PBA PH Cup Quarterfinals Predictions: Meralco, ROS go do-or-die for final semifinals spot

The Meralco Bolts have kept their PBA Philippine Cup hopes alive, forcing a do-or-die game after defeating the Rain or Shine Elastopainters, 96-79, in the quarterfinals at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Saturday.

It was a performance that signalled the Bolts’ intent on showing their true might after their East Asian Super League (EASL) stint, and that the Elastopainters have some much-needed work to do if they intend to reach the semifinals.

Chris Newsome and Cliff Hodge continued to show why they are still elite, alongside Bong Quinto, who did all the gritty stuff necessary for a contender — including getting on the nerves of the opposite team’s coach.

Despite the lackluster first-half performance that ultimately doomed them, Rain or Shine eventually adjusted, tightening their defense and getting more aggressive in the paint, and just barely capturing momentum for the next game.

So, heading into the rubber match on Monday, Dec. 29, at the same venue, who will come out on top?

Prediction: Rain or Shine

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao laments his team’s ugly quarterfinal loss to Meralco that forced a do-or-die. | @jonasterradoINQ

READ MORE: https://t.co/8r6MAQElnt pic.twitter.com/FRxHTdTlCp

— INQUIRER Sports (@INQUIRERSports) December 27, 2025

Adrian Nocum has been a key emphasis on offense for head coach Yeng Guiao and Rain or Shine this season. His aggression and playmaking have allowed ROS’ team-centric offense to be in full display. This was particularly evident in the second half while at the same time minimizing Meralco’s weapons in Newsome and CJ Cansino.

Meralco still carries a huge threat offensively for the Elastopainters in how they attack the rim and capitalize on second-chance points, but it will eventually boil down to how Guiao and Rain or Shine display their aggression early on that will decide the endgame.

Simply (or not so simply against Meralco), Rain or Shine needs to prevent Newsome, Cansino, and Hodge from getting comfortable with the ball, while at the same time getting to their spots and igniting their transition offense.

If they do that, then they will most definitely get a chance at powerhouse TNT Tropang 5G in the semifinals.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate basketball fans.