Alas Pilipinas secures AVC Challenge Cup semifinal spot

Veteran setter Jia de Guzman led Alas Pilipinas to victories over Australia and India in their first two AVC Challenge Cup games on Thursday and Friday, securing a historic semifinal ticket with a 3-0 record after defeating Iran on Saturday.

Coach Jorge Souza De Brito praised the team's discipline and leadership under de Guzman, noting that Alas Pilipinas is the first Philippine squad to reach the semifinals in any AVC competition since joining the confederation in 1961.

Despite initial struggles, the team adapted effectively after scouting and training against aggressive play styles of opponents, with key contributions from hitters Angel Canino and Eya Laure who each scored significantly against Australia.

De Guzman expressed gratitude for fan support, emphasizing the importance of utilizing Alas Pilipinas' strengths like speed and agility in their upcoming match to secure a second win in Pool A on Saturday evening at Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The national team aims to continue improving under Coach De Brito's guidance as they prepare for the knockout semis against Kazakhstan, with aspirations to maintain consistency and level up for future international tournaments.