For Justine Jazareno, Akari’s return to the winning column began with a simple reminder: everyone had a role to play, and the Chargers needed to trust one another to get the job done.
The libero from La Salle set the tone on defense as Akari ended its two-game skid with a straight-sets victory over PLDT, 25-18, 25-19, 25-22, in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Siklab series on Tuesday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Jazareno delivered 15 excellent digs and five excellent receptions, providing the defensive stability that allowed the Chargers to dictate the pace and secure their first victory of the conference.
Rather than trying to do everything herself, the 26-year-old focused on what she could contribute from the back row, encouraging her teammates to take care of the setting and attacking duties.
“More on siguro for me, sinasabi ko lang sa kanila na ako bahala sa defense, ako bahala sa receive. Basta sabi ko sila bahala sa attack, kayo bahala mag-set,” Jazareno said.
The approach was built on trust and a shared determination to win, qualities that Akari needed after opening its campaign with consecutive defeats to Creamline and Capital1.
“’Yun talaga, nag-enjoy lang talaga kami, ’yung kagustuhan talaga ng bawat isa na manalo,” she added.
For Jazareno and the Chargers, the victory was not simply about putting an end to their losing streak. It was also a product of the team's commitment to supporting one another, particularly after a difficult start to the conference.
The team made that commitment clear before taking the court, agreeing to approach the match with a collective purpose instead of allowing their early setbacks to undermine their confidence.
“Nag-usap-usap naman kami bawat isa before the match na lalaruin namin ’tong laro na ’to para sa bawat isa,” Jazareno said.
“Given nga rin na walang nagda-doubt sa amin, I think ’yun ’yung goal talaga namin na mag-stick together and ayun, maglaro kami para sa bawat isa.”
With Akari finally getting its breakthrough win, Jazareno knows that one encouraging performance must lead to another if the Chargers hope to build momentum in the tournament.
She pointed to consistency in receiving and passing as areas the team must continue to improve, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining leadership and composure when things do not go according to plan.
“Siguro more on maging consistent when it comes to receiving, passing, and siyempre hindi dapat mawawala ’yung leadership,” she said.
For Jazareno, mistakes are an inevitable part of the game. What matters is how the team responds and whether its players can continue to rely on one another when the pressure rises.
“Even if may nagkakamali, it’s normal. Wala namang perfect na player, so I think one thing ’yun na kailangan i-look forward pa lagi.”
