Cebuano Pantino makes PCA final

CEBU’S ARTHUR Craig “Igi” Diaz Pantino faces an acid test in the boys 12-under title of the ongoing Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Open 2011 as he faces an opponent he has lost to three times already.

Pantino will go up against Bukidnon’s Bryan Otico after advancing into the finals with a 6-0, 6-1 demolition of Matt Palasan of Cagayan de Oro in the semifinal round.

The 10-year-old Pantino of the University of San Carlos South Campus (USC-SC) first lost to the 12-year-old Otico in last year’s National Milo Little Olympics. He also lost twice this year, during last month’s boys 12 and 14 under of the 1st Elias Dacudao netfest in Davao.

Pantino said he has no problem handling the serves of Otico. He said he is just exhausted every time they meet.

“I am excited and will do my best,” Pantino said of his 8 a.m. title match against Otico today.

Pantino has also partnered with JR Argueles of Bacolod in the boys 14 under doubles competition.

The duo, however, bowed out in the second round yesterday against the tandem of Marcen and Ivan Gonzales, 6-3, 6-2.

Another Cebu netter who is now based in Manila, Hannah Grace Espinosa, opted to skip the tournament due to fever.  /CORRESPONDENT MARS G. ALISON