Mighty Monarchs clinch MPVA crown

Dasmariñas clobbered Biñan, 25-17, 25-18, 25-21, to complete a perfect campaign in the 2025 Maharlika Pilipinas Volleyball Association (MPVA) over the weekend at the Dasmariñas Arena in Cavite.

The Monarchs needed just a little over an hour to wipe out Biñan in Game 2 of their best-of-three finale en route to a sweet 16-0 sweep of the MPVA that was founded by Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League chairman Manny Pacquiao.

Dasmariñas became the first team in three seasons so far to essay a perfect season despite being a new team in eight-club regional league.

Team captain Vange Alinsug and super rookie Sam Cantada joined forces with 13 points each as Dasmariñas, represented by the mighty National University, added the MPVA to its dynastic run after three titles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and a four-peat feat in the Shakey’s Super League.

Alexa Nichole Mata added eight points while Natasha Kaye Bombita, Harlyn Serneche and Minierva Maaya chipped in eight, six and five points, respectively, for unarguably the best collegiate volleyball program today under the watch of mentor Regine Diego.

Bombita, due to her steady play in all 16 games as Dasmariñas took turns in playing its ace players led by Alinsug and Cantada, was named the Season Most Valuable Player.

“It’s very unexpected because it’s a total team effort for us. Thank you for this award,” said Bombita, expected to fill a bigger role in the upcoming UAAP Season 88 following the graduation of the Lady Bulldogs’ core led by multi-titled Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.

Joining him in the elite team were her teammates Alinsug (First Best Outside Hitter), Abegail Pono (Best Setter), Shaira Mae Jardio (Best Libero) and Cantada as the Best Homegrown Player, proving NU’s stature with or without their long-time power duo.

Also in the fray were the Biñan troika of Laika Tudlasan (Second Best Outside Hitter), Samantha Gabrielle Tira-tira (Second Best Middle Blocker) and Crisanta Servidad (Best Opposite Hitter) along with Zamantha Nolasco (First Best Middle Blocker) of Quezon.

Tudlasan was the lone bright spot with 12 points for the Lady Chiefs, who settled for their second straight silver medal finish after also bowing to champion Quezon Tangerines last season.