth "Kingpin" Mocaibat, World Champion Efren "Bata" Reyes and Chief CIDG Manila District Field Unit PLT Colonel Jose Joey Arandia in a photo during the awarding ceremony of the 2023 IPHA Joy Hey International Open dubbed as The Philippine Stop was held at the A1 Texas billiard club, Ayala Malls Manila Bay (formerly Ayala Malls Bay Area), Parañaque City on Friday, December 8, 2023.


Photograph shows: Baseth "Kingpin" Mocaibat, Champion

PH pool masters to join 9-ball tourney in Taiwan
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---The Marboys cue artists squad has been formed to compete in the 2nd Universal Chinese Taipei 9-Ball Open Pool Championship to be held on January 10-12 at the Hulk Billiards Flagship Hall in Ximending, Taipei , Taiwan.

Backed up by Mr. JR Velasco and Mr. Marvin Paringit, the team is composed of Johann Chua, James Aranas, Anton Raga, Jeffrey Ignacio, Kyle Amoroto, Marvin Asis, Jefrey Roda and Bernie Regalario.

Marboys Billiards Club is sponsored by Cuelees, Omin Cues, Andy Premier, How Tips and latest addition Turning Point Chalk.

"Our Filipino cue athletes have proven their excellence and ability to win medals in cue sports, like in the World Cup of Pool in Europe. We want to build on that momentum and further strengthen men’s participation through this event,” said Mr. JR Velasco, top honcho of the famous Marboys Billiards Club.

The champion will win a trophy and a cash prize of US10,000, while the runner-up will receive US5,000 and a trophy as the third and fourth placers will each pocket US 2,500 and trophies.

Fifth to eight will earn US1,000, 9th to 16th US500, 17th to 32nd US250 and 33th to 48th US125.

"We hope to do well in this prestigious event (2nd Universal Chinese Taipei 9-Ball Open Pool Championship) , said Chua,who teaming up with Aranas earned the country a record fourth World Cup of Pool crown following an 11-7 win over Germany’s Joshua Filler and Moritz Neuhausen in the finale in Lugo, Spain last July 3.

The team will leave Manila on January 9.

-Marlon Bernardino-




Photo shows from left:
Johann Chua, Marvin Asis, James Aranas, Bernie Regalario, Kyle Amoroto, Anthony Raga and Jefrey Roda

PH pool masters to join 9-ball tourney in Taiwan
by Marlon Bernardino

MANILA---The Marboys cue artists squad has been formed to compete in the 2nd Universal Chinese Taipei 9-Ball Open Pool Championship to be held on January 10-12 at the Hulk Billiards Flagship Hall in Ximending, Taipei , Taiwan.

Backed up by Mr. JR Velasco and Mr. Marvin Paringit, the team is composed of Johann Chua, James Aranas, Anton Raga, Jeffrey Ignacio, Kyle Amoroto, Marvin Asis, Jefrey Roda and Bernie Regalario.

Marboys Billiards Club is sponsored by Cuelees, Omin Cues, Andy Premier, How Tips and latest addition Turning Point Chalk.

"Our Filipino cue athletes have proven their excellence and ability to win medals in cue sports, like in the World Cup of Pool in Europe. We want to build on that momentum and further strengthen men’s participation through this event,” said Mr. JR Velasco, top honcho of the famous Marboys Billiards Club.

The champion will win a trophy and a cash prize of US10,000, while the runner-up will receive US5,000 and a trophy as the third and fourth placers will each pocket US 2,500 and trophies.

Fifth to eight will earn US1,000, 9th to 16th US500, 17th to 32nd US250 and 33th to 48th US125.

"We hope to do well in this prestigious event (2nd Universal Chinese Taipei 9-Ball Open Pool Championship) , said Chua,who teaming up with Aranas earned the country a record fourth World Cup of Pool crown following an 11-7 win over Germany’s Joshua Filler and Moritz Neuhausen in the finale in Lugo, Spain last July 3.

The team will leave Manila on January 9.

-Marlon Bernardino-




Photo shows from left:
Johann Chua, Marvin Asis, James Aranas, Bernie Regalario, Kyle Amoroto, Anthony Raga and Jefrey Roda