MANILA  reclaimed the overall lead in the Batang Pinoy National Championships after bagging three more gold medals in swimming on Thursday at the Antonio Acharon Sports Complex pool in Calumpang, General Santos City.

Shiblon Montera led the charge with a victory in the boys’ 16–17 200-meter freestyle, clocking 2:01.60 to edge Sta. Rosa City’s Ashton Clyde Jose (2:01.93) and San Fernando City’s Anton Paulo Dominick Della (2:03.46).

In the relay events, the Manila girls dominated both divisions. Jordane Porche Sales, Aoki McKenzie Teng, Elyzah Shayne Son, and Aeesha Sharine Pesy captured the gold in the 12–13 4x50m medley relay with a time of 2:15.69. Meanwhile, Kristine Jane Uy, Naomi Sy, Patricia Mae Santor, and Eliana Isabel Rodriguez ruled the 14–17 category in 2:08.86.

As of 6 p.m., Manila amassed 32 gold, 28 silver, and 24 bronze medals, putting the team back on top in the national youth competition organized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

Defending champion Pasig City settled for second with 29 golds, 17 silvers, and 24 bronzes, highlighted by the boys’ 14–17 4x50m medley relay gold courtesy of Roland Aaron Seprado, Kaden Gabriel Sy, Antonio Joaquin Reyes, and Gabbriel Medenilla.

Baguio City stayed in third place with 29 golds, 17 silvers, and 22 bronzes, thanks in part to Chass Mhagiven Colas, who clinched his fourth gold medal after topping the boys’ individual 60m (17-under) archery event at the Notre Dame of Dadiangas University.

Quezon City followed in fourth with 20 golds, 19 silvers, and 23 bronzes, boosted by its boys’ 12–13 4x50m medley relay win by Titus Rafael Sia, Andrei David Pingol, Cross Acal, and Jeshwa Castiel Garduque.

Rounding out the top ten were Zamboanga City (16-12-4), Davao City (14-20-31), General Santos City (14-15-8), Santa Rosa City (14-13-8), Cebu City (10-10-13), and Rizal Province (9-3-7).

A total of PHP15 million in cash prizes will be distributed among the top finishers—PHP5 million for the overall champion, PHP4 million for second place, PHP3 million for third, PHP2 million for fourth, and PHP1 million for fifth.