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  • PVL clarifies Alas Pilipinas policy after Gel Cayuna plays while Fifi Sharma, Pangs Panaga sit out 

    PVL clarifies Alas Pilipinas policy after Gel Cayuna plays while Fifi Sharma, Pangs Panaga sit out 

    The opening week of the PVL On Tour has not only showcased preseason action but has also highlighted the balancing act between club commitments and national team duties.

     

    Questions surfaced after three Alas Pilipinas pool members found themselves in different situations during Wednesday’s games—Gel Cayuna made her debut for Nxled, while Fifi Sharma and Pangs Panaga remained on the bench in street clothes for Akari and Creamline, respectively.

     

    The contrasting scenarios prompted the PVL to reiterate its stance on players currently involved with the national team program.

     

    PVL control committee chairman Sherwin Malonzo emphasized that the league’s directive remains unchanged: players who are part of the Alas Pilipinas pool are expected to prioritize national team responsibilities during the preseason.

     

    “During our team managers’ meeting, sinabi ko naman na those players who are part of the national team, focus sila sa national team. Kung kasama sila dito, if you’ll notice, ‘di naman sila talaga naglaro,” Malonzo said.

     

    The policy was introduced to support the country’s preparations for the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, with the league specifying that national team players may only participate in the PVL On Tour if they are not part of the official delegation.

     

    That guideline was evident in the cases of Sharma and Panaga, who stayed on the sidelines throughout their respective teams’ matches despite being in uniform with their clubs.

     

    Cayuna, however, was the lone exception among the three.

     

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    Making her first appearance for Nxled following Cignal’s leave of absence from the league, the veteran setter came off the bench and immediately took charge of the Chameleons’ offense.

     

    She finished with 22 excellent sets and three points, although Nxled eventually fell to defending champion Creamline, 18-25, 23-25, 25-16, 19-25.

     

    Malonzo also revealed that not every player in the current pool remains committed to joining the national team’s preparations, although he declined to identify those who have withdrawn.

     

    “Hindi ko kabisado lahat ng status, pero ‘yung iba yata, parang nag-decline. ‘Yung pag-decline, ibang usapan. ‘Yung iba naman na hindi nag-decline, alam ko hindi naman naglaro rin,” he said.

     

    “Pero like I said, nu’ng team managers’ meeting, in-encourage ko sila to focus on the national team.”

     

    As preparations for the Asian Games continue, several PVL standouts have already reported to the Alas Pilipinas training camp under the supervision of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

     

    Among those already training are Jia de Guzman and Jen Nierva of Creamline, Mars Alba and Justine Jazareno of Akari, Dell Palomata of PLDT, Thea Gagate of ZUS Coffee, and Capital1 stars Bella Belen, Vanie Gandler, and Erika Santos.

     

    The POC also confirmed that several invitees have yet to report, including Sharma and Cayuna, while PLDT’s Alleiah Malaluan continues her rehabilitation from a knee injury.

     

    With the PVL On Tour serving as both a preseason showcase and a bridge to international competition, the league expects national team commitments to remain the priority as the country’s buildup for the Asian Games gains momentum.

     

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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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  • PVL’s most well-spoken stars: Players who lead with words and performance 

    PVL’s most well-spoken stars: Players who lead with words and performance 

    In the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), postgame interviews have become just as compelling as the matches themselves, especially when certain players stand out not only for their performance on the court but also for how they express themselves off it. Some athletes come across as well-spoken in interviews because of a combination of preparation, experience, and natural communication skills. Many teams also provide media training, helping players learn how to answer questions clearly, stay composed under pressure, and represent their squad professionally in front of the media.

     

    Over time, repeated exposure to high-pressure situations plays a major role in shaping how athletes communicate. Veteran players become more comfortable processing emotions quickly and responding with clarity even after intense matches. A deeper understanding of the game also adds substance to their answers, allowing them to break down strategies, momentum shifts, and key moments in a more insightful way.

     

    Jia De Guzman 

     

    Jia De Guzman of the Creamline Cool Smashers continues to set the standard for articulate leadership in the PVL. As Creamline’s veteran setter and Alas Pilipinas captain, she is consistently present in postgame interviews where she explains matches with calm precision. In Creamline’s ongoing Finals run, where they already secured Game 1 against Cignal, De Guzman delivered 22 excellent sets and added four points, showing her control on both ends of the game. 


    Her ability to break down tactical details reflects years of experience dating back to her Ateneo Lady Eagles days. Beyond the court, she has also been vocal on national team concerns, speaking firmly yet calmly about athlete welfare and structured competition.

     

    Vanie Gandler 

     

    Vanie Gandler of the Cignal HD Spikers is another player known for her composed and thoughtful postgame presence. In Cignal’s Finals campaign in the PVL All-Filipino Conference, she remains one of the team’s key scorers, finishing Game 1 against Creamline with 17 attack points and 10 receptions. 

     

    Despite the tough loss, Gandler maintains a positive and reflective tone in interviews, often focusing on resilience, mindset, and improvement. A former Ateneo Lady Eagle like De Guzman, she carries collegiate discipline into her professional career, balancing competitiveness with maturity in her responses.

     

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    Fifi Sharma

     

    Fifi Sharma of the Akari Chargers is known for her structured and straightforward way of speaking after matches. She avoids unnecessary filler and often explains not just what happened, but why it happened. Although Akari fell short of a semifinal spot in the PVL All-Filipino Conference after being eliminated by Creamline in the playoffs, Sharma remained composed in postgame discussions, focusing on clarity and accountability. 

     

    A former De La Salle University standout, she brings UAAP-level discipline into her professional career. She has also occasionally worked as a commentator in PVL games, where her technical understanding of volleyball adds depth to her analysis.

     

    Kim Kianna Dy

     

    Kim Kianna Dy of the PLDT High Speed Hitters is often noted for her relaxed, conversational interview style. In PLDT’s recent PVL All-Filipino Conference bronze medal series, she contributed 16 points in a dramatic five-set Game 1 win over Farm Fresh. Dy’s speaking style often blends English and Filipino naturally or what they usually say “conyo”. 

     

    Reflecting a casual but confident media presence developed through her years with De La Salle University, where she experienced championship runs and MVP-level attention. Despite the informal tone, she remains clear in explaining game flow and consistently highlights teamwork and support from her squad.

     

    Ponggay Gaston

     

    Ponggay Gaston of the Capital1 Solar Spikers stands out for her energetic and engaging communication style. Known for her humor, personality, and great banter, she is also well known as a commentator in volleyball games. As a commentator, she brings the game to life through clear, engaging, and knowledgeable narration. She has a strong understanding of volleyball tactics and demonstrates excellent timing, knowing when to step in with analysis and when to let the excitement of a rally speak for itself. 

     

    A former Ateneo Lady Eagle, Gaston combines confidence with relatability when speaking to the media. While Capital1 fell short in the PVL Play-In round against Galeries Tower and missed the semifinals, she remained expressive and reflective in postgame interviews, balancing honesty with optimism.

     

    Across these players, one clear pattern emerges: being well-spoken is shaped by experience, collegiate development, leadership roles, and repeated exposure to high-pressure matches. Whether as champions, contenders, or rising talents, their words reflect not only performance—but also growth, awareness, and maturity as professional athletes.

     

    Their collegiate backgrounds also play a significant role in shaping how confidently and articulately they communicate. All of the players mentioned come from two of the most prestigious universities in the country, Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University—both part of the UAAP and known for producing elite volleyball talents. These programs have long been recognized for honing not only athletic excellence but also discipline, leadership, and communication skills, helping shape professional athletes who are just as composed off the court as they are competitive on it.

     

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  • Alas Pilipinas middle blocker Fifi Sharma speaks out, calls for accountability amid national team issues

    Alas Pilipinas middle blocker Fifi Sharma speaks out, calls for accountability amid national team issues

    For a long time, the noise surrounding Alas Pilipinas stayed outside the court. On Tuesday, it finally came from within.

     

    Fifi Sharma, one of the pillars of the current national team pool, stepped forward publicly, using her platform to address what she described as a troubling situation surrounding the program. Her message wasn’t just an observation—it was a call to action.

     

    “I hope we continue to spread awareness on everything that’s been happening surrounding the national team,” Sharma wrote on her Instagram broadcast channel on Tuesday.

     

    At the heart of her concern is a sense of lost momentum. For Sharma, this generation of players represents something rare—perhaps the most cohesive and promising core the program has built in years. That is precisely why the current situation feels more alarming than ever.

     

    “This is the closest we’ve ever gotten to having a core and it’s sad to see it fall into the wrong hands.”

     

    Her words carried more than frustration; they reflected the emotional toll of representing something bigger than oneself while feeling that the system behind it is falling short.

     

    “It’s difficult to keep giving your all and fighting for something that consistently fails to take care of you,” she said.

     

    “Passion can carry you far but it shouldn’t be used to justify neglect.”

     

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    The statement struck a chord because it echoed what many supporters have quietly questioned for some time. But coming from a key player, it added weight—and urgency—to the conversation.

     

    Still, Sharma made it clear that her message was not rooted in resentment. Instead, it came from a place of deep connection to the program and appreciation for the fans who continue to rally behind the team.

     

    “I’ve had my best memories playing volleyball in the national team, and I’ve never felt love and support like that from you guys!” she wrote.

     

    “That’s why I’m saying this and that’s why I’m hoping things change.”

     

    That balance—between frustration and hope—defines where Alas Pilipinas stands today. A program filled with talent and potential, yet facing questions that can no longer be ignored.

     

    For Sharma, speaking out was not about creating division, but about protecting something she believes in. And as her message spreads, it signals a turning point—one where silence is no longer an option, and where the future of the national team may depend on what happens next.

     

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  • Fifi Sharma ignites Akari Chargers’ revival during their recent PVL victories

    Fifi Sharma ignites Akari Chargers’ revival during their recent PVL victories

    For the Akari Chargers, that spark has come in the form of Fifi Sharma. The 5-foot-11 middle blocker has transformed into the Chargers’ emotional engine in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, turning hustle plays and net defense into statements. 


    After a rocky four-game slide to open the season, Akari needed more than adjustments — it needed fire and Sharma supplied it.

     

    In a gripping five-set victory over the Cignal Super Spikers, 25-23, 20-25, 11-25, 25-23, 15-12, Sharma delivered 16 points built on 11 attacks and five crucial blocks. 

     

    The win not only snapped lingering doubts but also knocked off the former league leaders, restoring belief inside the Akari camp. But Sharma’s impact goes beyond the stat sheet.

     

    “Yes, super yes for me, especially kasi yun yung nakakapag-contribute, like yung energy ko sa loob ng court. Yun kasi yung nagbibigay sa akin ng purpose to play for my teammates kasi ayoko silang naaapi or ayoko silang — basta, ganun ako. Ako na lang yung mag-step up. Sige, bigay niyo na sa akin ’to, ako na yung magra—‘rawr.’ I love that!” Sharma said. 

     

    When rallies stretch and pressure mounts, Sharma has embraced the responsibility of stepping forward, not waiting for someone else to seize control.

     

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    For the former De La Salle University standout, the victory represented more than a tally in the win column.

     

    “This game talaga. I feel like monumental sa team, especially to get our momentum going, kasi nga we had a very bad start. So ngayon yung chance namin para magkaroon ng magandang momentum, and I feel like that’s my motivation playing for my teammates and contribute as much as I can to get the win,” said Sharma, the 24-year-old middle blocker.

     

    The atmosphere inside the arena amplified that surge. Special guests from the Sisters of Mary Girls Town in Cavite filled the stands with youthful energy, their cheers echoing through long rallies and late-set comebacks.

     

    “Ang saya ng laro kapag ganun yung energy when you can see the passion. ’Yun din nakatulong siya kasi apart from the people cheering, andaming nanood today,” she said. 

     

    The numbers back up the narrative. Sharma currently ranks among the league’s top 10 blockers this preliminary round, tallying 16 blocks, 57 total points, and averaging 0.76 blocks per set.

     

    Head coach Tina Salak sees the bigger picture. The comeback win highlighted not just skill, but composure.

     

    “Magandang start yung makikita mo sila in a body language na… Yun nga, sabi nila competitive and energized sila, not because of other people, because kailangan din namin makuha yun,” Salak said. 

     

    That balance between emotion and discipline may define Akari’s trajectory moving forward. The Chargers now prepare for another high-voltage encounter against the Capital1 Solar Spikers at the FilOil Centre on Saturday. 

     

     

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