University of the East (UE) survived a first-set rally from Colegio de San Juan de Letran. The Lady Red Warriors then pulled away for a 25–23, 25–20, 25–18 sweep on Saturday, Sept. 19.

The win at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City lifted UE to 3–3 in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge. It also moved the Lady Red Warriors into a share of fourth place. The match lasted one hour and 14 minutes.

Libero and captain Angge Reyes said the plan was simple. “Ang goal namin is maka-three sets or four talaga,” she said. UE had needed five sets to snap a three-game skid on Sept. 13.

Van Bangayan Powers UE Past Letran Lady Knights

Van Bangayan led the Lady Red Warriors with 19 points. She finished with 13 kills, three blocks and three service aces. Her all-around game steadied UE after the tight opening set.

Rookie Janessa Buhay, a product of Adamson High School, added 10 points. Setter Sofia Arasan chipped in four points and 10 excellent sets. Reyes anchored the back row with 16 digs and eight excellent receptions.

Letran had no player in double figures. Kaizah Huyno scored nine points, while Judiel Nitura added seven.

UE Eyes Final Four Spot Against Arellano Lady Chiefs

UE closes out the preliminary round against the Arellano University Lady Chiefs next Saturday, Sept. 26, at 10 a.m. Arellano has already secured a semifinal berth. A Final Four spot could be on the line for UE.

University of Perpetual Help System DALTA also reached 3–3 by sweeping De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde later Saturday. The Lady Altas face Letran at noon on Sept. 26.

Reyes said the coaching staff is not piling on pressure, but the players want a semifinal spot. “Pero as players, gusto naming makakuha ng semis,” she said.