TAIPEI—Team Philippines battled past a sharpshooting Mongolian squad, 103-92, to claim the gold medal in the men’s 45UP basketball tournament at the World Masters Games.
Led by head coach Arlene Rodriguez, the Filipinos relied on their signature run-and-gun style and the all-around skillset of their seasoned roster to outlast Mongolia in what was effectively the championship match for the 45UP category.
Former professional players Gilbert Malabanan and Roger Yap spearheaded the effort. Malabanan showcased his all-around savvy, while Yap provided leadership and control on offense.
MPBL standout Marlon Basco dominated the paint, while Rendel Dela Rea and Paul Reguera matched Mongolia’s long-range firepower. Mel David contributed tirelessly on both ends, while Oliver Agapito and Estong Ballesteros brought toughness and grit to the defensive end.
Other members of the team, Ricky Ricafuente, Arvin Aguila and Edwin Manabat played their roles well, while Supreme Court justice Midas Marquez had to skip the game and went back to Manila in the morning due to a pressing commitment in Manila.
“Everyone contributed, and we’re proud to have had this opportunity to represent our country once again,” said Coach Rodriguez.
While the game was technically a semifinal matchup between the 45 to 55-year-old divisions, the contest against Mongolia, whom the Philippines had previously defeated, was regarded as the gold-medal match for the 45UP category.
The Philippines is still set to face Lithuania, a contender in the 55UP division, on Friday in what will be a formality ahead of the gold-medal awarding ceremony.
Mongolia started strong, with their long-range shooting giving them an early edge. However, the Filipinos’ relentless pace and transition offense took control, putting them ahead 55–42 by halftime.
Despite holding a narrow 98–92 lead with two minutes remaining, the game remained tightly contested. A crucial basket underneath by Basco extended the margin to 100–92 with 1:32 left on the clock. Following a timeout, Yap drove decisively to the basket to add insurance, effectively sealing the win.
“It was a challenging journey putting this team together,” said team manager Reynaldo Punongbayan. “But this gold medal is the result of that hard work. I’m sure everyone on this team is proud to have carried the Philippine flag in the World Masters—what many consider the Olympics for senior athletes.”
