Letran ousts San Beda in Boracay beach volley finals

MANILA, Philippines – Reigning NCAA champion Letran eliminated fellow Luzon qualifier San Beda with a hard-earned 22-16, 19-21, 15-8 triumph to stay in contention in the 13th Nestea Fit Beach Volley national finals in Boracay. The Letran pair of Erickson Joseph Ramos and Eden Canlas needed a win, just like San Beda, after absorbing a 21-17, 21-12 defeat against Visayas leg third place finisher University of San Jose-Recoletos in their first assignment early in the morning. Red Lions Leonel Evan Laraya and James Christian Lorca also suffered a defeat Thursday morning against defending champion Foundation University, 21-14, 21-18, and likewise needed a victory to stay in contention. But the Knights played steadier under strong winds and rain that hammered this holiday destination in the afternoon to keep their chance of playing in the semifinals alive. Semifinal berths both in the men’s and women’s divisions will be at stake Friday morning when action continues. The finals is scheduled in the afternoon after the celebrity showdown which will feature current GMA 7 stars. Celebrities who are expected to show their skills inside the sandcourts are Rhian Ramos, Iza Calzado, Alfred Vargas, Paolo Contis, Survivor Philippines Pinoy Sole Survivor JC Tiuseco and Survivor Philippines castaways Jace Flores, Kiko Rustia, Kaye Alipio, Nikki Dacullo, Rob Sy and Vern Domingo. – Perry Legaspi, GMANews.TV