Showing its defensive grit in the second half, Gilas Pilipinas under-16 team held its Malaysian counterpart to just a single-digit production in the third and fourth quarters and scored a convincing 79-44 in the semifinal round of the FIBA U16 Women's Asian Championship Division B at the City Arena, Prince Hamza late Saturday night.

The Filipinas held the Malaysians to just eight points in the third period and nine in the fourth while continue working on their pressing game.

Gilas picked up a total of 23 steals and that resulted to 31 fats break points, 19 more than their opponents.

The Philippines was also more active attacking the basket and that translated to 54 points inside the shaded lane compared to only 20 for Malaysia.

Just as expected, Ava Fajardo once again presided on the team's offense, but ended up with a double-double performance this time. She finished with 20 points and grabbed 10 rebounds while dishing out five assists to emerge as the most efficient performer for the Philippines with an efficiency rating of +27.

Also coming away with a double-double showing is United States-based Filipina Ariel dela O, who tallied 10 points and pulled down 11 boards.

Aubrey Laparan contributed 10 markers for the Filipinas, who are now marching to the championship round and a step closer to getting promoted to Division A.

Gilas Pilipinas will face the winner between Hong Kong and Iran in a knockout championship duel on Sunday.