Dasmari±as: Dasmari±as defeated Bi±an Tatak Arellano University, 25-17, 25-18, 25-21, in Game 2 to sweep the Maharlika Pilipinas Volleyball Association (MPVA) tournament at the Dasmari±as Arena in Cavite last Sunday. The Monarchs, represented by the National University Lady Bulldogs, had previously secured a 25-21, 25-20, 25-15 win in Game 1 to establish their dominance.
According to Philippines News Agency, skipper Vange Alinsug and standout rookie Sam Cantada led the charge with 13 points each in the decisive match. Alexa Nichole Mata and Natasha Kaye Bombita added eight points each, while Harlyn Serneche and Minierva Maaya contributed six and five points, respectively. Under the guidance of coach Regina Diego, the Lady Bulldogs boast three titles in the UAAP and four in the Shakey's Super League. Natasha Kaye Bombita was awarded the Season MVP for her exceptional performance throughout the tournament. "It's very unexpected as it's a total team effort for us. Thank you for this award," Bombita expressed, acknowledging the challenge she faces in the UAAP following the graduation of Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.
Joining Bombita in the Elite Team were Alinsug, who was named First Best Outside Hitter, and Cantada, recognized as Best Homegrown Player. Abegail Pono and Shaira Mae Jardio were honored as Best Setter and Best Libero, respectively. Other awardees included Bi±an's Laika Tudlasan, who scored 12 points and received the Second Best Outside Hitter accolade, Samantha Gabrielle Tira-tira as Second Best Middle Blocker, and Crisanta Servidad as Best Opposite Hitter. Quezon's Zamantha Nolasco was named First Best Middle Blocker.
The Bi±an Lady Chiefs took their second consecutive silver medal after falling to the Quezon Tangerines last season. In the bronze medal match, Quezon, represented by four-time NCAA champion La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, overcame Negros ICC with a 22-25, 25-11, 25-9, 25-18 victory. Nolasco and Rhea Mae Densing each scored 18 points, while Shahanna Lleses added 11 points for the Tangerines.
