Criss Cross opened its title defense in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference with a statement, sweeping the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), 25-15, 25-14, 25-12, on Tuesday, October 13, at the SMART Araneta Coliseum. The King Crunchers needed just 78 minutes.

Five-time conference Most Valuable Player Jude Garcia led the way with a game-high 13 points on seven attacks, four blocks and two aces. The former Far Eastern University star also added five excellent digs.

Jude Garcia Says Criss Cross Still Building Chemistry

Despite the dominant result, Garcia admitted he is still adjusting to life with the King Crunchers after returning from Alas Pilipinas duty at the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026. He said the team also needs time to build chemistry with new teammates.

“Siguro po, sobrang nag-a-adjust pa kasi ilang weeks pa lang kami nagsasama,” he said. “So, kailangan pa ng gelling namin.”

“So, yung chemistry namin, medyo off pa, so kailangan talaga trabahuhin namin para sa darating na games, maging pulido na yung galaw namin.” In other words, the chemistry is still off and needs polish before the games ahead.

Criss Cross Depth Shines as AFP Eyes Bounce-Back

Newcomer Amil Pacinio chipped in eight points, all from attacks, while Noel Kampton and Poy Colinares added six apiece. Kennedy Batas and Lucca Mamone each contributed five.

Adrian Villados, who also represented Alas Pilipinas at the Asiad, dished out 15 excellent sets. Manuel Sumanguid and John Pepito shared libero duties, recording 13 excellent digs and 12 excellent receptions, respectively.

The win lifted Criss Cross into a share of the top spot with Alpha Insurance at 1-0. The King Crunchers next face rival Savouge on Oct. 21 at 5 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

Pol Salvador led AFP with eight points, while Alfredo Pagulong added five. Jessie Lopez logged nine excellent digs and six excellent receptions in his Spikers’ Turf return, and the Cavaliers face 3B on Oct. 21 at 11 a.m.