San juan city: University of Santo Tomas (UST) secured a decisive win against Arellano University, 25-16, 25-12, in the 2026 Shakey's Juniors National Invitationals opener at the Playtime FilOil Centre.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Junior Tigresses required only 54 minutes to overpower the Lady Braves. Andreaj Tan Chun Bing, the current Best Setter in the Shakey's Girls Volleyball Invitational League (SGVIL) Rising Stars Cup Division 1, provided 11 excellent sets, enabling UST to achieve 26 attack points. Despite losing most of their veterans after their SGVIL crown victory in May, UST managed to perform strongly with new recruits and six remaining seasoned players.

Jyrah Romais led the team with six points from three kills and three aces, while Ciarra Calfoforo and Eliz Menchavez each contributed five points. For Arellano, Cassandra Paralejas scored five points, with Nina Cahanap and Penelope Vargas adding three points each.

In another match, Guam-based Pacific Volleyball Academy triumphed over Pusong Azul, 25-23, 17-25, 15-7. Lea Aromin stood out with 18 points, including 12 attacks and six aces, while Landen Devera contributed 11 points in the one-hour and 22-minute match. Pusong Azul, consisting of Ateneo players, was led by Isabella Espinosa with 11 points from six attacks, four blocks, and an ace. Jhenica Sadia also added nine points to their effort.