MANILA — University of Perpetual Help captured its first win in style, turning back gritty San Beda University in four sets, 25–22, 28–26, 21–25, 25–21, in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge preliminaries on Saturday at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The Lady Altas improved to an even 1–1 record but had to fend off a late rally from the Lady Red Spikers in the fourth set.
With outside hitter Jem Menor getting checked twice by the San Beda defense in the endgame, Camille Bustamante eventually came through with the clinching kill, capping the season's longest day so far after nearly two hours of action.
"Actually, ang pinaka-adjustment ko lang is yung rotation ng players — naghahanap pa talaga ako ng tamang tao sa loob. Marami pa ring (aayusin). Salamat at nakuha yung panalo, pero pakiramdam as a coach, talo pa rin kasi marami pa ring errors," said head coach Sandy Rieta.
Menor still finished with 16 points, all from attacks, while Cyrille Almeñiana picked up where she left off last time with 17 markers and six digs.
Collete Gaa was steady with 17 excellent sets, while libero Joanna Lozano anchored the defense with 19 digs and 25 excellent receptions.
The Lady Altas will shoot for a second straight win when they take on the University of Santo Tomas Golden Tigresses on August 30 at noon.
Janelle Bachar remained San Beda's constant with 15 points, 13 of them from attacks, while Daisy Cagas chipped in 11. Angel Habacon made her season debut with seven markers.
The Lady Red Spikers, who slipped to 0–2, will try to arrest their skid against the University of the East Lady Warriors earlier that day at 10 a.m.