Alas Pilipinas Women Bounce Back, Sweep Kyrgyzstan After Tough Australia Loss

Alas Pilipinas delivered a strong response to its heartbreaking loss against Australia, dominating Kyrgyzstan in straight sets, 25-9, 25-11, 25-17, on Monday in the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup at the Candon City Arena.

After suffering a painful five-set defeat a day earlier in which they squandered a 2-1 set lead against Australia, the Filipinas came out determined and focused. They imposed their will from the opening serve, overpowering Kyrgyzstan to return to the win column and improve to 2-1 in Pool A.

The world No. 46 Philippines showcased its depth and balanced attack against world No. 42 Kyrgyzstan. Leading the charge were Thea Gagate, Jovelyn Gonzaga, and team captain Alyssa Valdez, who helped establish a consistent offensive rhythm. The Filipinas controlled the net with solid blocking and efficient attacking, keeping their opponents under pressure throughout the match.

After comfortably taking the first two sets, the Philippines seized complete control of the third frame with a blistering 7-0 start. Interim head coach Shaq Delos Santos then gave the second unit valuable minutes, and the reserves maintained the team’s intensity to complete the one-hour rout.

Ara Galang, Cla Loresco, and Alyssa Solomon provided an immediate spark off the bench, helping extend the lead before the Filipinas sealed the convincing victory.

Gagate produced her best performance of the tournament, finishing with a match-high 11 points on eight attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Gonzaga also bounced back from a quiet outing against Australia, contributing 10 points through smart offensive plays and timely defensive stops.

Valdez chipped in nine points, while Ces Molina rebounded from a subdued performance the previous day with eight points and nine excellent digs to anchor the team’s floor defense.

Niña Ytang added six points, while Loresco and setter Kyle Negrito scored four each as the Philippines spread the offense effectively and kept Kyrgyzstan guessing.

“Inisip lang namin ‘yung mga lapses namin nung last game at ginawa namin ng paraan para makabawi at maibalik ‘yung kumpiyansa ng bawat isa,” Gagate said, reflecting on the team’s quick turnaround.

Kyrgyzstan remained winless at 0-2 despite four points from Aiturgan Aitbekova and three markers apiece from Raiana Baiamanova and Gulmira Tulenova.

The Filipinas now shift their focus to a much tougher challenge as they face Asian powerhouse South Korea on Tuesday at 3 p.m. at the same venue, with a semifinal spot firmly within reach.