Alas Pilipinas Men's Marck Espejo in the Invitationals held at Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City. PNVF/Handout photo
MANILA, Philippines – Alas Pilipinas Men went perfect in their Invitationals campaign, clinching a 21-25, 25-21, 25-22, 21-25, 15-12 win over Southeast Asian rival Thailand at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on Thursday.
This was after Alas Women's triumphant ride to semis in the AVC Women's Nations Cup 2025 in Vietnam – marking Independence Day wins for each of the men and women's national volleyball teams.
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Marck Espejo took charge for the home squad, delivering a 30-piece on 23 attacks plus the game-winning point, one block, and six service aces.
Behind at 9-10, the Nationals found the much-needed push in the decider, with Espejo and Buds Buddin helping them establish a two-point lead with three unanswered points on a down-the-line, ace, and a kill block, 12-10.
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Buddin fired back-to-back kills to put Philippines at match point, while Espejo, as mentioned, won it for the Nationals.
Before the game, Alas Men defeated Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi and Hyundai Capital Skywalkers as part of their preparations for the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, also hosted by the country in September.