With their backs against the wall and down two sets, the Akari Chargers could have folded under the pressure of Choco Mucho’s relentless offense and the roar of the Araneta Coliseum crowd. But instead, they found inspiration from their anchor—libero Justine Jazareno.

Jazareno was a revelation on defense, finishing with 29 excellent digs and a 60 percent efficiency rate despite facing heavy fire from the Flying Titans, particularly the explosive Sisi Rondina.

“Sinabi lang namin sa isa’t isa na kapitan natin ‘yung Set 3. Magte-turnaround ‘to pag nakuha natin ‘yun,” Jazareno said post-game. Her words were prophetic.

Momentum Flip in Set 3

Akari came out blazing in Set 3, taking it 25-15 with renewed energy and tighter coordination. By then, Jazareno’s floor defense had fully ignited the team. Sets 4 and 5 followed the same story: composure, execution, and the refusal to let the game slip away.

Choco Mucho tied the final set three times, but Akari never flinched. When match point came at 14-11, a chaotic scramble ended with Grethcel Soltones delivering the winning drop. Still, it was Jazareno’s digs that made that clutch moment possible.

Big Numbers from Key Players

Eli Soyud led Akari with 24 points, while Ces Lacsina rebounded strong with 20. Soltones added 15. But it was the team’s resolve—and its floor general—that stood tallest.

Akari outgunned Choco Mucho in attacks, 60-45, and in aces, 8-5. The Flying Titans had the edge in blocks, 15-9, but that wasn’t enough to stop the Chargers’ surge.

Sisi Rondina finished with 18 points for Choco Mucho, with Royse Tubino contributing a team-high 19 and Isa Molde chipping in 10.

Now, Akari is just one win away from the bronze medal. If Game 1 was any indication, they’ve found their fuel—and her name is Justine Jazareno.