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Category: Volleyball

  • Weekend volleyball preview: PVL and UAAP Volleyball set to deliver thrilling matches

    Weekend volleyball preview: PVL and UAAP Volleyball set to deliver thrilling matches

    Volleyball action heats up this weekend with a full slate of games in both the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) and the UAAP, offering fans high-level competition and thrilling matchups. From powerhouse PVL squads to collegiate heavyweights

     

    PVL Action Set for Saturday

     

    The PVL kicks off Saturday’s action at the FilOil Centre with an exciting double-header. The opening match features the Creamline Cool Smashers taking on the Capital 1 Solar Spikers at the 4PM curtain raiser. 

     

    The second game headlines the 9th-ranked ZUS Thunderbelles will attempt to bounce back as they face Strong Group sister-team Farm Fresh Foxies who currently sit as the 7th seed. 

     

    Creamline has been preparing to assert its dominance, relying on top performers in the league as the star-studded team will look to rely on former PVL MVPs Bernadeth Pons and Jema Galanza, who scored 19 and 11 points respectively to lead the Cool Smashers past ZUS Coffee. 

     

    Capital 1 will aim to challenge the Cool Smashers, who recently secured a four-set win over ZUS Coffee (22-25, 25-17, 25-16, 25-18) for their second victory in the 2026 All-Filipino Conference, Bella Belen is expected to again carry the scoring load for the Solar Spikers as she currently hunts for her fifth-straight 20 point game as she recently matched her UAAP career-high by firing 29 points in their previous five-set win against Choco Mucho (25-21, 18-25, 25-18, 19-25, 15-10). 

     

    The Thunderbelles who have recently lost against Creamline, will look to rebound after the four-setter loss in which Chinnie Arroyo dropped 18 points, while former DLSU standout Thea Gagate chipped in 11 points as the only ZUS Coffee players in double-digit scoring. 

     

    Farm Fresh on the other-hand is coming off a statement win against Galeries Towers, claiming their first win of the season. Trisha Tubu led the Foxies with 17 points, aiming to carry on the momentum for Saturday’s game. 

     

    Both teams have shown promise this season, with the Thunderbelles relying on strategic net play and defensive discipline after their loss to Creamline, while the Foxies aim for their second win and improve in the standings.

     

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    UAAP Weekend Showdowns

     

    Moving over to collegiate volleyball, action-packed games await as the UAAP volleyball season continues. On Saturday, Women’s volleyball opens with University of the East taking on Adamson University at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.  

     

    UE will try to keep up with the standings this season, while ADU will make a comeback with consistent offensive and defensive execution after losing against NU.

     

    The second game of the day features National University against Far Eastern University. NU’s defending champion squad, led by star rookie player Sam Cantada, who dropped 21 points in her last game against Adamson and will look to extend their winning streak. 

     

    While FEU will rely on the solid defense of Jaz Ellarina who has recently taken the leadership mantle of the young Morayta-based squad and quick counterattacks to challenge the defending champs.

     

    Sunday continues the excitement at the MOA Arena with two high-profile games. 

    Ateneo Lady Eagles will try to bounce back as they face the UP Fighting Maroons. Ateneo’s offense and depth will be tested against UP’s resilient defense after winning against UP last Saturday. 

     

    The final game of the weekend features a classic UAAP rivalry as UST battles De La Salle University. 

     

    Led by Angge Poyos, the Golden Tigresses will try to recover from their recent loss to NU after a four-set match while La Salle’s Green Archers aim to extend their winning run following their victory over FEU.

     

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  • Bella Belen cracks top-10 in five PVL statistical categories in All-Filipino Conference 

    Bella Belen cracks top-10 in five PVL statistical categories in All-Filipino Conference 

    Bella Belen continues to turn her rookie campaign into one of the most compelling storylines in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, combining explosive scoring with all-around production to emerge as the centerpiece of the Capital1 Solar Spikers.

     

    Belen leads the league’s Best Scorers list with a commanding 106 total points, built on 96 spikes, seven blocks, and just three faults, highlighting both her scoring volume and efficiency. Her consistent offensive production has anchored Capital1’s attack throughout the conference.

     

    The former collegiate standout is equally impressive at the net, ranking third among Best Spikers with 96 successful spikes off 266 attempts for a 36.09% success rate, proving her ability to deliver under heavy usage.

     

    Beyond scoring, Belen has also made her presence felt from the service line. She currently sits at No. 1 in Best Servers, tallying 28 aces from 82 serve attempts with an average of 0.44 aces per set, adding another dimension to her growing impact.

     

    Her defensive contributions further underline her versatility. Belen ranks 10th in Best Diggers with 50 digs from 117 total receptions, averaging 3.13 digs per set, while also landing within the Best Receivers leaderboard—an indicator of her reliability in first-ball control.

     

    Her statistical surge has translated into headline performances, particularly in high-pressure situations.

     

    In Capital1’s recent five-set thriller against the Choco Mucho Flying Titans at the FilOil EcoOil Centre, Belen produced a breakout performance, unloading 29 points to lift the Solar Spikers to a 25-21, 18-25, 25-18, 19-25, 15-10 victory. The performance matched her collegiate career-high scoring output while establishing a new personal best in the PVL, further reinforcing her ability to deliver when the match tightens.

     

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    More importantly, the explosion extended Belen’s streak to four consecutive 20-point games, a level of consistency rarely seen from a rookie still adjusting to the speed and physicality of the professional game. Each outing has shown her evolving shot selection, improved decision-making, and a growing leadership presence on the floor.

     

    Even in defeat, Belen has continued to shine. Just days prior to the Choco Mucho win, she dropped 28 points against the PLDT High Speed Hitters—then her top scoring performance in the league—though Capital1 absorbed a 25-20, 25-16, 22-25, 25-17 loss as PLDT’s net defense proved decisive. The performance nonetheless emphasized her ability to produce elite offensive numbers regardless of opponent.

     

    Belen’s strong run has helped keep the Solar Spikers competitive in a tightly contested conference. Capital1 currently sits fifth in the standings with a 2-2 record, positioning itself in the middle of the pack while still searching for sustained momentum.

     

    That opportunity comes quickly, as the Solar Spikers look to build on their recent surge when they face the powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers on Saturday, a matchup that will test both Belen’s scoring rhythm and Capital1’s overall system against one of the league’s most consistent contenders.

     

    With her growing confidence and expanding role, Belen’s early-season dominance suggests that her rookie campaign is no longer just about adjustment—it’s about emergence. If her current trajectory continues, she could soon transition from promising newcomer to one of the defining stars of the conference.

     

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  • Majoy Baron credits teamwork for PLDT’s dominant net defense in the PVL

    Majoy Baron credits teamwork for PLDT’s dominant net defense in the PVL

    The PLDT High Speed Hitters have made a dazzling start to the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, asserting themselves as early frontrunners with an unblemished record. The team has won all three of its matches so far, combining firepower, depth, and discipline to dominate the competition.

     

    Their most recent triumph came on Thursday, February 19, at the FilOil Centre, where PLDT overcame the Akari Chargers in a four-set showdown, 25-22, 25-27, 25-21, 25-15. The win not only extended their perfect start but also reinforced their position atop the conference standings, highlighting both offensive efficiency and defensive solidity.

     

    Kath Arado, the team’s star libero, once again proved her value in the defensive department, finishing the match with 26 excellent digs and 10 receptions, orchestrating the backcourt with precision and poise. Offensively, Savannah Davison led the scoring with 18 points, while Kim Dy and Majoy Baron contributed 14 points each. Mika Reyes and Alleiah Malaluan added 10 points apiece, demonstrating the depth of PLDT’s roster.

     

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    Baron, in particular, showcased her versatility as both an offensive and defensive anchor. Beyond her 14 points, she tallied seven crucial blocks, underlining her impact at the net. In the postmatch press conference, Baron was quick to credit teamwork for the High Speed Hitters’ league-best net defense.

     

    “Ako happy ako kasi siguro nakuha ko ‘yung blocks na ‘yun kasi tinutulungan ako ng teammates ko, ina-advice nila ako. Like si Kath Arado, sinasabi niya kung ano ‘yung isasara ko. Nakaka-help, malaking tulong sa’kin,” Baron said.

     

    Her comments highlight the importance of communication and cohesion on the court, essential components of PLDT’s defensive philosophy. Baron’s leadership is reflected not just in numbers but in the team’s ability to read opponents and adjust seamlessly during play.

    PLDT’s defensive dominance is also evident in conference statistics. Baron leads the All-Filipino Conference in blocking with a total of 14 rejections, a testament to her timing, anticipation, and experience. Despite her towering presence and physical advantages, the 30-year-old insists that their system and collaborative approach are what truly make the difference.

     

    “Yung sabi nga ng mga coaches, lumalabas ‘yung strength namin kapag maayos ‘yung serve. Kung maayos ‘yung serve, maayos rin ‘yung magiging net defense. And kapag maayos din ‘yung net defense namin, maayos din ‘yung floor defense. So teamwork talaga,” she added.

     

    As the veteran middle blocker, Baron shoulders the responsibility of setting the defensive tone, guiding both younger teammates and fellow starters. Her focus remains steadfast on her primary role at the net.

     

    “Kasi sa’kin importante na maka-block ako kasi for me, as a middle blocker, middle blocker nga ‘di ba. So mas focus talaga ako sa job ko as a blocker,” Baron concluded.

     

    The High Speed Hitters’ collective approach to both serve and net defense has made them a formidable contender in the early stages of the PVL All-Filipino Conference. With a perfect record and confidence running high, PLDT now sets its sights on the Cignal Supers Spikers, who will attempt to halt the High Speed Hitters’ winning streak when they meet next on Tuesday, February 24, at the FilOil Centre.

     

    Fans can expect a high-stakes matchup, as PLDT’s combination of veteran leadership, dynamic scoring, and disciplined defense will be tested against a determined Cignal squad. If the High Speed Hitters continue to execute their game plan and leverage their depth, they may extend their unbeaten run and solidify themselves as early favorites in the conference.

     

    The early story of PLDT’s campaign is not just about wins and numbers — it’s about a team firing on all cylinders, with leaders like Baron and Arado setting the tone, younger players stepping up, and a system that emphasizes both teamwork and individual excellence. If they maintain this level of performance, the High Speed Hitters are positioning themselves as a team to beat this season.

     

     

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  • Roselle Baliton sparks Galeries Tower breakthrough in stunning upset of Nxled

    Roselle Baliton sparks Galeries Tower breakthrough in stunning upset of Nxled

    A signature win often arrives when a team needs belief the most—and for Galeries Tower Highrisers, that moment came behind the breakout performance of Roselle Baliton.


    Unshaken by the firepower of the previously surging Nxled Chameleons, Baliton turned the net into her territory, powering the Highrisers to a statement 25-19, 17-25, 25-20, 25-21 victory Thursday night in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.

     

    More than just an upset, the win hinted at a culture shift for a franchise long searching for consistency.

     

    Baliton anchored the defensive stand with seven kill blocks—part of a balanced stat line that included seven attacks and two aces in the one-hour, 53-minute battle that pushed Galeries Tower to a 2-2 record, keeping them within reach of their best elimination-round finish.

     

    “Ika nga, bilog ang bola, so ayun, laban lang,” said the 6-foot middle blocker after the win.

    For a player who has stayed with the team through rebuilding stretches and difficult losses, the performance carried deeper meaning than the numbers.

     

    Despite her standout showing, Baliton emphasized that the victory reflected collective growth rather than individual output.

     

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    “Ang ano naman, kumbaga team effort siya. So, doon kami nagtindig na namin na kung ano talaga yung kayang ibigay ng team na kapag nagtulong-tulong, nagsasabay-sabay na mga lumalagas talaga na kaya naman talaga,” she said.

     

    The Highrisers’ energy at the net disrupted Nxled’s rhythm throughout the match, turning what was expected to be a straightforward outing into a disciplined defensive showcase.

     

    Baliton admitted the result felt especially rewarding after nearly two years of grinding through setbacks with the squad.

     

    “Sobrang ano, sobrang nakakataba ng puso. Kumbaga, ang dami ng pinagdaanan ng team and kumbaga, start din ‘to ng magkaroon ng winning culture ‘yung team kasi nga for the longest time, maraming napagdaanan ‘yung team,” she said.

     

    “So kumbaga napapatunayan din namin na kung ano ‘yung pinapakita namin sa training, lumalabas din.”

     

    The victory also reflected the system-first approach the team has been steadily building under a revamped roster and coaching structure.

     

    “Kumbaga, talagang bini-build namin ‘yun paunti-unti sa training, nagsa-start sa training. ‘Yun din, most of our teammates bago na, lahat ng coaches, ganun din,” said Baliton, a product of University of the East.

     

    “Nag-stick lang din kami [sa system] or kung nawawala ‘man, bumabalik lang din kami dun sa kung ano ‘yung mga tinuturo sa training po.”

     

    While the standings remain tight and the road ahead uncertain, Galeries Tower now carries something far more valuable than momentum—a reminder that their progress is beginning to translate into results.

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez reflects on ‘trauma bond’ with Jia De Guzman after PVL reunion

    Alyssa Valdez reflects on ‘trauma bond’ with Jia De Guzman after PVL reunion

    After a two-year absence from the domestic league, Jia De Guzman finally made her long-awaited return to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), suiting up once again for the Creamline Cool Smashers in the ongoing 2026 All-Filipino Conference.

     

    For De Guzman, the comeback was more than just another appearance on the court—it was a homecoming.

     

    The Philippine women’s national volleyball team captain wasted no time reminding fans why she remains one of the country’s premier setters. In Creamline’s 22-25, 25-17, 25-17, 25-18 victory over the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles on Tuesday, February 17, at the FilOil Centre in San Juan City, De Guzman delivered an all-around performance that underscored both her leadership and versatility.

     

    She finished with 10 points—an impressive tally for a setter—including six kills, two service aces, and two blocks. Beyond the numbers, however, it was her court vision, decision-making, and composure that steadied Creamline after dropping the opening set. De Guzman orchestrated the offense with precision, redistributing touches and maximizing her hitters as the Cool Smashers regained control of the match.

     

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    Her return also marked the reunion of one of Philippine volleyball’s most iconic duos.

     

    De Guzman and Alyssa Valdez share a bond that traces back to their collegiate days with the Ateneo Lady Eagles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). Together, they formed the backbone of Ateneo’s rise to prominence, leading the Lady Eagles to two UAAP women’s volleyball championships and ushering in a golden era for the program.

     

    Years later, their chemistry remains intact.

    Valdez described their partnership as something forged not just by wins and trophies, but by shared struggles and sacrifices.

     

    “There is something different about us because of everything we went through together since college. We have built that ‘trauma bond’ over the years – the sacrifices we made playing volleyball wasn’t easy,” Valdez said in a media interaction.

     

    Their journey together included grueling training sessions, heartbreaking losses, and the immense pressure of carrying Ateneo’s title aspirations. Those experiences, Valdez explained, strengthened not just their on-court connection but their mutual understanding as competitors and leaders.

     

    “So it’s really nice to see her take command now, especially with what she wants to do for the team and how she wants to keep improving herself as a setter. As her teammate, I really appreciate that,” she added.

     

    For Creamline, De Guzman’s return comes at a pivotal time in the 2026 All-Filipino Conference. The Cool Smashers are once again positioning themselves as title contenders, and having a seasoned international campaigner at the helm significantly boosts their championship aspirations.

     

    De Guzman has spent the past two years competing overseas and representing the Philippines in international tournaments, experiences that have sharpened her game and expanded her leadership perspective. Now back in the PVL, she brings that global exposure to a Creamline squad eager to maintain its dominance.

     

    More than just a reunion story, De Guzman’s comeback signals stability for the Cool Smashers. With Valdez providing firepower on the wings and De Guzman dictating tempo from the setter position, Creamline regains the core that once defined its championship runs.

     

    As the conference progresses, all eyes will be on how this rekindled partnership evolves—and whether their shared “trauma bond” can once again translate into another title charge.

    For now, one thing is certain: Jia De Guzman is back in the PVL, and Creamline looks stronger because of it.

     

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  • “Very honored and grateful”: Bella Belen on winning PSA Ms. Volleyball award

    “Very honored and grateful”: Bella Belen on winning PSA Ms. Volleyball award

    Widely regarded as one of the brightest stars to emerge from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, Bella Belen continues to shoulder the expectations of becoming the next face of Philippine volleyball — and potentially a cornerstone of the national team’s future on the international stage.

     

    Belen’s journey from collegiate standout to professional sensation has been nothing short of remarkable. After dominating the UAAP with her powerful spikes, consistent court vision, and leadership skills, she wasted no time making her mark in the professional ranks. The 23-year-old was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft by the Capital1 Solar Spikers, immediately taking on the responsibility of leading a rebuilding franchise eager to establish itself as a legitimate title contender.

     

    Since donning the Solar Spikers jersey, Belen has embraced the challenge with maturity and poise well beyond her years. Her combination of athleticism, consistency, and composure under pressure has quickly made her the focal point of the team’s offense and a fan favorite.

     

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    Her rapid rise has not gone unnoticed. At the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Annual Awards Night, held on Monday, February 16, at the Diamond Hotel, Belen received one of the country’s most prestigious individual accolades: the Ms. Volleyball Award. The honor recognizes outstanding players who have excelled in Philippine volleyball and contributed to raising the sport’s profile nationally.

     

    The 23-year-old admitted that she felt both honored and grateful to receive the award, especially considering the list of past winners includes some of the most accomplished players in the country.

    “Very honored and grateful talaga kasi hindi ko naman po ineexpect na magkakaroon po ako ng ganitong klaseng award, kasi hindi po siya birong awards – maraming magagaling at talented na players. So, I’m very thankful sa PSA, kung sino man po ang nagboto, maraming salamat po,” Belen said.

     

    The award celebrates her past achievements, but Belen’s current performance in the PVL proves she is not resting on her laurels. The outside hitter has been living up to the hype this conference, reaching the 20-point mark in four consecutive games, a remarkable feat that has propelled her to the top of the All-Filipino Conference scoring charts with a total of 106 points.

     

    Trailing Belen in the scoring race are Cherry Ann Rondina of Choco Mucho Flying Titans with 73 points, followed by Chinnie Arroyo of ZUS Coffee Hitters with 67, Trisha Tubu of Farm Fresh Fightin’ Titans with 64, and Erika Mae Santos of Cignal HD Spikers with 61 — all chasing a sizable gap set by the Solar Spikers’ star.

     

    Belen’s scoring prowess is only one part of her impact. Her leadership on the floor, ability to read opponents’ defenses, and clutch performances in critical moments have made her the heartbeat of the Solar Spikers. Coaches and analysts alike have praised her for balancing personal excellence with team responsibility, a rare quality for a player still in her early 20s.

     

    While the PSA recognition honored her past achievements, Belen’s current PVL campaign suggests she is building something even bigger: the foundation for a long and impactful professional career, and possibly, a key role in the Philippine national team’s future on the international stage.

     

    Looking ahead, Belen and the Solar Spikers are preparing for a critical matchup against Creamline Cool Smashers this Saturday at 4 PM at the FilOil Flying V Centre in San Juan City. With her scoring momentum and leadership, all eyes will be on Belen as she aims to extend her dominance, widen the gap atop the scoring charts, and lead her team closer to the playoffs.

     

    For Bella Belen, the journey is far from over. From her UAAP stardom to becoming the face of a professional team and now a PSA awardee, she continues to embody the promise and potential of a new generation of Filipino volleyball stars. Every spike, every point, and every match is a step toward fulfilling the lofty expectations that come with being one of the country’s brightest young athletes.

     

     

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  • Nxled, PLDT aim to stay perfect in Thursday PVL AFC double-header 

    Nxled, PLDT aim to stay perfect in Thursday PVL AFC double-header 

    The early stretch of the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference is quickly turning into a race not just for wins, but for positioning—and more importantly, for the shortest route to the semifinals.

     

    Two teams currently dictating that pace, Nxled Chameleons and PLDT High Speed Hitters, look to tighten their grip on momentum when they take on separate opponents Thursday at the FilOil Playtime Centre.

     

    With the tournament using a single-round preliminary format, every victory carries amplified value—particularly for teams eyeing the coveted outright semifinal berth that eliminates the risk of crossover matchups.

     

    Nxled steps into the spotlight in the 6:30 p.m. clash against the Galeries Tower Highrisers, carrying a three-match winning streak built on balance, depth, and system discipline.

     

    Rather than relying on a single dominant scorer, the Chameleons have evolved into a multi-threat unit. The championship-tested trio of Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, and MJ Phillips continues to provide stability, while Nxled’s supporting cast has transformed the squad into one of the most structurally sound teams in the field.

     

    Their straight-sets takedown of the Cignal HD Spikers served as proof that the Chameleons’ rise is no longer a projection—it’s already happening.

     

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    Coach Ettore Guidetti understands that consistency, not highlight wins, will ultimately determine their ceiling.

     

    “We just know every single game, we have a big target on our back,” said Guidetti.

     

    Nxled’s deep rotation has allowed them to maintain intensity across sets—an advantage that could prove decisive against a Galeries Tower side still searching for rhythm. Despite a slow start, the Highrisers remain capable of pushing matches into uncomfortable territory if veterans like Aiza Pontillas rediscover their scoring form.

     

    Earlier in the day, PLDT faces the Akari Chargers in a 4 p.m. duel that carries similar implications.

    The High Speed Hitters are coming off statement victories over the Creamline Cool Smashers and Capital1 Solar Spikers—wins that reinforced their identity as one of the league’s most physically imposing squads.

     

    Powered by the scoring punch of Savi Davison and Kim Dy, along with a towering middle rotation anchored by Majoy Baron and Mika Reyes, PLDT has leaned heavily on its net dominance to control matches.

     

    Still, head coach Rald Ricafort emphasized the importance of sustaining the mindset that fueled their recent surge.

     

    “Kailangan naming mag-regroup agad. Galing kami sa panalo, pero dapat maayos ang mindset namin at maintindihan na kailangan pa ring paghirapan ang susunod na laban,” said Ricafort.

    Akari, despite its winless start, enters with renewed optimism after Ivy Lacsina erupted for 24 points in their most recent outing. With additional support from Grethcel Soltones and Eli Soyud, the Chargers remain a dangerous spoiler if they can sustain their offensive rhythm.

     

    As the preliminaries begin to separate contenders from the chasing pack, Nxled and PLDT aren’t just trying to win—they’re trying to avoid the long road.

     

    And in a conference where momentum can flip quickly, the shortest path may prove to be the most valuable prize of all.

     

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  • Bella Belen pulls away in PVL scoring race after 29-point masterclass

    Bella Belen pulls away in PVL scoring race after 29-point masterclass

    Mhicaela “Bella” Belen isn’t just leading the PVL scoring race — she’s redefining it game by game.

    Fresh off being named Ms. Volleyball at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Awards, the National University legend has translated that recognition into pure production in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.

     

    Belen currently tops the Best Scorers list with 106 total points, built on 96 spikes, 7 blocks, and 3 aces — a commanding margin over second-running Cherry Ann Rondina, who has 73.

     

    But the numbers only tell part of the story.

     

    In Capital1’s recent five-set thriller against Choco Mucho at the Filoil Centre in San Juan, Belen delivered a masterclass — unloading 29 points, matching her UAAP career-high, to power the Solar Spikers to a 25-21, 18-25, 25-18, 19-25, 15-10 victory.

     

    It wasn’t just another big night. It was historic for her young pro career.

     

    The 29-point eruption marked a new PVL-best for Belen, surpassing the previous career-high she set just days earlier against PLDT. It also extended her streak to four straight 20-point performances this conference — a statement of consistency rarely seen from a rookie adjusting to the professional level.

     

    That PLDT game, however, showed the other side of her scoring brilliance.

     

    Belen dropped 28 points in that outing — her best scoring output at the time — but the Solar Spikers fell short as the High Speed Hitters flexed their strength at the net to claim a 25-20, 25-16, 22-25, 25-17 victory.

     

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    Even in defeat, Belen’s production stood out. She has proven capable of carrying the offensive load whether Capital1 is celebrating or regrouping.

     

    Through the early stretch of the conference, her scoring has not only been explosive — it has been sustained. Four straight 20-point games. A career-high 29. A 28-point follow-up in a tough loss.

     

    And a league-leading total that puts clear separation between her and the rest of the field.

    Trailing Belen in the scoring race is Cherry Ann Rondina of Choco Mucho with 73 points, followed by Chinnie Arroyo of ZUS Coffee with 67. Farm Fresh’s Trisha Tubu is close behind with 64 markers, while Erika Mae Santos of Cignal rounds out the top five with 61 points — all chasing a sizable gap set by the Solar Spikers’ star.

     

    For now, Belen isn’t just ahead — she’s in control.

     

    The PSA recognition honored her past achievements. Her current PVL run suggests she’s building something even bigger.

     

    Belen looks to add to her tally and further  the gap against Creamline on Saturday, at 4PM at the FilOil Centre in San Juan City. 

     

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  • “I truly admire her”: Alyssa Valdez excited to face Bella Belen for the first time in the PVL

    “I truly admire her”: Alyssa Valdez excited to face Bella Belen for the first time in the PVL

    Widely regarded as one of the brightest stars to emerge from the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), Bella Belen continues to shoulder the expectations of becoming the next face of Philippine volleyball — and potentially a cornerstone of the national team’s future on the international stage.

     

    The former collegiate standout wasted little time making her mark in the professional ranks after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Rookie Draft by the Capital1 Solar Spikers. From the moment she donned the Solar Spikers jersey, Belen embraced the responsibility of leading a rebuilding franchise hungry to establish itself as a legitimate contender.

     

    Her rapid rise has not gone unnoticed. Belen recently added another honor to her ever-growing résumé, claiming the prestigious Ms. Volleyball Award from the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) at the Annual Awards Night held on Monday, February 16, at the Diamond Hotel in Manila.

     

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    The 23-year-old’s achievements have already earned praise from one of Philippine volleyball’s icons, Alyssa Valdez, a three-time Ms. Volleyball recipient herself. Valdez expressed her excitement at facing Belen on the court for the first time, when the Creamline Cool Smashers take on the Capital1 Solar Spikers in the ongoing PVL All-Filipino Conference.

     

    “This will actually be our first game against each other. I’m really excited to face her. More than her skills, I truly admire her character and personality, both on and off the court. She has that never-say-die attitude, that grit and discipline,” Valdez said in a media interaction.

    “I can’t wait to see her grow even more and become someone even more young athletes can look up to. But when it comes to our game this Saturday? Bella is Bella. We are very excited and looking forward to it, and hopefully we can give her a really good match,” she added.

     

    Interestingly, both Valdez and Belen share the same birthday, adding a symbolic layer to the praise from a player widely recognized as the greatest female volleyball athlete in Philippine history.

     

    Meanwhile, Creamline has made a strong start to the All-Filipino Conference, posting a 2-1 record to sit fourth in the standings. Valdez acknowledged that the team is still adjusting to reintegrating key players Jia De Guzman and Bernadeth Pons, who have returned to the franchise.

     

    “We are still working on being more in tune with each other. But it was really nice to see that never-give-up mentality come out after that first set. Hopefully, we can keep building on that because the team’s effort this game was really great,” Valdez said.

     

    She added, “For me, it’s really about mindset — I try to give my 100% all the time so that when the coaches call my name, I’m ready. It’s a team sport, and it’s not just about the players on the court. As a team, we definitely support each other. We are very proud of whoever is shining in the moment. It’s always full support from all of us.”

     

    The stage is now set for a highly anticipated clash, as the two top talents — Belen and Valdez — face off on Saturday, February 21, at the FilOil Centre. Fans can expect a showdown that highlights not just skill, but leadership, resilience, and the next generation of Philippine volleyball stars making their mark.

     

     

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  • Creamline is winning — but not there yet says Jia De Guzman 

    Creamline is winning — but not there yet says Jia De Guzman 

    Winning hasn’t masked the truth inside the Creamline camp — and they’re not pretending it has.

    At 2-1 in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, the Cool Smashers are back in the win column after dropping their opener to PLDT. 

     

    On paper, back-to-back victories over Choco Mucho and ZUS Coffee suggest stability. On the court, however, Creamline knows it’s still searching for rhythm.

     

    The ZUS Coffee match told the story clearly. Creamline opened flat, surrendered the first set, and looked momentarily unsure of itself. Then the switch flipped. The Cool Smashers imposed their will in the next three sets to pull away, 22-25, 25-17, 25-16, 25-18. It was clinical — eventually. But it also highlighted the gap between potential and performance.

     

    And no one articulated that better than Jia De Guzman.

     

    “Despite our wins, we sometimes put ourselves in unnecessary tough situations,” she said, adding that the team is focused on improving its chemistry to play more cohesively.

     

    For De Guzman, this conference isn’t just about standings. It’s about reintegration and recalibration. After nearly three years away — including a stint with Denso Airybees in Japan’s S.V. League and duties with Alas Pilipinas — the eight-time PVL Best Setter is rediscovering timing, trust, and tempo with a group that has evolved during her absence.

     

    “Ako personally, hindi pa. Hindi pa ito yun,” said De Guzman, who returned to the squad to start the conference after nearly three years, during which she spent time with Denso Airybees in the Japan S.V. League and later with Alas Pilipinas.

     

    “I think there are still a lot of times na we put ourselves in hard situations na hindi naman talaga dapat. Like coach said nga, maraming beses na yung effort talaga namin at yung kagustuhan naming manalo, nagdi-dictate kung ano yung nangyayari sa laro,” she added.

     

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    “And a lot of times, today and the past games, nagsa-stop kami. So, yun yung tina-try naming ayusin din as a team.”

     

    It’s a rare admission from a dynasty built on precision. Creamline’s identity has long been rooted in control — dictating pace, limiting errors, closing teams out before they can breathe. But this version of the Cool Smashers is learning in real time, winning through turbulence instead of avoiding it.

     

    De Guzman’s stat line against ZUS Coffee — 25 excellent sets and 10 points from six attacks, two kill blocks, and two aces — reflects production. Yet even that comes with self-critique.

     

    “I think, regarding my performance, I still see a lot of lapses. Maraming sitwasyon nga, like coach mentioned, na we could’ve controlled better, we made a lot of errors. Pero, thankfully, natuto kami and naihabol naman namin,” said De Guzman.

     

    What stands out is not frustration, but awareness.

     

    Creamline is no longer chasing perfection in February. It is building toward something heavier — cohesion forged through adversity rather than dominance alone. These are not the smooth, effortless wins of a team already in sync. They are the gritty, instructional victories of a group rebuilding its internal wiring.

     

    And strangely, that may be more dangerous for the rest of the league.

     

    “But, as a team, I’m really proud of how we performed. Kasi, ito yung kinds of games na natututo kami gumalaw as one. Parang dito kami nagbi-build ng chemistry,” she said.

     

    “Dito kami nakaka-face ng adversity and kung paano namin iha-handle talaga as one team. So, thankfully talaga, the win went our way.”

     

    Creamline is winning — but it knows it hasn’t arrived.

     

    For a team used to setting the standard, that honesty might be the first real sign that its peak form is still loading.

     

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