Bella Belen heartbroken after PH women's volleyball team loses close SEA Games bronze medal match

Filipino volleyball star Bella Belen expressed her disappointment and heartbreak following Alas Pilipinas Women's close loss to Indonesia in the bronze medal match of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games indoor volleyball competition.

The Philippines ultimately fell short of breaking their 20-year medal drought in the sport, with all lost sets against Indonesia being decided by very tight margins.

Belen acknowledged the difficulty of the loss, stating, "It really hurts. It hurts a lot, even though it's my first time, because I know we're capable."

She noted that the team "just fell short" despite possessing the necessary talent and capability to win.

Indonesia secured the bronze medal with a nail-biting 28-26, 13-25, 30-28, 26-24 victory, reversing a trend that saw the Philippines win their last four SEA V.League matches against them.

Despite the painful defeat, Belen maintained her faith in the national team program, believing they are destined for future success.