By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

The Philippines won their group in the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Twenty20 East Asia-Pacific Qualifier, which came to a close last week at the Emilio Aguinaldo College friendship oval in Dasmariñas City, Cavite.

“We are a tight-knit group who are immensely proud to play for and represent the Philippines,” said skipper Jonathan Hill. “There is something special about this side.”

The Philippines finished with a 5-1 record, playing two matches each against Japan, South Korea and Indonesia. The single loss came at the hand of Japan, who narrowly edged out the Philippines side 157/5 to 152/6.

Following the win, the team advanced to the ICC World Twenty20 East-Asia Pacific Regional Finals Qualifier, which takes place next year in Papua New Guinea. In that competition, the Philippines will meet Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu./JSG, WDJ