MANILA — University of Santo Tomas is headed to the semifinals of the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge after sweeping College of St. Benilde, 25–23, 25–16, 25–16, on Sunday at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
The Golden Tigresses had to hold on for a tight win in the opener but cruised in the next two frames behind big hits from Marga Altea and Bianca Plaza.
"Happy lang kami and siyempre blessed kasi 'yung elimination namin, 'yung start namin talagang up-and-down. Good thing is na-test din namin 'yung mga players namin na bago. Yun kasi yung goal namin, makita namin 'yung reaction nila, 'yung performance nila 'pag nasa game na mismo," said head coach Shaq Delos Santos.
UST's Marga Altea in action against CSB in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge, September 27, 2026 at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City. PVL Media
Altea paced the Golden Tigresses with 15 points, consistently finishing rallies whenever the Lady Blazers threatened to close the gap. The versatile spiker tallied 11 attacks, three blocks, and one service ace, while also contributing four excellent receptions.
Captain Reg Jurado backstopped her junior teammate with a double-double of 14 points and 11 digs, while Angge Poyos also made an impact on both ends with eight points, eight digs, and five excellent receptions.
With UST accomplishing its first goal, Delos Santos hopes the team can build on the momentum it has established over the past few games.
"Siguro, 'yung ma-adapt 'yung sistema ng mga coaches. Kasi andoon kami sa point na ganoon eh, 'yung dapat alam 'yung gusto naming gawin sa court. Hindi kami dapat nanghuhula, kaya nag-i-invest talaga kami sa training," the seasoned mentor shared.
On the other hand, the Lady Blazers finished the tournament with a 2–5 record.
Cam Bartolome tried to keep Benilde within striking distance, but she finished as the team's lone player in double figures with 13 points.