Defending men’s champions University of Santo Tomas made an emphatic statement on the opening day of the UAAP Season 87 Beach Volleyball Tournament at the Sands SM By The Bay.
Reigning MVP Alche Gupiteo teamed up with Dominique Gabito to deliver back-to-back victories, defeating Far Eastern University’s Amet Bituin and Reynan Postorioso, 21-14, 21-9, before dismantling De La Salle University’s Andre Espejo and Von Marata, 21-5, 21-10.
National University also started strong, with Alex Iraya and inaugural boys’ beach volleyball MVP Sky Gemarino posting two wins.
The Bulldogs dominated Ateneo de Manila University’s JM Yu and Amil Pacinio, 21-14, 21-14, and later overpowered the University of the Philippines tandem of Angelo Lipata and Christian Pitogo, 21-10, 21-15.
Adamson University registered its first victory in thrilling fashion.
Marc Paulino and Willie Hiltones edged La Salle’s Espejo and Marata in a nail-biting match, 22-20, 27-25, showcasing grit and composure in clutch moments.
Meanwhile, UP’s Lipata and Pitogo bounced back from their afternoon loss with a morning triumph over the University of the East duo Allen Buensalida and Julian Celestial, 21-8, 20-22, 15-9.
The action continues on Saturday, with matches starting at 7 a.m. (TJ)
