Philippine Army spikers win title

CEBU, Philippines - The Philippine Army belles reigned supreme against Team Mandaue City A in the championship match of the 1st Baybayon Open Volleyball Tournament the other night at the jam-packed Mandaue City Sports and Cultural Complex.

The towering Philippine Army squad proved their might as they disposed the reigning Governor Gwen Garcia Unity Volleyball (GUV) Cup champions and host, Mandaue City, in straight sets, 25-18, 25-20, 25-19.

The exemplary performances of the high-flying Michelle Carolino, Rachelle Anne Daquis, Joanne Bunag, Patricia Torres, Mirriam de Leon, Ma. Theresa Iratay, Shaira Gonzales and Cherry Mae Vivas powered Philippine Army to the coveted championship.

The likes of former RP Youth member Genie Sabas, Erika Camille Verano, Rachel Hanna Singson, Kenneth Garces, Chona Gesulga, Juriza Arofo and Lovena Amor Pepito were no match to the solid defense of the Philippine Army Team, which also forms the core of the national squad.

“They are really tough, but we are so lucky that we were able to clash with them in the championship match. It’s already a great opportunity for us to be playing against the RP team,” said team captain Sabas.

In the battle for third place, Talisay City overpowered reigning Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation Inc. (CESAFI) champion, Southwestern University Lady Cobras in a nerve-wracking three-set thriller, 24-26, 25-23, 28-26.

The key players of the Talisay squad were Mechelle Matuguina, Jullet Mae Marikit, Florian Gutierrez, Ivy Abella, and Roselyn Balincasag.

Princess Anne Pido, Danika Yolanda Gendrauli, Lorie Mae Layno, Danali Baquiro and Raphril Aguilar carried the banner for SWU.

Aside from trophies and medals, the Philippine Army team received P5,000, while the second and third placers pocketed P3,000 and P2,000, respectively.

Sponsored by volleyball patrons Rene and Linda Froilan, the two-day tilt is among the highlights of the annual fiesta celebration of Baybayon in barangay Looc, Mandaue City in honor of the Mother of Perpetual Help this Saturday. (FREEMAN)