Bonfire lights up Altas celebration

University of Perpetual Help System Dalta celebrated its maiden basketball title with a bonfire celebration on Tuesday at its campus in Las Piñas City.

Perpetual chairman Dr. Antonio Tamayo led the revelry that was attended by thousands of students, alumni, school officials and administrators in conjunction with the school’s 50th foundation anniversary.

The Junior Altas are coming off a historic title conquest after winning over La Salle Green Hills in Season 100 National Collegiate Athletic Association juniors basketball tournament.

It was its first ever basketball title since the school joined the country’s oldest professional league in 1984.

“You made history by winning the first championship trophy in NCAA juniors basketball,” Tamayo said, extending his gratitude to head coach Joph Cleofas and his players bannered by Most Valuable Player Lebron Jhames Daep.

“We watch you with heart inside the court, game after game and your dedication in every game, we know your journey is not easy, we thank you all for the honor you brought to Perpetual. Long live and congratulations to you, Junior Altas.”

Aside from Daep, also feted were Mythical Team member Jan Roluna, Most Improved Player Jericho Cristino, JD Pagulayan, Icee Callangan, Kelsey Baldoria, Aries Borja, TJ Tabbuan, Jacob dela Cruz, Louie Rosales, Jim Corpuz, Kurt Velasquez, Keanne Zanoria, Ezekiel Zamoras, Ryan Llupar and Lance Nitura.

Perpetual Help Medical Center president Richard Tamayo, for his part, dedicated their triumph to the late former Junior Altas head coach Mauro Tamayo and volleyball coach Sammy Acaylar.