CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur – Niña Ytang has continued to turn heads with her impressive performances for Alas Pilipinas in the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission.
Among those who took notice was South Korea captain Kang Sohwi, who led her team to a hard-fought straight-sets victory, 25-16, 25-18, 25-22, over Ytang and the Philippines on Tuesday at the Candon City Arena here.
The 24-year-old middle blocker played a key role in Alas Pilipinas’ strong showing in the third set. Her energy and offensive presence helped put the hosts in position to steal the frame before Kang and the Koreans pulled away late.
“Number 9, the middle blocker, she’s really fast. Her fighting spirit… it was very impressive,” said the former KOVO Cup MVP through an interpreter.
Ytang finished with eight points built on seven attacks and one block in the loss.
South Korea improved its standing while the Philippines slipped to 2-2 and now faces the possibility of missing the semifinals.
The four-time UAAP Best Middle Blocker, who withdrew from the Premier Volleyball League Draft to focus on national team duties, has been one of Alas Pilipinas’ most consistent performers in the tournament co-presented by FIVB, AVC, Volleyball World, and Candon City headed by Mayor Eric Singson, averaging 9.75 points per game.
Kang also acknowledged the steady progress of the Philippine squad, noting how much the team has improved compared to previous years and how it now competes at a higher level against Asia’s top teams.
“Compared to before, I can feel the Philippines, as a team, has improved a lot. Since most of the Asian teams are at a pretty equal level right now,” Kang said.
The Gimcheon Korea Expressway Hi-Pass star delivered a game-high 19 points and ignited a decisive 6-0 run with four quick points. That turned an 18-20 deficit into a commanding 24-20 advantage while helping South Korea stop the Philippines’ late rally.
“I think we fought really hard until the end. And it kind of worked out. Since we are in the post-game, the opponent team, I thought they would not cheer for us, but the fans had a really good manner. We had a great game today,” said Kang, who also praised the crowd inside the Candon City Arena.
For her part, Ytang welcomed the recognition from one of Asia’s top players, saying it serves as motivation to continue giving her all for the national team.
“I must be doing something right kaya siguro ganun. Pero for me naman, I’m just doing my best, doing everything I can para sa bayan. Ino-offer ko lahat ng kaya kong gawin para sa lahat ng sumusuporta,” said the former University of the Philippines standout in an interview with One Sports.
