Rondina returns in style, powers partnership with Rodriguez to Sipalay Open crown

UAAP Sisi Rondina and Dij Rodriguez capped their highly anticipated partnership debut with a thrilling comeback victory, defeating National University-DutchBoy’s Kat Epa and Kizil Quijote, 19-21, 21-13, 15-6, to win the Beach Volleyball Republic On Tour Sipalay Open women’s title on Sunday at Poblacion Beach in Sipalay City.

The pair completed a perfect five-match sweep in the tournament. In the semifinals, they survived a tough battle against fellow Southeast Asian Games gold medalists Sunny Villapando and Gen Eslapor, 21-15, 11-21, 15-12.

For Rondina, the victory was extra special as it marked her return to BVR action in front of a passionate home crowd in Negros Occidental.

“Unti-unting nakikilala talaga ang beach volleyball sa Pilipinas,” Rondina said. “We are hoping na maraming liga na ganito, hindi lang sa Sipalay, pati sa buong Pilipinas.”

The win gave Rondina her sixth BVR On Tour title and Rodriguez her fourth.

In the men’s division, Alas Pilipinas standouts Ranran Abdilla and Ronniel Rosales avenged an earlier loss by defeating Beach Volleyball Manila’s Edwin Tolentino and Lerry Francisco, 21-23, 21-18, 15-7, to claim the championship. It was the duo’s second BVR On Tour title this year.

Villapando and Gen Eslapor took the women’s bronze, while Gabito and Lagaran secured bronze in the men’s side.