Justine Jazareno anchored Akari’s floor defense as the Chargers snapped their two-game losing streak with a breakthrough victory over PLDT, in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Siklab series on Tuesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Jazareno tallied 15 excellent digs and five excellent receptions to help Akari sweep the High Speed Hitters, 25-18, 25-19, 25-22, and secure its first win of the conference.
The 26-year-old libero said she reminded her teammates to focus on their respective roles, including herself. She took responsibility for the team’s defense and reception while trusting the rest to handle the setting and attacking.
“More on siguro for me, sinasabi ko lang sa kanila na ako bahala sa defense, ako bahala sa receive. Basta sabi ko sila bahala sa attack, kayo bahala mag-set,” Jazareno said.
“’Yun talaga, nag-enjoy lang talaga kami, ’yung kagustuhan talaga ng bawat isa na manalo.”
(C) PVL Images
The Chargers entered the match determined to bounce back from consecutive losses to Creamline and Capital1. Jazareno said their collective desire to win for one another helped them overcome their difficult start to the conference.
“Nag-usap-usap naman kami bawat isa before the match na lalaruin namin ’tong laro na ’to para sa bawat isa,” she said.
“Given nga rin na walang nagda-doubt sa amin, I think ’yun ’yung goal talaga namin na mag-stick together and ayun, maglaro kami para sa bawat isa.”
With Akari finally securing a win, Jazareno stressed the importance of sustaining their improvement, particularly in receiving and passing, while maintaining leadership and composure even when mistakes happen.
“Siguro more on maging consistent when it comes to receiving, passing, and siyempre hindi dapat mawawala ’yung leadership,” she said.
“Even if may nagkakamali, it’s normal. Wala namang perfect na player, so I think one thing ’yun na kailangan i-look forward pa lagi.”
