AEP-Cabstars snapped their three-game losing streak in emphatic fashion, taking down fellow also-ran VNS-Laticrete in straight sets, 27-25, 25-19, 25-16, in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Saturday at the Philsports Arena.
The Cabstars endured a difficult stretch, suffering consecutive losses to Alpha Insurance, Criss Cross, and National University-Archipelago Builders that dealt a major blow to their semifinals hopes.
However, they finally found their footing against the Griffins, ending their skid and improving to a 2-5 record in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
“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.
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.
