MANILA -- University of the East had enough in the tank to get past College of Saint Benilde in its first assignment of the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday.
The Lady Warriors overcame the Lady Blazers, 25–21, 25–16, 22–25, 14–25, 15–8, to open their campaign at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
After squandering a two-set advantage, UE regained its form in the decider where the Lady Warriors turned an 8-4 lead into a commanding 12-5 cushion and cruised from there.
"Very happy kami na nabigyan kami ng chance. Grateful kami sa V-League management na nabigyan kami ng chance kasi kailangan talaga namin 'tong mga preseason, especially now na ang damı po naming rookies," said UE coach Jumbo Dimaculangan.
Janessa Buhay led the way with 23 points on 22 kills, while also contributing 11 digs and nine excellent receptions.
Janessa Buhay of UE in action against College of St. Benilde in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge, August 15, 2026 at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City. PVL Media
Cheska Peñol, the rookie setter out of National University Nazareth School, was steady in her collegiate debut with eight excellent sets and two points. Meanwhile, outside hitter Bea Zamudio chipped in 18 points for UE.
The Lady Warriors, who are returning to the V-League after last competing in the 2024 season, will go for back-to-back wins when they face the San Beda University Lady Red Spikers on August 30 at 10 a.m.
The Lady Blazers, on the other hand, got 17 points each from Grace Borromeo and Fiona Inocentes, while the all-around game of Mhonniecka Soliven kept the NCAA powerhouse in the fight. Soliven finished with 19 points and 11 excellent receptions.
Benilde will look to bounce back against rivals Colegio de San Juan de Letran next Sunday, August 23, at 5 p.m., still at the Mandaluyong hub.