By Rochelle Ordinesa

Alas Pilipinas slowly found their groove, taking the second set, 25-23, against Australia in the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women's Cup on Sunday at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur.

Australia quickly erased the early lead built by the Filipinas, tying the set before eventually taking the advantage midway through the frame.

With Alas Women trailing late, Thea Gagate delivered a crucial service ace to tie the score at 23-all. Solomon then took over, scoring back-to-back points to seal the set and hand the Filipinas their first set victory of the match.