Cebu Eastern College Dragons Secure Historic Grand Slam in Cesafi 12-Under Basketball
The Cebu Eastern College (CEC) Dragons have achieved a remarkable feat by clinching the grand slam in the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (Cesafi) 12-under basketball tournament. This victory came after a decisive win over the Cebu Institute of Technology-University (CIT-U) Baby Wildcats, with a final score of 88-42, in Game 2 of the best-of-three finals held at the Cebu Coliseum on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Dominant Performance and MVP Honors
Under the guidance of coach Mark Anthony Tallo, the CEC Dragons demonstrated exceptional skill and teamwork, quickly pulling away from their opponents with a powerful rally. By the end of the first half, they had built a commanding lead of 50-29, setting the stage for their eventual triumph. Francis Jeevan Macalisang played a pivotal role in this victory, scoring 13 points and earning the prestigious title of Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the six-team competition.
Unbeaten Streak and Historical Achievement
Beyond the grand slam title, the Dragons have etched their name in Cesafi history by maintaining the longest winning streak in their division. Since the division was launched in 2023, CEC has not suffered a single defeat, showcasing their dominance and consistency in youth basketball. This unbeaten record highlights the team's dedication and the effective coaching strategies employed throughout the seasons.
Celebrating Young Talent and Team Spirit
The celebration of this victory was made even more special by the inclusion of the youngest Cesario player, 7-year-old MJ Tallo, who was seen holding a trophy in the front row during the team's joyous moment. This underscores the Dragons' commitment to nurturing young talent from an early age. Joining Macalisang in the Mythical Five are other standout players: Kirby Collado from Ateneo, Nicolai Cabanero from USC, Kent Thor from CIT-U, and Sheriff Samad from CEC, all of whom contributed to the competitive spirit of the tournament.
This grand slam win not only cements the CEC Dragons' legacy in Cesafi basketball but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring young athletes across Cebu and beyond.
