PASSI CITY, Iloilo - Team Khalifa and RKF Industrial and Installation Services will face off in the Ilonggo Basketball League: Battle of Champions finals after defeating their respective rivals at the Passi City Arena on Friday, May 2, 2025.
Khalifa advanced to the championship round after nipping Double 8, 80-79, in the semifinals.
Khalifa, led by Den Orgong, Jiesel Tarrosa, Ken Sanchez, and Kobe Bryant Caballero, started strong and quickly built an early lead of over 10 points.
However, the game’s momentum shifted when Team Double 8, led by Alfred Sedillo, Jafet Claridad, and Franz Diaz, launched a series of rallies to close the gap.
Khalifa and Double 8 then traded baskets, creating a tense and exciting matchup.
In the final seconds, Double 8 had a chance to snatch the victory but failed in its final attempt.
RKF, on the other hand, took a different route, easily defeating Oking Merchandise, 107-90.
After a 57-51 lead in the first half, RKF ignited a 26-16 rally in the third quarter to stretch its advantage and never looked back to secure the win.
Ken Alarcon Tulipas, who has been quiet in previous games, surprised everyone with a 17-point performance to lead RKF.
Wilmer Dalumpines and Johnrey Sumido supported him in the scoring with 16 and 15 points, respectively.
For the losing side, John Lester Samones topscored with 20 points, while Miguel Sasuma chalked up 19 notches.
The championship game will be held Sunday, April 4, at 8 pm.
Oking Merchandise and Double 8 will battle for third place. / JBM