Alpha Insurance wasted little time making a strong first impression in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, turning back newcomer AEP-Cabstars, 25-23, 25-18, 25-20, on Wednesday, Feb. 25,  at the FilOil Playtime Centre in San Juan. The Protectors leaned on discipline and defensive stability to secure the straight-sets victory.

The opening frame, however, proved anything but comfortable. Facing a retooled Cabstars squad loaded with familiar talent, Alpha Insurance needed time to read the opposition before asserting control when it mattered most.

Protectors settle in after early test

Head coach Mike Santos admitted the unfamiliar look of the Cabstars forced his squad to make early adjustments. “Actually, nagkagulo nung first set kasi hindi rin namin alam ‘yung igagalaw talaga ng Cabstars. Pero fortunately, ‘yung ginamit ko nung first set ‘yung original lineup namin so kahit papaano na-control namin,” he said.

Once the Protectors found their footing, their system clicked into place. Alpha Insurance tightened its floor defense and executed calculated attacks that gradually blunted the Cabstars’ resistance.

JM Ronquillo quickly justified his move to the squad, delivering a team-high 12 points off the bench built on 11 attacks and a kill block. His spark helped the Protectors seize full control of the match.

Edward Camposano chipped in nine points in just two sets, while Ranz Cajolo and Rommelito Baptista added seven and six markers, respectively. Billie Anima and Jau Umandal also provided support with five points apiece.

Alpha Insurance dominated the attack department, 43-32, and took advantage of the Cabstars’ costly 25 errors. The victory provided early momentum ahead of the Protectors’ looming showdown with Invitational Conference champion Criss Cross.

Cabstars show flashes but fade

AEP-Cabstars displayed encouraging signs early but failed to sustain their level as the match wore on. The newcomers struggled with consistency and eventually unraveled against Alpha Insurance’s steadier execution.

Jay Rack De La Noche paced the Cabstars with 14 points, while Vince Abrot added 13 in the losing effort. Despite the defeat, both showed the offensive capability that could make the team competitive moving forward.

Former Cignal standouts EJ Casana and Vince Lorenzo contributed on multiple fronts. Casana tallied 14 excellent sets with four points and three digs, while Lorenzo anchored the backline with 18 excellent receptions.

Alpha Insurance will next face the King Crunchers on Friday at 5 p.m. at the same venue. The Cabstars, meanwhile, seek a quick recovery when they take on VNS VNS Always Bright Laticrete earlier that day at 3 p.m.