Manila: University of the Philippines stunned National University, 3-1, on Tuesday to reach the finals of the UAAP Season 88 men’s badminton tournament at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Malate, Manila. UP will face Ateneo, a 3-0 winner over De La Salle University, in the championship on Wednesday at 8 a.m. The battle for third place between NU and La Salle is also set at 8 a.m.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Fighting Maroons took a 2-0 lead after Jelo Albo defeated MJ Perez, 21-10, 21-9, and Kervin Llanes overcame Ben Dictado, 21-19, 21-15, in the first two singles matches. The Bulldogs responded in the first doubles match as Season 87 MVP Lanz Zafra and Perez triumphed over Mark Anthony Bernal and Albo, 21-16, 19-21, 21-17.

However, newcomers Arjay Lazareto and Ryan Mendoza secured UP’s place in the final after seven years by defeating John Benedict Gam and James Villarante, 19-21, 21-13, 21-19, in the second doubles match.

Meanwhile, Ateneo’s victory was anchored by Season 86 standout Lyrden Laborte, who clinched the first singles over Miguel Cuarte, 21-17, 21-16, and teamed up with Robby Ramos to win the doubles against Joshua Morada and Yuan Tan, 21-12, 19-21, 21-16. National junior standout JR Pandi also contributed to the Blue Eagles’ success by outplaying fellow rookie Lovic Javier, 21-14, 21-17, in the second singles match.