By Mark Rey Montejo
Published Aug 6, 2026
Alas Pilipinas came out empty-handed after bowing to Indonesia, 25-20, 19-25, 22-25, 16-25, at the conclusion of the 2026 Women's SEA V. Cup's first leg at the Dong Anh Gymnasium in Hanoi, Vietnam Sunday, Aug. 2.
Alas Pilipinas came out empty-handed after bowing to Indonesia, 25-20, 19-25, 22-25, 16-25, at the conclusion of the 2026 Women’s SEA V. Cup’s first leg at the Dong Anh Gymnasium in Hanoi, Vietnam Sunday, Aug. 2.
Similar to their last two games, the Nationals, powered by Niña Ytang, Alyssa Solomon, and Bella Belen, stepped on the gas pedal early on to take the opening set.
However, the Indonesians easily solved the riddle and stormed in the next three frames to frustrate the Filipina spikers.
Despite missing out on a podium finish, Solomon brought the Nationals on the spotlight after claiming the Best Opposite Spiker plum.
Indonesia, on the other hand, clinched the bronze honors with Maradanti Namira Tegariani earning the Best Middle Blocker nod.
Ytang delivered a breakout game for the Taka Minowa-mentored crew with 14 points on 11 attacks, two blocks, and one ace, while Solomon and Belen chipped in 13 and 12 points, respectively.
Eya Laure, Dell Palomata, and Fifi Sharma combined for 18 points in a losing cause for the Philippines. Indonesia, for its act, leaned on Arsela Nuari Purnama who scored 18 points, while Chelsa Berliana Nurtomo and Mediol Stiovanny Yoku uncorked 16 points apiece.
Meanwhile, the formidable Thailand made quick work of Vietnam, 25-18, 25-17, 25-14, to keep its record pristine and capture the first leg of the annual tournament.
With all teams set for a three-day break, the Philippines will look to finally break into the win column when it faces host Thailand on Friday, Aug. 7, at the Chiang Mai Sports Complex.
