Indonesia ends Alas Women’s SEA V Cup podium streak

Indonesia finally got its revenge against Alas Pilipinas, ending the Filipinas’ four-year SEA V Cup podium run with a 20-25, 25-19, 25-22, 25-16 victory in the first leg finale of the 2026 tournament on Sunday at Dong Anh Gymnasium in Vietnam.

The win marked Indonesia’s first victory over the Philippines in SEA V Cup action after four consecutive defeats and secured its first podium finish in the competition since 2023.

Alas Pilipinas stayed within striking distance early in the fourth set, but Indonesia pulled away in the closing stretch. After the teams were tied at 13-all, the Indonesians closed out the match with a dominant 12-3 run to claim the bronze medal.

Bella Belen gave the Philippines a brief spark with an off-the-block attack that cut the deficit to 20-15, but Indonesia answered with five straight points to finish the match. Belen committed an attack error before being denied at the net on match point as Indonesia completed the victory.

The defeat marked the first time since 2023 that Alas Pilipinas failed to reach the SEA V Cup podium after placing fourth in that edition.

The Filipinas started strong, relying on their middle blockers to control the opening set. Niña Ytang ignited a crucial 4-0 run with three points to turn a one-point deficit into a 22-19 advantage, while Dell Palomata delivered three of the team’s final five points to seal the frame.

Indonesia responded in the second set by improving its offensive efficiency and tightening its defense to level the match.

The third set remained closely contested before Indonesia created separation late. Arsela Nuari Purnama, Ersandrina Devega, and Rara Maradanti sparked a 4-0 surge that turned an 18-17 lead into a 22-17 advantage, putting the Indonesians in control.

Alas Pilipinas will look to recover in the second leg of the SEA V Cup, which begins on August 7 in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The Filipinas open their campaign against host Thailand at 4:30 p.m.