AN all-Filipino Bureau of Customs still proved too much for University of the Philippines, 25-23, 25-18, 25-22, in its Shakey’s V-League Reinforced Conference debut at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City on Monday.
Former Ateneo star Alyssa Valdez stood out in a new environment, leading the way with 18 points for a BoC side that was forced to bench Thai imports Kanjana Kuthaisong and Natthanicha Jaisaen due to what coach Sherwin Meneses said were problems with 'technicalities in their documents.'
Rose Marie Vargas added 17 and Lilet Mabbayad chipped in 10 for the Transformers, who took a share of second spot with Laoag behind early leader University of Santo Tomas.
“Kasi syempre veterans na rin ang naiwan sa bench namin kahit hindi nakalaro ang imports namin, so nag-step up naman sila,” said Sherwin Meneses, who assured his Thai imports will be eligible to play in their next outing.
“Naka-prepare kami sa imports kaso meron lang konting technical problems pero next game makakalaro na ‘yan,” he added.
Nicole Tiamzon finished with 15 points for UP, now in a tie with Philippine Air Force at 0-1.