After two straight stumbles to start their campaign, Alas Pilipinas Women closed the 2025 SEA Women’s V.League Leg 1 on a high note, salvaging bronze in emphatic fashion by toppling Indonesia in four sets, 25-20, 25-20, 16-25, 25-13, Sunday in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
The win not only gave the Philippines its third consecutive bronze in the regional tilt, but also dashed Indonesia’s hopes for a podium finish — a redemption of sorts after early-round frustrations against regional giants Thailand and Vietnam.
From the onset, the Nationals set the tone, executing with urgency and precision to take a 2-0 set advantage. Though their momentum momentarily slipped in the third set, the Filipinas didn’t allow Indonesia’s resurgence to snowball. In Set 4, they came out with guns blazing, racing to a dominant 15-4 lead behind strong serves, tighter floor defense, and seamless playmaking by veteran setter Jia de Guzman.
The statement finish was a testament to the team’s resilience — bouncing back after two losses to regional powerhouses but still proving they belong in the top tier of Southeast Asian volleyball.
While a gold medal continues to remain out of reach — with Thailand maintaining its regional dominance since the tournament’s inception in 2019 — the consistency of Alas Pilipinas in finishing in the top three signals steady progress for the national squad.
This bronze may not be the color they dreamed of, but in a tournament that once again showcased the fierce competition among Southeast Asia’s best, it was a hard-earned step forward.