Dynastic Dreamers: Philippines’ BFA East Asia Cup 5-peat
A chance to face world champions Japan along with other Asian powerhouses hung in the balance in the 2024 BFA XIV East Asia Cup. The Nationals felt very comfortable as their title defense was held in Clark, Pampanga. This campaign started with a 13-1 beatdown of Indonesia and was capped off by an insane 9-2 route of Hong Kong in the championship game.
This massive sweep of the 2024 edition marked the fifth consecutive win of the Nationals and their seventh championship overall.
What stood out for the Philippines?
Steve Manaig notched two home runs in the tournament. One of which came in the eighth inning to shut the door against Hong Kong in the gold medal match — the Nationals got three runs off it. Meanwhile, John Reymond Vargas also scattered two big homers throughout the Philippines’ undefeated run to the title.
Mark Beronilla also kept the Nationals in dominant shape en route to the championship. Against Hong Kong, he recorded 2 RBIs and three hits.
Overall, the Philippines played with a good running strategy. However, there is still a lot to be desired with the defense. For example, they sank early to Thailand with a 4-0 deficit in the Super Round before Agon De Vera, Clarence Caasalan, Harper Sy, and Kyle Soberano had to deliver hit-after-hit for a narrow 9-5 victory.
What’s next for the Nationals?
Well, they are now just awaiting their groupings for the Asian championships along with the results of the West Asia tournament.. So far, Japan, Chinese Taipei, China, and South Korea are in.
If it were up to Philippine Amateur Baseball President Chito Loyzaga, the team already has a desired grouping. “The group where we will land in the Asian championships is critical. If you ask me, I prefer us to be grouped with China, which will give us a chance,” he said, via June Navarro of The Philippine Inquirer.
