LAGUNA, Philippines — Despite being under the weather, Grethcel Soltones showed up for the Akari Chargers.
The Chargers stretched their winning streak to five after taking down the Galeries Tower Highrisers in four tight sets, 25-23, 25-23, 14-25, 26-24, in the preliminary round of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference Tuesday at the Santa Rosa Sports Complex.
The veteran hitter contributed eight points and eight excellent receptions in the match, but Akari's head coach, Tina Salak, highlighted her leadership that allowed the team to enjoy a 5-3 win-loss card.
“Grethc gives a bigger role, and she has a bigger responsibility, not just being the older sister (ate), but she is also a good example. That despite her being under the weather, she keeps showing up and does not neglect the team,” Salak told the media.
“This is a way to allow others to show what they can also contribute. Not all of them are showing the same level and standard [like what Grethc) does. I really commend Grethc,” she added.
Akari was led by Ced Domingo, who made 14 points, followed by Fifi Sharma and Eli Soyud, who put up 13 and 12 points each.
After pouring high-scoring digits in Akari’s past four matches, Ivy Lacsina only made seven points— but her consecutive four attacks in the fourth frame allowed the team to avoid a decider against Galeries.
Galeries was led by veteran Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, who scored 17 points, and Erika Ragas 14-point output.
However, this was not enough to allow the team to rise from a 2-6 win-loss record.