Manila, Philippines - In a gripping finale at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) secured the men's title in the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Challenge Cup. The team achieved a hard-fought victory over Cignal on Saturday night.
According to Philippines News Agency, UST overcame Cignal with set scores of 20-25, 25-22, 25-22, 19-25, 15-13. Joshua Ybañez, a standout player from UST, not only led his team with 26 points but also earned the Most Valuable Player (MVP) title. His contributions were pivotal in UST's triumph. Ybañez, alongside his teammates Rey Miguel De Vega, Edlyn Paul Colinares, and Sherwin Umandal, formed a part of the Super Team with their individual awards.
Cignal's JP Bugaoan and Manuel Sumanguid III, along with Jerome Lopez of VNS Asereht, were also recognized with individual awards. VNS Asereht clinched the bronze medal by defeating National University in a closely contested match.
UST coach Odjie Mamon, who also coaches the national men's team, remarked on the importance of the tournament in preparing for the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and evaluating their playing system.
In the women's division, College of Saint Benilde (CSB) emerged victorious, defeating the University of the Philippines with set scores of 25-18, 25-18, 25-13. CSB's coach Gerry Yee expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, viewing it as a positive step towards the upcoming National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) season. Wielyn Estoque of CSB was named MVP and Best Outside Hitter.
The tournament also recognized other individual achievers from CSB, UP, and Letran. Letran secured the bronze medal by defeating the Philippine Air Force. A notable mention was given to National University for receiving the Fair Play Green Card.
Ramon Suzara, PNVF president, commended the enthusiasm and performance of the 36 teams that participated in the federation's penultimate major tournament for the year. The event was attended by prominent figures, including PNVF secretary general Don Caringal, national team commission chair Tonyboy Liao, and Cignal president and chief executive officer Jane Basas, who were present at the awarding ceremony.