University of Perpetual Help Dalta System-Binan whipped San Pedro College of Business Administration, 75-48, while Asia Technological College subdued San Pablo College, 81-75, at the start of the Philippine University Basketball League-Pacquiao Youth Champs Trophy basketball championship at Umbria gym in Biñan, Laguna.
Four players, led by Sean Laban, scored in double figures for the Biñan-City based Saints of manager Steve Salazar, coach Vic Escudero and assistant coach Merlin Custodio.
Laban scattered 14 points for Perpetual Help, followed by Angelo Alanguilan (13 points), Angelo Rosales (12) and John Paulo Paras (11).
Earlier, Jayniel Ilac at Rickson Gerero joined hands to lead ATC to victory over San Pablo College.
Ilac and Gerero, who also play for Pateros in the Metro League Open basketball tournament of the MMDA, combined for 39 points for ATC.
Ilac scored 20 points, while Gerero, who also played for Diliman College in the UCBL and Fr. Martin Cup, added 19.
Basketball Association of the Philippines Region 4 head Leonardo “Ding” Andres made the ceremonial toss.
The top team in the Laguna leg of the Pacquiao’s Trophy will advance to the semis against the winners of three other legs.
The winner of the Pacquiao’s Youth Champs’ Trophy will earn the right to represent the country in the 10th Asian University Basketball Championship scheduled Nov. 18 in Sta, Rosa, Laguna.