De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde made a strong statement to start its V-League Collegiate Challenge 2025 campaign, sweeping University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, 25-19, 25-13, 25-18, in the opening-day curtain-raiser on Saturday, August 9, at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

The 2023 women’s division champions wasted no time showing they are determined to reclaim the throne they surrendered last season, dominating their NCAA rivals from start to finish.

Basarte sparks decisive third-set run

Cheanae Basarte ignited a backbreaking 6-0 rally to begin the third and final set, sealing her service run with an ace. That early momentum gave the Lady Blazers control, with Rhea Mae Densing adding two crucial kills to push the lead to 22-13 and set up the victory in just one hour and nine minutes.

Head coach Jerry Yee admitted the team had little time to prepare due to overlapping commitments, but emphasized the importance of testing different rotations. “We’re trying lineups, we’re trying rookies,” Yee said, praising his players’ eagerness to perform and maintain a winning culture.

Balanced attack leads to sweep

Perpetual put up resistance early behind senior Shai Omipon, but once the reigning NCAA champions found their rhythm, they pulled away for good. Middle blocker Zam Nolasco led the scoring with 10 points from six attacks and four blocks. Cristy Ondagan and Clydel Catarig added eight points each, while Basarte recorded 16 excellent sets along with six points of her own.

Benilde outspiked Perpetual 44-23 in a showcase of offensive firepower. Yee credited the team’s work ethic, calling his players “the secret” behind their consistent success.

Omipon finished with eight points for the Lady Altas, followed by Pauline Reyes with six and Camille Bustamante with five off the bench.

The Lady Blazers face Letran next on Tuesday at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center, while Perpetual will look to bounce back against Adamson University on Sunday.