The youthful Alas Pilipinas women are proving that poise and teamwork can conquer even Asia’s best. The Filipinas booked a quarterfinal berth in the Asian Youth Games after a pair of gritty victories over South Korea and China — the latter a straight-sets stunner that signaled their emergence as a rising power.

The team’s steady improvement has come from familiarity and focus, said captain Denesse Daylisan, who credited their growing connection on and off the floor. “Kung matibay po yung connection sa loob at labas ng court, kaya po ilaban yun,” she said, noting how trust and discipline have shaped their campaign.

After an opening loss to Thailand, the Filipinas bounced back with a five-set thriller over South Korea before blanking China, 25-20, 25-18, 25-20, on Thursday. The result locked them into the next round and restored their confidence heading into their match against Hong Kong.

“Hindi tsamba yun,” Daylisan added. “Pinaghirapan po namin yun, maganda naman ang galaw namin.”

Young stars shine as Alas Pilipinas hit their stride

Leading the surge was Rhose Almendralejo, who erupted for 23 points against China, including nine in a dominant first set that silenced the opposing crowd. Teammates Sam Cantada and flag bearer Harlyn Serneche added 10 points apiece as the Filipinas displayed a balanced attack that overwhelmed the tournament favorites.

Philippine Chef de Mission Ramon “Tats” Suzara lauded the team’s collective effort, saying it reflects the depth of emerging talent in the national pipeline. “There are a lot of very good potentials,” he said. “They’re still young and learning, but this is a solid step toward the senior level.”

Suzara also praised the team’s enthusiasm and spirit. “It’s overwhelming what these players have shown. They have a bright future for the Alas senior national team,” he said.

Weightlifters seek golden lift for Philippines

Meanwhile, the national weightlifting squad — led by world youth champion Jhodie Peralta — arrived in Bahrain aiming to add to the country’s medal count. Peralta is joined by fellow gold medalists Jay-R Colonia and Alessandra Ann Diaz, along with Dave Pacaldo, Jerick Castro, and Princess Jay Ann Diaz.

The group, coached by Kelle Kay Rojas, Patrick Lee, Gregorio Colonia, and Allen Jayfrus Diaz, will begin competition Sunday at the Exhibition World Bahrain. The team recently topped the youth category at the IWF World Youth and Junior Championships in Lima, Peru, after securing 10 golds.

So far, the Philippine contingent has collected four medals, including a gold in pencak silat courtesy of Kram Airam Carpio and a bronze in teqball from Crystal Carino and Nicole Tabucol.