Manila, Aug. 8 -- The Philippines defeated Mexico, 25-19, 20-25, 25-19, 25-23, Friday for its first victory at the FIVB Volleyball Girls' U17 World Championship in Chile.

The Alas Pilipinas Girls became only the second Philippine team to score a win in a world championship after the Bryan Bagunas-led squad in last year's FIVB men's worlds hosted by the country.

Alas Pilipinas fielded wing spiker Nadeth Herbon as libero and the team's dynamo provided an instant shot of adrenaline, a vast improvement from the anemic floor coverage in the opener against China at Liceo Particular Mixto San Felipe.

The switch rippled across the lineup, yielding better passing and more efficient attacking.

Caera Celis finished with 24 points on 22 attacks,...