The Akari Chargers battle the Choco Mucho Flying Titans in the 2026 PVL on Tour on Saturday, August 1, at the Polomolok Gymnasium in South Cotabato. PVL Media
POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — Akari had to overcome a gritty challenge from Choco Mucho in the first two extended frames, a third-set lapse, and another tight contest in the fourth period to hack out a 27-25, 27-25, 21-25, 25-22 victory in the 2026 PVL on Tour Showdown on Saturday at the Polomolok Gymnasium here.
Chenie Tagaod displayed her brilliance in front of her fellow Mindanaoans, tallying 19 points on 11 attacks, six blocks, and two aces, leading the charge in the two-hour and two-minute intense battle.
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“Siyempre, sobrang happy ako na napakita ko sa mga Bisaya kung ano’ng merong talent ‘yung isang Bisaya rin,” said Tagaod, who hails from Tagum City.
The Chargers squandered a 23-20 lead late in the fourth period, as a long rally ended in a Maddie Madayag attack point and Chen Tagaod was blocked for a 23-22 count.
Thankfully for the Tina Salak-coached squad, the closeout came as Grethcel Soltones found the sharp spike to put themselves on match point, 24-22, and Tagaod capped her breakout game with the game-clinching attack.
Ivy Lacsina helped in the offense and defense with 14 points and 13 receptions, while Soltones finished with 10 markers.
On the losing side, Mean Mendrez and Cait Viray top-scored with 16 points each, while Madayag added 14 points as Choco Mucho went winless in a three-game stretch in the On Tour.