San jose del monte: University of the Philippines (UP) advanced to the championship round for the first time in a decade by defeating University of the East, 3-2, in the UAAP Season 88 men's tennis tournament at Colegio San Agustin in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

According to Philippines News Agency, UP's Raymund Goco and Andrei Jarata secured the decisive victory against Kian Sanchez and Mark Dave Palanas, 6-3, 6-2, in the second doubles match. Goco expressed satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of his partnership with Jarata, which he credited for their synchronized performance. Loucas Fernandez and Miguel Iglupas set the pace for UP with dominant victories against their respective opponents, Gerald Gemida and Marc Suson, bringing the Fighting Maroons to an early 2-0 lead.

The University of the East Red Warriors responded with Kent Morales and Allyson Cabanilla defeating Heinz Carbonilla and Stephen Catipon, 6-2, 6-2. JB Aguilar also secured a win over Lance Fernandez, 6-3, 5-7, 6-2, leveling the match at 2-all before UP clinched the final point.

In other tournament news, defending champion National University (NU) defeated University of Santo Tomas, 3-0, and will face the Male Tennisters for the second finals berth. NU's Angil Balaoing and Isaac Lim overcame Al Zayeed Baid and Evan Bacalso in a commanding 6-2, 6-2 victory. Balaoing noted the increased pressure this season compared to the previous year, while Lim highlighted the team's emphasis on maintaining morale and teamwork. Andrei Padao and Alexis Acabo also contributed to the Bulldogs' win with victories over their respective opponents.

The results set the stage for an intense finals showdown as UP prepares to compete for the championship after a ten-year absence from the finals.