THE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) defended its title by routing 10th Infantry Division (ID), 105-89, in Game 2 of the best-of-three finals of AFP-PNP Sports Festival basketball tournament that closed recently at the Genesis 88 Gym along Eco West Drive in Quimpo Boulevard, Matina.
The four-peat champions Firemen, coached by Kristian Lord Coquilla, also defeated 10th ID, 102-81, in Game 1.
Coquilla, in a Facebook chat with SunStar Davao, was thankful that they retained their crown.
“I still couldn't believe that we were able to pull it off and win the fourth title,” he said, adding he only thought of winning a grand slam and nothing more.
The multi-titled coach recalled that they made some adjustments from their first game and doubled their efforts on defense.
“Nag-focus lang kami sa defense kaya natambakan sila (We focused only in our defense that’s why we were able to block them) every quarter,” Coquilla said.
He also lauded his players Jan Rhey Lumogda, Russell Bayon-on, Robert Paul Namuag, Raphael Neri and Donald Concepcion who led the charge for the team’s victory.
The BFP team will share its blessings to different foundations.
“We visited the House of Hope last week and we will continue to reach out to kids in need,” he added.
The Firemen will resume training after the holidays to prepare for their title-defense in the Apollo C. Quiboloy Invitational Basketball Tournament wherein they will be also defending their title.
BFP was also bannered by Earl Angsinco, Hulio Roberto Dalisay, Aldrin Manguhig, Anthony Laurence Agustin, Emmanuelle Almasa, Brian Sanchez and Enzo Weill with Fibon Maligro as assistant coach.
Meanwhile, the City Mayor's Office (CMO) edged Police Regional Office-Davao Region, 83-77, to place third in the cagefest presented by the CMO through the Sports Development Division of the City Mayor's Office and sanctioned by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas Davao Region.