The Choco Mucho Flying Titans survived a gritty challenge from the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, 21-25, 25-22, 13-25, 25-11, 15-11, to advance to the next stage of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference at the FilOil Centre in San Juan on Tuesday, March 24.
The Thunderbelles stunned the Flying Titans in the third set, 25-13, before Choco Mucho regained its rhythm in the fourth, 25-11. In the deciding fifth set, the Flying Titans sustained their momentum, as Eya Laure, Sisi Rondina, and Maddie Madayag combined to give their team a commanding 12-5 lead.
Kate Santiago tried to keep the Thunderbelles in the match, but Kat Tolentino and Rondina ensured the victory for Choco Mucho to secure their spot in the next round of the play-in tournament.
“Bago pa mag-umpisa ng game, sinabi ko na sa kanila na all out na tayo, kasi wala nang bukas. Ayun nga, sinubukan kami hanggang dulo, pero nakuha namin ‘yung game. Pagdating ng fourth set at fifth set, nakuha namin ‘yung panalo,” said Choco Mucho head coach Dante Alinsunurin.
Sisi Rondina Leads Choco Mucho with Titanic Outing
Rondina led the Flying Titans with 27 points on 26 attacks, along with 15 excellent receptions. Madayag added 19 points built on 14 attacks, 3 blocks, and 2 aces, while Laure chipped in 13 points. Tolentino finished with 12 points and 10 excellent digs.
Deanna Wong orchestrated the offense with 24 excellent sets, while Thang Ponce anchored the backline with 20 excellent digs.
For the Thunderbelles, Riza Nogales led the team with 16 points built on 11 attacks, 4 blocks, and 1 ace, while Thea Gagate added 12 points on 8 attacks.
What’s Next in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference
Thursday, March 26 • FilOil Centre • Qualifying Round
PLDT High Speed Hitters vs. Farm Fresh Foxies, 4:00 p.m.
Creamline Cool Smashers vs. Cignal Super Spikers, 6:30 p.m.
Choco Mucho Flying Titans
Saturday, March 28 vs. Akari Chargers, 6:30 p.m., Ninoy Aquino Stadium
