Migs Pascual urged Sarangani ACT10 to keep its head up as it enters the final stretch of the 2026 MPBL Season.
In a roller-coaster week that saw the Marlins go 2-1 to improve to 3-14, Sarangani breathed new life into its playoff hopes, climbing to 10th place in the MPBL South Division standings.
The turnaround came after a difficult stretch. Entering their July 1 matchup against Negros, the Marlins were mired in a 12-game losing streak.
Despite the adversity, Pascual said it was up to him and the team’s veterans to keep everyone’s spirits high.
“Of course, the team was down during that stretch. But as one of the veterans, it’s our job to keep everyone’s morale up. It all starts in practice,” he said.
“We just kept showing up every day, working hard, reminding each other to stay together because we knew things would eventually turn around.”
Pascual did the yeoman’s work in the breakthrough victory over the Hacienderos. He finished with three rebounds and three assists while making countless hustle plays that helped Sarangani escape with a 108-102 win.
The Marlins were unable to build on that momentum in their next outing, falling 110-76 to powerhouse San Juan.
Still, Pascual turned in one of his better offensive performances of the season, tallying 12 points, four assists, and three rebounds.
The young guard said that even in defeat, the game helped boost his confidence.
“Even though we lost, that game gave me confidence,” he admitted.
“I was able to see that I could contribute more offensively while still doing the little things for the team. I just want to stay aggressive and be ready whenever my number is called.”
Sarangani bounced back on July 8 with another statement victory, defeating Parañaque, 84-74, to further strengthen its late-season push.
The Marlins now have eight games remaining in the elimination round, with their postseason aspirations still within reach.
For Pascual, the mindset is simple: keep pushing until the very end.
“We still have eight games left, so we’re not thinking too far ahead. We just have to keep fighting every game and continue building on what we’ve started,” said the 25-year-old combo guard.
“As for me, I’ll do whatever the team needs — whether it’s scoring, defending, making plays, or bringing energy. I’ll do everything I can to help us keep this run going.”
