MANILA, Philippines — The PVL All-Filipino Conference continues to heat up as established powerhouses and rising contenders battle for momentum in the elimination round.
On Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the spotlight falls on the Creamline Cool Smashers and the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles, both of whom are coming off their first victories of the season and are looking to start a winning streak at each other’s expense.
Creamline vs. ZUS Coffee (6:30 p.m.)
The 10-time champion Cool Smashers are slowly regaining their championship form following the return of star setter Jia de Guzman and outside hitter Bernadeth Pons.
- Building Chemistry: Coach Sherwin Meneses emphasized that the team’s primary focus is gaining chemistry while winning games. After a four-set victory over Choco Mucho, the team looks healthy and deep.
- The Resistance: The Thunderbelles, led by towering middle blocker Thea Gagate, are aiming to sustain the momentum from their thrilling five-set win over Akari. Despite the injury to AC Miner, ZUS Coffee remains a formidable threat with a balanced attack featuring Jovelyn Gonzaga and Kate Santiago.
- Key Matchup: The battle at the net will be critical, as Gagate’s defensive presence will be tested by the potent Creamline frontline of Pons and Pangs Panaga.
Choco Mucho vs. Capital1 (4:00 p.m.)
Earlier in the day, the Choco Mucho Flying Titans and the Capital1 Solar Spikers will clash as both squads attempt to recover from recent defeats.
- Injury Update: All eyes are on Eya Laure, who is a gameday decision after suffering groin and abdominal issues in her last outing. If Laure remains sidelined, Sisi Rondina will be expected to carry a heavier offensive load.
- Solar Spikers’ Rebound: Capital1 is looking to steady its campaign and avoid falling further behind in the standings after a tough start to the conference.
League Standings
As of February 17, the league sees only two unbeaten teams: Nxled (3-0) and PLDT (2-0). These two leaders are scheduled for a highly anticipated clash on March 19.
The triple-header promises to shuffle the middle of the pack as teams jostle for position early in the All-Filipino Conference. With stars returning from injury and international stints, the level of competition in the PVL continues to reach new heights.