The Akari Chargers finally entered the win column in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour preseason conference after outlasting the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, 27-25, 27-25, 21-25, 25-22, on Saturday, August 1, at the Polomolok Municipal Gymnasium in Polomolok, South Cotabato.
Coming off a disappointing loss in their tournament opener, the Chargers responded with a determined and disciplined performance against one of the PVL’s perennial contenders. Akari showed poise in crucial moments, surviving two tightly contested opening sets before fending off Choco Mucho’s rally to secure its first victory of the preseason.
A key figure in the Chargers’ breakthrough win was former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout Faith Nisperos, who provided an immediate spark after coming off the bench. The outside hitter finished with nine timely points, delivering several crucial attacks that helped Akari maintain momentum in the closing stages of the match.
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For Nisperos, however, the performance represented far more than just a productive outing.
The former collegiate star has spent the past few seasons battling a knee cartilage injury that sidelined her for extended periods and tested both her physical and mental resilience. After months of rehabilitation and recovery, her contribution against Choco Mucho marked another encouraging step in her journey back to full strength.
“I owe it to myself to give out the best performance I can. I owe it to the person who worked really hard to get back to playing the sport we love. I also owe it to the people who helped me, believed in me and were there for me from the start of my healing journey,” Nisperos said during a media interview.
“seeing my teammates thriving, while ito ako, naka-stuck, naka-pause, doon ako frustrated… lord, alam kong ginawa mo akong strong but this is so hard.” 🥺
this is why i have a soft spot for faith nisperos. we will always be here for you. 🤍 pic.twitter.com/j2MJ2G1Fue
— ً 🥢 (@jianfics) July 13, 2026
Nisperos also drew inspiration from the warm reception Akari received during its stay in South Cotabato.
“I was also inspired by the people of Polomolok. They have welcomed us and made us feel at home. What boosted me even more was our visit to DOLE Philippines School and seeing the aspiring students,” she added.
Now in her third year in the PVL, the 26-year-old admitted that the road back has not been easy. Injuries forced her to spend much of the past seasons watching from the sidelines, but she leaned on her faith to overcome the setbacks.
“In times of trouble, I really go back, reflect and pray, especially in situations that I have no control over. I always had faith in the Lord that what’s mine will come in His time. The struggles I experienced might just be His way of redirecting me toward the best path,” Nisperos shared.
With her body finally healthy again, Nisperos is focused on steadily rediscovering the form that made her one of the country’s top collegiate players. While eager to contribute more for Akari, she acknowledged that returning to peak condition remains a gradual process.
“I want to unleash the potential within me, and I will be needing the help of my teammates and coaches for that. I know I have grit, perseverance, and reliability. I’m working on myself to become the best version of the player and teammate Akari needs,” she said.
“I take my recovery one day at a time. Despite my body being healed, I still have a lot to relearn on the court. I’m glad I have great muscle memory, but I still have to get used to the intensity of the PVL,” she added.
The victory gave Akari valuable momentum as it improved its standing in the preseason tournament. Currently fifth in the standings, the Chargers will look to build on their breakthrough win when they take on the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Saturday, August 15, in Lanao del Norte.
If Nisperos continues to regain her confidence and rhythm, Akari could become one of the teams to watch as the PVL On Tour preseason conference progresses.
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