Rocky Motol of CSB in action against Mapua in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge, August 22, 2026 at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City. PVL Media
MANILA — College of St. Benilde is off to a winning start in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge after a 19–25, 25–22, 25–21, 25–21 win over Mapua, Saturday at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The Blazers shook off a slow start before opposite hitter Reymark Betco came alive late in the match on both ends of the floor.
"Kasi nag-stop kami ng training from Sunday hanggang Tuesday; tapos, Wednesday was light lang kami kasi galing kaming Boracay. Ang mindset lang is hindi dapat yan excuse para hindi maglaro nang maayos. Laro pa rin yan, laban pa rin yan. You're representing the school," said longtime head coach Arnold Laniog.
With Mapua threatening to mount a comeback, Betco delivered the finishing blows to keep the Cardinals at bay, finishing with 22 points, including 18 from attacks. His four blocks proved crucial, while he also chipped in three digs.
Rocky Motol provided the early spark for the Blazers, scoring most of his 14 points in the first two sets, while team captain Chris Villanueva anchored the offense with 16 excellent sets.
Benilde will shoot for back-to-back wins when it takes on Arellano University on Sunday at 10 a.m.
The Cardinals were led by Ar-Jay Ramos, who finished with 16 points and 22 excellent receptions, while Patrick Reyes contributed 10 points and five digs.
Mapua will look to bounce back against De La Salle University in the following game at 12 noon.