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Tag: Akari Chargers

  • Faith Nisperos reflects on injury comeback after powering Akari to first PVL On Tour win

    Faith Nisperos reflects on injury comeback after powering Akari to first PVL On Tour win

    The Akari Chargers finally entered the win column in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour preseason conference after outlasting the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, 27-25, 27-25, 21-25, 25-22, on Saturday, August 1, at the Polomolok Municipal Gymnasium in Polomolok, South Cotabato.

     

    Coming off a disappointing loss in their tournament opener, the Chargers responded with a determined and disciplined performance against one of the PVL’s perennial contenders. Akari showed poise in crucial moments, surviving two tightly contested opening sets before fending off Choco Mucho’s rally to secure its first victory of the preseason.

     

    A key figure in the Chargers’ breakthrough win was former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout Faith Nisperos, who provided an immediate spark after coming off the bench. The outside hitter finished with nine timely points, delivering several crucial attacks that helped Akari maintain momentum in the closing stages of the match.

     

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    For Nisperos, however, the performance represented far more than just a productive outing.

     

    The former collegiate star has spent the past few seasons battling a knee cartilage injury that sidelined her for extended periods and tested both her physical and mental resilience. After months of rehabilitation and recovery, her contribution against Choco Mucho marked another encouraging step in her journey back to full strength.

     

    “I owe it to myself to give out the best performance I can. I owe it to the person who worked really hard to get back to playing the sport we love. I also owe it to the people who helped me, believed in me and were there for me from the start of my healing journey,” Nisperos said during a media interview.

    Nisperos also drew inspiration from the warm reception Akari received during its stay in South Cotabato.

     

    “I was also inspired by the people of Polomolok. They have welcomed us and made us feel at home. What boosted me even more was our visit to DOLE Philippines School and seeing the aspiring students,” she added.

     

    Now in her third year in the PVL, the 26-year-old admitted that the road back has not been easy. Injuries forced her to spend much of the past seasons watching from the sidelines, but she leaned on her faith to overcome the setbacks.

     

    “In times of trouble, I really go back, reflect and pray, especially in situations that I have no control over. I always had faith in the Lord that what’s mine will come in His time. The struggles I experienced might just be His way of redirecting me toward the best path,” Nisperos shared.

     

    With her body finally healthy again, Nisperos is focused on steadily rediscovering the form that made her one of the country’s top collegiate players. While eager to contribute more for Akari, she acknowledged that returning to peak condition remains a gradual process.

     

    “I want to unleash the potential within me, and I will be needing the help of my teammates and coaches for that. I know I have grit, perseverance, and reliability. I’m working on myself to become the best version of the player and teammate Akari needs,” she said.

     

    “I take my recovery one day at a time. Despite my body being healed, I still have a lot to relearn on the court. I’m glad I have great muscle memory, but I still have to get used to the intensity of the PVL,” she added.

     

    The victory gave Akari valuable momentum as it improved its standing in the preseason tournament. Currently fifth in the standings, the Chargers will look to build on their breakthrough win when they take on the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Saturday, August 15, in Lanao del Norte.

    If Nisperos continues to regain her confidence and rhythm, Akari could become one of the teams to watch as the PVL On Tour preseason conference progresses.

     

     

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  • Chenie Tagaod draws inspiration from family after leading Akari to first win in PVL On Tour

    Chenie Tagaod draws inspiration from family after leading Akari to first win in PVL On Tour

    The Akari Chargers finally broke into the win column in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour preseason conference, grinding out a hard-fought 27-25, 27-25, 21-25, 25-22 victory over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans on Saturday, August 1, at the Polomolok Municipal Gymnasium in Polomolok, South Cotabato.

     

    After falling short in their tournament opener, Akari displayed resilience and composure against one of the league’s perennial contenders, weathering multiple momentum swings to secure their first victory of the preseason. The Chargers leaned on balanced contributions throughout the match, but it was sophomore outside hitter Chenie Tagaod who delivered the biggest performance of the night.

     

    Tagaod erupted for a game-high 19 points built on 11 attacks and six imposing blocks, providing Akari with a steady offensive option while also making her presence felt at the net on defense. Time and again, the young spiker answered Choco Mucho’s rallies with timely hits and crucial stops, capping off her breakout performance with the match-clinching kill.

     

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    Moments after sealing the victory, Tagaod was seen battling cramps, a testament to the physical demands of the four-set encounter. Despite the discomfort, the second-year standout was all smiles after the match, revealing that her inspired performance was fueled by the presence of her family, who made the trip to South Cotabato to watch her compete.

     

    “I played inspired today because my family is here to watch me play. I was able to see my father and sibling here. I hope I made them proud,” Tagaod said.

     

    The victory carried even greater significance for the Mindanao native, who cherished the opportunity to shine in front of the local crowd. Playing before the Bisaya community gave her performance a more personal meaning, as she hoped to inspire aspiring volleyball players from the region.

    “I’m very happy that I was able to show the Bisaya community the talent we have. To everyone dreaming of playing in the PVL, just keep making sacrifices and working hard. Your efforts will pay off,” she shared.

     

    “We really worked hard in training, so we expected to perform well. As you saw, a lot of us were dealing with cramps, but we kept fighting until the end.”

     

    While Tagaod stole the spotlight, Akari head coach Tina Salak emphasized that the victory was the result of a collective effort. The Chargers received valuable contributions from veteran leaders Ivy Lacsina, Grethcel Soltones, and Faith Nisperos, who helped stabilize the team in crucial stretches and guided the younger players through pressure-filled moments.

     

    Salak also pointed out that the preseason tournament has provided the Chargers with an ideal environment to strengthen their chemistry, especially as they continue to adjust to playing without several key members of the squad.

     

    Akari is currently missing Fifi Sharma, Justine Jazareno, and Mars Alba, who remain on national team duty with Alas Pilipinas in the Southeast Asian Volleyball Cup. Their absence has opened opportunities for other players to assume bigger roles, and Salak believes her team has embraced the challenge.

     

    “That’s exactly what we wanted—to give the team valuable exposure, build chemistry, and continue growing together. The PVL On Tour has been a great opportunity for us to get to know each other better on court,” Salak said.

     

    “I also have to give credit to our veterans for leading the team so well. Our stay here was definitely worth it. We gained so much experience and learned a lot about ourselves as a team and as individuals.”

     

    The victory serves as an encouraging step forward for the Chargers as they continue to build cohesion ahead of the upcoming PVL season. With younger players stepping into larger roles and veterans providing stability, Akari hopes to carry the confidence gained from its breakthrough win into the remainder of the preseason.

     

    The Chargers will look to build on their newfound momentum when they return to action against the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Saturday, August 15, in Lanao del Norte, where they aim to secure back-to-back victories and continue their upward trajectory in the PVL On Tour preseason conference.

     

     

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  • Akari Chargers lands former Creamline star Risa Sato in major offseason signing

    Akari Chargers lands former Creamline star Risa Sato in major offseason signing

    The Akari Chargers have made one of the biggest moves of the PVL offseason, bolstering their frontline with the acquisition of veteran Filipino-Japanese middle blocker Risa Sato ahead of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour preseason conference.

     

    The highly anticipated signing signals Akari’s determination to strengthen its roster as it aims to establish itself as a legitimate championship contender in the upcoming season. With Sato bringing years of experience, championship pedigree, and veteran leadership, the Chargers have added one of the league’s most decorated middle blockers to an already improving squad.

     

    Akari officially announced the acquisition through its social media platforms, welcoming the veteran blocker to the team.

     

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    “Welcome to Akari, Risa Sato! Ready to bring in her championship experience and energy, Risa will be a huge boost for the Chargers. Let’s go.”

     

    The signing marks Sato’s return not only to competitive volleyball but also to the PVL after stepping away from the sport to focus on motherhood following the birth of her first child. Her comeback has been highly anticipated by volleyball fans, especially after uncertainty surrounded her playing future following the disbandment of the Chery Tiggo Crossovers franchise in December.

     

    The 31-year-old last suited up during the 2025 PVL All-Filipino Conference in November, where she continued to anchor Chery Tiggo’s middle defense with her trademark blocking, court awareness, and consistency at the net. However, the Crossovers’ unexpected exit from the league left several players searching for new homes, with Sato now finding a fresh opportunity to resume her career with one of the league’s ambitious franchises.

    For Akari, the addition addresses a crucial area of need in the middle while also providing the team with invaluable championship experience. Sato has long been regarded as one of the PVL’s most reliable middle blockers, known for her efficient blocking, quick attacks, and ability to provide stability on both ends of the floor.

     

    Before her stint with Chery Tiggo, Sato enjoyed one of the most successful careers in PVL history during her time with the Creamline Cool Smashers. From 2018 to 2024, she was an integral part of Creamline’s dynastic run, helping the franchise establish itself as the league’s gold standard.

     

    During her six-year tenure with the Cool Smashers, Sato captured an incredible 11 PVL championship titles, becoming one of the most decorated players of her generation. Although she often played alongside a star-studded roster, her consistency, versatility, and willingness to embrace her role made her a vital piece of Creamline’s sustained success.

     

    Her move to Akari also sets up familiar reunions.

     

    Sato will once again share the court with fellow middle blocker Ced Domingo, her former teammate at Creamline who joined the Chargers last season. The duo developed strong chemistry during their championship years together and are expected to provide Akari with one of the league’s more formidable middle-blocking tandems.

     

    She will also reunite with former Chery Tiggo teammate Cza Carandang, giving the Chargers another layer of familiarity as they continue building chemistry ahead of the preseason tournament.

     

    Beyond her on-court contributions, Sato’s arrival is expected to provide leadership to an Akari squad eager to take the next step in its development. Having experienced multiple championship campaigns and pressure-filled matches throughout her career, the veteran middle blocker brings a winning mentality that could prove invaluable for a team looking to break into the PVL’s elite tier.

     

    As the Chargers prepare for the 2026 PVL On Tour preseason conference, Sato’s return represents both a personal comeback and a significant roster upgrade. With one of the league’s most accomplished veterans back in action, Akari has sent a clear message that it intends to compete with the PVL’s established contenders in the season ahead.

     

     

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  • 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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  • 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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  • 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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  • FEU parts ways with coach Tina Salak as she turns full attention to Akari Charges

    FEU parts ways with coach Tina Salak as she turns full attention to Akari Charges

    In a move that signals a full shift toward the professional ranks, Tina Salak has officially stepped down as head coach of the Far Eastern University women’s volleyball team after three years at the helm.


    The FEU announced the decision on Saturday morning, confirming that Salak will step away from her role with the Lady Tamaraws to concentrate on her growing responsibilities in the Premier Volleyball League with the Akari Chargers.

     

    Salak, who previously starred as a playmaker during her playing days with FEU, leaves the Morayta-based program for the second time across two separate stints in charge—underscoring a coaching journey that has repeatedly crossed between rebuilding collegiate duty and pro-level ambitions.

     

    “We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Coach Tina Salak for her outstanding leadership and commitment to the team over the past four seasons,” the team said in a social media post.

     

    Her departure comes at a turning point for the Lady Tamaraws, who narrowly missed a return to the Final Four in the most recent campaign after finishing with an 8–6 record. 

     

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    The result fell short of their previous season’s breakthrough, when Salak guided FEU back into semifinal contention and helped restore its competitiveness among the league’s traditional powers.

     

    “Her dedication, passion, and tireless efforts have played a significant role in shaping our program and elevating our standards both on and off the field,” the post added. 

     

    Despite the mixed results, FEU credited Salak for leaving a lasting imprint on the program’s identity, particularly in stabilizing a team that had been searching for consistency and direction across multiple seasons and coaching changes.

     

    Her exit also highlights a growing divide in her professional path. While she helped rebuild FEU into a contender, her increasing commitment to the Akari Chargers has now taken priority as the franchise prepares for a crucial stretch in the Premier Volleyball League calendar.

     

    Akari is set to begin its next campaign at the PVL on Tour starting July 4, where Salak is expected to focus fully on steering the Chargers toward a breakthrough into the league’s upper tier.

     

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  • Akari clears roster space as Chargers begin next phase of PVL rebuild 

    Akari clears roster space as Chargers begin next phase of PVL rebuild 

    The Akari Chargers have begun making difficult decisions ahead of the 2026 PVL on Tour, signaling that the next stage of their roster evolution is already underway.

     

    With much of its core expected to return, Akari announced Wednesday that five players will not be part of the team’s plans moving forward, officially parting ways with Dani Ravena, Max Juangco, Bea Bonafe, Joan Doguna, and Steph Bustrillo.

     

    The departures may not involve the team’s biggest stars, but they represent a significant reshaping of the supporting cast that helped the Chargers remain competitive in recent conferences.

     

    “Thank you, Dani, Max, Bea, Joan, and Steph for always representing Akari with pride. We wish you all the best on the next chapter of your journey,” the team said in a social media statement.

     

    The most noticeable impact comes in the back row.

     

    Akari suddenly finds itself thinner at the libero position after losing both Ravena and Juangco, leaving Justine Jazareno and converted wing spiker Judith Abil as the only liberos currently listed on the roster.

     

    The move adds another layer of intrigue to Akari’s offseason strategy, especially after the franchise surprisingly chose not to use its fifth-round selection in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft.

     

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    Rather than adding another prospect, the Chargers appeared content with the foundation already in place—a foundation they still believe can contend despite the latest exits.

     

    That confidence stems from a core that remains largely untouched.

     

    Ivy Lacsina continues to headline Akari’s offense, backed by proven scorers Grethcel Soltones and Eli Soyud. Mars Alba remains the steady hand directing the attack, while national team standouts Fifi Sharma and Ced Domingo continue to anchor one of the league’s more imposing frontlines.

     

    In many ways, the latest roster moves feel less like a rebuild and more like a recalibration.

     

    The Chargers are not tearing down their roster. Instead, they appear focused on creating flexibility while preserving the nucleus that has kept them in the playoff conversation over the past few seasons.

     

    With the PVL on Tour fast approaching, the departures create opportunities for new faces to emerge, but they also place greater responsibility on Akari’s established stars to carry the franchise forward.

     

    The names on the roster may be changing, but the Chargers’ ambitions remain the same.

     

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  • Akari sticks with its core, passes on entire 2026 PVL Rookie Draft 

    Akari sticks with its core, passes on entire 2026 PVL Rookie Draft 

    The Akari Chargers walked away from the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft without a single rookie addition.

    In one of the draft’s biggest surprises on Wednesday, Akari chose to pass on its No. 5 overall pick and ultimately did not select any player despite holding both first- and second-round selections.


    The decision immediately surrounded questions especially after four highly regarded prospects came off the board before Akari’s turn. Setter Camilla Lamina went first overall to the Galeries Tower Highrisers, while libero Detdet Pepito was selected second by Capital1. Also chosen ahead of the Chargers were Tin Ubaldo and Nicole Ong.

     

    For Akari assistant coach Eddieson Orcullo, however, the move was the result of a clear draft strategy rather than a lack of available selections.

     

    “Actually meron. May first and second, kaya lang talagang dumating lang sa point na hindi namin [nakuha],” Orcullo said after the draft.

     

    The Chargers had identified specific players they believed could immediately address their needs, and once those targets were gone, the organization decided against making a selection simply for the sake of adding a rookie.

     

    “Siguro ‘yung dalawa na ‘yun talaga ang kailangan talaga ng team natin, pero dahil nga napunta sa naunang team na mag-select, kaya we decided to pass na rin.” 

     

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    The two players Orcullo referred to were Lamina and Pepito, both of whom were taken before Akari’s No. 5 selection.

     

    Rather than scrambling for an alternative option, the Chargers chose discipline over urgency. According to Orcullo, the coaching staff and management were united in the decision.

     

    “‘Yung management at si coach Tina (Salak), ‘yung coaches actually nakapag-usap naman kami regarding dun kaya so far okay naman kami dun sa result na nangyari tonight,” he said. 

     

    Akari still had other prospects on its draft board, but the organization remained firm in its evaluation process.

     

    “Meron pero ‘yung dalawang tao sila dapat na makukuha namin pero dahil nga wala dun na nag-pass na rin,” the veteran FEU coach said. 

     

    The Chargers enter the new season with one of the league’s deepest cores already intact. 

     

    Leading the roster are established standouts Ivy Lacsina, Fifi Sharma, Grethcel Soltones, and Ced Domingo, while offseason acquisition Tin Tiamzon adds another experienced option to the lineup.

     

    Instead of introducing a rookie into the mix, Akari is doubling down on chemistry, familiarity, and a group that has already spent time building its identity together.

     

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  • Former Cignal standout Tin Tiamzon joins stacked Akari squad 

    Former Cignal standout Tin Tiamzon joins stacked Akari squad 

    Former Cignal Super Spikers standout Tin Tiamzon has officially joined the Akari Chargers, giving the franchise another experienced weapon as it looks to finally break through in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League season.


    The Chargers announced the signing on social media, describing the veteran outside hitter as “A steady presence and reliable force on the court, Tin is ready to bolster the Chargers for the battles ahead.”

     

    For Akari, the move is more than simply adding depth. It is another statement that the franchise is serious about transforming itself from a middle-of-the-pack squad into a legitimate title contender.

     

    Tiamzon arrives after helping Cignal reach the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference finals, where the Super Spikers eventually settled for runner-up honors after being swept by Creamline. 

     

    Shortly after the championship series, Cignal took a leave of absence and amid uncertainty Tiamzon became a free agent.

     

    Her availability became one of the most talked-about developments in the offseason after Cignal temporarily stepped away from league competition, triggering a wave of player movement across the PVL. 

     

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    Former teammates Vanie Gandler and Erika Santos transferred to Capital1, while Gel Cayuna and Jackie Acuña moved to Nxled.

     

    Now, Tiamzon lands with an Akari squad already loaded with firepower on the wings.

     

    She joins a deep spiker rotation featuring Ivy Lacsina, Grethcel Soltones, Eli Soyud, Faith Nisperos, and Chenie Tagaod, while also reuniting with fellow De La Salle products Fifi Sharma, Justine Jazareno, and Mars Alba.

     

    The 28-year-old outside hitter brings more than experience. She also carries a winning pedigree built through years inside one of the country’s most successful volleyball programs.

     

    Before returning to the PVL with Cignal in 2025, Tiamzon built her reputation at De La Salle University, where she helped the Lady Spikers win three UAAP women’s volleyball championships from Seasons 78 to 80 under veteran coach Ramil de Jesus. 

     

    She also became a key piece for F2 Logistics, helping the Cargo Movers capture the 2017 Philippine SuperLiga Grand Prix title.

     

    Her professional journey has not been linear. After stepping away from volleyball in 2023 to spend time with family in Canada, Tiamzon returned to competition with Cignal and immediately reminded everyone of her value as a dependable two-way player. 

     

    That veteran composure and versatility could be exactly what Akari needs. The Chargers have remained competitive since entering the PVL in 2022 but have yet to make a deep championship breakthrough, finishing in the middle tier of the standings in all four conferences last season. 

     

    Management has responded by aggressively reshaping the roster, recently parting ways with Dani Ravena and Bea Bonafe while continuing to stack the lineup with established talent.

     

    With Tiamzon now entering the fold, Akari gains another proven scorer capable of stabilizing the floor in high-pressure situations. More importantly, the Chargers are assembling a roster filled with players who understand championship expectations.

     

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