Akari ends Choco Mucho’s On Tour campaign with four-set victory

Akari closed out Choco Mucho’s 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour Showdown campaign with a 27-25, 27-25, 21-25, 25-22 victory on Saturday night at the Polomolok Gymnasium.

The Chargers bounced back from their preseason-opening loss to ZUS Coffee in Ilagan, Isabela, securing their first win of the tournament after overcoming a determined Flying Titans squad.

Akari appeared headed for a straight-set victory after taking the opening two frames, but Choco Mucho extended the match by claiming the third set. The Chargers regained their composure in the fourth period and delivered in the closing stretch.

With the final set tied at 19-all, Ivy Lacsina and Chen Tagaod sparked a crucial 3-0 run that gave Akari a 22-19 advantage. Choco Mucho answered with a Maddie Madayag quick attack and a Jaila Atienza block on Tagaod to cut the deficit to 23-22.

Grethcel Soltones stopped the rally with a cross-court hit before Tagaod finished the match with the final kill, despite needing assistance from teammates after experiencing cramps.

Akari head coach Tina Salak praised the effort of her players, especially with several Alas Pilipinas members unavailable during the preseason.

“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 Salak.

“Yun lang naman yung hinahabol namin, magkaroon ng magandang exposure yung team, magkaroon ng chemistry, mabuo kami as a team.”

Tagaod led Akari with 19 points, highlighted by 11 attacks, six blocks, and two aces. Lacsina added 14 points and 13 excellent receptions, while Soltones posted 10 points and 13 excellent digs. Faith Nisperos chipped in nine points off the bench.

Akari will conclude its preseason schedule against PLDT on Aug. 15 in Lanao del Norte.

Choco Mucho finished its On Tour campaign winless at 0-3 while missing Alas Pilipinas standouts Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, and Dawn Catindig throughout the preseason.

Caitlin Viray and Mean Mendrez led the Flying Titans with 16 points each, while Madayag added 14 points.