Bernardino Set to Make Season Debut as Valkyries Face Angels

The 2026 Women’s Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) heats up on Wednesday with an exciting clash between unbeaten teams Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire and Biñan-Tatak Gel at the Batangas City Coliseum.

The Valkyries and the Angels will headline the evening’s double-header at 6 p.m., each looking to extend their perfect start in a game that could play a pivotal role in shaping the early standings.

Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire is coming off an impressive 85-53 victory over Caloocan, where their potent offense and suffocating defense were key to their success. Despite the commanding win, head coach Cholo Villanueva acknowledged the team's need to improve, particularly their shooting efficiency. The Valkyries shot just 39% from the field, an area Villanueva is eager to address.

“We need to improve our scoring efficiency. We had a lot of stops, but we also had some empty possessions. We want to make stops and convert those into good shots,” Villanueva said.

Christine Bariquit and Snow Peñaranda are expected to once again anchor the team’s inside presence with their strength and skill. The Valkyries are also set to receive a major boost with the return of reigning MVP Afril Bernardino, who missed the opening game but recently helped Gilas Pilipinas secure a spot in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup in Singapore. Bernardino’s return is expected to elevate Batangas-New Zealand Bluefire to even greater heights.

On the other side, Biñan-Tatak Gel will look to keep their winning streak alive after a convincing 66-46 triumph over RK Hoops-Quezon City 10ACT. The Angels will rely heavily on Eka Soriano, who scored an impressive 20 points in her debut performance. However, for Biñan to continue their strong start, they will need key contributions from Monique Del Carmen and Chack Cabinbin, whose efforts will be crucial in maintaining balance against the powerhouse Valkyries.

The evening will kick off with the opening game at 4 p.m., where Caloocan and RK Hoops-Quezon City 10ACT, both coming off heavy losses, will square off in search of their first win.

Janine Pontejos and Rejoice Adlawan will lead the charge for Caloocan, while Faith Panti and Stiff Larosa are expected to carry the fight for RK Hoops-Quezon City 10ACT in this crucial early matchup between two teams eager to break through.