National University-backed Dasmariñas Monarchs inched closer to a sweep with another dominant win over the San Juan Lady Knights, 26-16, 25-5, 25-21, in the 2025 Maharlika Pilipinas Volleyball Association on Monday night at the Dasmariñas Arena in Cavite.
The home team needed just 72 minutes to dispatch the Lady Knights in one of the tournament’s fastest matches, highlighted by a massive 20-point margin in the second set.
NU-Dasma extended its unbeaten streak to 12 wins with two games to spare in the upstart regional volleyball league founded by MPBL chairman Manny Pacquiao.
Team captain Vange Alinsug made a triumphant return, firing 18 points to lead the Monarchs after taking a day off in the team’s 25-19, 12-25, 25-18, 25-18 victory over the Negros ICC Blue Hawks last Sunday.
Alinsug and company were coming off a four-peat conquest in the Shakey’s Super League Preseason Unity Cup, where they completed a 10-0 sweep last weekend, keeping them on track for another title in the MPVA.
Backing her up were Harlyn Serneche and Celine Marsh, who contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively.
Meanwhile, the Biñan Tatak Gel Arellano Lady Chiefs remained in contention for the second seed with a 25-23, 25-17, 25-15 win over Negros, improving to a 9-3 record.
Keisha Alexa Abitria led Biñan with 12 points, while Laika Tudlasan and Crisanta Servidad added six points each. The Lady Chiefs must win all of their remaining matches to have a chance at the No. 2 seed, currently held by reigning champion Quezon (11-1).
In another contest, the Pasay Lady Voyagers strengthened their bid for the final semifinal spot with a 25-17, 25-23, 25-17 victory over the Caloocan AM Spikers.
Krisca Marie Cosmod tallied 12 points, while Angel Mae Antipuesto and Aiko Urdas contributed nine points each, helping Pasay improve to 6-7 and create separation from Negros and San Juan.
With Dasma, Quezon, and Biñan already securing their semifinal spots, only one seat remains up for grabs following the two-round eliminations in the MPVA, backed by Mikasa, Asics, Spurway Enterprise, Gerflor, Smart Communications, and XIV Apparel.
Mary Christine Ecalla led San Juan with eight points, while Gelah Lopez and Firma Joy Casera posted 11 and 10 points, respectively, for Negros. Both teams’ losses pushed them further from the Final Four picture.
Rhea Manalo scored 10 points for Caloocan, which is already out of contention at 1-11 in the regional league organized by the Volleyball Masters of the Philippines.
