MANILA, Philippines — Myla Pablo and the Petro Gazz Angels remained focused on their goal despite the sudden exit of champion coach Koji Tsuzurabara in the middle of the PVL on Tour.

Despite the Japanese coach’s shock resignation last week, Pablo gave Petro Gazz a lift, pouring in 23 points to torch the skidding Choco Mucho, 20-25, 25-19, 26-24, 25-17, on Tuesday night at Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur.

READ: PVL: With new coach, Petro Gazz fights off Choco Mucho

“This game meant a lot for us, especially heading into the crossover. We want to carry this confidence into our next match,” said Pablo in Filipino after leading the way with 19 kills, three blocks, and an ace on top of 16 excellent receptions.

“I know there are a lot of big issues going on with Petro Gazz right now, but as players, we just need to focus on what the coaches are telling us. Coach Brian (Esquibel) is also there to guide us on the court.”

The two-time PVL Conference MVP flaunted the heart of a champion, rising from a first-set loss to snap a two-game skid and finish fourth in Pool A with a 2-3 record to give interim coach Brian Esquibel a winning debut.

“Coach Koji’s departure was really sudden. So we told ourselves, let’s just finish the eliminations strong, starting with this game against Choco Mucho,” Pablo said. “After that, we’ll move forward to the crossover. We need to go for that must-win game.”

READ: PVL: Koji Tsuzurabara heads home to Japan after Petro Gazz stint

It may be a surprising turn of events, but Pablo will continue to carry on the things they learned from the Japanese coach after winning their first All-Filipino championship last May.

“What he taught us over the past year is still with us. His presence is still felt, especially through the things he used to tell us. We’re just trying to enjoy the game the same way we did in past conferences,” she said.

Pablo and the Angels gun for a quarterfinal berth in a knockout match against the Akari Chargers on August 5.