THE WORLD Cup-bound Philippines settled for a silver medal finish after falling to Chinese Taipei, 8-2, at the conclusion of the Coed Slo-pitch Softball World Cup in Pattaya, Thailand over the weekend.
Already assured of a spot in the world stage following a 31-11 annihilation of the host Thais, the Ana Santiago-mentored, Cebuana Lhuillier-sponsored Nationals still went for a win and avenge their 8-2 defeat to the same Taiwanese side in the eliminations.
But Chinese Taipei held fort in overpowering the Filipinos in claiming the gold.
Despite the defeat, Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines President Jean Henri Lhuillier praised the team for accomplishing its mission of claiming a World Cup berth.
“We are so proud of their accomplishment. Their second-place finish is a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport. We shall continue to support them until and beyond the World Cup,” he said.
It marked the second time that the Philippines earned a World Cup seat in the sport this year after the Blu Girls accomplished the same feat in Incheon, South Korea a month back.
“It’s our first time and my first time too as a coach, so nakakaka proud talaga,” said Ms. Santiago. — Joey Villar