Ortega Beats Pajuay, Enters Semis in Billiard Stars Search

James Al Ortega downed Val Pajuay, 9-4, to enter the semifinals of the 2nd Billiard Stars Search at the famous Star Billiards Center in Grace Village, Quezon City, over the weekend.

Ortega, who is best remembered for winning the prestigious gold medal during the 1993 Southeast Asian Games Snooker competitions will meet Middle East Pool instructor Mario Tolentino in the final-four. Tolentino was a winner over Francisco Felicilda, 9-7.

Pajuay and Felicilda made it to the final four after winning their respective matches in the loser's side to arrange a semi-final showdown in the Division A which attracted 36 cue artists.

Pajuay ousted defending champion Elvis Calasang, 9-8, while Felicilda eliminated Arnel Bautista, 9-7.

In the 33 player Division B field, Jerico Bonus and Resty Labastiga barged into the final-four with undefeated records. Bonus nipped Alexander Aquino, 8-6, while Labastiga blasted Leonardo Hipolito Jr., 8-0.

In the loser's side, Hipolito ousted Magpantay, 8-3, and Talibong eliminated Aquino, 8-5, to make it to the final four.

Meanwhile, a total of 77 players are seeing action in the Division C and 40 participants in Division D.

Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded to the top players in each division. Cash prizes will be based on number of entries. As an additional incentive for Division A players, four slots in Stage 2 of the Tagaytay Kabayan Cup in December will be awarded to the top four A players.