Meralco edges San Miguel in tune-up, eyes strong finishes in both PBA and EASL campaigns

Meralco bolstered its confidence heading into a packed season with a 95–91 victory over San Miguel on Wednesday at the Meralco Gym. 

The win comes as part of the Bolts’ final tune-ups before their Philippine Cup opener—and just as they prepare to represent the PBA in the East Asia Super League (EASL).

Chris Newsome returned from a finger injury to lead the offense, scoring 17 points. Raymond Almazan chipped in 16, while CJ Cansino added 15 to help Meralco pull off the win over the reigning all-Filipino champions. 

The performance was encouraging, but coach Luigi Trillo refused to overstate it. “Pipinahan ko ‘yung team,” he said, highlighting that June Mar Fajardo sat out the entire fourth quarter and Cjay Perez remained in street clothes due to a lingering ankle issue from his Gilas stint.

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That cautious tone is understandable. Meralco still has a tune-up clash with Phoenix on Friday before opening the Philippine Cup against Titan Ultra at Ynares Center–Antipolo.

Beyond the domestic stage, the Bolts’ season will also be tested in regional play—they’ve been named as the PBA’s representative for the expanded 2025–26 EASL.

Competing in the EASL brings a different layer of challenge and opportunity. Meralco expects tougher matchups from Asia’s top clubs, forcing them to sharpen strategy, deepen rotations, and maintain high intensity. 

The exposure could be a boon for their PBA run too—playing against elite teams abroad often reveals adjustments needed back home.

Still, for now, the Bolts will focus on building momentum. A solid win over San Miguel—despite missing key San Miguel pieces—serves as a confidence booster. But Meralco knows the real tests are ahead: surviving the Philippine Cup gauntlet and proving themselves among Asia’s best.

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