AEP-Cabstars finally found their way back to the winning column, putting an end to their three-game slump with a commanding straight-set victory over fellow also-ran VNS-Laticrete, 27-25, 25-19, 25-16, in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Saturday at the Philsports Arena.
The victory came at a crucial time for the Cabstars, who had struggled in their previous three outings against Alpha Insurance, Criss Cross, and National University-Archipelago Builders, suffering losses that dealt a major blow to their semifinals hopes.
However, AEP-Cabstars showed renewed resolve against the Griffins, rediscovering their rhythm to improve to a 2-5 record in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
“Sobrang proud ako dito sa team namin,” said AEP-Cabstars head coach Kitty Antiporta. “We stayed focused, tapos ‘yung disiplina namin every time na nagti-training kami (nandun).”
“Dun sa training namin, nakuha namin or na-apply namin ‘yung tini-training namin, which is sa mga past games namin kumbaga nahihinto or napipigil, basta hindi namin magawa. I’m happy kasi ‘yung mga previous na trainings namin, nakita namin sa game today,” he added.
Wayne Araño orchestrated the Cabstars’ balanced offensive attack with 19 excellent sets, helping four teammates finish in double figures and keep VNS on its toes.
Dave Lardizabal led AEP-Cabstars with a game-high 12 points, built on 11 attacks and one block.
Bembem Bautista posted a double-double of 11 points and 12 excellent receptions, while also adding five excellent digs. Leo Aringo and JD Diwa chipped in 11 points apiece.
The Cabstars will look to carry their newfound momentum into their penultimate assignment as they aim to finish their campaign on a winning note against 3B on Sunday at 1 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
On the other hand, the Griffins absorbed their third consecutive defeat to fall to 2-6 in the standings.
Jau Umandal was VNS’ lone double-digit scorer with 11 points, while also recording 22 excellent receptions. Team captain Jerremy Pedrosa contributed eight points and seven excellent digs.
The Griffins will face defending champion Criss Cross on Sunday at 3 p.m., hoping to end their campaign on a high note.
