Del Monte is on the brink of completing a rare hattrick in the 77th Philippine Airlines (PAL) Senior Competition after delivering a strong performance at Rancho Palos Verdes in Davao on Wednesday.

The defending champions racked up 154 points, powered by Yoyong Velez and Romeo Jaraula, both posting impressive 53s, giving their team a slim two-point lead over a charging Luisita side.

Crispin Aparilla contributed 47 points to bring Del Monte’s total to 449 heading into the final round at South Pacific Golf and Country Club.

Velez, the long-time team skipper, showcased his veteran poise with three birdies against just one bogey, while Jaraula added two birdies but had three missteps on the card. Aparilla’s steady 47 helped stabilize Del Monte’s performance, ensuring they maintained a narrow edge as the competition moves to its decisive day.

Luisita, historically the most successful team in the tournament with 18 titles, refused to let Del Monte pull away. Anchored by Benjamin Sumulong’s 53 and Marty Ilagan’s 52, they posted 153 points, with Chino Raymundo chipping in 49. Despite starting the day nine shots off the pace, the Tarlac-based squad remains within striking distance, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.

“Exciting final round,” said Luisita non-playing captain Jeric Hechanova. “Canlubang is still lurking with a very strong lineup. We hope our top three can match Del Monte and Canlubang for a shot at victory tomorrow. It’s going to be a real test of nerves and consistency.”

Overnight leader Canlubang stumbled to third with 439 points after a disappointing 137-point day. Damasus Wong led the team with 47, supported by Jess Hernandez (46) and Oscar Gallo (44).

Camp Aguinaldo, fueled by Richard delos Santos’ 54 points, sits fourth at 430, keeping them in contention but trailing the top three.

With just one round remaining, the final day promises intense competition as the top teams battle for the coveted senior title. Del Monte’s bid for a three-peat hangs by a thread, Luisita aims to rewrite history with a comeback, and Canlubang looks to regain its early lead. Every stroke, every putt, and every birdie will count in this nail-biting finish.

The team standings:

CHAMPIONSHIP — Del Monte 449, Luisita 447, Canlubang 439, Camp Aguinaldo 430, Manila Southwoods 427, Forest Hills 399, Alabang 391, Norcal Fil-Am 377, Fil-Am Fairfield-South 355, Coral Ocean Point 347, Ayala Greenfield 343, Par 2000 342, Club Intramuros 338, Camp Evangelista 329, Bago 321, Pradera Verde 310, Travelers Golf Club of San Francisco 289.