Detdet Pepito, Tigresses look to pounce on ‘best chance’ at elusive UAAP title

MANILA, Philippines – It would be a fitting end to Detdet Pepito’s UAAP career if she and the UST Golden Tigresses capture the elusive women’s volleyball crown.

The graduating captain said Season 88 presents UST its “best chance” to win it all as the Tigresses, who are welcoming back a couple of key players, seek to end a 16-year title drought. 

“I feel the pressure because we’re not just talking about second place or third place,” Pepito said in Filipino. “We’re one of the few teams who are still intact.” 

“We need to work hard so we can give a good showing and redeem ourselves this season.” 

Pepito and the Tigresses came close to lifting the championship when they reached the finals in Season 86 in 2024, but they bowed to the dynastic NU Lady Bulldogs led by the dynamic duo of Bella Belen and Alyssa Solomon.

UST then lost major firepower following injuries to outside hitters Jonna Perdido and Xyza Gula — personnel woes that resulted in a Final Four exit in Season 87 in 2025 which saw the Lady Bulldogs rule again for their third title in four years.

The Tigresses, though, are slowly getting back to full strength as Gula and Perdido have returned to the pink of health to reinforce a formidable roster that also features Regina Jurado and Angge Poyos.

And the path to crown is wider than ever, with the Lady Bulldogs’ three-peat bid in jeopardy now that Belen and Solomon are in the professional ranks. 

“Jonna and Xyza are back this season. We’re happy and excited because our players from Season 86 are almost complete,” said Pepito, a two-time Best Libero. 

“There are only a few teams whose lineups are still intact. This is our best chance to get the championship.” 

UST also brought back head coach Shaq delos Santos, who guided the Tigresses to their last championship in Season 72 in 2010. – Rappler.com