In a stunning and historic victory, the Philippines' women's beach volleyball team, Alab Pilipinas, has dethroned the regional giant Thailand to claim the gold medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. The monumental win on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Jomtien Beach in Thailand itself, snapped a 22-year championship streak held by the host nation.
A Dynasty Toppled on Enemy Sand
The Philippine squad did not just win a match; they rewrote the history books. This gold medal marks the first time any country other than Thailand has won the women's beach volleyball title since it became a medal event in 2003. The Filipinos achieved this feat through a commanding and dominant performance, securing the championship with a decisive 2-0 sweep in the final.
Rondina and Pons Set the Dominant Tone
The first pair, the dynamic duo of Sisi Rondina and Bernadeth Pons, provided a powerful start for the Philippines. They faced off against Thailand's two-time gold medalists, Worapeerachayakorn Kongphopsarutawadee and Taravadee Naraphornrapat. Displaying remarkable skill and composure, the Filipino pair controlled the match, winning in straight sets with scores of 21-17 and 21-15.
Villapando and Rodriguez Seal the Golden Deal
The finishing blow for the historic gold was delivered by the second Philippine pair, Sunny Villapando and Dij Rodriguez. Their match was a testament to resilience. After winning the first set 21-13 and dropping the second 17-21, they roared back in the decisive third set, utterly dominating with a 15-6 scoreline to clinch the victory and the championship for the Philippines.
Redemption and a Long-Awaited Podium Return
This golden triumph served as a sweet act of revenge for the Philippines, who had suffered a defeat against Thailand earlier in the tournament's elimination round. More significantly, it marks the nation's return to the SEA Games beach volleyball podium after a long hiatus. The last time the Philippines won a medal in this event was 20 years ago, in 2005, when the pair of Heidi Illustre and Diane Pascua secured a bronze medal.
The victory of Alab Pilipinas is more than just a sports win; it is a landmark achievement that breaks a long-standing regional monopoly and announces the Philippines as a new powerhouse in Southeast Asian beach volleyball.
