Peter Jandrei Melan

Alas Pilipinas may have bowed out of gold medal contention, but the fight was far from over.

The Philippines’ women’s national volleyball team displayed grit and resilience in a spirited four-set battle against reigning champions Korabelka of Russia, falling 16-25, 27-25, 17-25, 22-25, in the semifinals of the 2025 VTV International Women’s Volleyball Cup at the Vinh Phuc Gymnasium, July 4.

Photo Courtesy of Facebook/USports.

Despite the heartbreaking loss, the Filipinas remain in contention for a podium finish and will compete for the bronze medal against the loser of the other semifinal clash between Chinese Taipei and host Vietnam on July 5. 

A win would allow the national squad to equal the country’s best finish in the tournament, which was previously achieved by PVL club Choco Mucho in 2023.

Facing the undefeated and physically imposing Korabelka, Alas Pilipinas entered the match as underdogs, but refused to back down without a fight. 

After dropping the opening set, the Filipinas stormed back in the second, overcoming an early 3-7 deficit with a gutsy rally capped by a crucial block from Brooke Van Sickle that tied the set at 20-all. The comeback was sealed by a trio of clutch hits from rising star Alleiah Malaluan, who scored three consecutive points to secure the extended set, 27-25.

That brief momentum shift was not enough to hold off the disciplined and taller Russian side, which regrouped quickly and took control in the third set, 25-17. 

Korabelka’s consistent pressure at the net, coupled with unforced errors from the Philippines, proved to be the difference-maker.

Still, Alas Pilipinas showed no signs of giving up in the fourth. 

Trailing 8-9 early in the frame, the Filipinas stumbled into a 6-0 Korabelka run that widened the gap. But a determined 6-1 counterattack, sparked by Amie Provido’s clever dump, allowed the team to pull within striking distance at 14-15. 

Moments later, Vanie Gandler’s powerful attack trimmed the Russians’ lead to just two, 19-17.

Unfortunately, the rally would fall just short. 

Korabelka fired off three straight points to extend their cushion to 22-18. An attack error briefly narrowed the gap again, but a successful challenge from the Russian bench confirmed a block touch, restoring their momentum. 

The Filipinas continued to chase, narrowing the deficit to 23-21 after two Russian errors, but a late burst from Korabelka ultimately closed out the match.

Throughout the game, Alas Pilipinas showed poise and passion that belied their inexperience on the international stage. 

The loss may sting, but the battle is not yet over. 

The bronze medal match will offer one final shot at redemption and glory, as the resilient Filipinas aim to bring home a podium finish.

Their next game will be held on Saturday, July 5 (Philippine time), against either Vietnam or Chinese Taipei.