The Akari Chargers returned to the win column in the 2026 PVL On Tour after defeating the Choco Mucho Flying Titana, 27-25, 27-25, 21-25, 25-22, on Saturday night at the Polomolok Gymnasium in South Cotabato.
The victory gave the Chargers their first win of the preseason after opening their campaign with a four-set loss to ZUS Coffee, while Choco Mucho wrapped up the tournament winless at 0-3.
Akari looked poised to complete a straight-set sweep before the Flying Titans extended the match by taking the third frame.
Akari Seizes Full Control
The Chargers regained control in the fourth after Ivy Lacsina and Chen Tagaod ignited a crucial 3-0 run to turn a 19-all deadlock into a 22-19 advantage.
Choco Mucho threatened one last time as Maddie Madayag scored on a quick attack before Jaila Atienza blocked Tagaod to trim the deficit to 23-22.
Akari, however, kept its composure. Grethcel Soltones delivered a cross-court hit to bring the Chargers to match point before Tagaod hammered home the match-clinching kill despite battling cramps late in the contest.
“Lahat nag-contribute. Considering ‘yung Alas players natin wala, so lahat nagsipag. Even ‘yung mga bago, nag-fill in na rin sila Risa (Sato), Shar (Ancheta),” said Akari head coach Tina Salak.
“‘Yun lang naman ‘yung hinahabol namin—magkaroon ng magandang exposure ‘yung team, magkaroon ng chemistry, mabuo kami as a team. Maganda ‘tong part ng On Tour na nakikilala namin ang isa’t isa playing inside the court.”
Tagaod turned in one of the best performances of her young professional career, finishing with 19 points on 11 attacks, 6 blocks, and 2 aces while playing in front of her father and brother, who made the trip from Tagum, Davao.
Lacsina added 14 points and 13 excellent receptions, while Soltones registered a double-double with 10 points and 13 excellent digs. Faith Nisperos also provided a spark off the bench with 9 points.
What’s Next
Akari closes out its preseason campaign against the PLDT High Speed Hitters on August 15 in Lanao del Norte.
Choco Mucho, meanwhile, completed the PVL On Tour without a victory while missing Alas Pilipinas standouts Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, and Dawn Catindig, who remain on national team duty.
Caitlin Viray and Mean Mendrez led the Flying Titans with 16 points apiece, while Madayag chipped in 14 markers.
