SAN JUAN CITY, Philippines — In a highly anticipated reunion of former UST stars, Eya Laure and Sisi Rondina led the Choco Mucho Flying Titans to a dominant 25-17, 25-23, 25-20 victory over the Akari Chargers at the FilOil EcoOil Centre on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
The match served as the opening salvo for the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference, marking the first time the duo played on the same side of the net since their Alas Pilipinas stint two years ago.
The Star Duo’s Performance Both players showed zero signs of rust despite significant time away from the PVL:
- Sisi Rondina: Fresh from winning a historic beach volleyball gold at the Southeast Asian Games in December, Rondina tallied a game-high 16 points, including the critical crosscourt hit and service ace that clinched the second set.
- Eya Laure: In her debut for Choco Mucho following her departure from Chery Tiggo, Laure contributed 11 points, nine receptions, and five digs. “I was able to sleep well… it really came down to having the right mindset,” Laure said of her successful return.
Game Turning Point The Flying Titans showed their resilience in the second set, overcoming an 11-17 deficit. A surge fueled by the blocking of Lorraine Pecaña and Kat Tolentino allowed Choco Mucho to reclaim the lead at 23-22 before Rondina’s heroics sealed the frame.
- Defensive Prowess: Pecaña and Jaila Atienza were walls at the net, combining for eight of the team’s 11 blocks.
- Setting Mastery: Deanna Wong orchestrated the offense with 11 excellent sets and added three points.
Coaching Feedback Coach Dante Alinsunurin expressed immense satisfaction with the team’s debut: “They even exceeded my expectations. They impressed me and did more than I thought they could. I just hope this kind of performance continues.”
Chargers’ Outlook Akari was hampered by the absence of star libero Justine Jazareno, who was sidelined with dengue.
- Silver Lining: The Chargers welcomed back Faith Nisperos from a knee injury.
- Top Scorer: Fifi Sharma led Akari with 10 points in the loss.
Choco Mucho looks to maintain its momentum as it prepares to face Cignal on Thursday, while Akari has until February 12 to regroup for their match against ZUS Coffee.