CEC Dragons Seal Unbeaten Run in Cesafi 12-Under Elimination Round
The Cebu Eastern College (CEC) Dragons, led by head coach Mark Anthony Tallo and assistant Rodmark del Rosario, showcased their championship pedigree with a commanding performance in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) 12-Under tournament. In a game held at the University of the Visayas gym on Sanciangko Street, Cebu City, on Sunday, January 25, 2026, the defending champions overwhelmed the Cebu Schools of San Carlos (CSC) Baby Warriors with a decisive 73–31 victory.
Dominant Finish to the Elimination Phase
This emphatic win allowed the CEC Dragons to conclude the elimination round with a perfect 5–0 record, solidifying their position at the top of the team standings. As a result, they have earned a twice-to-beat advantage in the upcoming semifinals, providing them with a significant edge as they aim to defend their title. The Dragons' unbeaten streak highlights their consistency and skill in this youth basketball competition.
Semifinal Matchups Set
In the semifinals, the CEC Dragons are set to face the CSC Baby Warriors once again, despite the latter finishing the eliminations with a 2–3 record. This rematch offers the Baby Warriors a chance for redemption, but they will have to overcome the Dragons' formidable form and the twice-to-beat disadvantage. The semifinal playoff is scheduled for a later date, adding anticipation to this high-stakes encounter.
Meanwhile, the other semifinal pairing will feature the Sacred Heart School–Ateneo de Cebu Magis Eaglets against the Cebu Institute of Technology–University (CIT-U) Baby Wildcats. Both teams ended the elimination round with identical 4–1 records, but the Eaglets secured the No. 2 seed and the twice-to-beat incentive based on the head-to-head rule, which favors the team that won their previous matchup. This sets the stage for an intense battle as both squads vie for a spot in the finals.
The Cesafi 12-Under tournament continues to be a platform for young athletes in Cebu to display their talents, with the CEC Dragons leading the charge as they pursue another championship victory.
