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Category: Volleyball

  • Fifi Sharma remains hopeful that Philippine volleyball will reach world-class level in the future

    Fifi Sharma remains hopeful that Philippine volleyball will reach world-class level in the future

    Fifi Sharma remains optimistic about the future of Philippine volleyball, believing that continued exposure to elite international competition will eventually help the country close the gap with some of the world’s top volleyball nations.

     

    Widely regarded as one of the Philippines’ premier middle blockers, Sharma has built a strong reputation through her performances in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) and as a member of the Philippine women’s national volleyball team. At just 25 years old, she has already established herself as one of the sport’s most recognizable figures, known for her versatility, defensive presence, and leadership on and off the court.

     

    Although Sharma was not part of the Alas Pilipinas squad that competed in the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Nations Cup in Candon City in June, she continued to support the national team’s efforts while keeping a close eye on the level of competition showcased during the tournament.

     

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    Having experienced international volleyball firsthand as both a player and spectator, Sharma understands the significant difference between local and world-class competition. Yet rather than being discouraged by the disparity, she sees it as motivation for Filipino athletes to continue improving and raising the country’s standards.

     

    For Sharma, tournaments featuring top international teams provide valuable learning opportunities not only for players but also for coaches, officials, and fans. She believes that witnessing elite-level volleyball in the Philippines can inspire the next generation of athletes and accelerate the development of the sport nationwide.

     

    “That we get to experience playing like this – this level of atmosphere, this level of play. Hopefully, eventually, we will reach this kind of level in the near future. It’s always inspiring to watch international-level volleyball, especially here in our home country,” Sharma said in a media interaction.

    The Akari Chargers standout emphasized the importance of continued international exposure, noting that competing against and observing stronger teams allows Filipino players to better understand the demands of the global game. Such experiences, she believes, are crucial if the Philippines hopes to become a consistent contender in major regional and international tournaments.

     

    Despite the growing popularity of volleyball in the country and the continued success of the PVL, Sharma acknowledged that there is still considerable work to be done before Philippine volleyball can consistently compete with the sport’s traditional powerhouses in Asia and beyond.

     

    The PVL has enjoyed remarkable growth in recent years, attracting large crowds, increased media attention, and a deeper pool of talent. However, Sharma recognizes that the pace, physicality, and overall quality of international volleyball remain on a different level.

     

    “I think we still have a long way to go in terms of reaching the international level. But having this kind of exposure here and making it accessible for Filipinos is a big help in developing athletes in the country,” she added.

     

    Sharma’s perspective reflects the broader vision shared by many within the Philippine volleyball community. As more international competitions are hosted locally and Filipino athletes gain opportunities to train and compete abroad, hopes remain high that the country’s volleyball program will continue to evolve and become increasingly competitive on the world stage.

     

    For now, Sharma is turning her attention back to club duties with the Akari Chargers as preparations continue for the upcoming PVL On Tour preseason tournament, which is scheduled to begin on July 8. The preseason competition will provide teams an opportunity to fine-tune their systems and build chemistry ahead of the next PVL campaign.

     

    As one of Akari’s key veterans and leaders, Sharma is expected to play a significant role in the Chargers’ preparations. While she remains focused on helping her club succeed, her aspirations extend beyond domestic competition. Like many members of the current generation of Filipino volleyball players, Sharma continues to dream of the day when the Philippines can compete on equal footing with the world’s best teams.

     

    With her experience, leadership, and commitment to the sport’s growth, Sharma remains one of the strongest advocates for Philippine volleyball’s continued development. And while she acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead, her belief in the country’s potential remains unwavering.

     

     

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  • Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo secure contract renewals with overseas teams

    Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo secure contract renewals with overseas teams

    Success has opened another chapter in the overseas careers of Filipino volleyball stars, Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo.


    Fresh off championship-winning campaigns in two of Asia’s top volleyball leagues, Bagunas and Espejo have been rewarded with contract renewals, ensuring that their journeys abroad will continue for at least another season.

     

    Bagunas will return with Osaka Bluteon in Japan’s SV.League, while Espejo has secured a re-newed deal with Taiwan Professional Volleyball League champion TSG Skyhawks after emerging as one of the club’s most reliable two-way players.

     

    The extensions reflect more than just strong individual performances. They serve as recognition of the growing reputation of Filipino volleyball talent on the international stage, with both players helping raise the profile of Philippine volleyball through their success overseas.

     

    “We are pleased to announce that we have renewed the contract with Bryan Bagunas. He will continue to fight alongside everyone as a member of Bruteon in the 2026-27 season, aiming for the top,” Osaka announced.

     

    Bagunas’ first season with Osaka ended in historic fashion. The 28-year-old became the first Filipino men’s volleyball player to win a championship in Japan after Osaka completed a dramatic Finals comeback against the Suntory Sunbirds. The title-clinching match saw Osaka dominate Game 3 with a victory to dethrone the defending champions.

     

    “Honored to renew with Osaka Bluteon!” said Bagunas. “Thank you to the club, my teammates, and all the fans for the incredible support. I’m excited for another season and ready to give my all. Let’s make more history together.”

     

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    The achievement was especially meaningful for Bagunas, who returned to top-level competition after recovering from a knee injury. He later helped Alas Pilipinas secure a historic victory over Egypt in the FIVB Men’s World Championship before continuing his strong form in Japan.

     

    Although Osaka featured one of the deepest rosters in the SV.League, Bagunas remained a valuable contributor throughout the campaign. He finished with 31 total points on 23 attacks, five blocks, and three aces across 39 matches as Osaka compiled a stellar 38-6 record in the regular season before capturing the title.

     

    Meanwhile, Espejo’s impact in Taiwan earned him another opportunity with the Skyhawks.

     

    “Marck has become an important force at both ends of the team’s attack and defense with comprehensive attack ability and stable defensive performance. The attack success rate is as high as 46.6 percent, whether in the regular season or key games, it can show stable output, bringing substantial contributions to the team,” the club said.

     

    “In addition to his performance on the field, Marck’s positive attitude and professionalism have also been recognized by the team, and his rich international experience not only enhances the overall competitiveness of the team, but also brings a positive impact on the teammates.”

     

    For Espejo, the championship further strengthened an already impressive international résumé. The Alas Pilipinas standout became the first Filipino volleyball player to win professional titles in two different countries after previously lifting a championship trophy with the Incheon Korean Air Jumbos in South Korea.

     

    His latest triumph marked another milestone in a career that has taken him across some of Asia’s most competitive volleyball leagues, including stints in Japan, Thailand, Bahrain, South Korea, and Taiwan.

     

    The renewed contracts also arrive at an important time for Philippine volleyball. With both Bagunas and Espejo continuing to compete against elite international talent, Alas Pilipinas stands to benefit from the experience and high-level competition they will bring back to the national team.

     

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  • “Not focused on labels”: Gel Cayuna embraces expectations at Nxled ahead of PVL On Tour

    “Not focused on labels”: Gel Cayuna embraces expectations at Nxled ahead of PVL On Tour

    The Nxled Chameleons moved decisively in the offseason, quickly addressing a key roster need following the unexpected leave of absence of Cignal by acquiring veteran setter Gel Cayuna—an addition that immediately elevates the team’s leadership and playmaking depth.

     

    Cayuna arrives at Nxled as one of the most accomplished setters in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), widely respected for her court vision, composure, and ability to run a balanced offense under pressure. Over the years, she has built a reputation as one of the league’s premier floor generals, collecting five Best Setter awards, including the distinction she earned in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

     

    At 27, Cayuna now steps into a pivotal role for a Nxled squad aiming to transform potential into consistent results. Her arrival is expected to provide structure and stability to a team that already features a strong mix of established talents and emerging offensive weapons.

     

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    Cayuna is set to make her debut for the Chameleons in the upcoming Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour series, where she will be tasked with orchestrating the offense and maximizing the team’s scoring options. Despite the heightened expectations surrounding Nxled’s upgraded roster, the veteran setter remains focused on process rather than pressure.

     

    “For me, Nxled has always been a talented team, especially with the veterans already here. Maybe the expectations have just grown because of the new additions. But I don’t focus on labels as a super team. My priority is how I can help and how we can become better as a group every day,” Cayuna said in a media interaction.

     

    One of the early focal points of Nxled’s preparation has been developing chemistry between Cayuna and the team’s key attackers, including three-time PVL Most Valuable Player Brooke Van Sickle. Training sessions have already begun with the duo working closely to establish timing, rhythm, and trust in execution—crucial elements for a team looking to compete at the highest level.

    Cayuna emphasized that building connections with Nxled’s veteran core and star hitters is central to her integration process.

     

    “I’m really looking forward to working with them because it’s a big opportunity for me to grow as a player. There’s so much I can learn from them, especially because they are veterans with a lot of experience in the game. I also want to build our chemistry on the court as soon as possible so I can help the team,” she added.

     

    Her move to Nxled also marks a significant new chapter in her career following her stint with Cignal, which began in 2022. Cayuna admitted that the transition was one of the most challenging moments of her professional journey, particularly after being part of a Cignal squad that had just come off a breakthrough PVL Finals appearance.

     

    “Honestly, it was one of the most challenging moments of my career so far. Coming from a finals run, you expect to celebrate first. But suddenly there was a big change because of the disbandment. I had to be practical and think about what the best next step was for me and my career.”

     

    After weighing her options, Cayuna ultimately chose Nxled, citing both the organization’s vision and the trust they placed in her as key factors in her decision.

     

    “Among all the options I had, I believed that Nxled was the environment that would help me grow both as a player and as a person. I also felt the trust they gave me, and I want to repay that by working hard and helping the team achieve its goals,” Cayuna concluded.

     

    With the PVL On Tour series set to begin on Wednesday, July 8, in Ilagan City, Isabela, Nxled will immediately face a major early test as they open their campaign against powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers—a matchup that will offer an early glimpse of how quickly Cayuna and her new team can gel under competitive pressure.

     

     

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  • PVL takes the show on the road as seven-city On Tour Conference brings volleyball nationwide  

    PVL takes the show on the road as seven-city On Tour Conference brings volleyball nationwide  

    The Premier Volleyball League is once again turning the spotlight toward the provinces.

     

    Rather than limiting preseason action to traditional venues, the league is taking its biggest stars directly to communities that have helped fuel volleyball’s rise across the country through the 2026 PVL On Tour.

     

    Spanning seven stops from July to August, the traveling exhibition series is designed to bring live PVL action to fans who rarely get the opportunity to watch their favorite teams in person. More than just a preseason showcase, the tour reflects the league’s growing commitment to a nationwide audience that has embraced volleyball far beyond Metro Manila.

     

    The journey begins on July 8 in Ilagan City, Isabela, where ZUS Coffee faces Akari before Creamline takes center stage against Nxled.

     

    Three days later, the tour heads to Batangas City for a doubleheader featuring Galeries Tower against Farm Fresh and Choco Mucho battling the Thunderbelles.

     

    The northern swing continues on July 25 in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. Capital1 and Galeries Tower open the program before reigning preseason champion PLDT takes on Choco Mucho in one of the tour’s most anticipated matchups.

     

    Mindanao enters the picture on August 1 when the league visits Polomolok, South Cotabato. Akari and Choco Mucho headline the event, while Nxled and Galeries Tower square off in the other exhibition contest.

     

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    A week later, the caravan returns to Isabela, this time stopping in Santiago City. Fans there will witness ZUS Coffee challenge PLDT, while Capital1 and Creamline renew their rivalry.

     

    The tour then heads south once more on August 15, with Lanao del Norte hosting Farm Fresh versus Nxled and PLDT against Akari.

     

    The final stop is scheduled for August 22 at a venue yet to be announced. Capital1 will meet Farm Fresh, while Creamline closes out the nationwide trek against Galeries Tower.

     

    Beyond the wins and losses, the tour serves a larger purpose.

     

    For the teams, it offers valuable preparation before the regular season begins. Coaches will have the opportunity to test combinations, evaluate new players, and build chemistry in competitive environments.

     

    For fans, it is a rare chance to experience the PVL atmosphere firsthand without having to travel to the capital.

     

    As volleyball continues to thrive across the country, the league’s decision to bring the game directly to local communities reflects the sport’s growing footprint. From Isabela to South Cotabato and Lanao del Norte, the PVL is ensuring that the excitement of the professional game reaches the very supporters who helped turn volleyball into one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports.

     

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  • Ara Galang turns national team comeback into inspiration for rising volleyball players 

    Ara Galang turns national team comeback into inspiration for rising volleyball players 

    After years of setbacks caused by injuries, Ara Galang finally returned to the international volleyball stage — and her biggest takeaway was not about personal redemption, but about inspiring the next generation of Filipino players.


    The veteran volleyball star was among the players selected for Alas Pilipinas’ campaign in the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup, giving her the opportunity to once again wear the national colors after missing previous chances due to health setbacks.

     

    With her long-awaited return complete, Galang hopes young Filipino volleyball talents recognize the importance of every opportunity to compete for the country.

     

    “Sana, ‘pag dumating ang opportunity sa kanila, ma-grab nila ‘yon at mabigyan nila ng karangalan ang Philippines,” Galang said.

     

    The Philippines ended its AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup campaign in eighth place, but Galang chose to look beyond the result and valued the experience of representing the national team on the international stage.

     

    For years, Galang was regarded as one of the country’s top volleyball talents. However, injuries repeatedly disrupted her momentum and limited her chances of building a longer run with the national team.

     

    “Siyempre, hindi naman ito basta-bastang opportunity. Sobrang grateful ako, pero siyempre proud ako na i-represent ang Philippines. And sana patuloy na suportahan ng mga tao ‘yung Alas Pilipinas,” the open hitter of Farm Fresh Foxies said.

     

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    Despite the challenges faced by Alas Women in the tournament, Galang focused on the lessons gained from competing against stronger international opponents and the value of the experience for the growing program.

     

    “Actually, hindi ko rin alam, pero ako, tinatry ko lang din ibigay ‘yung best ko,” she said.

    Beyond her performance inside the court, Galang also embraced the role of becoming an example for younger players who look up to the national team.

     

    “Siyempre, nakakataba ng puso na nai-inspire ko pa rin sila hanggang ngayon, at dadalhin ko ‘yon sa araw-araw,” Galang added.

     

    Her return was also part of a veteran presence in the Alas Pilipinas lineup, with experienced players helping guide a squad still developing chemistry on the international stage. 

     

    While the team finished eighth, the campaign gave the Philippines valuable exposure against some of Asia’s strongest volleyball nations.

     

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  • Creamline, Nxled take center stage as PVL On Tour opens July 4 

    Creamline, Nxled take center stage as PVL On Tour opens July 4 

    The wait for Philippine volleyball’s return is almost over as some of the PVL’s biggest names take the spotlight when the PVL On Tour officially opens on July 4.

     

    Defending champions Creamline and rising contender Nxled headline the first day of action, setting the tone for what promises to be an important preseason showcase for teams preparing for the next PVL campaign.

     

    The opening doubleheader begins with ZUS Coffee taking on Akari at 4 p.m., a matchup featuring two squads eager to establish an early rhythm after making significant roster moves in the offseason.

     

    But much of the spotlight will shift to the evening clash at 6:30 p.m. when the Creamline Cool Smashers face Nxled in a meeting that offers an early glimpse of two teams heading in different but equally intriguing directions.

     

    Creamline enters the tournament looking to sustain the dominance that has defined the franchise in recent years. With a veteran core led by some of the league’s most accomplished players, the Cool Smashers continue to be the standard-bearer of the PVL and remain the team every contender measures itself against. 

     

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    For Nxled, the On Tour event presents another opportunity to accelerate its development after showing flashes of promise in recent conferences. The Chameleons have invested heavily in building a competitive roster and will look to use the preseason tournament as a platform to test combinations and gain confidence against the league’s elite.

     

    The PVL On Tour serves as more than just a preseason competition. It allows teams to integrate rookies, evaluate offseason acquisitions, and sharpen systems before the official season begins. It also brings professional volleyball closer to fans across different regions, continuing the league’s effort to expand its reach nationwide.

     

    With established stars, emerging talents, and renewed rivalries all set to take the floor, the opening day offers an early look at the storylines that could shape the PVL season ahead.

     

    And if the opening schedule is any indication, fans can expect no shortage of excitement right from Day 1.

     

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  • Former Farm Fresh libero Ann Monares joins Akari Chargers 

    Former Farm Fresh libero Ann Monares joins Akari Chargers 

    After Ann Monares spent her rookie season with the Farm Fresh Foxies, the young libero has found a new home with the Akari Chargers, who continue to reshape their roster ahead of the 2026 PVL On Tour.


    Monares arrives at a pivotal moment for Akari. While the Chargers chose to keep the core of their roster intact, the team also entered the offseason knowing that its defensive unit would need fresh reinforcements.

     

    That need became more evident after Akari trimmed its roster and bid farewell to Dani Ravena, Max Juangco, Bea Bonafe, Joan Doguna, and Steph Bustrillo. The departures left openings across several positions, particularly in the back row where Ravena and Juangco had provided depth and stability.

     

    Rather than searching for solutions through the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft, where the franchise elected not to make a selection, Akari turned to a player already familiar with the professional environment.

     

    The former FEU standout joins the Chargers after being selected 16th overall by Farm Fresh in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft. 

     

    Although her playing opportunities were limited during her rookie campaign under head coach Koji Tsuzurabara, the experience allowed Monares to learn the demands of the professional game while continuing to develop her defensive instincts.

     

    One of the biggest factors working in Monares’ favor is familiarity. The move reunites her with Akari head coach Tina Salak, who previously coached her during her collegiate years, and former FEU teammate Chennie Tagaod. 

     

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    For a young player looking to establish herself in the league, joining a system led by people who already understand her strengths could accelerate her transition.

     

    The signing also gives Akari another option behind veteran libero Justine Jazareno, while providing additional competition within the team’s defensive rotation.

     

    Beyond the volleyball implications, the move creates an interesting family storyline for the upcoming season.

     

    Recently, Monares’ sister Joan also secured a spot in the PVL after being undrafted in the 2026 Rookie Draft, with the PLDT High Speed Hitters giving her an opportunity to continue her volleyball journey.

     

    The sisters are no strangers to competing on opposite sides. During their collegiate careers, Ann represented the FEU Lady Tamaraws while Joan played for the UP Fighting Maroons, creating a sibling rivalry that is now set to continue on the professional stage.

     

    For Akari, Monares represents more than a replacement for departing players. She is part of a broader effort to refresh the roster without disrupting the foundation built around Ivy Lacsina, Ced Domingo, Fifi Sharma, Grethcel Soltones, Eli Soyud, and Jazareno.

     

    At just the beginning of her professional career, Monares arrives with something every young athlete seeks after a challenging first season: a fresh start. And for a Chargers team looking to strengthen its defense while preparing for a new campaign, the partnership offers potential benefits for both sides.

     

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  • Ara Galang embraces mentor role in first Alas Pilipinas stint 

    Ara Galang embraces mentor role in first Alas Pilipinas stint 

    Ara Galang arrived in Alas Pilipinas without the expectations that once followed her during the height of her career.

     

    There were no discussions about carrying the offense, dominating opponents, or recreating the version of herself that once ruled the collegiate and professional ranks.

     

    Instead, Galang brought something the national team arguably needed just as much: perspective.

     

    At 31 years old and making her first appearance for the national team, the former La Salle superstar found herself in a unique position. She was no longer the young player chasing opportunities but the veteran finally getting one.

     

    And somewhere along the way, she became one of the most influential figures inside the Alas camp.

     

    The impact wasn’t necessarily measured in points or statistics.

     

    It was felt in the admiration of teammates who once watched her from afar.

     

    Veteran libero Alyssa Eroa admitted she had always dreamed of sharing the court with Galang, while younger national team standouts Niña Ytang, Alyssa Solomon, and Kyla Atienza drew inspiration from playing alongside one of Philippine volleyball’s most recognizable names.

     

    Even Alyssa Valdez, whose fierce battles against Galang helped define an era of the Ateneo-La Salle rivalry, found herself embracing a new role as a teammate rather than an opponent.

     

    For Galang, the realization came as a surprise.

     

    “Honestly, I don’t really know,” said Galang in Filipino. “I just try to give my best every day. But it’s heartwarming to know that I still inspire them until now, and that’s something I’ll carry with me every day.”

     

    The veteran opposite hitter understands the rarity of her journey.

     

    Unlike many national team mainstays who earn international exposure at a young age, Galang received her chance later than most.

     

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    That reality has shaped how she approaches her role with Alas Pilipinas.

     

    Rather than focusing on personal achievements, she hopes her story encourages younger players to value every opportunity that comes their way.

     

    “I know that’s one of the biggest dreams of every athlete. I hope that when the opportunity comes for them, they’ll seize it and make the most of it. Hopefully, they’ll be able to bring honor and pride to the Philippines as well,” said Galang.

     

    “This isn’t just any opportunity. I’m incredibly grateful, and at the same time, I’m proud to represent the Philippines. I hope people continue to support Alas Pilipinas.”

     

    As much as Galang appreciates the admiration she receives from younger teammates, she is equally excited about the generation poised to lead Philippine volleyball forward.

     

    Among them is Alyssa Solomon, whom Galang believes possesses the talent to become a cornerstone of the national team for years to come.

     

    “She’s a special talent. She has so much potential and still has a long journey ahead of her. She’ll be able to contribute a lot to Philippine volleyball, and I’m really looking forward to seeing her in future games with the national team,” Galang said.

     

    Alas Pilipinas may still be searching for consistency on the international stage, but Galang sees reason for optimism.

     

    And while her first national team stint may have arrived later than expected, her influence on the program could end up lasting far longer than the tournament itself.

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez breaks silence on challenges facing Philippine volleyball amid poor AVC Cup campaign

    Alyssa Valdez breaks silence on challenges facing Philippine volleyball amid poor AVC Cup campaign

    The Philippine women’s national volleyball team concluded its 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Cup campaign on a disappointing note, suffering a straight-sets 21-25, 12-25, 21-25 defeat to Iran on Sunday, June 14, at the Candon City Arena.

     

    The loss capped a difficult tournament for Alas Pilipinas, which finished in eighth place—its worst result in AVC Women’s Cup history and a step back from its seventh-place finish in 2023. The Philippines ended Pool A play with a 2–4 record, struggling for consistency throughout the competition as it failed to sustain momentum against higher-ranked opposition.

     

    As the results fell short of expectations, attention has largely turned toward the national team’s leadership group, with veteran outside hitter Alyssa Valdez once again at the center of discussion following her return to the national team setup for the tournament.

     

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    Valdez, widely regarded as the face of Philippine volleyball, was among the senior players who rejoined Alas Pilipinas after several key stars withdrew from the lineup. Despite the criticism surrounding the team’s performance, the 32-year-old emphasized that her commitment to the national team remains rooted in her long-standing passion for representing the country.

     

    “Siguro one thing I realized all throughout this experience rin, I have been also asking myself kung bakit ko rin ginawa ‘tong desisyon na ‘to sa volleyball career ko. And I think one thing that actually came out was kung ano ‘yung love ko nung bata ako para sa volleyball, hanggang ngayon. Hanggang ngayon, ‘yun pa rin ‘yung love ko sa pagre-represent sa bansa,” Valdez said in a media interaction.

    Beyond reflecting on her personal motivations, Valdez also addressed the broader issues currently surrounding Philippine volleyball, including governance concerns following the suspension of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) by the FIVB. Her remarks highlighted the need for stability, unity, and stronger leadership within the sport’s national structure.

     

    “I am aware of the challenges and conversations surrounding our sport, and I understand the concerns being raised from different sides. Bilang nagging bahagi ng national team, alam kong marami pang kailangang linawin at ayusin. At a time like this, what the sport needs is not more division, but leadership in all its forms. Leadership that listens. Leadership that puts the welfare of athletes first. For the sports community, for the fans, for the country.

     

    “Pero ngayon, higit kailanman, kailangan natin ang suporta ng volleyball community. Ngayon, hindi man pare-pareho ang paraan, ang mahalaga ay iisa ang hangarin, isang mas maayos, patas, at mas matatag na sistema para sa susunod na henerasyon ng atletang Pilipino,” she added.

     

    The statement underscored the ongoing challenges facing Philippine volleyball amid organizational uncertainty, with calls growing louder for reforms that prioritize athlete welfare and long-term development.

     

    Despite the setbacks on and off the court, Valdez remained focused on the bigger picture—ensuring that the next generation of Filipino volleyball players inherits a more stable and supportive system.

     

    “Para sa bawat atletang patuloy na nangangarap, lalo na sa mga kabataang nagsisimula pa lang, padayon tayo. Sana hindi kayo mapagod, matakot, o sumuko sa pangarap n’yong magrepresent ng bansa sa kabila ng ingay at gulo sa paligid,” Valdez concluded.

     

    As Alas Pilipinas reflects on another challenging international campaign, the focus now shifts toward rebuilding and addressing structural issues, with hopes that future tournaments will bring both improved results and a stronger foundation for Philippine women’s volleyball.

     

     

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  • Niña Ytang grateful for Alas Pilipinas debut despite early AVC exit 

    Niña Ytang grateful for Alas Pilipinas debut despite early AVC exit 

    Niña Ytang chose to focus on the experience rather than the result after completing her first campaign with Alas Pilipinas in the AVC Women’s Nations Cup.


    Despite the Philippine women’s volleyball team’s disappointing finish in the continental tournament, the young middle blocker expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent the country and play alongside some of the sport’s most accomplished veterans.

     

    Alas Pilipinas ended its campaign with a 21-25, 12-25, 21-25 loss to Iran in the battle for seventh place on Sunday at the Candon City Arena, ultimately finishing eighth out of 12 participating nations.

     

    The result marked the national team’s lowest placement in the tournament in three years, a significant drop from its recent podium finishes. 

     

    The Philippines captured the bronze medal in 2024 and advanced to the championship match in 2025 after placing seventh in 2023.

     

    This year, Alas Pilipinas fielded a different-looking roster after several members of the previous core were unavailable. 

     

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    Veterans Alyssa Valdez, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Ces Molina, and Ara Galang led the squad, but the Filipinas struggled to sustain momentum throughout the competition.

     

    The Philippines finished Pool A with a 2-3 record, suffering losses to eventual finalists South Korea and Chinese Taipei, as well as a five-set defeat against Australia.

     

    Still, Ytang viewed the tournament as a valuable learning experience.

     

    “I’m just very, very grateful for the experience that I am experiencing right now, with my ates, of course I will cherish these memories with them,” said Ytang.

     

    The University of the Philippines standout was among the bright spots for Alas Pilipinas, stepping into a starting middle blocker role and holding her own against some of Asia’s top teams.

     

    Ytang said representing the national team alongside players she had long admired made the experience especially meaningful.

     

    “It’s just a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me so it’s been my dream to play with them, so I’m very, very grateful for all the experiences that I have right now,” she said.

     

    While the campaign ended in disappointment, Ytang’s emergence provided a positive takeaway for a Philippine squad looking to regroup after falling short of its recent international standards.

     

    For the young middle blocker, the tournament served as both a learning opportunity and the realization of a longtime dream—one she hopes will be the first of many appearances in national team colors.

     

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