Alas Pilipinas’ Ken Batas displays readiness with grab efficiency

MANILA, Philippines — Ken Batas temporarily confirmed what he realized from only a quick length of coaching with Alas Pilipinas when his quantity were given known as.

When Buds Buddin suffered from cramps with a 17-16 lead within the fourth set, Batas scored instantly to stay the space in opposition to Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi and nailed two extra grab hits to seal their 25-23, 27-29, 25-21, 25-22 win over the Indonesian membership within the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals opener on Tuesday evening at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

READ: Alas Pilipinas off to successful get started in Invitationals

FINAL: Alas Pilipinas beats Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi, 25-23, 27-29, 25-21, 25-22

Thanks to the grab issues from Ken Batas! pic.twitter.com/8Qfwu8Dsoi

— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) June 10, 2025

“I just applied everything I’ve learned from the coaches these past few weeks. I’m super excited because it’s my first time—and of course, the queen is always ready!” mentioned Batas in Filipino in a while after his Alas second.

The UAAP MVP from Ateneo drilled an off-the-block assault and grab block to achieve fit level, 24-20, earlier than a provider error from Jakarta sealed their first win within the three-day pocket match in preparation for the rustic’s historical internet hosting and participation within the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in September.

“I’m just really happy because representing the country is such a privilege, it’s not something that just anyone gets to do,” he mentioned.

READ: Fresh faces to make Alas Pilipinas debut in 3-day Invitational

Batas relished the chance to sign up for the two-time UAAP MVP from UST, Josh Ybañez, and Marck Espejo, the final MVP from Ateneo earlier than the younger wing spiker received in Season 87.

“It’s exciting to have this kind of support. I know that they have the experience and can guide me as a first-timer here,” mentioned Batas. 

“I just needed to play my game. And I showed my swag,” he added with laughter.

Alas Pilinas eyes its 2nd win in opposition to South Korea’s Hyundai Capital Skywalkers on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.