ZUS Coffee pulled away in the fifth set to complete a 24-26, 25-23, 17-25, 26-24, 15-7 win against Akari to open the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at the Ynares Center Montalban.
Both squads, however, played without their respective imports after the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) was unable to issue International Transfer Certificates (ITC), a document required for foreign players to compete outside their home leagues.
The Thunderbelles are bannered by American import Anna Debeer while the Chargers feature the 31-year-old Annie Micthem, who’s also from the United States.
“The Premier Volleyball League wishes to inform fans and stakeholders that as of the opening day of the 2025 Reinforced Conference on Tuesday, October 7, the league’s teams have yet to receive the required International Transfer Certificates from the Philippine National Volleyball Federation,” PVL said in a statement.
“It is important to note that playing without an ITC places the athletes at risk of sanctions from the Federation Internationale de Volleyball.”
The PVL, having submitted all required documents on time, is now urging the PNVF to fast-track the signing process to avoid further delays.
“We respectfully urge the PNVF to expedite the signing process to prevent further disruption to the tournament. The PVL remains steadfast in its commitment to fair play, athlete welfare, and the integrity of the sport,” the PVL added.
Still, despite no reinforcement, the Thunderbelles were able to outlast the Chargers thanks to a massive 9-0 run to close out the five-set thriller.
Down one in the decider after Ced Domingo completed a running kill that sent Akari to a 7-6, lead, ZUS brewed a huge closing run that was started by a Domingo service error and followed by a Fiola Ceballos ace as they regained an 8-7 cushion.
Riza Nogales then converted two quick dumps that sent them to the match point at 14-7 before Ceballos once again served an ace to finish it off.
Nogales top-scored with 15 points highlighted by five blocks while Jovelyn Gonzaga and Chinnie Arroyo both tallied 10 markers as they opened their campaign at 1-0.
The loss spoiled the 22-point outing of Eli Soyud and the 18-point effort of Grethcel Soltones, who also had 10 digs and 16 receptions to finish with a triple-double.
GMA News Online has reached out to the PNVF for comment but has yet to receive a reply.
—JMB, GMA Integrated News
