Akari snatches bronze medal after thrilling 5-set comeback win vs PLDT

Akari completed a stunning comeback, defeating PLDT in five sets (15-25, 25-23, 21-25, 26-24, 20-18) to capture the bronze medal in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference.

The Chargers rallied from a two-set deficit and overcame an early 15-4 disadvantage in the fourth set to force a decider.

Coach Tina Salak credited the team's resilience and holding on together, especially during moments of doubt in the fourth set, as key to their victory.

Import Annie Mitchem led Akari with a 36-point outburst, including clutch hits in the fourth-set comeback and the decisive final set.

Grethcel Soltones provided solid local support with 14 points, 13 receptions, and 10 digs, with her performance being a spark for the fourth-set comeback.

Ced Domingo also contributed nine points, including a crucial service ace that propelled Akari to match point in the final set.

Eli Soyud scored the championship-winning point for Akari, ending a two-hour and 38-minute duel.

This marks the franchise's third podium finish, adding to a runner-up finish last year and a third-place finish earlier this year.