MANILA, Philippines — The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles survived a grueling five-set match against the Akari Chargers, 16-25, 25-18, 18-25, 25-23, 15-12, to register their first win in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Thursday night at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
The Thunderbelles lost their first two matches against the Capital 1 Solar Spikers and the Galeries Tower Highrisers before capturing their first win in the tournament.
Chinnie Arroyo collected in 18 points on 15 attacks, a block and two aces, while veteran Jov Gonzaga churned out 14 points on 10 attacks, two blocks and two aces for ZUS Coffee.
Riza Nogales also added 10 points for the Thunderbelles.
ZUS’ floor-defense specialist Alyssa Eroa made 21 excellent digs and 11 excellent receptions.
On Akari’s side, Ivy Lacsina scored a game-high 24 points but it was not enough to lift her squad.
Akari is still looking for its first win in the conference and dropped to 0-3 in the team standings.