In a remarkable display of talent and determination, the Philippines clinched a resounding 2-0 victory over Singapore on Thursday at the Sri Lanka Tennis Association courts in Colombo, advancing to the semifinal round of the Billie Jean Cup Juniors Asia/Oceania pre-qualifying tournament.

Leading the charge for the Philippines were rising tennis stars Jana Jelena Nicole Diaz and Stefi Marithe Aludo, who delivered impressive performances on the court. Diaz showcased her prowess by defeating Abriez Marie Rose Wong with a commanding score of 6-3, 6-3, while Aludo demonstrated her skill and resilience in a 7-5, 6-0 victory over Sophie Ashley Chua.

The victory sets up an exciting semifinal showdown for the Philippines against top-seeded Kyrgyzstan on Friday, with both teams vying for a spot in the final qualifying round to be hosted by Kazakhstan next month.

The road to the semifinals was paved with impressive victories for the Philippine team, which secured wins against Bhutan, Syria, and Lebanon in Group E. With their stellar performances, the team showcased their strength and determination, firmly establishing their presence in the highly competitive tournament.

Reflecting on her performance, Aludo expressed satisfaction with her progress and emphasized her commitment to continuous improvement. Born and raised in Trento, Agusan del Sur, Aludo has made significant strides in her tennis career, emerging as the country’s top U16 player and winning the prestigious PCA Open Juniors last year.

Similarly, Diaz, a native of Bacoor, Cavite, showcased her adaptability and skill on the clay court surface, demonstrating her versatility as a player. With an impressive track record that includes titles in various junior tournaments, Diaz’s talent and potential continue to shine bright on the international stage.