AEP-Cabstars overcame a tough challenge from 3B to secure a 25-23, 25-13, 25-23 victory and complete the semifinal cast of the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Friday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
The Cabstars improved to a 4-4 record, joining Criss Cross (8-0), Savouge (5-2), and Alpha Insurance (4-3) in the Final Four. Meanwhile, the fifth-running Event Masters, despite two playdates remaining in the double round-robin eliminations, can no longer reach four wins, effectively ending their semis hopes with a 2-7 slate.
With the Cabstars’ victory, the Protectors also secured a semis berth. The Final Four will adopt a round-robin format, with all team records reset.
“Actually bad loss kami last Wednesday against Criss Cross so nag-adjust lang kami sa kung paano namin lalaruin ‘yung game against 3B. Maganda ‘yung huddle namin kanina, napagusapan namin kung ano yung gagawin namin today,” said Cabstars head coach Kitty Antiporda.
After faltering late in the opening set and getting dominated in the second, the Event Masters regrouped and engaged the Cabstars in a tight third-set battle.
AEP broke a 22-all count behind an out-of-system play led by Jared Schnake, who set up Jay Rack Dela Noche for a sharp kill. An attack error by Axel Defeo then pushed the Cabstars to match point, 24-22.
Although Paul Malaiba committed a service error in the next play, Schnake delivered a decisive crosscourt spike to seal the one-hour, 13-minute win.
Dela Noche once again led AEP with 17 points built on 14 attacks, two aces, and a block, along with seven digs. Schnake added 12 points, while Alas Pilipinas standout Vince Lorenzo anchored the floor defense with 19 excellent receptions out of 26 attempts and four digs.
AEP will next face Alpha Insurance on Tuesday at the Paco Arena.
JV Ramos led the Event Masters with 11 points, while Christian Olaes and Axel Defeo chipped in 10 points each.
3B will wrap up its maiden conference against Criss Cross on Friday.
