National University’s James Ryan Villarante (foreground) prepares a backhand return as teammate John Benedict Gam looks on during their doubles match against Adamson University’s Gabrielle Ganoy and Noel Hernandez Jr. in the UAAP Season 88 men’s badminton tournament at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Malate, Manila on Saturday (Oct. 11, 2025). The Bulldogs won, 21-14, 21-17. (UAAP photo)
The defending champion National University (NU) Bulldogs wasted no time reminding everyone why they’re still the team to beat, blasting Adamson University, 4-1, to kick off their UAAP Season 88 men’s badminton campaign on a high note Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Badminton Hall in Malate, Manila.
Riding the momentum of last season’s title run, the Bulldogs unleashed a deep and balanced roster anchored by veterans who delivered with poise and precision. Former national team ace James Villarante paired up with John Benedict Gam to score a decisive 21-14, 21-17 win over Adamson’s Gabrielle Ganoy and Noel Hernandez Jr., setting the tone for NU’s domination.
Reigning MVP Lanz Zafra reaffirmed his elite form, dismantling Kyrik Roldan, 21-8, 21-6, before MJ Perez sealed another singles win with a 21-19, 21-12 victory over John Russel Oliveros. Zafra returned to court with Miko Mosarbas to outduel Oliveros and Nathan Acedillo, 21-13, 19-21, 21-8, pushing NU’s lead to an unassailable 4-0.
Acedillo salvaged a consolation point for the Falcons after surviving NU rookie Ben Dictado, 21-18, 16-21, 21-19, to avoid a sweep.
“I expected that the veterans would perform well, though I could see everyone—across teams—was still adjusting,” said NU head coach Jaime Llanes. “I reminded the boys that everyone feels the same, so that can’t be an excuse. I expect them to play with even better rhythm tomorrow.”
In other matches, Ateneo de Manila University blanked De La Salle University, 5-0, while the University of the Philippines turned back the University of Santo Tomas, 4-1.
Sunday’s schedule promises more early fireworks: NU faces La Salle, Ateneo meets UP in a marquee clash, and Adamson looks to recover against UST. All matches begin at 8 a.m.
