The Philippines fell short of an assured medal as it sustained a 10-3 loss to Japan in the mixed doubles semifinals of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China Friday, Feb. 7.

Fueled by a 7-2 win over Chinese Taipei in the qualification earlier the day, the Nationals ran out of gas as the Japanese dominated right away off a 7-2 lead entering the fifth end to create enough separation and book their finals ticket.

But the Philippines’ hopes for a first-ever podium finish in the quadrennial meet is still alive as Fil-Swiss Marc Pfister and Fil-American Kathleen Dubberstein will battle China’s Han Yu and Wang Zhiyu anew for the bronze medal.

It can be remembered that the Chinese took a 9-6 victory over the Filipino curlers in their first showdown last Wednesday.

On the other hand, the unbeaten Japan clashes with South Korea, which scored an 8-4 victory over China in the semis, for the gold medal.

Both gold and bronze medals games are happening Saturday, Feb. 8.

Prior to its semis duel against Japan, the Philippines finished as second seed in Group B with four wins – including a 12-6 upset triumph against South Korea – and one loss.

Earlier in the men’s short track speed skating events, Fil-American skater Peter Groseclose qualified for the men’s 1500m semifinal and 1000m and 500m quarterfinal rounds which will all happen this Saturday, Feb. 8.

The 17-year-old Groseclose barged into the next round after placing fourth in the 1500m quarters while second in 1000m and 500m heats.

He, alongside curler Dubberstein, will be serving as the country’s flag-bearers for the continental showpiece opening ceremony tonight.