San Beda celebrates against Letran in the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge, September 6, 2026 at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City. PVL Media
MANILA — San Beda University barged into the win column of the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge after beating Colegio de San Juan de Letran in a five-set marathon on Sunday.
The Lady Red Spikers gutted out a 18–25, 25–18, 25–23, 16–25, 18–16 win at the Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City for their first victory of the tournament.
San Beda appeared to be re-energized by the appearance of head coach Kungfu Reyes, who turned up to the bench midway through the fifth set after missing most of the match.
Senior wing spiker Angel Habacon put San Beda ahead, 11–10, but Judiel Nitura answered for Letran as the two rivals traded blows down the stretch.
Daisy Cagas and Kim Culanay then combined for a 3–0 finishing run that allowed the Lady Red Spikers to finally secure the victory against their bitter rivals and reigning NCAA champions.
"Ang kailangan kasi ng mga bata is self-confidence, which is yung na-develop ngayong game na 'to. Kasi ginagawa naman namin sa training lahat; ang dapat lang mai-translate sa laro," said coach Benjamin Mape, who took charge in Reyes' stead.
Cagas led the Lady Red Spikers on both ends of the court with 17 points built on 15 attacks, one block, and one ace, while also contributing seven digs and 12 excellent receptions.
Habacon added 11 points, including three straight kills that helped swing the momentum San Beda's way in the decider, while Janelle Bachar chipped in 13 markers.
The Lady Red Spikers improved to 1–2 and will face the University of the East in their rescheduled match on Wednesday at 10 a.m.
For Letran, Nitura, Reeza Abayon, and Rheina Merwa each finished with 15 points, but the Lady Knights struggled in reception after surrendering 10 aces.
Still winless after four games, the Lady Knights will look to keep their flickering semifinals hopes alive when they take on the University of Santo Tomas next week, September 13, at 10 a.m.