CHASS Blue Ravens soar to women’s badminton gold behind Libed’s flawless run

With relentless precision, Ana Kristine Libed propelled the College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (CHASS) Blue Ravens to the top of the podium, defeating Maritoni Reyes of the College of Medicine (CM) Serpents, 35–27, in the thrilling women’s singles badminton finals at Rajah Sulayman Gymnasium, Oct. 23.

The championship duel tested Libed’s stamina as Reyes fought tenaciously to keep the Serpents within striking distance, with both athletes displaying unwavering focus and unleashing powerful smashes throughout the match. 

However, Libed answered every cross-court clear and drop shot with razor-sharp returns, dictating the tempo across the final rallies to secure the 35–27 victory and seal an undefeated campaign.

Her dominant run began in the quarterfinals, when Libed dispatched the College of Accountancy (CA) Great Hawks, 35–8, then swept the College of Engineering (CE) Knights, 35–3, to punch her ticket to the final.

In the battle for third place, the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CTHM) Aurums’ Aleeiah Lanuza rounded out the podium by defeating the CE Knights, 35–16, to take home the bronze.

With an untarnished record and gold in hand, Libed’s masterclass performance cemented both her athletic dominance and a historic championship victory for the CHASS Blue Ravens.