Faida Bakanke of Far Eastern University scores against Gia Maquilang (25) and Jade Isar (16) of Batangas University in the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals at the University of Batangas Millenium gym on Friday (Aug. 29, 2025). The Tamaraws won, 25-13, 25-17, 25-21. (Photo courtesy of SSL)
Far Eastern University showed grit and composure as they held off a late surge from Letran, taking the win 25-13, 25-17, 25-21 in the opening match of the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals Luzon leg at the University of Batangas Millennium Gym Friday night.
Alas Pilipinas member Clarisse Loresco led the Lady Tamaraws with a well-rounded performance, finishing with 11 points—seven from attacks, three blocks, and an ace. Faida Bakanke added 10 points, while Ia Madane David, Alyzza Devosora, and Gerzel Petallo chipped in five each. Veteran setter Tin Ubaldo orchestrated the offense with eight excellent sets.
“There’s only one system but the in-game adjustments are up to them. We started well but got a little off in the third set because of the mix of players,” said FEU head coach Tina Salak.
Letran’s Verenice Colendra and Gia Maquilang kept their team in contention with 10 points each, narrowing the third set gap to 23-21. But FEU responded with a clutch attack from David, followed by Colendra’s unforced error, to close out the match.
In the second game of the night, NCAA champion College of Saint Benilde dominated University of Batangas, 25-8, 25-17, 25-15. Rhea Densing spearheaded the Lady Blazers with 12 points off 10 kills and two blocks, while middle blocker Zamantha Nolasco and Shahanna Lleses added 11 and 10 points, respectively.
“Masaya naman kasi fresh pa ang mga ito galing sa ibang liga kaya nandoon pa yung kondisyon,” said Lady Blazers assistant coach Onyok Getigan, filling in for head coach Jerry Yee. “I told the kids to maintain what they’re doing so the rookies can gradually get in. That’s the goal—getting everyone exposed before the NCAA.”
Riza Drice kept UB competitive with 10 points—eight attacks and two aces—but the Lady Brahmans fell short after a late 6-0 run by Benilde sealed the win. UB also lost key open hitter Jaimee Bacolod to a sprained right ankle in the second set, while Kylie Macatangay and Stephanie Almaria contributed four and three points, respectively.
With the Luzon leg underway, FEU and Benilde have set the tone for what promises to be an exciting SSL showdown.