By: Miguel Marco
After getting limited playing time with National University, LA Casinillo is finally starting to show his full potential with the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA.
During UAAP Season 86, the 6-foot guard from Silay City, Negros Occidental, totaled only 24 minutes across eight games — but that seems like a distant memory after his breakout performance on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, Casinillo erupted off the bench to score 13 points, including three triples, helping the Altas dismantle defending champion Mapua University Cardinals, 75-65, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
He was one of four Altas to reach double figures, a sign that the Altas are becoming a well-rounded offensive force.
“Sa past two games na yun, wala talaga akong shooting and all that. So adjustment na ginawa ko is every after game sa last two games, nag-shooting ako sa gabi. And then yun, praise God na it all paid off,” Casinillo said.
“Very happy ako ngayon na slowly but surely lumalabas na ulit yung laro ko, and hopefully, hopefully, it will continue.”
The win was also a morale booster for the Altas, who now sit atop the NCAA Season 101 Seniors Basketball Group A standings with a perfect 3-0 record.
“Oo, siyempre lahat, it boosted our confidence talaga and grabe yung paglift sa spirit namin yung panalo na yun. Kasi yun nga, defending champions sila. And yung game plan namin, it really worked,” he shared.
Despite the triumph, Casinillo knows the work is far from over. Perpetual will look to maintain its unbeaten run against the Arellano Chiefs in its next outing.
“Siyempre masaya kami ngayon knowing na we beat the reigning champions. Pero ano lang, celebrate kami now, but as soon as we get home sa dorm, we’re gonna lock in and focus on our next game against Arellano,” he said.
After a challenging season with NU, Casinillo has fully embraced his role with the Altas and expressed gratitude for the fresh start in the NCAA.
“Hindi ko naman siya masyadong iniisip. Ano lang, just very happy na I have another opportunity to showcase my talent here sa NCAA and very blessed na talaga,” he said.
