NEGROS OCCIDENTAL — Bacolod Tay Tung High School completed a dominant championship campaign by surviving a determined challenge from Vortex of Himamaylan, 25-23, 13-21, 15-9, to capture the girls’ 12-under crown in the 2nd Sta. Maria Magdalena Parish Volleyfest 2026.
The Thunderbolts showcased their championship poise in the winner-take-all third set, regrouping after dropping the second frame to seal the title and cap an impressive run in the two-day grassroots volleyball tournament.
Bacolod Tay Tung narrowly escaped with the opening set before Vortex fought back to level the match. With the championship hanging in the balance, the Thunderbolts responded with disciplined defense, balanced attacking and composed execution to pull away in the deciding set.
The victory underscored Bacolod Tay Tung’s consistency throughout the tournament, which brought together promising youth volleyball teams from various parts of Negros Occidental.
The champions also dominated the individual awards.
Chloe Gianna Depalubos emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player while also claiming the Best Setter award after orchestrating the Thunderbolts’ offense.
Michaelly Yap was named First Best Open Spiker, Micayla Gonzales earned Second Best Open Spiker honors, and Blaire Corriento was recognized as First Best Middle Blocker.
Completing the championship-winning roster were Zoie Laborte, Samantha Serfino, Micah Espatero, Jhalene Ramos, Jhanen Ramos, Carlyn Ramos, Yanni Frias, Jamie Lachica, Karl Gaylan, and Kiela Diongc.
The annual Sta. Maria Magdalena Parish Volleyfest continues to provide aspiring young volleyball players with a competitive platform while promoting sportsmanship and grassroots development through age-group competition./PN
