GIN Mejares scored a layup right before time expired to give the ARQ Builders Lapu-Lapu Chiefs a thrilling 98-97 victory over the Pagadian Explorers in the Pilipinas Super League Pearl of the Orient Cup Presented by Cocolife and Powered by Smart 5G at the Manuel Roxas Sports Complex.Down by one in overtime after Pagadian big man Charles Pepito scored on a putback, Mijares drove into the teeth of the defense and lofted up a layup that kissed the board before going through the basket as the final buzzer sounded to give Lapu-Lapu the victory.The win allowed the Chiefs to end the first round with a 4-3 win-loss card.Vincent Minguito continued his stellar play in this tournament, this time scoring 26 points to go with 15 rebounds and eight assists. JR Saga added 20 highlighted by six three-point shots while Norris Arana chipped in 13.Mejares flirted with a triple-double, piling up 12 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.Steve Castro led Pagadian, which ended the first round with a 1-6 card, with 22 points. Lugie Cuyos finished with 16 while Joseph Peñaredondo, Jason Opiso, and Pepito had 10 markers apiece. (JNP)