EASLEY — Puerto Rico scored three runs in the top of the sixth inning to put away the Philippines 6-2 in first-day play of the Big League World Series.

Puerto Rico will play Panama at 4 p.m. Friday. The Philippines will play EMEA at 11:30 a.m. Saturday.

Puerto Rico got on top in the first inning, Cel Yomar Ortiz doubled, then was driven in when Luiz Benitez doubled. Benitez then came home on a single by Michael Perez.

The Philippines scored in the bottom of the second inning with a solo homer by Inigo Olivares.

Puerto Rico answered in the fourth inning with a solo home run by Kaldwin Ortez.

In the top of the sixth inning with two outs, Christian Otero and Ivan De Jesus hit back to back home runs for Puerto Rico.

After a pitching change by the Philippines, Cal Yomar Ortiz doubled, then advanced to third base on a throwing error. Ortiz scored later in the inning off another throwing error.

The Philippines added one run in the bottom of the inning.

Adraine Bernado singled, then advanced to second when Inigo Olivares reached base on an error. Berardo then scored on a single hit by Carlos Laurel.

Jorge Lopez pitched three and a third innings for Puerto Rico and picked up the win.

Carolos Laurel pitched three innings for the Philippines and was credited with the loss.