MANILA – Anton “The Dragon” Raga ruled the Sharks Billiards Association (SBA) Philippine Open on Sunday night, April 27, 2025, at the Sharks Arena and Sports Bar along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City.
The 28-year-old Cebuano from Talisay City defeated Jerico “Panday” Bañares, 13-7, in the race-to-13 championship duel of the event, showcasing the best talent among Filipino cue artists.
Raga displayed elite precision, grit and nerves of steel as he defeated Bañares, who played bravely but fell short in the final racks.
“I want to dedicate my victory to my family, my friends, my supporters and God,”Raga said.
SBA founder and commissioner Hadley Mariano described this as a testament to the rising standard of Philippine billiards.
“This isn’t just a tournament win -- it’s a statement. The Philippine Open was designed to raise the bar and discover the next generation of champions, and tonight, we witnessed that vision come to life,” he said.
Raga earned P400,000 in cash, while Bañares settled for P150,000. Both received trophies.
Additional cash prizes were awarded as follows: P75,000 for third and fourth placers; P20,000 for fifth to eighth; P7,500 for ninth to 16th; P4,000 for 17th to 32nd; and P3,000 for 33rd to 64th finishers. / PNA