Jia de Guzman proud of Alas Pilipinas surpassing 'test of character’ in AVC Nations Cup semis

Jia de Guzman couldn’t hold back her pride as Alas Pilipinas showed nerves of steel and unwavering determination to book a historic ticket to the 2025 AVC Women’s Nations Cup Final.

Alas Women survived a major scare from Chinese Taipei in the semifinals, squandering a two-set lead before regaining control in the decider to prevail, 25-17, 25-21, 18-25, 15-25, 15-12, on Friday at the Dong Anh Gymnasium in Hanoi, Vietnam.

“Well, from our win yesterday against Kazakhstan, the moment we went to the dugout, we knew that today was also going to be a hard game,” the team captain said during the post-game press conference. “But we're very grateful that we surpassed that test of character also.”

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The Philippines looked poised for a sweep early on before Chinese Taipei mounted a spirited comeback, forcing a fifth and final frame.

But with composure and trust in each other, the national team regrouped just in time, pulling through with key plays down the stretch behind Eya Laure and Bella Belen.

“Being up two sets, losing two sets, then coming back in the fifth set, that's really hard to do against a team like Chinese Taipei,” said De Guzman. “You also have to give credit to the other team for adjusting so well and giving us a good fight.”

“I'm just really proud of everyone in this team. We just want to give our best every game,” she added.

With the victory, Alas Women will face host Vietnam in the gold medal match, aiming to complete a dream run and deliver the country’s best finish yet in the AVC Nations Cup.

“Last year, our best brought us to bronze, and this time, it's going to bring us to higher heights. So tomorrow, we're just going to bring our best again—and no matter what, para lang talaga sa bayan ito,” De Guzman ended.

(With reports from Mei-Lin Lozada)