The Philippines secured a place in the promotional playoffs of the 2025 Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group IV after completing its third consecutive 3-0 sweep in pool play on Friday at the National Tennis Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Arthur Craig Pantino jumpstarted the Nationals’ campaign against Qatar, helping build momentum in a crucial one-off tie that would determine which teams advance to next year’s Group III tournament.
The Philippines will face either Malaysia or Kyrgyzstan in a do-or-die playoff on Saturday. As of press time, the two squads were still battling for the top seed in the other pool, with host Malaysia holding a 1-0 lead.
Pantino, a 23-year-old Davis Cup rookie, made an immediate impact by grinding out a 7-6(5), 6-3 victory over Mubarak Alharrasi in the first singles match.
AJ Lim then wasted no time clinching the tie in the second singles rubber — just as he did in the Philippines’ previous matchups against Pacific Oceania and Kuwait.
The former UAAP MVP cruised past Mossa Alharrasi with a dominant 6-1, 6-1 win to bring the country one step closer to a return to Group III.
The Philippines last played in Group III in 2006 before the likes of Cecil Mamiit and Treat Huey ignited a resurgence in the following years until the historic World Group Playoffs stint against Greece in 2021.
Veteran doubles specialist Francis Alcantara once again showcased his skill to close out the pool stage. This time, he teamed up with Jed Olivarez in a commanding 6-2, 6-0 win over Ghanim Al Silaziti and Issa Alharassi.
Despite playing with a different partner in each of his three matches in this tournament, Alcantara remained a reliable force. He previously paired with Ruben Gonzales against Pacific Oceania and partnered with Pantino against Kuwait.
The Philippines has yet to drop a single match in the week-long competition — sending a strong statement as it heads into the crucial playoff round.
