THE opening salvo of the 2025 Rebisco Volleyball League (RVL) National Finals sent a clear message on Saturday at the Ynares Sports Arena that provincial teams can't be overlooked nor underestimated.
Holy Trinity College of Central Mindanao, De La Salle Lipa of South Luzon, University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) from Central Visayas, and reigning champion Bacolod Tay Tung all emerged victorious on Day 1 of the country’s premier under-19 girls’ volleyball tournament.
READ: Bacolod Tay Tung opens bid for Rebisco Volleyball League treble
Holy Trinity barely broke a sweat in dismissing U.S.-based guest squad Perfect Set, 25-13, 25-15, while La Salle Lipa methodically took care of Iligan City National High School, 25-17, 25-17.
USJ-R, meanwhile, had to dig deep to outlast California Academy in three tight sets, 25-24, 24-26, 25-20.
Bacolod Tay Tung capped a strong showing from the provinces by opening its three-peat bid with a composed 25-18, 25-13 win over Linao National High School.
NUNS pushed to the limit
One of the most compelling performances, however, came from a team that didn’t leave with a win.
Davao City National High School pushed defending UAAP champion NU-Nazareth School to the limit, forcing three sets before yielding a 19-25, 27-25, 14-25 loss.
The South Mindanao champions clawed their way back in the second frame, trading blows with the Lady Bullpups before stealing the set and even swinging momentum before NUNS' endgame getaway.
“Malaking bagay na ‘yon para sa amin,” said Davao City High coach Cristy Alvarez, proud of how her players shed early nerves and proved they could go toe-to-toe with an established powerhouse.
Malaysia’s Sarawak Volleyball Association also had a winning start, downing Immaculate Conception Academy, 25-19, 25-14.
Preliminary play continues until Wednesday before the knockout rounds determine the national champion.
The top local finishers will then take on the two foreign guest teams in the Invitationals on January 23 and 24 — ensuring the spotlight stays firmly on the country’s rising volleyball talents.
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