MANILA, Philippines — In a showcase of poise and power, Leo Ordiales of the National University (NU) Bulldogs was named the Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the UAAP Season 88 men’s volleyball tournament on Saturday, May 9, 2026.
The sophomore standout delivered a masterclass under pressure at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, leading the Bulldogs to a straight-sets victory over the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws, 25-21, 25-23, 25-18, to sweep the best-of-three series and secure NU’s fifth consecutive title.
Ordiales was the focal point of the Bulldogs’ offense, consistently breaking through the Tamaraws’ net defense at critical junctures.
- Total Points: 18 points (15 attacks, 2 blocks, 1 ace).
- Efficiency: A remarkable 54% attack success rate.
- Clutch Performance: Scored 4 of the final 6 points in the tightly contested second set to prevent an FEU comeback.
The journey to the MVP trophy was one of patience for Ordiales. Having spent much of the previous season as a backup, his breakout in Season 88 has solidified him as the new face of the NU dynasty following the graduation of several veteran stars.
“I just stayed ready. Coach Dante (Alinsunurin) always tells us that everyone in this team is a starter,” Ordiales said in Filipino during the post-game interview. “I dedicate this to my teammates who pushed me every day in training. We knew FEU would fight back, but we stayed composed.”
With this victory, the NU Bulldogs have extended their historic reign, matching the legendary five-peat streaks of volleyball powerhouses from decades past.
- Championship Sweep: NU won both Game 1 and Game 2 without dropping a single set, showcasing a level of dominance rarely seen in the UAAP finals.
- Defensive Wall: Led by Ordiales and Jade Disquitado, the Bulldogs recorded 12 kill blocks in the series clincher.
- Playmaking Mastery: Oue Jayson served up 22 excellent sets, ensuring Ordiales and the rest of the hitters had clear paths to the floor.
While Ordiales took home the Finals MVP, the tournament also honored other top performers:
| Award | Winner | School |
| Finals MVP | Leo Ordiales | National University |
| Season MVP | Dryx Saavedra | FEU |
| Rookie of the Year | Kenry Malinis | UST |
| Best Setter | Oue Jayson | National University |
The victory cements NU’s status as the “Gold Standard” of Philippine collegiate men’s volleyball, with Ordiales now poised to lead the program’s hunt for a sixth straight title in 2027.