MANILA, Philippines — The dynasty has been restored.
In a grueling test of championship resolve, the Creamline Cool Smashers returned to the summit of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), outlasting a tenacious Cignal HD Spikers in a five-set marathon, 25-23, 22-25, 25-16, 16-25, 15-11, to sweep the 2026 All-Filipino Conference Finals on Thursday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Before a capacity crowd of over 17,000 fans, the Cool Smashers captured their 11th league title and their 7th All-Filipino crown, reclaiming the specific trophy they lost to the Petro Gazz Angels the previous season.
The story of the night was Bernadeth Pons, who was rightfully named Finals MVP. In a performance that solidified her status as one of the league’s most versatile superstars, Pons poured in 22 points alongside 25 digs and 15 excellent receptions.
“We had so many challenges and struggles this conference,” said an emotional Pons, who recently returned to the indoor court after a gold-medal beach volleyball run in the SEA Games. “This was not an easy road for us, but we are fortunate to be queens again.”
After the teams traded sets for over two hours, the deciding fifth frame became a battle of nerves. Cignal, looking for their first-ever PVL title, held a slim 9-7 lead following back-to-back hits from newly crowned Conference MVP Vanie Gandler.
However, Creamline’s “championship DNA” took over. Jema Galanza ignited a 6-1 run to put the Cool Smashers ahead, 13-10. Following a crucial block by Pangs Panaga on Gandler, superstar Tots Carlos pushed the team to championship point before sealing the deal with one final emphatic block on Gandler’s attempt.
For a team that had uncharacteristically missed all three conference finals in 2025, this victory served as a definitive statement. The return of Galanza and setter Jia De Guzman (who dished out 22 excellent sets in Game 1 and maintained her brilliance in the clincher) provided the stability the “Pink” squad lacked last season.
Despite the loss, the Cignal HD Spikers earned widespread praise for their deepest run yet in the All-Filipino Conference. Vanie Gandler finished with a massive 26 points, 15 receptions, and 14 digs, while Gel Cayuna and Erika Santos anchored a defense that pushed the winningest team in Philippine volleyball to the absolute limit.
In the battle for third place, the PLDT High Speed Hitters managed to salvage a bronze medal earlier in the day by sweeping the Farm Fresh Foxies.
With the All-Filipino trophy back in their cabinet, the Cool Smashers now look toward the upcoming Reinforced Conference, eyeing a potential Grand Slam run for the 2026 season.