Bacoleño Ramil "Bebeng" Gallego remained in the title hunt despite absorbing his first defeat yesterday and Lee Van Corteza of Negros Billiards Stable took out Antonio "Gaga" Gabica in the BSCP National Pool Championships in Manila.

On a day when Ronnie Alcano was sent packing by Joven Bustamante, Gallego and Corteza sustained their march to the P500,000 top prize. Gallego trounced Carlo Biado, 9-6, but lost to Antonio Lining, 3-9, later in the evening, his first loss in the tournament.

Corteza staved off elimination and ousted Gabica in the process with a 9-5 victory.

In the women's division, Minse Grace Mercurio kissed her title hopes goodbye, following a 7-3 setback at the hands of Mary Ann Basas, NBS coach Christopher Palses told the DAILY STAR.

Mercurio earlier beat Michaela Claveria, 7-6 to assure herself of a top six finish.

Meanwhile, Dennis Orcollo made short work of Jharome Peña to set up a showdown with defending champion Alex "The Lion" Pagulayan, a 9-4 winner over Godofredo "Boy" Ducanes.

Another NBS player, Rodolfo "Boy Samson" Luat was also sent packing by Bustamante, who ousted Alcano, 9-3. Alcano, the world 8-ball and 9-ball champion, is facing rape charges filed by his 14-year-old daughter. *CPT

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