Three of the Philippines' top pool talents have made a powerful start at a major international tournament in China. Dennis Orcollo, Reyna Maria Legaspi, and Carmille Buhat each secured decisive wins in their opening matches at the 2025 JOY Heyball Masters Nanning Station on Friday, December 27.
Dominant Opening Day for Philippine Contingent
The Filipino cue artists showed no signs of jet lag as they took on local competition. The veteran and former world champion, Dennis Orcollo, set the tone with a commanding 7–3 victory over China's Zhu Hongming. His performance demonstrated the experience and precision that has made him a legend in the sport.
Following suit, Reyna Maria Legaspi engaged in a tighter battle but ultimately prevailed with a 7–5 scoreline against Huang Yong. Meanwhile, Carmille Buhat delivered the most dominant result of the day, overpowering her opponent Dao Damudingjiamuqi with a convincing 7–2 win.
Crucial Matches Ahead for Top 48 Berth
The initial success has set up critical second-round matches that will determine their immediate fate in the tournament. As of the latest updates, the draw has placed the Filipinos against a new set of challengers.
Dennis Orcollo is scheduled to face Sato Chiaki. Reyna Maria Legaspi will test her skills against Sun Jung-Tse. Carmille Buhat is set to take on Julian Serradilla.
The stakes for these matches are exceptionally high. A victory will guarantee each player a coveted spot in the Top 48 of the International Group, keeping them in the championship bracket. A loss, however, will mean a difficult path through the tournament's losers' bracket, where one more defeat would result in elimination.
Philippine Pool on the World Stage
This strong collective start reinforces the Philippines' reputation as a global powerhouse in cue sports. The performance of Orcollo, Legaspi, and Buhat in Nanning is being closely watched by fans back home, who are eager to see the national flag fly high in another prestigious international competition. Their continued success in the upcoming rounds would be a significant boost for Philippine billiards.
