Alpha Insurance defeated VNS Always Bright Laticrete in straight sets, 25-21, 25-12, 25-15, to close out the elimination round of the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference on Friday, March 27, at Paco Arena. The Protectors snapped a two-game losing streak and regained momentum heading into the semifinals.

The victory lifted Alpha Insurance to a 5-5 record with 16 points, good for third place, as the race for semifinal positioning intensified among the qualified teams. The win also provided a much-needed boost in confidence after back-to-back defeats.

With the elimination phase concluded, the Protectors now shift their focus to the round-robin semifinals, where every match will be crucial in determining the finalists. The team aims to carry over its strong performance into the next stage of the competition.

Alpha Insurance regains form with dominant sweep

Alpha Insurance delivered a composed and efficient performance, controlling the match from start to finish against a VNS squad that struggled to find rhythm throughout the contest. Their execution on both ends of the floor allowed them to dictate the tempo early.

Cian Silang orchestrated the offense with 22 excellent sets while adding three points, ensuring that multiple attackers remained involved. His steady playmaking kept the defense guessing and created consistent scoring opportunities.

Nathaniel Del Pilar led the scoring with 13 points on an efficient 10-of-15 attack, while also contributing two blocks and an ace. His performance highlighted his growing role as a reliable offensive option for the Protectors.

Ranz Cajolo added 12 points, including three kill blocks, while Jau Umandal chipped in 11 markers off the bench to sustain the team’s offensive flow. The balanced attack underscored Alpha Insurance’s depth as they head into the semifinals.

Head coach Mike Santos stressed the importance of the win, emphasizing that the team needed to regain its rhythm and morale. He noted that the players responded well and executed their game plan effectively.

VNS closes campaign winless despite Segui return

VNS Always Bright Laticrete wrapped up its campaign without a win, unable to capitalize even with the return of ace spiker CJ Segui. The team found it difficult to match Alpha Insurance’s consistency and intensity.

Segui led VNS with 10 points and nine excellent receptions, providing a bright spot in an otherwise challenging outing. Jun Frank Edang added eight points, but the team struggled to build sustained runs.

Alpha Insurance’s dominance was evident, particularly in the second and third sets where it limited VNS to just 12 and 15 points. The Protectors’ control of key stretches ensured there would be no late comeback.

With the elimination round complete, Alpha Insurance now awaits the result of the Savouge versus AEP-Cabstars match to determine semifinal seedings. Carrying renewed momentum, the Protectors look poised to compete strongly in the next phase.