University of Perpetual Help System DALTA is no longer just finding its rhythm in NCAA Season 101 — it is sending a warning.
Behind a breakout offensive performance from veteran setter Klint Mateo, the ALTAs toppled defending champion Arellano University, 25-23, 24-26, 25-19, 25-23, on Saturday to stretch their winning streak to five and seize solo control of Group A.
For Mateo, long known as the team’s floor general, the afternoon was about more than distribution. The fourth-year playmaker scored 14 points on top of 24 excellent sets, repeatedly catching the Chiefs off guard with timely dumps and well-placed attacks that shifted momentum at crucial junctures.
Perpetual improved to 5-2, a far cry from the early-season doubts after opening the campaign with two losses. Arellano, meanwhile, slipped to 4-2 in Group B as its title defense absorbed a major dent.
Despite the surge, Mateo downplayed the streak, emphasizing the lessons learned from their early setbacks.
The ALTAs’ resurgence, he said, was built on discipline and stronger team chemistry — adjustments forged through adversity rather than comfort.
Fourth-set execution ultimately spelled the difference.
Holding a slim 17-14 advantage, Mateo ignited a key run with a sharp attack that energized the Las Piñas-based squad. But the Chiefs, showing the composure of reigning champions, clawed back behind transferee Ervin Osabel and the steady net presence of Daniel Agovida.
A late 4-0 burst by Arellano trimmed what was once a five-point deficit to a single point at 24-23, threatening to force another extension. The tension peaked when Marc Tangon’s cross-court strike was initially ruled out, only to be overturned after a successful challenge — sealing the upset and triggering celebrations on the Perpetual side.
John Castil paced the ALTAs with 16 points, while Tangon and Jester Bornel added 14 and 13 markers, respectively. Tangon also contributed across the floor with five digs and 15 receptions, underscoring Perpetual’s balanced effort.
Jiwen Sinuto carried Arellano with 23 points, while CJ Dominguito added 13 markers and 16 receptions in a losing stand.
More than just another win, the result signals Perpetual’s growing maturity. With a core anchored by holdovers from their Season 99 championship squad, the ALTAs are blending experience with renewed hunger.
The season remains long, and both groups are still wide open. But on this day, it was the setter who dictated the script — and the ALTAs who authored one of the tournament’s biggest statements yet.
