STAR shuttlers retain NPC invitational crown

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine STAR blanked Manila Police District Team A, 3-0, to defend its title in the second National Press Club (NPC) Media Invitational Badminton championship at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Center over the weekend.

Rodolfo Gutierrez and Melody Villaceran displayed top form to topple Jake de Guzman and Mary Ann Santiago, 21-13, 21-15, in the mixed doubles to spark the STARmen’s romp in the tournament organized by the National Press Club and backed by the Philippine Sports Commission, Games and Amusement Board chairman Eric Buhain and the Philippine Anti-Smuggling Group.

Edison Cupcupin and Syl Cosico made it 2-0 for The STAR with an impressive 21-12, 21-14 win over Radley de Mateo and Greg Esquillo in the men’s doubles before Jhona Magnaye and Annalyn Delgado scored a walkover win over Jessa Rose Ramirez and Zony Esguerra in the ladies doubles to complete the sweep in the event, which drew a field of 18 teams from various media organizations.

The STARmen also swept the individual honors in the one-day event supported by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Unilever Philippines, Philippine Badminton Association chief executive officer Errol Chan, Yonex, and Magnolia health drinks.

Meanwhile, Pilipino STAR Ngayon knocked out last year’s runner-up Manila Bulletin to enter the semifinals before bowing to Manila Police District B to settle for fourth place.