Manila: Defending champion Adamson University and Far Eastern University-Diliman have successfully clinched their places in the semifinals of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87 girls’ volleyball tournament, following their victories at Paco Arena.

According to Philippines News Agency, Adamson University secured the last semifinal spot by defeating De La Salle-Zobel with scores of 25-19, 25-13, 28-26, finishing the regular season with a record of 6-3. Key players for Adamson included Ellaine Gonzalvo, who contributed 12 points through eight attacks and four aces, alongside Samantha Cantada and Abegail Segui, who added 11 and 10 points, respectively. Adamson coach JP Yude emphasized the importance of this victory for the team’s experience and preparation for upcoming matches.

De La Salle-Zobel’s Aislinn Alemaña made a significant effort with 11 attacks, but the team fell to fifth place with a 3-7 record. Meanwhile, FEU-D achieved a 25-17, 25-22, 25-15 win against Universit
y of the Philippines Integrated School, tying with the University of Santo Tomas for second place with a 7-2 record. Sheila Pascual was instrumental for FEU-D, scoring 19 points with 15 attacks and two blocks. Aleah Devosora, Cathlyn Umal, and Franz Premaylon also contributed to the team’s victory.

FEU-D coach Joanne Bunag expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting the importance of securing a top-two finish for the advantage in the semifinals. University of the Philippines Integrated School, on the other hand, is positioned in sixth place with a 2-8 record.

In another match, National University maintained their lead with an 8-1 record after defeating Ateneo de Manila University 25-2, 25-9, 25-11. Harlyn Serneche led the Lady Bullpups with 16 points, supported by Denesse Daylisan and Diza Berayo, who each scored 10 points. Ateneo remains winless in their 10 outings.