MANILA – John Lemuel Pastias delivered a career night as the Bacolod Tubo Slashers snapped out of their slump with a resounding 102-58 demolition of the Manila Batang Quiapo in the 2025 MPBL Season on Wednesday at the Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan, Laguna.
The 5-foot-11 former STI-West Negros University Mustangs gunner torched the nets with eight triples en route to 37 points, shooting an impressive 8-of-10 from long range and sinking all three of his free throws. His shooting clinic powered Bacolod to its fourth win in 25 outings (4-21), while handing Manila its 22nd loss in 25 games (3-22).
Pastias’ eruption was backed by fellow Negrenses Aldave Canoy and Mark Ray Malazarte, who chipped in 12 points each as they gear up for this weekend’s PBA Rookie Draft.
Manila’s lone bright spot was Bacolodnon Alfred Sedillo, who tallied a double-double of 10 points, 10 rebounds, three steals, and two assists.
In the nightcap, the powerhouse Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards showed no mercy in a 115-67 thrashing of the Sarangani Grippers. Fourteen of Nueva Ecija’s 15 players scored as they improved to 24-2, staying close behind North Division leader Abra (23-1) while keeping San Juan (22-2) at bay.
Jammer Jamito paced the balanced attack with 21 points and eight rebounds, followed by Will McAloney with 16 markers. Negrense JP Calvo flirted with a double-double with 12 points and nine assists, while Ilonggo Billy Ray Robles and Negrense John Byron Villarias contributed 10 points apiece.
The Grippers, now at 9-16, were led by Martin Gozum with 11 points, while Kyt Jimenez added 10 markers, six rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Ken Brillantes also finished with 10 points and six boards./PN
