By Clarence Concepcion
Alas Pilipinas Men’s quarterfinal hopes came to an end Monday after the Philippines fell to China, 21-25, 20-25, 22-25, in the 2026 Asian Games at Park Arena Komaki in Aichi, Japan.
The Filipinos committed 27 errors—four more than in their opening loss to South Korea—while China made only nine.
The Philippines mounted late rallies in each set but repeatedly faltered at crucial moments.
Captain Bryan Bagunas ignited a comeback in the opening frame with a kill and three straight service aces, cutting China’s 24-17 lead to 24-21 before an error ended the rally.
The Philippines stayed close in the second, with Lirick Mendoza and Bagunas keeping the pressure on, but more miscues allowed China to take a 2-0 lead.
Coach Angiolino Frigoni shuffled his lineup in the third, giving reserves Jude Garcia and Buds Buddin extended minutes. Buddin helped cut the deficit to 21-23, but two late errors sealed the match.
Bagunas led Alas with 15 points, while Leo Ordiales added 11. The Philippines actually outscored China in attacks, 42-31, but China dominated blocking, 12-6.
The loss dropped Alas to 0-2 in Pool D, ending its quarterfinal bid. The Filipinos face Chinese Taipei Tuesday.
