MANILA — National University rose to a share of the top spot in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge after sweeping De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, 25-19, 25-19, 31-29, on Saturday at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The Bulldogs improved to 4-1, tied with Letran at the top of the standings. It was their second straight sweep after also making quick work of Mapua University last Wednesday.
NU can clinch a semifinals berth with a win over undefeated Far Eastern University on Sunday, September 20, at noon.
The match also served as the final tune-up for Buds Buddin, Peng Taguibolos, Leo Ordiales, and Greg Ancheta before they join Alas Pilipinas for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.
Ordiales led NU with 19 points, including 18 attacks, while Jade Disquitado added 14 markers.
NU's Leo Ordiales in action against CSB in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge, September 12, 2026 at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City. PVL Media
After taking control of the first two sets, the Blazers mounted a late fight in the third, highlighted by Mike Balbacal's crosscourt attack that gave Benilde a 22-21 lead.
Ordiales then converted an off-the-block hit to put NU at match point, but Benilde's John Estrada answered with a tip to force a deuce. The set featured four more deadlocks before Godfrey Gamboa's quick hit, followed by another block from Gamboa, completed the sweep for NU.
"We just did 'yong sistema namin lalo't lalo na wala si coach Dante [Alinsunurin]. We just told the boys na sundin lang 'yong sistema, 'yong gameplan kaya lumabas 'yong result," NU assistant coach Ariel "Dong" Dela Cruz said, as he filled in for Alinsunurin, who had prior commitments with the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in Iloilo.
"Medyo na alanganin lang no'ng third set kasi medyo nag-relax but alam ko naman kaya nilang kunin 'yon.”
Buddin scored eight points, including three aces, while Taguibolos contributed seven points. Ancheta also delivered 25 excellent sets for the Bulldogs.
For the Blazers, Reymark Betco led the team with 20 points, while Rocky Motol added 13 in the loss.