By MARK REY MONTEJO
Alas Pilipinas got off to a strong start as it obliterated Mongolia, 25-18, 25-16, 25-14, in the 2025 AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup at the Dong Anh Gymnasium in Hanoi, Vietnam Saturday, June 7.
The world No. 53 Philippines immediately showcased its depth and firepower as it mauled the No. 223 Mongolians in their showdown.
The victory also brought joy to the Filipino fans inside the arena after seeing the country’s future volleyball stars in Bella Belen, Angel Canino and debutant Shai Nitura, who recently shone in the UAAP Season 87 women’s volleyball tournament.
Belen, meanwhile, will miss the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft this Sunday, June 8, where she is the consensus No. 1 pick for the Capital1 Solar Spikers.
Vanie Gandler took charge for the Nationals with 16 points off 13 attacks, one block and two aces, while Canino backed her up off 11 points.
Eya Laure finished with seven points while Belen, Dell Palomata, and Thea Gagate added six each as they provided ample scoring for the Jorge de Brito-mentored squad.
Saruulgerel Ganbaatar and Enkhnaran Ganbold had 13 and 10 points, respectively, in a losing cause for Mongolia.
Up next for the Nationals is Indonesia this Sunday, at the same venue.
