Manila: University of Santo Tomas downed One La Salle, 25-17, 25-22, to secure its fourth win and a semifinal berth in the 2026 Shakey's Juniors National Invitationals at the Playtime FilOil Arena in San Juan.
According to Philippines News Agency, Nicole Pelaez delivered 12 points, 10 on attacks, for the Junior Tigresses, the reigning Shakey's Girls Volleyball Invitational League (SGVIL) Rising Stars Cup Division 1 champion. UST was leading 20-13 in the second frame before One La Salle rallied behind Aislyn Alemana and Alyana Valdez to move within 22-23. After One La Salle's Antonella Jayobo made a service error, Anneli Manzanillo fired an ace to seal the win.
Pelaez noted the challenges during the match, stating, "It's very challenging because we had difficulty in the second set, we made many errors. But we were able to adjust." Manzanillo added eight points while Erin Sotto and Jyrah Romias chipped in five points each. Alemana and Valdez scored seven and five points, respectively for One La Salle, which took its first loss in five outings.
UST will face St. John's Institute-Bacolod, which defeated Arellano University High School, 25-22, 25-17, for its fourth consecutive win. Caera Celis had 12 points on nine kills, two aces and a block for the Falcons. Edz Escultura contributed nine points, followed by Kristel Mirasol with eight points. "We were challenged but thank God, we were prepared. It was a good win," Celis said. Nina Cahanap finished with eight points for Arellano.
The final and bronze medal matches are also winner-take-all affairs.
