PASAY CITY – Far Eastern University (FEU) extended its winning streak to five, defeating University of the East (UE) in straight sets, 25-16, 25-23, 25-19, on Wednesday (05 Mar 2025) at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in the UAAP Season 87 men’s volleyball tournament.

Mikko Espartero led the way for the Tamaraws with eight points and six digs, while middle blocker Lirick Mendoza also contributed eight points, including five attacks and three blocks. This win mirrors FEU’s 5-0 start from Season 81 (2019).

“We just keep pushing forward. We’ve overcome our challenges, especially the illnesses in the team. Our success comes from a strong collective effort,” said assistant coach Rene Dulay, who is standing in for head coach Eddieson Orcullo, recovering from Achilles surgery.

Skipper Jelord Talisayan, Dryx Saavedra, and Doula Ndongala combined to build an 18-13 lead in the third set. Despite a brief rally by UE, FEU sealed the win through Amet Bituin and Ariel Cacao, wrapping up the match in one hour and 22 minutes.

Talisayan finished with seven points, including six attacks and one block, while Saavedra and Ndongala each added seven points. Vennie Ceballos contributed 12 receptions, and Benny Martinez recorded 10 excellent sets.

“The key is balance and teamwork. We make sure every player contributes—it’s not about one person, but the whole team,” Dulay explained.

For the Red Warriors (0-5), John Steve Aligaynon led with 13 points, followed by Raquim Aceron’s 11 points and 15 excellent receptions. Roy Gabriel Piojo chipped in with nine points.

FEU’s next match is against Adamson University, while UE will face De La Salle University on Saturday.

ia/mnm

MANILA – National University secured a decisive victory over Xavier University-Northern Mindanao, sweeping Pool A with a 25-15, 25-13, 25-13 win at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on Friday (12 July 2024).

NU’s Evangeline Alinsug and Aishat Bello starred with notable performances, advancing them to the knockout quarterfinals against the University of Southern Philippines Foundation.

NU coach Norman Miguel expressed satisfaction despite noting areas of complacency among his players. Meanwhile, Enderun College also advanced following NU’s win.

In another match, Far Eastern University (FEU) dominated Lyceum of the Philippines University, 25-15, 25-13, 25-12, to top Pool C and secure their spot in the quarterfinals.

Both NU and FEU will face tough opponents in the next round as the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals continue to unfold at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

(el Amigo/mnm)

The FEU Cheering Squad delivers a solid performance that carried itself back on top of the UAAP cheerdance competition on Saturday. (UAAP PHOTO)

MANILA — The Far Eastern University Cheering Squad celebrated a victorious comeback, seizing the UAAP cheerdance throne with a vibrant Super Mario-inspired display in front of 18,122 fans at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Their video game-themed routine, filled with dazzling tosses and pyramids, earned them a total of 702.5 points, securing their fourth championship and reclaiming the title from Season 84.

Despite the National University Pep Squad’s attempt for an eighth title, they fell short with 697 points.

FEU, redeeming their Season 85 runner-up status, expressed their focus on paying homage to Super Mario and exceeding expectations.

Coach Randel San Gregorio shared their mindset and gratitude for the accomplishment, emphasizing their blessed journey.

Interestingly, both FEU and NU demonstrated excellence with the least number of penalties and deductions, each receiving five.

Although NU showcased a remarkable stunts performance inspired by Elvis Presley, the pursuit of an eighth title remained elusive.

 “To be honest, it’s sad. Kasi bago kami pumasok sa mats na yan we’re well-prepared talaga,” said new head coach Gab Bajacan, who took over from decorated mentor Ghicka Bernabe this year.

University of Santo Tomas’ Salinggawi Dance Troupe, with its lively BLACKPINK-inspired show, complete the podium finishers with 684 points.

It was the España-based cheerdancers’ second straight third place finish, thanks to their biggest strength in the dance department.

Adamson Pep Squad, whose performers showing off trolls-like hair, settled for fourth place with 665 points.

University of the Philippines, paying homage to music icon Eraserheads, finished fifth with 602 points.

The University of the East Pep Squad (559), La Salle Anino Squad (555.5) and Ateneo (532) round up the participants.

(AI/MNM)