Akari clinches PVL All-Filipino bronze after dramatic win over Choco Mucho

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Akari lit up its breakthrough campaign in the 2025 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference by delivering a thrilling 25-15, 26-24, 26-24 sweep of Choco Mucho to claim the bronze medal at Philsports Arena on Saturday, April 12.

Eli Soyud Leads the Charge

Eli Soyud set the tone early and delivered in clutch moments, finishing with 18 points to earn Best Player of the Game honors.

“So very grateful – all the hard work, tough training, and sacrifices from the coaches, management, and players paid off,” said Soyud.
“We’re so happy because we finally made it to the podium.”

Soyud’s timely hits in the final two sets were crucial in fending off Choco Mucho’s rallies, including a nerve-wracking finish in Set 3.

Akari celebrates after clinching its first-ever PVL podium finish. [PVL Images]

Choco Mucho’s Comeback Falls Short

The Flying Titans clawed back from a 16-20 deficit in the third, tying the score at 22, and again at 24 after capitalizing on Akari’s service errors. But Soyud delivered a kill, followed by a Lacsina finish that sealed the win.

Full Team Effort for the Chargers

Middle blocker Ced Domingo added 13 points, while Ivy Lacsina had 12. Grethcel Soltones contributed six points and anchored the defense with 18 digs and 17 receptions. Michelle Cobb dished out 20 excellent sets to control the offense.

“All the points in the endgame – we couldn’t afford to let them go or give Choco Mucho any momentum,” Soyud said of their late-game resolve.

Defensive Strategy Shuts Down Rondina

Akari’s defense held Sisi Rondina to just 14 points. No other Flying Titan scored in double figures. Royse Tubino added nine, while Isa Molde was limited to just three markers.

Despite 25 unforced errors, Akari still dominated offensively, outhitting Choco Mucho 47-29, and leading in aces (5-2). Both teams recorded seven blocks each.

Series Recap: Akari Outlasts Choco Mucho

After splitting the first two games of the bronze series, Akari came out firing in Game 3. They erased a 0-2 start in Set 1 with a 9-4 burst, then cruised to a 25-15 win. Cobb masterfully activated all her hitters to keep the Flying Titans guessing.

In Set 2, after a 7-all tie, Akari surged ahead with six straight points. Though Choco Mucho rallied to take a late 24-23 lead, Soyud and Lacsina came up big to swing the set back. Victoria’s deep serve on set point was mishandled by Rondina, handing Akari the 2-0 lead.