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Category: Volleyball

  • PVL teams’ offseason latest signings ahead of the 2026 On Tour 

    PVL teams’ offseason latest signings ahead of the 2026 On Tour 

    As the 2026 PVL On Tour approaches, teams are no longer waiting for the action to begin before making their statements. The offseason has become a battleground of its own as franchises reshape their rosters, bringing in proven veterans, and former rivals to create stronger title contenders.

     

    The biggest movement came after the Cignal Super Spikers stepped away from the league, opening the door for several of their key players to find new homes. Their former stars have become among the most sought-after names in the market, with teams hoping that experience from a silver medal campaign can immediately translate into success.

     

    Akari Chargers

     

    The Akari Chargers added former Cignal Super Spikers outside hitter Tin Tiamzon, who brings experience and offensive firepower from her previous PVL stint. They also secured libero Ann Monares from the Farm Fresh Foxies, giving Akari another defensive option, while middle blocker Sharya Ancheta joined from Galeries Tower to strengthen their frontline.

     

    The team also made bold roster decisions by parting ways with Dani Ravena, Max Juangco, Bea Bonafe, Joan Doguna, and Steph Bustrillo.

     

    Furthermore, Akari did not select any players in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft after skipping both rounds, meaning their offseason focus remained on veteran acquisitions and experienced players.

     

    Capital1 Solar Spikers

     

    Capital1 made one of the biggest moves of the offseason after adding two of the league’s most impactful players.

     

    The Solar Spikers landed former Cignal stars Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos. Gandler, an outside hitter known as one of the league’s top young talents and was recognized as the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference MVP.

     

    Santos, meanwhile, arrives with her own winning credentials after being named the 2025 PVL On Tour MVP. Her addition gives Capital1 another reliable scoring option.

    The team also welcomed veteran setter Jaja Maraguinot, who returns after a six-month break following her stint with Nxled.

     

    With three high-level additions, Capital1 is shaping up as one of the teams expected to make a major jump.

     

    Choco Mucho Flying Titans

     

    Choco Mucho strengthened its defensive identity by adding one of the most decorated liberos in Philippine volleyball.

     

    The Flying Titans acquired Dawn Macandili-Catindig from Cignal, a veteran defensive specialist and former national team player known for her elite floor defense.

     

    They also added Jewel Encarnacion, another former Cignal player who brings youth and power to the lineup, along with veteran spiker Ivy Perez, who is set to join her seventh PVL team.

    The additions are expected to give Choco Mucho a deeper defensive structure as they continue building around their core.

     

    The team also parted ways with Tia Andaya, who decided to step away from volleyball after one season with the Flying Titans.

     

    Creamline Cool Smashers


    The defending champions, Creamline added former Cignal opposite hitter Erin Pangilinan, who gives the team another attacking option, along with outside hitter Ishie Lalongisip, another former Cignal player known for her scoring ability. The Cool Smashers also secured setter Donna Paralejas to add depth in the playmaking.

     

    With its championship core intact, Creamline’s additions provide more flexibility as the team looks to remain among the league’s elite.

     

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    Farm Fresh Foxies

     

    Farm Fresh focused on adding experience to its roster by acquiring two former Cignal players.

    The Foxies signed veteran middle blocker Roselyn Doria-Aquino, who brings years of experience and net presence. They also added libero Buding Duremdes, giving Farm Fresh another defensive weapon as they aim to continue their rise in the league.

     

    Nxled Chameleons

     

    Nxled landed two major names that immediately upgraded its lineup.

     

    The Chameleons acquired veteran setter Gel Cayuna, a multiple-time PVL award winner who brings leadership and playmaking experience. They also added middle blocker Jacqueline Acuña, who provides size and blocking strength at the net.

     

    Both players came from Cignal’s successful run, where they helped the team secure a silver medal finish before the franchise made a leave of absence from the league. Their arrival gives Nxled more stability as the young franchise continues to build.

     

    PLDT High Speed Hitters

     

    PLDT also took advantage of the offseason movement by adding multiple pieces.

     

    The High Speed Hitters acquired free agent outside hitter Joan Monares, middle blocker Winnie Bedana from Galeries Tower, and former Cignal middle blocker Jessa Ordiales.

     

    The new additions add more depth to PLDT’s rotation and give the team additional options heading into the 2026 PVL on Tour.

     

    Galeries Tower Highrisers and Zus Coffee Thunderbelles

     

    Unlike other teams making major changes, Galeries Tower Highrisers and Zus Coffee Thunderbelles have yet to announce new signings.

     

    Both teams will enter the next phase of preparation with their current rosters while monitoring possible additions.

     

    With the PVL becoming more competitive every season, the 2026 On Tour will showcase more than just new faces — it will feature new identities. Teams are no longer relying only on established stars, they are building deeper lineups designed to survive the long grind of professional volleyball.

     

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  • Pauline Gaston takes the lead as Capital1 ushers in a new era 

    Pauline Gaston takes the lead as Capital1 ushers in a new era 

    Leadership often arrives quietly.

     

    For the Capital1 Solar Spikers, it comes in the form of a veteran who has spent years building a reputation as a dependable presence at the net and in the locker room.

     

    As the franchise prepares for what could be its most ambitious campaign yet, Capital1 has officially named Pauline Gaston as its new team captain for the 2026 Premier Volleyball League season, placing one of its most experienced players at the forefront of a rapidly evolving roster.

     

    The appointment signals more than a change in leadership. It reflects the direction the Solar Spikers are taking as they continue their transformation from expansion team to legitimate contender.

     

    Gaston arrived in Capital1 earlier this year after the disbandment of Chery Tiggo Crossovers, becoming one of several veteran acquisitions brought in to accelerate the team’s growth. The former Chery Tiggo middle blocker was part of an aggressive recruitment drive that saw Capital1 add experienced names such as Jasmine Nabor, Shaya Adorador, Cherry Nunag, and others in an effort to surround its young core with proven talent.

     

    Now, Gaston assumes an even larger role.Her promotion comes at a pivotal time for the franchise, which has undergone one of the biggest roster overhauls in the league while continuing to build around reigning PVL Press Corps Rookie of the Year Bella Belen. 

     

    The Solar Spikers further strengthened their lineup this offseason with the arrivals of former Cignal standouts Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos, while also selecting two-time UAAP Best Libero Detdet Pepito in the PVL Draft.

     

    The expectation is clear: Capital1 is no longer simply developing for the future. It wants to compete now.

     

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    Gaston’s leadership credentials have been evident throughout her career. Known for her versatility and ability to contribute both as a middle blocker and wing attacker, she has become one of the stabilizing figures in Capital1’s frontline rotation. Coaches and teammates have frequently leaned on her experience as the franchise navigates its rapid rise in the PVL.

     

    For a team loaded with youthful stars and high-profile newcomers, the captaincy places Gaston in charge of balancing expectations while helping shape the identity of a roster many believe could emerge as one of the league’s biggest stories this season.

     

    Capital1’s front office has long maintained that building a winning culture would take time. But with an increasingly stacked lineup and one of the most active offseasons in recent PVL memory, the timeline appears to be accelerating.

     

    And as the Solar Spikers prepare for the challenges ahead, they will do so under the guidance of a player tasked with leading one of the PVL’s most intriguing transformations.

     

    For Gaston, the responsibility is simple: help turn potential into results. 

     

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  • Ramil de Jesus banners four volleyball Coaches of the Year honorees

    Ramil de Jesus banners four volleyball Coaches of the Year honorees

    Four mentors who guided their teams to the top of collegiate volleyball will take center stage as they receive recognition at the Collegiate Press Corps Awards Night presented by Strong Group Athletics on June 29 at Discovery Suites Manila in Ortigas, Pasig.

     

    The honorees represent the champions of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

     

    Bannering the group is De La Salle University’s Ramil de Jesus, who added another chapter to his legendary career by bringing the Lady Spikers to their 13th women’s volleyball championship.

     

    De Jesus will be named UAAP Women’s Volleyball Coach of the Year after La Salle produced a historic campaign in UAAP Season 88. The Lady Spikers completed a perfect 16-0 season and finished the year by defeating two-time defending champion National University in the finals.

     

    The achievement, highlighted by the historic “Sweep 16,” also gave La Salle a chance to rewrite an old chapter. After falling short in Season 76, the Lady Spikers finally brought the crown back to Taft Avenue in dominant fashion.

     

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    Another championship story came from Letran’s Mayeth Carolino, whose return to the school nearly three decades after her playing days resulted in a title-winning run.

     

    Carolino, who previously helped the Lady Knights win championships as a player in 1997 and 1998, once again found herself celebrating with Letran — this time as head coach.

     

    She guided the Lady Knights past defending champion College of Saint Benilde to capture the NCAA Season 101 women’s volleyball title, adding another achievement to a career that already included Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player honors during her playing days.

     

    In the men’s division, National University continued its unmatched run under Dante Alinsunurin. The veteran mentor will be recognized as the UAAP Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year after leading the Bulldogs to their sixth straight championship. NU defeated Far Eastern University in the Season 88 finals, securing the program’s eighth title in what has become an era of dominance.

     

    The Bulldogs also extended their incredible streak of reaching 11 consecutive UAAP Finals appearances, further establishing themselves as the benchmark in men’s collegiate volleyball.

     

    For College of Saint Benilde’s Arnold Laniog, the championship carried a different meaning — ending years of waiting.

     

    A longtime part of the Blazers’ volleyball program as both player and coach, Laniog guided the Blazing Spikers to the NCAA Season 101 men’s volleyball crown, closing the door on a nine-year championship drought.

     

    His breakthrough title earnedco him the NCAA Men’s Volleyball Coach of the Year award, recognizing his role in bringing Benilde back to the top.

     

    From La Salle’s unbeaten run to NU’s continued dynasty, Letran’s comeback story, and Benilde’s long-awaited return to glory, the four coaches represent the different paths that lead to a championship.

     

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  • Tia Andaya officially closes Philippine chapter after one season with Choco Mucho 

    Tia Andaya officially closes Philippine chapter after one season with Choco Mucho 

    What began as a leap of faith from the United States to the Philippines has now come full circle for Tia Andaya.

     

    The Filipino-American setter officially announced her departure from Choco Mucho on Wednesday, ending a journey that was fueled by a desire to reconnect with her roots and pursue a dream of eventually wearing the national team colors on the international stage.

     

    “Maraming salamat, Choco, at maraming salamat, Philippines,” said the Filipino-American setter.

     

    Andaya arrived in the country carrying both pedigree and promise. A product of Gonzaga University and Central Washington University, she entered the 2025 PVL Draft as one of the more intriguing prospects and was selected seventh overall by Choco Mucho.

     

    But while the move opened the door to Philippine volleyball, carving out a larger role proved difficult.

     

    The 25-year-old spent much of her stay learning behind veteran playmakers Deanna Wong and Alina Bicar, with opportunities coming sparingly across two conferences. Though her minutes were limited, Andaya remained part of a Flying Titans squad that consistently contended near the top of the league standings.

     

    Her move to the Philippines was never solely about club volleyball.

     

    Andaya also joined the Alas Pilipinas pool under then-head coach Jorge Souza de Brito, hoping to contribute to the national team program. Yet international competition remained out of reach as eligibility issues tied to her continued connection with USA Volleyball prevented her from representing the country in official FIVB-sanctioned events.

     

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    Despite the obstacles, Andaya views her time in the Philippines as a meaningful chapter rather than an unfinished one.

     

    “It truly was an unforgettable journey. The road wasn’t always smooth, but I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Andaya said.

     

    “Thank you all for your support and love these past few years. Whether it was with Choco or Alas, it was an honor to play both with and for all of you.”

     

    Her departure also comes as Choco Mucho enters a new phase at the setter position. The Flying Titans have already moved to reinforce their playmaking corps by selecting Tin Ubaldo with the No. 3 overall pick in the latest PVL Draft and bringing in veteran setter Ivy Perez through free agency ahead of the upcoming PVL On Tour.

     

    For Andaya, however, the story is less about statistics and playing time and more about the experience of embracing a new home, reconnecting with Filipino fans, and chasing a dream that brought her across the Pacific.

     

    Though her stay lasted only a season, the journey left an imprint on both player and supporters alike.

     

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  • POC formally suspends PNVF, declares recent leadership election invalid following FIVB sanction 

    POC formally suspends PNVF, declares recent leadership election invalid following FIVB sanction 

    The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) now finds itself increasingly isolated after the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) formally enforced the consequences of an international suspension imposed by the sport’s global governing body.


    The move marks another significant setback for the federation, which is already dealing with a funding freeze from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and an ongoing investigation by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) into alleged governance violations.

     

    POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino announced on Wednesday that the PNVF’s suspension automatically took effect following the FIVB’s decision to sanction the federation on May 29.

     

    According to Tolentino, the international body’s action was imposed under Article 13.1.1 of the FIVB Disciplinary Regulations and remains linked to an ongoing investigation being conducted by the independent FIVB Ethics Panel.

     

    “The suspension comes automatically from the international federation’s suspension of its national federation,” said Tolentino.

     

    The suspension effectively strips the PNVF of its standing within the POC, preventing the federation from participating in official Olympic committee functions, including attendance at the General Assembly.

     

    Beyond the suspension itself, the POC also questioned the legitimacy of the federation’s recent leadership transition, where Frank Lao assumed the presidency from Tonyboy Liao.

     

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    Tolentino made it clear that the election would not be recognized by the Olympic body, citing procedural shortcomings in the conduct of the vote.

     

    “Their latest election, for the POC, is invalid. There was no notice to the POC and no observer from the POC,” he said.

     

    The development further complicates the leadership situation within Philippine volleyball, with both the federation’s international standing and internal governance now under heightened examination.

     

    Earlier, the PSC had already halted funding support to the PNVF amid concerns similar to those now being investigated at the international level.

     

    While the suspension remains in place, the POC is awaiting recommendations and decisions from the Ad Hoc Committee established by the FIVB to oversee volleyball affairs in the Philippines during the federation’s suspension period.

     

    The matter was discussed during the POC board meeting attended by secretary-general Atty. Wharton R. Chan, second vice president Rep. Richard Gomez, treasurer Dr. Jose Raul Canlas, auditor Jose Donaldo Caringal, Athletes Commission representative Jessie Khing Lacuna, and board members Ferdinand Agustin, Leonora Escollante, Alexander Sulit, and Alvin Aguilar.

     

    With sanctions now coming from both domestic and international sports authorities, the future direction of Philippine volleyball remains uncertain as stakeholders await the outcome of the FIVB’s ongoing governance review.

     

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  • Top 3 teams to watch out for in the upcoming PVL On Tour conference 

    Top 3 teams to watch out for in the upcoming PVL On Tour conference 

    The PVL On Tour is more than just a preseason exhibition. For many teams, it’s the first opportunity to test rebuilt rosters, integrate new stars, and gauge whether offseason moves can translate into championship contention. While every team will have something to prove, three squads enter the tour carrying the biggest storylines.

     

    1. Capital1 Solar Spikers

     

    No team generated more buzz this offseason than the Capital1 Solar Spikers.

     

    After reaching the PVL All-Filipino Conference Finals and establishing themselves as one of the league’s fastest-rising franchises, Capital1 went all-in by signing reigning league MVP Vanie Gandler and fellow former MVP Erika Santos following Cignal’s leave of absence from the league. Both were key pieces of the Super Spikers squad that reached the All-Filipino Finals.

     

    What makes the Solar Spikers particularly dangerous is that they were already winning before these additions arrived. Bella Belen, the reigning PVL Press Corps Rookie of the Year, quickly emerged as one of the league’s premier scorers and even produced a career-high 29-point outing during the All-Filipino Conference.

     

    The Solar Spikers also strengthened their floor defense by drafting former UST standout and two-time UAAP Best Libero Detdet Pepito, adding another proven collegiate star to an already loaded core.

     

    Instead of relying solely on Belen, Capital1 now has multiple high-level scoring options capable of carrying the offense on any given night. The biggest question entering the tour is how quickly Gandler, Santos, Belen, and Pepito can develop chemistry. If they click early, Capital1 could enter the next PVL season as a legitimate championship favorite rather than simply a dark horse.

     

    2. Nxled Chameleons

     

    The Nxled Chameleons were already one of the most intriguing teams in the league before the latest round of acquisitions.

     

    Nxled built its roster around a championship-caliber core led by three-time PVL MVP Brooke Van Sickle alongside proven winners MJ Phillips and Myla Pablo, a trio that immediately transformed expectations for the franchise.

     

    The Chameleons showed flashes of their potential during the All-Filipino Conference, even opening the tournament with an unbeaten stretch while Van Sickle, Phillips, and Pablo consistently powered the offense.

     

    This offseason, Nxled addressed one of its biggest needs by acquiring five-time PVL Best Setter Gel Cayuna and veteran middle blocker Jackie Acuña from Cignal. Cayuna’s arrival could be the missing piece that unlocks the full potential of Nxled’s star-studded attack.

     

    With Van Sickle serving as the primary scorer and Phillips and Pablo providing additional firepower, Cayuna’s ability to orchestrate the offense and maximize her hitters may determine whether Nxled finally breaks through as a serious title contender.

     

    Among all teams entering the PVL On Tour, Nxled may have the highest ceiling if its new pieces fit together quickly. 

     

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    3. Creamline Cool Smashers

     

    Until proven otherwise, the road to any PVL championship still goes through the Creamline Cool Smashers.

     

    Creamline reclaimed the All-Filipino Conference crown in 2026 and continued to showcase the championship pedigree that has made it the league’s gold standard. The Cool Smashers relied on their battle-tested core throughout another title run, with Bernadeth Pons eventually earning Finals MVP honors.

     

    Unlike many contenders that underwent major roster changes, Creamline’s biggest strength remains continuity. The championship nucleus remains intact, preserving the chemistry, system, and winning culture that have produced one of the most successful dynasties in PVL history.

     

    The Cool Smashers also added Adamson standout Barbie Jamili through the PVL Draft, giving the team another promising young talent who can develop behind an already stacked lineup. Jamili’s athletic profile generated significant attention leading into the draft, and many observers believe she has considerable upside at the professional level.

     

    While Capital1 and Nxled may have made bigger offseason headlines, Creamline remains the benchmark every contender is chasing.

     

    Capital1 boasts the league’s most exciting collection of new stars. Nxled appears to have addressed one of its biggest weaknesses by adding an elite playmaker. Creamline, meanwhile, continues to operate from a position every team envies: defending champion with a championship core still intact.

     

    The PVL On Tour could offer the first glimpse of which of these three teams is best positioned to shape the next chapter of the league. 

     

     

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  • Sisi Rondina hopes Beach Volleyball gets Cebu-style showcase after 3×3 hoops spectacle

    Sisi Rondina hopes Beach Volleyball gets Cebu-style showcase after 3×3 hoops spectacle

    Fresh off her wedding to fellow beach volleyball player Ronniel Rosales, Sisi Rondina spent the day after her special day supporting the Cebu Hustle 3×3 in her hometown.


    What she saw left a lasting impression, with Rondina joining the crowd to witness Japan’s Shinjuku Givers complete a perfect campaign en route to the championship, showcasing the intensity and competitiveness of women’s 3×3 basketball in front of Cebuano fans. 

     

    “Nakikita ko, the way sila maglaro. Grabe, buwis buhay. Ayun, ang saya na mapanood sila. It’s a quality 3×3 basketball for the women,” Rondina said.

     

    More than the action on the court, Rondina was inspired by what the event represented.

     

    The successful staging of Cebu Hustle 3×3 showed how major sporting events can thrive outside Metro Manila, bringing elite-level competition closer to local communities while giving young athletes an opportunity to witness high-level sports firsthand.

     

    For Rondina, Cebu has long been capable of hosting events of this scale. The tournament only reinforced her belief that more sports should be brought to the province and neighboring areas.

     

    Rondina was grateful for the opportunity and expressed her hope that more sporting events will take place in Cebu — not just in the city, but in other venues all over the province as well.

     

    “We know kahit anong sport ‘yan, maraming naglalaro,” she said.

     

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    Naturally, one sport remains closest to her heart. As one of the country’s most successful beach volleyball tandem alongside Bernadeth Pons, Rondina hopes the attention generated by Cebu Hustle 3×3 can eventually lead to similar opportunities for beach volleyball.

     

    She believes introducing the sport to more communities is crucial to discovering future talents and growing the game nationwide.

     

    “Kaya din naman talaga gustong mag-beach volleyball ni (Bernadeth) Pons, bukod sa sobrang gusto namin maglaro, but ‘yung how we introduce beach volleyball to other places dito sa Philippines,” said Rondina.

     

    “We’re hoping na may mag-plano din na maglaro dito, ang beach volleyball. We’re very excited na makapaglaro dito, dito mismo sa hometown ko,” the SEA Games gold medalist said.

     

    The dream is especially meaningful because Cebu is where Rondina’s sporting journey began. Hosting a major beach volleyball event there would not only bring the sport closer to local fans but also allow the hometown hero to showcase it in the place that helped shape her career.

     

    For now, Rondina’s attention quickly shifts back to competition. After celebrating a major personal milestone, she and Pons return to training with a bigger goal in mind.

     

    “Walang ibang goal kundi Asian Games,” Rondina said.

     

    The pair are currently preparing for the Asian Games in September, where they hope to earn a place in the final roster and continue building on the momentum from their breakthrough SEA Games gold medal campaign last year.

     

    As Rondina looks ahead to another international challenge, she also hopes the success of events like Cebu Hustle 3×3 will inspire organizers to invest in more sports across Cebu, including the beach volleyball tournaments she dreams of bringing home.

     

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  • Eya Laure and Bella Belen urge focus on growth and team unity amid controversy in Philippine volleyball

    Eya Laure and Bella Belen urge focus on growth and team unity amid controversy in Philippine volleyball

    Philippine volleyball has been thrust into a period of instability following a developing governance controversy involving the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), after the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) imposed a suspension citing what it described as “serious governance concerns” and “multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.”

     

    The suspension, issued on May 29, immediately placed the country’s international volleyball standing under scrutiny and raised concerns about the continuity of its participation in FIVB-sanctioned competitions. Since the announcement, however, there has been limited public disclosure regarding concrete steps toward resolving the issues, leaving athletes, stakeholders, and fans waiting for clearer direction on the future of the sport’s national leadership.

     

    At the domestic level, tensions have further escalated. A majority of the PNVF Executive Board has reportedly withdrawn its support for federation president Ramon “Tonyboy” Liao, citing a loss of trust and confidence in leadership and governance practices. The internal rift has added another layer of uncertainty to an already fragile situation, with questions mounting over administrative stability and long-term planning for the national program.

     

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    Despite the off-court turbulence, members of the national team have called for unity and focus as Philippine volleyball attempts to steady itself amid the controversy.

     

    Two of the brightest stars of the women’s national program, Eya Laure and Bella Belen, have spoken out on the need to prioritize cohesion and collective progress for the sport’s future.

     

    Both Laure and Belen opted to withdraw from the Alas Pilipinas squad for the recent 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Cup hosted at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. However, they were present during the final day of the tournament, watching from the stands as regional competition unfolded on home soil.

    For Laure, the experience reinforced the importance of togetherness within the volleyball community despite ongoing challenges behind the scenes.

     

    “Unity. I am very happy, and the crowd is really passionate in cheering. It’s a good experience since we get to watch it live, and we are able to see different plays that we can also do. We are inspired and motivated after this,” Laure said on the issue.

     

    Belen echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing both admiration for the level of international play and the motivation it provides for the national program moving forward.

     

    “I hope that we can reach this level. It’s really nice to see how strong other national teams are. The level is very different, especially in terms of the difficulty of plays. I hope we can achieve this in the coming years,” Belen added.

     

    The two stars were originally part of Alas Pilipinas’ 14-woman roster for the Southeast Asian Games. However, only Alyssa Solomon among that group participated in the 2026 AVC Women’s Cup, underscoring the evolving composition and ongoing adjustments within the national program.

     

    As Philippine volleyball navigates governance questions and internal divisions, the calls from its top players reflect a shared desire to keep the focus on development and international competitiveness. With uncertainty still surrounding the federation’s leadership and FIVB standing, the coming months are expected to be critical in determining the direction of the sport at both the national and international levels.

     

    While administrative issues continue to cast a shadow over Philippine volleyball, the voices of players like Laure and Belen highlight a unifying message: the sport’s future depends on stability, cooperation, and a renewed commitment to growth. How the governing bodies respond to the FIVB suspension may ultimately define the next era of Philippine volleyball.

     

     

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  • After nine years in Japan, Jaja Santiago set for US volleyball journey 

    After nine years in Japan, Jaja Santiago set for US volleyball journey 

    After nearly a decade building her career in Japan, Jaja Santiago is preparing for another major move abroad.

     

    The former Philippine national team standout, now known as Sachi Minowa following her marriage to Japanese and former Akari coach Taka Minowa, confirmed that she will continue her professional volleyball career in the United States beginning next season.

     

    Speaking to reporters during the Philippine leg of the 2026 Volleyball Nations League (VNL) at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, Santiago revealed that a deal is already in place, although details regarding her new club and league have yet to be officially announced.

     

    “I’m going to US next season,” Santiago confirmed.

     

    The 30-year-old middle blocker said the competition is scheduled to start in January, with an announcement from her new team expected soon.

     

    “I think next week, they will announce the league where I will play,” she said.

     

    While Santiago did not disclose her destination, she is expected to suit up in either League One Volleyball (LOVB) or Major League Volleyball (MLV), two of the emerging professional women’s volleyball competitions in the United States.

     

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    The move will mark another significant chapter in a career that has largely been built overseas.

     

    Standing 6-foot-5, Santiago spent the last nine years competing in Japan’s top professional leagues, where she established herself as one of the country’s premier middle blockers.

     

    Most recently, she played for Denso Airybees during the 2025-26 SV.League season. Before that, she spent five successful seasons with Saitama Ageo Medics and later had a stint with Osaka Marvelous.

     

    Throughout her stay in Japan, Santiago earned two Best Middle Blocker awards and consistently ranked among the league’s most respected players at her position.

     

    With several months remaining before her move to the United States, Santiago’s immediate focus has shifted toward maintaining her fitness and game shape.

     

    “I’ll be there (US), November. Sobrang laki nung gap, so kailangan ko maghanap ng way para maging kondisyon pagdating no’n,” the former NU Lady Bulldogs standout said. 

     

    The lengthy break between seasons has prompted Santiago to explore training opportunities while also weighing other options closer to home.

     

    A return to the Premier Volleyball League has not been ruled out, although the former PVL Open Conference and Finals MVP stressed that no decisions have been finalized. The veteran middle blocker is also hoping to maximize time with her family and husband before beginning another overseas campaign.

     

    “Right now, I’m working out with Coach Luis because I need to. Sometimes, Taka and I also do workouts,” she said.

     

    For Santiago, the move represents another challenge in a career that has already seen her succeed in one of Asia’s strongest volleyball environments. After nine years in Japan, the next stop is the United States, where she will look to bring her experience, size, and international pedigree to a new league.

     

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  • New era begins at FEU as Faida Bakanke heads to France and Manolo Refugia returns to rebuild Lady Tamaraws 

    New era begins at FEU as Faida Bakanke heads to France and Manolo Refugia returns to rebuild Lady Tamaraws 

    Within days, FEU Lady Tamaraws saw one of its brightest stars take her talents overseas and welcomed back a familiar tactician tasked with guiding the team’s next chapter.


    The transition begins with Faida Bakanke, whose collegiate career has officially reached its conclusion after signing with French club Vandoeuvre Nancy Volley-Ball (VNVB), a team competing in Ligue A Feminine, France’s top-tier professional women’s volleyball league.

     

    “Powerful, ambitious and determined, Faida comes to bring all her energy and impact to the net under the Panther colors. A new step in his career, and a new weapon for the Nance collective,” the team said, announcing it in a social media post.

     

    For FEU, Bakanke’s departure marks the end of an era that saw the opposite hitter emerge as one of the UAAP’s most reliable offensive weapons. During Season 88, she finished 13th in league scoring with 168 total points, compiling 134 attack points, 31 blocks, and three service aces.

     

    Her production became a central pillar of FEU’s offense throughout the campaign. Yet despite her efforts, the Lady Tamaraws finished fifth in the standings and narrowly missed out on a Final Four berth.

     

    Now, the challenge shifts from maximizing Bakanke’s scoring to replacing it.

    Fortunately for FEU, the program is turning to a coach who already knows the foundation of the roster.

     

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    Manolo Refugia is set to return as head coach of the Lady Tamaraws for Season 89, taking charge of a squad largely composed of players he helped develop during previous years with the program.

     

    His return comes at a critical time for FEU, which is seeking stability after an uneven stretch and is eager to reclaim its place among the league’s perennial contenders.

     

    Refugia is hardly stepping into unfamiliar territory. The longtime mentor guided the Lady Tamaraws to the Final Four in UAAP Season 86 before moving back into an assistant coaching role under Tina Salak over the next two seasons.

     

    With Salak now concentrating on her responsibilities in the Premier Volleyball League as head coach of the Akari Chargers, the program once again turns to Refugia to lead from the front.

     

    Adding another layer of experience to the coaching setup is decorated mentor Rald Ricafort, who joins as team consultant. The move reunites a partnership that has already found success in the professional ranks, where Refugia serves as one of Ricafort’s trusted assistants at PLDT in the PVL.

     

    Ricafort’s arrival gives FEU access to one of the most respected minds in Philippine volleyball. Fresh off leading PLDT to two breakthrough championships last year, he brings championship experience and a winning culture to a program looking to take the next step.

     

    The roster itself should provide Refugia with a familiar starting point. Most of FEU’s senior players are expected to return for Season 89, with the notable exceptions of former setter Tin Ubaldo—now with Choco Mucho and Alas Pilipinas—and Bakanke, who begins her professional journey in France.

     

    Within the team, Refugia’s return has reportedly been welcomed as a stabilizing presence. His understanding of the system, established relationships with the players, and previous success within the program made him a natural choice as FEU mapped out its future.

     

    As one chapter closes with Bakanke’s departure to Europe, another begins with Refugia back on the sidelines. The Lady Tamaraws may have lost one of their biggest scorers, but they are betting that familiarity, continuity, and an experienced coaching staff can help usher in the program’s next period of growth.

     

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