USAD Pangasinan varsity wins in Boys U18 Championship in Korea

By Ahikam Pasion

Usad Pangasinan Varsity Association, Inc., representing the Philippines, won the championship title in the Boys Under-18 category at the Korea Volleyball Cup Danyang 2026, held from January 24 to 25 in Danyang, South Korea.

The only team composed of Filipinos emerged on top of a 14-team international field, securing the gold medal after a closely contested finals match against Team Cube Korea played on Sunday, January 25.

The team won via service ace, which served as the match point.

The championship squad was composed of young athletes from the provinces of Pangasinan and La Union.

Players from La Union included Ramoncito James Hilomen and Elbien Cleizar Vilbar of Agoo, and Vince Yvan B. Simeon of Tubao. Pangasinan-based athletes on the roster are Team Captain Mateo Ferrer from Calasiao, Jar R Sinlao of Calasiao, Raymart Cera from Mapandan, Anthony James Curament and Shinji Martinez of Dagupan City, Julian Lloyd Casili and Emmanuel Ace Raposas of Urdaneta City, Ronel Caalim and Brandon Pascual of Alaminos City, Alfred Nadalo of Burgoz, Bani-based Jerald Teja, Mark Rhey Paragas, Joe Luis Papa and John Benedict Papa, and Aese Don Ventenilla of Mangatarem.

In a Facebook post, the team said “This championship reflects not only performance, but shared values, shared effort, and friendships that will last long after the final whistle.”

The event was hosted by the Korea Youth Volleyball Association (KORYVA).

The victory marked a significant achievement for the Philippine delegation, highlighting the strong presence of provincial athletes in international youth volleyball competition.

The North-based volleyball team arrived home on Wednesday, January 28.