ALAS Pilipinas could not contain the fiery gunners of world No. 31 and Asia's fifth-ranked China squad after losing via sweep, 19-25, 22-25, 22-25, in pool A of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) 2024 Challenge in Isa Town, Bahrain on Monday.

Playing without top player Bryan Bagunas, team Philippines relied on Jau Umandal, Marck Espejo and Leo Ordiales to respond to the offense of China.

Despite opening its AVC campaign with a straight-set loss, Alas Pilipinas did not suffer from a blowout as Umandal and Ordiales scored 10 points each, while team captain Espejo made eight markers.

But this defeat put the Philippines in an undesirable position as they have to win against host Bahrain to advance to the quarterfinals on Tuesday.

Two-time Most Valuable Player (MVP) and two-time best outside hitter Josh Ybañez suited up in his newfound position as a starting libero, and absorbed the loaded kills of China.

Playmaker Owa Retamar made his return to the national team and confidently orchestrated the plays for the Philippines.

Alas Pilipinas put up a gallant stand as they tried to force to extend the set in the third frame as they trailed close, 21-23, courtesy of Jade Disquitado's hammer, 22-23.

But China responded with back-to-back hits to completely fend off Alas Pilipinas, 25-22.