Ivy Lacsina played a pivotal role in Akari’s remarkable turnaround in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference, helping power the Chargers to a statement victory over Creamline. The towering winger delivered one of her most impactful performances of the conference as Akari continued its surge after a difficult start.

The Tina Salak-coached squad defeated the Creamline Cool Smashers, 25-21, 26-24, 17-25, 25-21, on Thursday at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan. The win allowed the Chargers to extend their streak to four games after opening the tournament with three straight losses.

Lacsina produced 20 points built on 18 attacks, one block, and one ace, providing the offensive spark that helped Akari outlast the defending power. Her performance also halted Creamline’s five-game winning run while strengthening the Chargers’ push for a Top 4 finish in the preliminary round.

Securing a spot among the top four teams would place Akari in the Qualifying Round, a favorable scenario as the conference approaches its crucial stages. The Chargers’ current momentum has placed them firmly in the race heading into the final stretch of the preliminaries.

For her outstanding role in the victory and the team’s continued rise, Lacsina was unanimously selected as the PVL Press Corps Player of the Week presented by Pilipinas Live for the period of March 10 to 14. The recognition marked another milestone for the 26-year-old spiker in the country’s first and only professional women’s volleyball league.

Lacsina credits coaches for composure

The San Fernando, Pampanga native credited the coaching staff for helping her maintain composure during crucial stretches of the match. According to Lacsina, the guidance of the team’s mentors has been instrumental in managing emotions during high-pressure situations.

“Siguro sa akin po, with the guidance na rin po ng mga coaches. Kasi sila talaga ‘yung nagsasabi na, ‘Oh, kalma,’ parang [kapag] medyo mataas na ‘yung emotion namin, sila talaga ‘yung nagma-manage no’n,” said Lacsina.

Her steady presence proved crucial as Akari secured only its second franchise victory against the 10-time league champions. The win also highlighted the Chargers’ growing confidence as they continue to challenge the league’s traditional contenders.

Akari keeps focus on continued growth

Despite the Chargers’ winning streak, Lacsina stressed the importance of remaining grounded and focused on improvement. The star spiker emphasized that consistent learning remains a priority as she continues to pursue bigger goals in the conference.

“Siyempre, every day naman, kahit na nananalo ako, lagi ko pong sinasabi, kahit sa ibang interviews ko na, every day, lagi dapat may space sa akin para sa bagong learning. So, hindi ‘yun nawawala sa akin, kasi may gusto pa akong ma-achieve,” she said.

Akari now has an opportunity to extend its momentum as it closes out the preliminary round schedule. The Chargers face Galeries Tower on Tuesday, March 17, at the Santa Rosa Complex in Laguna before battling Farm Fresh on March 21.

Both matches present crucial opportunities for Akari to strengthen its position in the standings. Sustaining their current form could secure the Chargers a valuable advantage heading into the next phase of the tournament.