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Tag: Alyssa Valdez

  • “We want to show who we are”: Alyssa Valdez sends strong message as Creamline returns to PVL Finals 

    “We want to show who we are”: Alyssa Valdez sends strong message as Creamline returns to PVL Finals 

    The Creamline Cool Smashers once again underscored their dynasty status in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), punching their ticket to yet another finals appearance after outlasting the Farm Fresh Foxies, 25-23, 14-25, 25-23, 25-19, in the All-Filipino Conference semifinals on Thursday, April 16, at a jampacked FilOil EcoOil Centre.

     

    In a match that showcased both resilience and championship pedigree, Creamline leaned on its core veterans to overcome a spirited challenge from the upstart Foxies. Tots Carlos spearheaded the attack with 15 points, delivering in crucial stretches, particularly in the tightly contested first and third sets. She was ably supported by Jema Galanza and Jeanette Panaga, who chipped in 13 markers apiece to keep the offense balanced and unpredictable.

     

    The victory marked the 15th finals appearance in franchise history for Creamline, further solidifying its reputation as the league’s gold standard. Even more impressive is their sustained dominance in the All-Filipino Conference, where this latest berth represents their ninth consecutive trip to the championship round—a testament to the organization’s consistency, depth, and winning culture.

     

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    Despite their storied success, the Cool Smashers entered the conference with something to prove. The team experienced a rare dip in form over the past year, falling short in their title defense in the previous All-Filipino Conference and missing the finals in the three succeeding tournaments. For a team accustomed to competing for championships, the drought served as both a humbling experience and a source of motivation.

     

    Team captain Alyssa Valdez, one of the most recognizable faces in Philippine volleyball, acknowledged the significance of their return to the finals. Speaking to reporters after the match, Valdez emphasized that the journey back has been as meaningful as the result itself.

    “Coming into the Finals, we just want to show and even see for ourselves who the Creamline Cool Smashers really are after everything we have been through,” Valdez shared. “Of course, we are really happy. It feels so good to be back in the Finals. It’s been a while, right? Almost a year, three conferences without getting here. Honestly, it’s hard to put into words what we are feeling right now.”

     

    Beyond the statistics and accolades, Valdez highlighted the importance of rediscovering team identity and chemistry. The Cool Smashers’ campaign in this conference has been bolstered by the return and reintegration of key players, including playmaker Jia De Guzman, versatile spiker Bernadeth Pons, and Galanza, giving the squad a sense of completeness that had been missing in previous tournaments.

     

    “I think for this conference, our mindset has really been about getting to know ourselves better as Creamline,” Valdez explained. “This is the first time in a while that we are complete, so our growth and journey have been different. We have gotten to know each other on a deeper level because of all the challenges we went through. We are very thankful for that experience.”

     

    That renewed cohesion was evident against Farm Fresh, particularly in how Creamline responded after dropping the second set convincingly. Instead of unraveling, the Cool Smashers regrouped, tightened their defense, and executed more efficiently in transition to regain control of the match.

     

    Awaiting them in the finals is another formidable opponent in the Cignal HD Spikers, setting up a highly anticipated championship showdown between two of the league’s most competitive squads. Game 1 is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum, where a large and passionate crowd is expected to witness the opening salvo of the series.

     

    For Valdez and the Cool Smashers, the mission is clear: reclaim their place at the top of Philippine volleyball. With their core intact, confidence restored, and momentum on their side, Creamline now stands just steps away from adding another chapter to its already illustrious legacy.

     

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez embraces rising competition in the PVL ahead of the semifinals

    Alyssa Valdez embraces rising competition in the PVL ahead of the semifinals

    The stage is set for a highly anticipated semifinal round in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, with four teams—Creamline Cool Smashers, PLDT High Speed Hitters, Farm Fresh Foxies, and Cignal HD Spikers—battling for a coveted spot in the finals.

     

    As the league reaches its most crucial phase, all eyes are once again on Creamline captain Alyssa Valdez, who has rediscovered top form in this year’s All-Filipino Conference. The longtime face of Philippine volleyball has delivered a resurgent campaign, showcasing the all-around brilliance and leadership that once made her the undisputed centerpiece of the league and a perennial fan favorite.

     

    Valdez’s strong performances have come at a time when the PVL is arguably at its most competitive, with emerging teams and deeper rosters raising the level of play across the board. For the 32-year-old veteran, that evolution is something she welcomes, especially with the breakthrough of teams like Farm Fresh, who have reached the semifinals for the first time in franchise history.

     

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    “I’m very, very excited. We welcome everybody naman talaga dito sa PVL, most especially sa semifinals. The more teams na nakakapasok sa semis, the more lumalakas halos lahat ng teams. Kaya mas nagiging exciting yung conferences natin,” Valdez said in a media interaction.

    Farm Fresh’s rise has been one of the defining storylines of the conference, and Valdez believes their semifinal appearance will be instrumental in their long-term growth as a competitive squad.

    “Iba rin talagang experience pag nasa semifinals. Mag-grow talaga kayo as a team. We just can’t wait to see kung paano mag-grow yung Farm Fresh,” she added.

     

    For Creamline, however, the focus quickly shifts to a daunting semifinal matchup against the PLDT High Speed Hitters—a team that has already proven it can challenge the defending contenders. PLDT handed Creamline a defeat during the elimination round, adding an extra layer of intrigue and urgency to their upcoming clash.

     

    “It’s a very interesting semifinals for us. We really have to work harder and smarter,” Valdez concluded.

     

    The Cool Smashers, known for their championship pedigree and composure under pressure, will lean heavily on Valdez’s leadership and experience as they attempt to navigate a tougher and more unpredictable semifinal landscape. Meanwhile, PLDT enters the matchup brimming with confidence, eager to replicate—and perhaps surpass—their earlier success against Creamline.

     

    The two teams are set to face off in the first semifinal showdown on Saturday, April 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with a finals berth hanging in the balance.

     

    As the PVL continues to grow in parity and intensity, this year’s semifinals promise not only high-level competition but also a glimpse into the future of Philippine volleyball—where established powerhouses and rising contenders collide on equal footing.

     

     

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  • Creamline boasts six players atop PVL All-Star fan voting returns

    Creamline boasts six players atop PVL All-Star fan voting returns

    Creamline dominates the PVL All-Star fan voting with six players leading their positions, while several others also rank among the top vote-getters, showing the Cool Smashers’ depth and popularity.

     

    Creamline is once again showing its dominance, not just on the court, but in the hearts of fans. In the latest PVL All-Star fan voting, six Cool Smashers players are leading their respective positions, demonstrating the team’s wide-reaching influence and star power across the league.

     

    At the forefront is outside hitter Jema Galanza, holding the top spot with 30.08 percent of the votes. Known for her explosive scoring and consistency, Galanza has become one of the most recognizable faces in Philippine volleyball, combining talent with the kind of charisma that naturally draws fan support.

     

    Right behind her in the outside hitter race is team captain Alyssa Valdez, who earned 14.60 percent of the votes, overtaking Capital1 rookie Bella Belen. Valdez remains one of the league’s most iconic players, and her continued popularity reflects her enduring connection with fans across generations.

     

    Creamline’s strength is also evident in the middle blocker race, where Jeanette Panaga continues to lead with 36.91 percent. Panaga has long been recognized for her timing, net defense, and steady presence on the floor, proving that consistent performance earns fan recognition beyond flashy stats.

     

    At setter, Jia De Guzman dominates with an overwhelming 72.05 percent of the votes. As one of the smartest and most accomplished playmakers in the league, De Guzman’s ability to dictate tempo and elevate her teammates makes her a central figure in Creamline’s sustained success.

     

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    The opposite spiker race also belongs to the Cool Smashers, with Tots Carlos leading at 42.08 percent. Carlos has established herself as a reliable scoring option for Creamline, combining power, timing, and confidence in key moments, which has earned her a strong fan following.

     

    Finally, Bernadeth Pons is making waves with 36.94 percent, highlighting Creamline’s depth of talent. Pons is admired for her all-around ability, contributing on offense and defense, showing fans that versatility and consistency are just as valuable as scoring prowess.

     

    The Cool Smashers’ influence extends beyond the starters as well. Dennise Lazaro-Revila is right behind starter Justine Jazareno in the Team Heart libero race with 14.95 percent, while Bea De Leon ranks third in Team Hustle’s middle blocker voting with 15.34 percent, trailing Fifi Sharma of Akari and Mika Reyes of PLDT. Setter Kyle Negrito is also third in Team Hustle’s voting with 14.95 percent.

     

    Creamline’s liberos further prove the team’s fan support runs deep. Kyle Atienza and Jennifer Nierva are holding down third and fourth place, respectively, in the Team Heart libero race with 21.68 percent and 10.20 percent. Their presence in the top five highlights the fans’ recognition of the squad’s defensive stalwarts alongside the high-profile stars.

     

    Together, these rankings show that Creamline’s dominance in the PVL extends across both the starting lineup and its supporting cast. 

     

    The Cool Smashers’ popularity reflects a team culture that produces both winning results and players that fans passionately support, solidifying their status as one of the league’s most influential franchises.

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez, Majoy Baron spark shake-up in PVL All-Star third fan voting rankings

    Alyssa Valdez, Majoy Baron spark shake-up in PVL All-Star third fan voting rankings

    The race to the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Star Showcase is turning into a fan-driven chess match, where every vote reshapes the board. 


    With the third voting update now in, familiar names remain dominant, but the real story lies in the sudden surges, quiet takeovers, and tightening battles across positions.

     

    For Team Heart, the spotlight has shifted dramatically to the wings. Alyssa Valdez of Creamline has climbed to second among outside hitters with 14.60%, overtaking Bella Belen of Capital1, who now holds 12.47%. Still firmly in control is Valdez’s teammate Jema Galanza, who continues to dominate the category with a commanding 30.08%.

     

    The middle blocker race has become just as dynamic. Majoy Baron of PLDT surged into second place with 18.83%, pushing Mar Jana Philips down to third at 16.19%. Towering above them, however, is Pangs Panaga, who continues to lead decisively with 36.91%. 

     

    Stability, meanwhile, defines the rest of Team Heart: Jia De Guzman remains untouchable at setter with 72.05%, Erika Santos holds firm at opposite with 39.02%, and Justine Jazareno anchors the libero spot with 49.76%.

     

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    On the other side, Team Hustle tells a different story—one of consistency over chaos. Kim Fajardo continues to dictate the setter race with 61.75%, while Bernadeth Pons (36.94%) and Eya Laure (29.54%) maintain their grip on the outside hitter positions. Tots Carlos leads the opposite spot with 42.08%, and Mika Reyes (29.52%) narrowly stays ahead of Fifi Sharma (28.44%) among middle blockers.

     

    But even in a largely steady field, one late surge has changed the narrative. Kathleen Arado of PLDT leaped to the top of the libero rankings with 35.85%, overtaking Alyssa Eroa, who slipped to second with 25.43%. It’s a reminder that no lead is ever safe when fan voting is still open.

     

    With the showcase set for May 1 at the Candon City Arena, the numbers tell only part of the story. 

    Momentum, timing, and fan mobilization now play just as big a role as on-court performance. Every percentage point reflects not just popularity, but connection—between players and the communities rallying behind them.

     

    Even beyond the starting lineup, the All-Star picture remains fluid. Each team will feature 14 players, meaning those outside the fan-voted positions still have a path to the roster. 

     

    The remaining seven spots per squad will be determined through a broader selection process involving coaches, players, team officials, and league stakeholders.

     

    As the final days of voting approach, the message is clear: the All-Star stage isn’t just earned—it’s voted into existence. And in this race, the loudest cheers are being counted one click at a time.

     

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  • “Healthy competition all the way”: Alyssa Valdez opens up on the growing rivalry between Creamline and Cignal

    “Healthy competition all the way”: Alyssa Valdez opens up on the growing rivalry between Creamline and Cignal

    The rivalry between the Creamline Cool Smashers and the Cignal Super Spikers has quickly emerged as the marquee storyline of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, captivating fans with high-intensity matches that have gone down to the wire.

     

    Both meetings between these two PVL heavyweights so far in the conference have extended to five-set thrillers, highlighting the evenly matched nature of the contest. In the preliminary round, Creamline drew first blood with a dramatic 25-19, 25-20, 15-25, 26-28, 16-14 victory over Cignal, showcasing their ability to maintain composure in tense moments. Yet, in a rematch that carried semifinal implications, Cignal exacted revenge, eking out a 25-21, 24-26, 18-25, 25-22, 17-15 win to secure a place in the semifinals, further intensifying the growing rivalry.

     

    Amidst the back-and-forth battles, PVL icon Alyssa Valdez, who captains Creamline, has expressed appreciation for the competitive environment, noting that it pushes both teams to elevate their game.

     

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    “Alam mo, parang lagi pala kami halos five-setter games and we didn’t even realize it. But I guess that’s when you know both teams are really having that healthy competition. And it’s just so nice to see na parehong teams nagpapakita at nag-i-step up,” Valdez said during a media interaction.

     

    The veteran superstar also highlighted the learning opportunities provided by facing Cignal, underlining the importance of carrying lessons from tough matches into future contests.

    “Sa totoo lang, grabe ‘yung mga learnings namin sa Cignal. Dadalhin namin ‘yun sa future games namin. And yeah, congratulations to them,” she added.

     

    Valdez herself has been enjoying a career resurgence in the current All-Filipino Conference. Even in the recent loss to Cignal, the 32-year-old standout delivered an all-around performance, finishing with 18 points, 19 excellent digs, and 20 excellent receptions, proving that she remains a central figure for Creamline both offensively and defensively.

     

    Despite her impressive individual showing, Valdez stressed the importance of moving past the defeat and refocusing on upcoming challenges.

     

    “I guess at some point, siyempre, andun ‘yung panghihinayang. Pero we don’t have time to dwell on it kasi may mga games agad-agad. Titingnan namin yung mga pagkakamali namin, correct them, learn from this, then move forward and focus on the next game,” she said.

     

    Looking ahead, Creamline will aim to return to winning ways when they face the Akari Chargers in a must-win encounter on Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil Centre. With the semifinal race tightening, Valdez and her teammates understand the urgency of bouncing back, while continuing to build on the lessons learned from their intense duels with Cignal.

     

    The Creamline-Cignal rivalry has not only delivered some of the most exciting volleyball of the season but has also showcased the growth of the league, with both teams pushing each other to new heights. Fans can expect more high-stakes clashes in the coming weeks, as these PVL titans continue to battle for supremacy in the All-Filipino Conference.

     

     

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  • The Ultimate Volleyball “What If”: Alyssa Valdez and Ara Galang on the same side of the court

    The Ultimate Volleyball “What If”: Alyssa Valdez and Ara Galang on the same side of the court

    There are All-Star games—and then there are moments that feel bigger than the event itself. The growing clamor to see Alyssa Valdez and Ara Galang on the same side in the PVL All-Star Game falls into the latter.

     

    As voting continues, fans aren’t just picking players, they’re trying to create a storyline years in the making.

     

    Valdez and Galang are not just stars, they are symbols of an era. Both rose to prominence in the UAAP, carrying the banners of two of the fiercest rivals in collegiate sports, Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University. 

     

    the “Phenom,” Valdez became synonymous with Ateneo’s rise, winning back-to-back championships and three MVP awards. Galang, on the other hand, was the cornerstone of La Salle’s dominance, earning Rookie of the Year honors before eventually becoming an MVP herself.

     

    For years, fans watched them compete and that’s exactly why this potential pairing feels special.

    The Premier Volleyball League All-Star stage offers something the regular season cannot and it is the chance to rewrite narratives. In a league where Valdez now leads the Creamline Cool Smashers and Galang who suits up for the Farm Fresh Foxies, they remain on opposite ends of competition. 

     

    The All-Star format, however, removes those boundaries—and fans are clearly eager to see what happens when rivalry turns into chemistry.

     

    That eagerness has gone beyond simple voting. On X (formerly Twitter), fans have actively campaigned for the two to team up, urging others to vote for both Valdez and Galang to ensure they land on the same squad. Hashtags, fan edits, and coordinated posts have flooded timelines, turning what is usually a casual All-Star selection into a fan-driven movement.

     

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    The demand isn’t baseless hype. It’s rooted in years of “what ifs,” as they have never been teammates—not in college, not in the pros, not even in the national team setup. In a sport where careers don’t always overlap at their peak, this All-Star Game might be the closest fans get to seeing them share the court as allies. 

     

    Then there’s the stylistic intrigue. Valdez has built her legacy as a high-impact scorer and emotional leader, capable of taking over matches when needed. 

     

    Galang complements that with versatility—an opposite hitter who can deliver offensively while contributing across different phases of the game. Put them together, and you don’t just get two stars—you get enough balance.

     

    The numbers back up the excitement. In the latest All-Star voting, Valdez ranked second among outside hitters for Team Heart with 21.91% of votes, 4% votes away from the first pick Bella Belen, while Galang topped the opposite hitters list with 37.66%. That isn’t coincidence—it’s collective intent wherein fans are actively trying to make this pairing happen.

     

    But beyond stats and skill sets, what truly drives the hype is emotion. This is about nostalgia, about revisiting a golden era of UAAP volleyball and imagining a different ending. 


    It’s about seeing two icons, who defined a rivalry, finally share the same goal—even if just for one game.

     

    Even Galang herself acknowledged the appeal saying “Never ko pa siya (Alyssa) naging teammate. Kahit na hindi ko ka-diagonal kasi nga opposite ako du’n, exciting ‘yun and siyempre, masaya ‘yun.”

     

    That sentiment captures everything wherein the excitement isn’t forced—it’s organic, shared by both fans and players.

     

    Scheduled on May 1 in Candon City, the PVL All-Star Game has already generated buzz. But if there’s one storyline that could elevate it from entertaining to unforgettable, it’s the possibility of Valdez and Galang finally joining forces.

     

    Because sometimes, the best matchups aren’t about who wins or loses. Sometimes, it’s about finally seeing something fans have waited years to witness—and realizing it was worth the wait.

     

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  • Is Alyssa Valdez Slowly Regaining Form for Creamline?

    Is Alyssa Valdez Slowly Regaining Form for Creamline?

    For much of the early stretch of the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, Alyssa Valdez was more of a quiet presence than a focal point for the Creamline Cool Smashers. Her minutes were limited, her touches sporadic, and her scoring production far from what fans had long been accustomed to seeing.

     

    Through the team’s first seven games, Valdez had managed just 20 total points, including outings where she failed to score at all against Capital1 and Nxled. For a player long regarded as one of the league’s defining figures, it was an unusually subdued start that reflected both a shifting role and a team still finding balance.

     

    But context matters. Creamline’s rotation had been largely intact early in the conference, with primary scorers like Jema Galanza and Bernadeth Pons carrying the bulk of the offensive load. As injuries began to sideline key pieces, however, the team’s dynamics changed—and so did Valdez’s role.

     

    What followed was less a sudden breakout and more a gradual re-emergence. Given extended minutes, Valdez began to rediscover her rhythm. She first showed flashes in a 14-point outing, a performance that hinted at a return to form even in a losing effort. Her impact soon grew more pronounced, culminating in a standout performance where she delivered 22 points along with 13 digs and 13 receptions to power Creamline in a crucial win.

     

    That stretch ultimately earned her Player of the Week honors and helped fuel Creamline’s late push into the qualifying round. It was also a reminder that her value extends far beyond scoring, as her floor defense, serve receive, and leadership became central to the team’s resurgence.

     

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    The numbers only tell part of the story, as in Creamline’s gritty five-set victory over Cignal HD Spikers, Valdez was among those who stepped up amid a depleted lineup, with multiple regulars unavailable due to injuries. The absence of key players forced the Cool Smashers to lean on experience and adaptability, and Valdez responded by anchoring both ends of the floor when it mattered most.

     

    This recent stretch suggests that her early struggles were less about decline and more about circumstance. With limited opportunities early on, her rhythm never fully developed. Now, with increased responsibility and a clearer role, her performances have begun to mirror the player who has built a decorated career as one of the league’s most consistent outside hitters.

     

    The question now is not whether Valdez can still deliver—it is whether she can sustain this level as the competition intensifies.

     

    As Creamline heads into the next phase of the tournament, her resurgence could not have come at a better time. In a conference defined by parity and pressure, having a veteran rediscover her form may ultimately be the difference between simply advancing and making another championship run.

     

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  • Creamline’s Alyssa Valdez named PVL Player of the Week for March 17 to 21

    Creamline’s Alyssa Valdez named PVL Player of the Week for March 17 to 21

    The Creamline Cool Smashers have made a strong start to the ongoing 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, winning six of their nine games to secure third place in the standings.

     

    Their most recent victory came against the Cignal Super Spikers in a thrilling five-set match at the FilOil Centre on Saturday, March 21. After dropping the first two sets, 19-25 and 20-25, Creamline bounced back, winning the next two 25-15 and 28-26 before edging Cignal 18-16 in the decider.

     

    Central to the comeback was captain and star player Alyssa Valdez, who delivered a vintage performance that reminded fans why she remains one of the league’s elite. Valdez finished with a triple-double of 22 points, 13 receptions, and 13 digs, leading her team from the front in the absence of fellow stars Jema Galanza and Bernadeth Pons.

     

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    This was a welcome return to form for the 32-year-old, who had struggled in recent games, averaging just 3.57 points in Creamline’s previous seven matches. Her stellar showing earned her first-ever PVL Press Corps Player of the Week in the league’s professional era for March 17-21. She outshone strong contenders including Royse Tubino (Farm Fresh Foxies), Trisha Tubu (Farm Fresh Foxies), Eli Soyud (Akari Chargers), Brooke Van Sickle (Nxled Chameleons), and Sisi Rondina (Choco Mucho Flying Titans).

     

    Reflecting on her performance, Valdez emphasized effort and team spirit over personal accolades.

    “Honestly, what was on my mind was: we are already here, so we are going to fight for it. Wherever this takes us, we will be thankful to the Lord. There’s something different when you give everything, your full effort, and fight all the way,” Valdez said.

     

    She added: “That’s really all I was thinking about. I didn’t even remember the score. I even had to ask what the last point was because I didn’t realize the game was already over. When you’re in the moment, you’re just focused on finishing strong.”

     

    Valdez’s leadership extends beyond scoring. Widely regarded as the most popular volleyball player in the Philippines, she is credited with helping bring the sport into the mainstream. Yet for her, it is always about the team.

     

    “I think every game, it’s more of a reminder for myself and for the team that we are still here. If there’s something to motivate myself, it’s honestly hard to always rely on thinking about other people. So now, I remind myself that I’m still capable. I will just do my part in practice, and when I’m needed, I’ll step up and help,” Valdez explained.

     

    Creamline will look to maintain their momentum when they face Cignal again in the qualifying round on Thursday, March 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The winner will advance directly to the semifinals, while the losing team will face a lower-bracket opponent for another chance to progress.

     

    With Valdez leading the charge, the Cool Smashers are proving that experience, determination, and resilience remain their keys to success in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

     

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez vows Creamline will keep fighting amid adversity and struggles in the PVL

    Alyssa Valdez vows Creamline will keep fighting amid adversity and struggles in the PVL

    The Creamline Cool Smashers are facing uncharacteristic turbulence in the ongoing 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, as the perennial contenders struggle to live up to their billing as one of the league’s dominant forces.

     

    Long regarded as a model of consistency and excellence, Creamline has recently shown signs of vulnerability—most notably in their four-set loss to the Farm Fresh Foxies at the Santa Rosa Sports Complex on Tuesday, March 17. In a match filled with intensity and momentum swings, the Cool Smashers fell short, 25-16, 25-22, 18-25, 25-23, marking their second consecutive defeat in the conference.

     

    The loss exposed gaps in both execution and cohesion, compounded by the absence of key figures within the Creamline camp. Head coach Sherwin Meneses was unavailable as he remained hospitalized, while top scorers Bernadeth Pons and Jema Galanza were sidelined for undisclosed reasons. Their absence forced the team to adjust on the fly, testing the depth and resilience of the roster.

     

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    Despite the setbacks, team captain Alyssa Valdez stepped up to lead from the front. Valdez delivered a commendable all-around performance, finishing with 14 points and 11 digs, while Tots Carlos provided offensive firepower with 18 points. Still, their efforts were not enough to overcome a surging Farm Fresh side that capitalized on Creamline’s inconsistencies.

     

    Speaking after the match, Valdez acknowledged the challenges the team is currently facing but emphasized their commitment to remain competitive despite the adversity.

    “Coming into this game, our mindset was really just to fight and give our all. There were things that happened that we couldn’t control – situations we didn’t expect that came all at once. It’s definitely sad that we are not complete. But even if they are not here physically, we know they are still supporting us. It’s a big adjustment,” Valdez said in the post-match press conference.

     

    The absence of Pons and Galanza—two of the league’s most prolific scorers—has significantly altered Creamline’s offensive dynamics. Valdez admitted that filling the void left by the duo is no easy task, but stressed the importance of maintaining a positive mindset as they navigate this stretch.

     

    “We all know Jema and Pons are among the top players in the PVL right now, so it’s a huge loss. But we are staying positive that they can still help in other ways and come back stronger. We are also sad that coach Sherwin isn’t with us, and we are praying for his fast recovery.

     

    “For this tournament, we will just keep fighting and giving our best every game. Wherever that takes us, we will accept it. But we will still prepare hard for every match. But that’s how it is, there are things we don’t expect. We just have to be ready and keep fighting. That’s one of the things we have learned: to fight, give our all, and accept wherever we end up. What’s important is that we stay together as a team,” Valdez concluded.

     

    The defeat dropped Creamline to fourth place in the standings with a 5-3 record, tightening the race for playoff positioning in the latter stages of the elimination round. While the Cool Smashers remain in contention for a quarterfinal berth, their margin for error has narrowed considerably.

     

    All eyes will now be on their crucial final elimination round assignment against the Cignal HD Spikers on Saturday, March 21, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. A victory would not only secure their place in the next phase but also restore some much-needed confidence as they aim to regroup and rediscover the form that has long defined their success in the PVL.

     

    For Creamline, the challenge moving forward is clear: overcome adversity, adapt to unforeseen circumstances, and prove that even amid setbacks, championship-caliber teams find a way to rise.

     

     

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  • Alyssa Valdez and PNVF partner for nationwide youth volleyball camps

    Alyssa Valdez and PNVF partner for nationwide youth volleyball camps

    Alyssa Valdez remains the face of Philippine volleyball — an icon whose influence stretches far beyond the court. As a cornerstone of Alas Pilipinas and long-time star of the Creamline Cool Smashers, Valdez has been instrumental in propelling the sport into the national mainstream over the past decade.

     

    Now, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), under newly elected president Tonyboy Liao, is looking to harness Valdez’s immense popularity to spark a new wave of grassroots development across the country.

     

    The federation recently reached an agreement with the 32-year-old superstar to organize a nationwide youth volleyball camp aimed at identifying and nurturing young talent, particularly in provinces and regions outside Metro Manila. The initiative underscores PNVF’s commitment to decentralizing access to high-level training and ensuring that promising athletes in far-flung areas are given the same opportunities as their counterparts in urban hubs.

     

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    Liao emphasized that Valdez’s presence alone could inspire participation on a massive scale.

    “So I decided to talk to Alyssa Valdez. Since she is the face of volleyball in the Philippines, I thought that if we bring her to these areas, a lot of kids would probably join,” Liao said.

     

    The federation’s plan was formalized during a recent board meeting, where regional representatives expressed strong support for the project.

    “In our last board meeting, we decided to hold youth camps in the regions. I suggested to the board members from different regions that we organize camps there. They said it was a good idea. They will coordinate with their respective mayors so we can get support from the local government units,” he added.

     

    Adding further prestige to the program is the involvement of legendary coach Roger Gorayeb. His inclusion effectively reunites one of the most celebrated player-coach tandems in Philippine volleyball history — a partnership that helped elevate the Ateneo Blue Eagles into a powerhouse program in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

     

    The reunion of Valdez and Gorayeb is expected to add both technical expertise and nostalgic appeal to the camps, blending elite instruction with the inspirational narrative of their collegiate success.

     

    For Valdez, the initiative is a natural extension of her long-running grassroots efforts. She already operates the Alyssa Valdez Youth Volleyball Camp in key Metro Manila cities, including Pasig, Makati, Quezon City, Marikina, and Parañaque. Rather than maintain separate programs, the volleyball star proposed integrating her camp with the federation’s broader vision.

     

    “She suggested that instead of just using her name, we should partner. We can call it PNVF in partnership with the Alyssa Valdez Youth Camp. She is very willing to do it. In the next few days, maybe tomorrow or Thursday, we will meet again and sit down to plan when we will start. Usually, these camps are held during the summer,” Liao concluded.

     

    If finalized in the coming weeks, the collaboration could mark a significant step forward for Philippine volleyball development. With Valdez’s drawing power, Gorayeb’s technical mastery, and federation backing, the camps aim not only to sharpen skills but also to inspire the next generation of national team hopefuls.

     

    As volleyball continues to surge in popularity nationwide, the PNVF’s grassroots push signals a long-term investment in sustaining that growth — ensuring that the next Alyssa Valdez may well emerge from any corner of the country.

     

     

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