The University of the Philippines escaped the game against De La Salle University by a score of 71-68.
As a result, UP is armed with a twice-to-beat advantage for the first time in the semi-finals of the UAAP Season 82 men's basketball tournament.
The rivalry was tight on both sides until Kobe Paras hit a stunning slam dunk that gave UP a 70-68 advantage in the last 54 seconds.
UP now stands in second place holding a 9-4 win-loss card.
Bright Akhuetie led UP with 17 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals.
On Wednesday, the final game of UP will be held in the elimation round where they will try to prevent Ateneo from sweeping the tournament.
La Salle, meanwhile, will lose the chance to enter the semifinals.