The Santiago sisters reprised their winning act for National University with a 23-25, 25-17, 25-21, 25-18 victory over University of the Philippines Sunday in the Shakey’s V-League Collegiate Conference at Filoil Flying V Arena.
Dindin, now Mrs. Manabat when not playing, and younger sister Jaja teamed up after suiting for opposing teams in the recent Open Conference championship and their tested partnership helped the Lady Bulldogs find their groove after a shaky start against the Lady Maroons.
“It’s good to have Dindin back because she’s an inspiration to the team,” NU coach Edjet Mabbayad said of Santiago-Manabat, who’s suiting up as a guest player for her alma mater.
Santiago-Manabat erupted for 24 points built on 16 kills, five aces and three blocks, while Jaja added 15 as the Bulldogs joined opening-day winners Ateneo, Far Eastern University and St. Benilde in the early lead.
Technological Institute of the Philippines also flashed its champion form in its debut, rising from two sets down to stun De La Salle-Dasmariñas, 20-25, 17-25, 25-23, 25-20, 15-8.
Michelle dela Cruz fired 17 points for the Lady Engineers, including key hits in the deciding fifth frame, where they took a 12-8 edge before sealing it with a 3-0 windup.
“It was obvious that the players were nervous,” TIP coach Boy Paril said of the Lady Engineers, the Universities and Colleges Athletic Association (UCAA) champion.
Myla Pablo also backstopped the Santiago sisters with 18 points against the Lady Maroons, who fought hard early with a solid defense that keyed their first-set win, 25-23.