MANILA, Philippines — Arellano University drew first blood with a statement sweep of reigning NCAA champions Colegio de San Juan de Letran, 25–20, 25–22, 25–15, on opening day of the 2026 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Saturday at Gameville Central Park in Mandaluyong City.
A strong start in the third set turned into a decisive blow for the Lady Chiefs, who maintained their clinical run to the finish behind wing spikers Cassey Florida and Heart Villaflores.
Florida, however, suffered an injury scare late in the final set after landing awkwardly from her approach for a spike. The outside hitter was able to recover, but head coach Obet Javier said the team will still have her checked.
"Masaya, hindi dahil nanalo kami, kundi dahil nagawa namin yung mga pinapractice namin. Pero, ngayon, may kasamang pangamba dahil nga kay Florida," the long-time Lady Chiefs mentor said.
"Malakas naman yung look ng bata, pero kailangan pa rin namin siyang ipatingin."
Florida finished with a match-high 12 points on 10 attacks and two blocks, along with seven digs and five excellent receptions.
Villaflores added 11 markers, all from attacks, while Catherine Domasig helped stabilize the Lady Chiefs with 16 excellent sets and seven points.
The Lady Chiefs will test their mettle against the University of Santo Tomas next week at 3 p.m. at the same venue.
On the other hand, Letran missed the services of Best Opposite Hitter Judiel Nitura but saw Reeza Abayon and Rheina Merwa pace the team with seven points apiece.
The Lady Knights will battle perennial rivals De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde on Sunday, August 23, at 5 p.m.
