After defeating the PLDT High-Speed Hitters in a thrilling five-set match, the Choco Mucho Flying Titans earned a desired berth in the 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference quarterfinals. The Flying Titans earned their spot in the Final Four by thrilling their ardent fans with a hard-fought victory at the Philsports Arena, winning 25-15, 12-25, 25-23, 21-25, and 15-13.
With 18 attacks, two service aces, and a block, Sisi Rondina led the charge for Choco Mucho and put on a strong all-around display. With 18 outstanding receptions and significant contributions on both ends of the floor, the former conference MVP also demonstrated her defensive skills. The team benefited greatly from Rondina’s enthusiasm, tenacity, and unflinching spirit as they persevered through the demanding game.
As their devoted supporters once again filled the arena with their unrelenting cheers and support, the Flying Titans played with more than just a semifinal berth in mind. According to Rondina, the team appreciated the emotional boost the audience gave them and realized how crucial it was to provide the people a show that matched their hard work and devotion. Choco Mucho saw the supporters as more than just onlookers; they were a vital source of support during the game.
Choco Mucho led two sets to one and threatened to end the series without a decisive frame, giving the impression that she was ready to win the match. However, PLDT forced a fifth and final set thanks to Savannah Davison’s attacking firepower and leadership. In order to win the game and accomplish a series sweep, Rondina and her teammates remained composed in the face of Davison’s attacking push in the dying minutes.
Game 1 of the series demonstrated the importance of the fans’ attendance. After falling behind by two sets, the Flying Titans pulled off an incredible comeback, winning 20-25, 19-25, 25-15, 25-20, 18-16. Rondina acknowledged the supporters’ contributions to their rally, saying the crowd’s enthusiasm acted as a spur for their comeback. Despite the early defeats, the players remained driven by the belief of the fans.
This attitude was shared by head coach Dante Alinsunurin, who acknowledged the critical role the supporters played in strengthening the team’s mental toughness. He pointed out that the fervor and cacophony of the fans really improved their capacity to compete, especially against formidable opponents. Drawing on his personal experience as a devoted follower of Barangay Ginebra, Alinsunurin compared the fans of Choco Mucho to Ginebra’s well-known “Never Say Die” mentality, highlighting the Flying Titans’ fan base’s comparable levels of fervor and tenacity.
Alinsunurin emphasized how the players’ spirits were raised by the spectators’ unwavering applause, which enabled them to persevere through the series’ most trying times. The Flying Titans are renowned for their relentlessly tough performances, frequently stepping up to the plate when their supporters most needed them.
Although the route to the semifinals has been guaranteed, the journey was far from easy. Throughout the conference, Choco Mucho had periods of inconsistency, but they showed maturity and attention when the stakes were highest. The team’s ability to persevere under duress and rally support from their supporters was essential to defeating PLDT and moving forward.
Alinsunurin emphasized the value of adhering to the team’s strategy, saying that being composed and carrying out plays in whatever circumstance would continue to be their guiding principles going forward. As the level of competition increases in the semifinals, the coach also expressed hope that the team will continue to implement what they had practiced in order to reach their full potential.
Rondina was composed throughout the series, setting an example and calming the team during pivotal moments. The Flying Titans’ bench made similarly significant contributions, with crucial plays from substitutes helping to seal the win.
Choco Mucho now focuses on the semifinals, bringing with them confidence, momentum, and—above all—the steadfast devotion of their supporters. The team promised to keep battling with the same fervor and spirit, reaffirming their dedication to giving the supporters something to celebrate.
The Flying Titans will depend on Rondina’s leadership, Alinsunurin’s strategic direction, and the enthusiasm of their ardent followers to drive their championship aspirations as the fight for the PVL crown enters its final phases.