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Tag: PVL

  • Cignal standout Erika Santos reveals the PVL stars shaping her rise with the Super Spikers  

    Cignal standout Erika Santos reveals the PVL stars shaping her rise with the Super Spikers  

    As Erika Santos continues to carve out her place as one of Cignal’s emerging stars, the rising opposite spiker made it clear that her game has been built as much on observation as it has on talent.

     

    For a young player still finding new layers to unlock in the PVL, growth has not only come from training sessions and match reps, but also from watching the veterans she hopes to learn from and eventually stand alongside.

     

    That is why when asked about the players whose style has influenced her the most, Santos did not point to just one kind of athlete.

     

    Instead, she named a group that reflects the many parts of the game she is still trying to master — from composure and intelligence to competitiveness and control.

     

    At the top of her list is Farm Fresh veteran Ara Galang, a player Santos clearly sees as the complete package when it comes to experience and feel for the game.

     

    For Santos, Galang’s value goes beyond scoring or star power. What stands out most is the way she continues to thrive despite the years, relying on smart decisions and refined instincts that younger players are still trying to develop.

     

    “Ate Ara kasi kahit na matagal siya naglalaro, nandun pa rin ‘yung gulang. ‘Yung skills nandiyan eh, so matalino. Sobrang idol siya.”

     

    That choice says a lot about where Santos sees the next step in her own evolution.

     

    Already known for her attacking punch and her ability to take over stretches offensively, Santos appears to be looking beyond physical tools now and toward the subtler qualities that help players last and lead in the professional game.

     

    Another player who left a strong impression on her is former PLDT star Savi Davison, whose edge and intensity clearly resonated with the young Cignal hitter.

     

    While Davison’s game is often defined by power and production, Santos singled out something deeper — the competitive fire that seems to shape every point she plays.

     

    “Tapos top 3 si Savi. Competitive siya and gusto kong ma-adapt din kung paano siya maglaro.”

    That kind of competitiveness is something Santos has already begun showing more often in her own game.

     

    Her rise with Cignal has not just been about talent translating to the pro level, but also about learning how to assert herself more consistently in pressure moments and bigger matches.

     

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    Santos also made sure to mention someone she sees every day in training and competition — Cignal setter Gel Cayuna.

     

    If Galang represents experience and Davison represents edge, then Cayuna represents structure, rhythm, and the ability to make an offense breathe. For a scorer like Santos, that influence matters just as much.

     

    “Top 4, si Gel. Setting distribution and ‘yung style niya, which is okay naman ngayon.”

     

    That answer also quietly reflects the chemistry Cignal has been building this conference. With Cayuna steering the offense and Santos becoming one of its most reliable finishers, the Super Spikers have started to look like a team whose pieces are not just talented individually, but increasingly aligned in how they want to play.

     

    Rounding out Santos’ list is veteran middle blocker Mika Reyes, whose impact she admires not for flair, but for steadiness.

     

    In a sport where momentum can swing quickly and emotions can shift from set to set, Santos pointed to Reyes’ calm and control as qualities worth emulating.

     

    “Tapos last si ate Yeye. ‘Yung blockings and kung paano siya maging composed all throughout the game.”

     

    Taken together, Santos’ choices paint a fuller picture of the player she is trying to become.

     

    She is not only studying scorers or stars who mirror her position. She is drawing from smart veterans, fiery competitors, composed defenders, and elite playmakers — a sign that her development is rooted in becoming more complete, not just more explosive.

     

    That makes sense for a player whose own rise has already started to gain real momentum.

    Santos has quickly become one of the key names in Cignal’s climb, and her breakout performances — including the run that earned her MVP honors during the PVL on Tour — have shown that she is no longer simply a promising talent, but someone beginning to establish a real presence in the league.

     

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  • Brooke Van Sickle commends team effort as Nxled keeps PVL semis bid alive

    Brooke Van Sickle commends team effort as Nxled keeps PVL semis bid alive

    The Nxled Chameleons may not have fully found their rhythm in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference, but they continue to show resilience and composure when it matters most—keeping their semifinal hopes alive with a crucial victory.

     

    Nxled booked their spot in the next phase of the Play-In round after sweeping the Galeries Tower Highrisers, 25-23, 25-18, 25-23, on Saturday, March 28, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. While the straight-sets result suggested control, the contest itself was far from straightforward, as the Chameleons had to fend off multiple surges from a determined Galeries side that refused to back down.

     

    From the opening set, Nxled was forced to stay sharp against a Highrisers squad that had already proven capable of pulling off upsets earlier in the conference. The Chameleons leaned on their experience in the closing moments of each set, particularly in the first and third frames where execution in crunch time spelled the difference.

     

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    Leading the charge was team captain Brooke Van Sickle, who once again anchored Nxled with her leadership and steady presence on the court. Beyond her on-court contributions, Van Sickle emphasized the importance of composure and unity, especially against an opponent that had previously tested them.

     

    “Early in the preliminaries, Galeries upset some teams, especially us. I already knew they were going to be tough and come out firing. Even in the third set, they were still battling until the end, so we just stayed calm and collected,” Van Sickle said.

     

    Despite some inconsistencies throughout the conference, the Chameleons showed flashes of cohesion and mental toughness—qualities that could prove crucial as the competition intensifies. Van Sickle highlighted the team’s ability to stay together through adversity, pointing to their collective effort rather than individual brilliance.

    “There were a few road bumps, but I’m proud of all the girls for sticking together and working as a team, whoever was on the court. I’m really proud of everyone,” she added.

     

    The win not only keeps Nxled in contention but also reinforces their identity as a team capable of grinding out results even without playing at peak form. Contributions came from across the roster, with different players stepping up in key moments to maintain control whenever Galeries threatened to swing momentum.

     

    Van Sickle, who holds the distinction of being the first-ever Most Valuable Player in PVL history, also took time to acknowledge the growth and potential of their opponents. The Galeries Tower Highrisers, one of the younger squads in the league, showed significant promise throughout the conference and pushed Nxled to stay disciplined until the final point.

     

    “I thought Galeries had a really good run. They are going to be very lethal in the future. They already did well,” Van Sickle concluded.

     

    With the victory, Nxled now turns its attention to an even tougher challenge ahead. The Chameleons will face the Farm Fresh Foxies on Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil Centre, with a coveted semifinal berth on the line. As the stakes rise, Nxled will need to elevate its level of play and maintain the composure that carried them through this latest test if they hope to extend their campaign deeper into the conference.

     

     

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  • Jia De Guzman praises rise of modern setters in Philippine volleyball

    Jia De Guzman praises rise of modern setters in Philippine volleyball

    After a two-year hiatus from the domestic scene, Jia De Guzman has finally made her much-anticipated return to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), once again donning the colors of the Creamline Cool Smashers in the ongoing 2026 All-Filipino Conference.

     

    Widely regarded as one of the greatest volleyball players in Philippine history—and arguably the finest setter the PVL has ever seen—De Guzman resumes her domestic career with an already decorated résumé. The 30-year-old playmaker owns eight PVL Best Setter awards and holds the league’s all-time record for most excellent sets in a single match with 71, a testament to her consistency, court vision, and leadership.

     

    Her return comes after a successful stint overseas with the Denso Airybees in the V.League, where she further refined her craft against top international competition. Now back in the Philippines as captain of Alas Pilipinas, De Guzman brings with her a wealth of experience—and a fresh perspective on how the local game has evolved during her absence.

     

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    In her recent outing, De Guzman tallied 31 excellent sets in Creamline’s tough loss to the Cignal HD Spikers, a performance that highlighted her steady playmaking despite the defeat. However, the spotlight was shared with opposing setter Gel Cayuna, who delivered an impressive 35 excellent sets to help deny Creamline an outright semifinal berth.

    Following the match, De Guzman spoke candidly about the noticeable transformation among setters in the league, particularly their growing role as offensive contributors rather than just facilitators.

     

    “It’s a huge thing when setters are also part of the offense. It leaves the opponent guessing. Gel played very well today, with the help of her teammates. I love seeing the evolution of setters here in the Philippines. The league gets more excited. I am excited to see the upcoming games,” De Guzman said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    Her remarks reflect a broader shift in Philippine volleyball, where modern setters are now expected to be more dynamic—capable of scoring, attacking on second balls, and dictating tempo beyond traditional playmaking duties. For De Guzman, who has long been a standard-bearer at the position, this evolution signals a promising future for the sport.

     

    Despite Creamline’s setback, De Guzman continues to lead the league in the Best Setter race, amassing 196 excellent sets for an average of 5.44 per set—numbers that reaffirm her elite status even after time spent competing abroad.

     

    As the conference enters a crucial stretch, the Cool Smashers now turn their attention to a high-stakes Play-In matchup against the Akari Chargers on Tuesday, April 7, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. With their championship aspirations hanging in the balance, Creamline will once again rely on De Guzman’s leadership, composure, and playmaking brilliance to guide them forward.

     

    Her return not only strengthens Creamline’s bid for another title but also adds another compelling chapter to her already storied career—one that continues to shape and elevate Philippine volleyball.

     

     

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  • PVL All-Star: Erika Santos, Jema Galanza emerge as new favorites in latest All-Star fan voting returns 

    PVL All-Star: Erika Santos, Jema Galanza emerge as new favorites in latest All-Star fan voting returns 

    The 2026 Volleyball All-Star Showcase is beginning to look less like a popularity contest dominated by familiar stars and more like a snapshot of where fan energy is shifting across the sport.

     

    When the second fan vote returns were released, the biggest takeaway was not just who remained on top—it was how many new challengers forced their way into the conversation.

     

     Across both Team Heart and Team Hustle, several races tightened, a few established names were pushed down the ladder, and a wave of momentum from rising or resurgent players suddenly changed the complexion of the event.

     

    Nowhere was that shift more obvious than in the outside hitter race for Team Heart, where injured Jema Galanza still managed to surge to the top. Despite being sidelined, the Creamline Cool Smashers star climbed past Bella Belen and teammate Alyssa Valdez, claiming 27.15 percent of the votes and proving that fan loyalty can remain strong even without recent on-court visibility.

     

    Belen, one of the most productive players of the conference, still held firm in a starting spot with 16.03 percent, while Valdez dropped to third at 15.48 percent. That trio alone shows how crowded and competitive the wing race has become, with star power, current form, and fanbase strength all colliding in one category.

     

    But if one player truly made a statement in the latest tally, it may have been Erika Santos. The Cignal Super Spikers standout made one of the sharpest climbs in any category, taking command of the Team Heart opposite hitter race with 44.57 percent of the vote. In doing so, she overtook Ara Galang of Farm Fresh Foxies, who slipped to second with 27.11 percent.

     

    That rise feels especially notable given how Cignal’s recent surge has translated into stronger fan support. Santos is not just benefiting from name recall—she is being rewarded for relevance, and the voting reflects that.

     

    A similar trend emerged in the middle blocker race, where Jeanette Panaga of Creamline continued to anchor the top spot with 33.39 percent. But the more eye-catching development was the jump made by MJ Phillips of Nxled Chameleons, who rose all the way from fifth in the first returns to second with 21.56 percent.

     

    That kind of leap suggests fans are not simply voting based on established hierarchy anymore. Strong stretches, breakout performances, and timely visibility are beginning to carry more weight, making the All-Star race feel more fluid than usual.

     

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    Elsewhere on Team Heart, some categories have remained more stable. Justine Jazareno of Akari Chargers continues to dominate the libero race with 50.48 percent, while Jia De Guzman remains the runaway leader at setter with a commanding 79.91 percent.

     

    Over on Team Hustle, however, the reshuffling may have been even more dramatic.

     

    The biggest mover there was Alyssa Eroa, who pulled off one of the most impressive jumps in the latest returns. After sitting in fourth place with just 10.55 percent in the first tally, the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles libero vaulted to first with 35.22 percent, overtaking Kathleen Arado of PLDT High Speed Hitters, who now sits second at 23.33 percent.

     

    That swing alone may be one of the clearest examples of how quickly All-Star momentum can change once fan campaigns and recent performances begin to sync.

     

    The outside hitter race on Team Hustle has also tightened into one of the event’s most compelling battles. Bernadeth Pons of Creamline still holds the slimmest of leads with 32.89 percent, but Eya Laure of Choco Mucho Flying Titans is now right behind her with 32.08 percent.

     

    That razor-thin margin makes it one of the few categories where the next update could easily flip the order again, especially with both players carrying strong support and wide visibility.

     

    At opposite spiker, Tots Carlos has created more breathing room than anyone else in her bracket. The Creamline scorer widened her advantage to 54.08 percent, while Kim Kianna Dy of PLDT remained in second with 21.81 percent.

     

    Meanwhile, the Team Hustle middle blocker race remains split between two proven frontcourt names, with Mika Reyes of PLDT at 26.24 percent and Fifi Sharma of Akari at 30.23 percent. At setter, Kim Fajardo continues to hold firm control with 59.42 percent.

     

    What the second returns make clear is that this year’s All-Star voting is no longer being shaped by reputation alone.

     

    The stars are still there, and many of them remain in strong positions. But increasingly, the board is being pushed by players whose recent form, visibility, and momentum have made them impossible for fans to ignore.

     

    And if these latest numbers are any indication, the race for the final starting spots is only getting more unpredictable. 

     

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  • PVL All-Filipino Conference: Savannah Davison, Mhicaela Belen head early projected Individual Award winners

    PVL All-Filipino Conference: Savannah Davison, Mhicaela Belen head early projected Individual Award winners

    As the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference heads into the semifinals, the race for individual honors is heating up. Among the frontrunners, Savannah Davison of the PLDT High Speed Hitters stands out not only for her scoring and spiking prowess but also for her team’s dominance. 

     

    Davison ranks third in total points with 185, and her spiking efficiency of 34.23% has powered the No. 1 team in the conference. Her combination of elite production and playoff relevance makes her the early favorite for Conference MVP.

     

    Right alongside her in the award conversation is Mhicaela Belen of Capital1 Solar Spikers, who led the league in total points with 218. While her team’s early elimination in the play-in round weakens her MVP chances, Belen’s statistical dominance cannot be ignored. 

     

    Her high-volume scoring and consistent output put her in contention for positional honors, particularly Best Outside Spiker, where production and impact matter most.

     

    Cherry Ann Rondina of Choco Mucho Flying Titans rounds out the early frontrunners in the outside spiker category. Rondina tallied 178 points, ranking fourth in total scoring, and contributed significantly in serving and reception efficiency. 

     

    Despite her team bowing out early, Rondina’s all-around stats ensure she remains a strong candidate for positional awards.

     

    Cignal Super Spikers, the conference’s second-best team, also injects star power into the mix with Vanessa “Vanie” Gandler and Erika Santos. Gandler ranks sixth in scoring with 166 points, seventh in spiking efficiency at 31.60%, and sixth in reception efficiency, anchoring Cignal’s two-way game. 

     

    Meanwhile, Santos has delivered 139 total points, ranked third in spiking efficiency at 35.53%, and contributed with 124 attacks, showing she can be counted on in both front- and back-row situations.

     

    Their combined performance has propelled Cignal to the top tier of the conference highlighted by a combined 46-point effort to push their team past Creamline in the early qualifying round, making both players serious contenders for Best Outside Spiker and even MVP consideration should their team reach the finals.

     

    In the middle blocker category, Mary Joy Baron of PLDT and Jeannette Panaga of Creamline remain the leading choices. Baron’s defensive presence and blocking average of 0.79 per set anchor PLDT’s front line, while Panaga balances blocking and serving, providing one of the most versatile middle blocker résumés in the league. 

     

    Meanwhile, Trisha Tubu of Farm Fresh Foxies continues to dominate as Best Opposite Spiker with 189 total points, a league-leading spiking efficiency of 40.99%, and 0.71 blocks per set.

     

    Setter honors appear to be heading toward Jia De Guzman of Creamline, whose 5.44 excellent sets per set top the league, though Kim Fajardo of PLDT could mount a late challenge if her team’s strong finish continues. 

     

    The libero race is still led by Tonnie Rose Ponce of Choco Mucho, with 4.71 digs per set, but Alyssa Eroa of ZUS Coffee is close behind with elite back-row efficiency at 43.37%, making this category one of the most open.

     

    As the semifinals unfold, voters will weigh not just raw statistics but team success and playoff relevance. At this stage, Savannah Davison, Mhicaela Belen, Cherry Rondina, Vanessa Gandler, and Erika Santos are shaping up as the leading projected award winners, blending individual brilliance with the impact of being key players on the conference’s top-performing squads.

     

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    Projected PVL Individual Awards Leaderboard – 2026 All-Filipino Conference

     

    Most Valuable Player (MVP) – best overall player of the conference

    • Savannah Davison (PLDT High Speed Hitters) – 185 points, 34.23% spiking efficiency, No.1 team
    • Vanessa Gandler (Cignal Super Spikers) – 166 points, 31.60% spiking efficiency, 2nd-best team
    • Mhicaela Belen (Capital1 Solar Spikers) – 218 points (league leader), team eliminated early

    Best Outside Spikers – the top wing scorers / all-around OHs

    • Mhicaela Belen (Capital1 Solar Spikers) – 218 points, high-volume attacker
    • Cherry Ann Rondina (Choco Mucho Flying Titans) – 178 points, strong serve & reception
    • Savannah Davison (PLDT High Speed Hitters) – 185 points, spiking efficiency 34.23%
    • Vanessa Gandler (Cignal Super Spikers) – 166 points, 31.60% spiking efficiency
    • Erika Santos (Cignal Super Spikers) – 139 points, 35.53% spiking efficiency

    Best Middle Blockers – best net defenders / quick attackers

    • Mary Joy Baron (PLDT High Speed Hitters) – 26 blocks, 0.79 avg per set
    • Jeannette Panaga (Creamline Cool Smashers) – 26 blocks, versatile front-row stats

    Best Opposite Spiker – top opposite / right-side hitter

    • Trisha Tubu (Farm Fresh Foxies) – 189 points, 40.99% spiking efficiency, 0.71 blocks per set

    Best Setter – top playmaker

    • Julia Melissa De Guzman (Creamline Cool Smashers) – 5.44 excellent sets per set
    • Kim Fajardo (PLDT High Speed Hitters) – 4.88 excellent sets per set

    Best Libero – best defensive specialist

    • Tonnie Rose Ponce (Choco Mucho Flying Titans) – 179 digs, 4.71 digs per set
    • Alyssa Eroa (ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles) – 97 receptions, 43.37% reception efficiency

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  • Gel Cayuna earns PVL Player of the Week honors as Cignal barges into semis 

    Gel Cayuna earns PVL Player of the Week honors as Cignal barges into semis 

    Gel Cayuna proved once again why she is one of the most reliable floor generals in Philippine volleyball, guiding the Cignal Super Spikers past the Creamline Cool Smashers and into the semifinals of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference. 

     

    Her blend of steady playmaking and scoring aggression turned what could have been a tense matchup into a showcase of poise and leadership, reminding fans why the veteran setter continues to command respect in the league.

     

    The pivotal moment came in a five-set thriller against the defending champions at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, where Cayuna delivered 34 excellent sets and 11 points to fuel Cignal’s 25-21, 24-26, 18-25, 25-22, 17-15 win. 

     

    Facing off against the Cool Smashers’ celebrated setter Jia Morado-De Guzman, Cayuna didn’t just keep pace—she dictated the tempo, orchestrating her team’s offense while also contributing crucial points at key moments. The performance earned her the PVL Press Corps Player of the Week award for March 24 to 28, a nod to her ability to rise when it matters most.

     

    “Sa ensayo kasi tinanong kami ni coach kung ano ‘yung goal namin na points and excellent sets, so sabi ko kasi 30 plus—’yung sinabi ko [sa sets] and double digits sa score. 

     

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    So talagang nagawa ko,” said Cayuna, reflecting on her remarkable effort. The 27-year-old four-time PVL Best Setter emphasized that her performance was a result of preparation and commitment, not just natural skill, highlighting the synergy between her vision and her teammates’ execution.

     

    Cignal coach Shaq Delos Santos noted that Cayuna set a standard for the team that became both motivation and blueprint in their victory over the 10-time champion. “Nag-commit naman sila kasi sabi ko kailangan ‘yung intention natin. Ano ba ‘yung gusto nating gawin para manalo, which is ‘yung mga binitawan nila sa amin doon sa huddle namin,” he said. 

     

    The veteran setter’s leadership allowed the team to channel past frustrations and come back stronger, scoring a statement win over the squad that had previously defeated them in a five-set clash during the preliminary round.

     

    Delos Santos also pointed to the growth of the Cignal core as a key factor in their success. “I think may factor siya [mga hirap na pinagdaanan ng team] plus siguro ‘yung core rin nung team, kung paano sila nag-grow and nag-improve, kung paano nila ginugusto ‘yung ginagawa nila, plus ‘yung binibigay namin na mga skills, at mga situational, kung ano kailangang maramdaman, kung ano ‘yung kailangang gawin,” he said. 

     

    The combination of tactical execution and mental toughness, anchored by Cayuna’s leadership, gave the Super Spikers the edge in high-pressure situations, ultimately propelling them into the semifinals.

     

    With a couple of weeks to prepare before the Final Four begins on April 11 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Cayuna and Cignal now shift focus to the next challenge. The message is clear: under her guidance, the Super Spikers are not just content to reach the semis—they are determined to go further.

     

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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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  • Erika Santos uses pro-Creamline crowd as motivation to lead Cignal to the PVL semifinals 

    Erika Santos uses pro-Creamline crowd as motivation to lead Cignal to the PVL semifinals 

    The Cignal Super Spikers secured their spot in the semifinals of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference after surviving a heart-stopping, five-set thriller against the Creamline Cool Smashers. The match, held on Thursday, March 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, ended 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 15-17, in favor of Cignal during the Qualifying Round.

     

    The encounter showcased not only skill and star power but also the resilience and tactical discipline that have become hallmarks of the Super Spikers. Cignal’s victory over one of the league’s perennial contenders emphasized both the team’s depth and their ability to execute under pressure. With the semifinals now within reach, the win also serves as a confidence booster as the tournament enters its decisive stages.

     

    Leading the charge for Cignal was Erika Santos, who delivered a spectacular all-around performance. Santos finished with 26 points, including 23 attacks, two blocks, and an ace, repeatedly stepping up at critical junctures to keep the Super Spikers within striking distance. Her ability to perform in high-pressure moments proved pivotal in a match that swung back and forth between the two elite squads.

     

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    The former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout also revealed that the vocal, pro-Creamline crowd, which filled the arena with energy and jeers, served as added motivation rather than a distraction.

    “For me naman, masarap maglaro na ‘yung crowd parang nasa kabilang team lahat – so for me, ginawa ko siyang motivation. Ginawa ko siyang motivation kasi may mga fans na nagbu-boo or what, tapos nagkakapuntos ka, parang nakaka-proud lang na ‘bakit ang daming doubters, ito ako,” Santos said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    “Parang tine-take ko lang siya as motivation instead na tumiklop sa maraming tao. It feels good na maglaro with that crowd,” she added, underscoring her competitive mindset and poise under pressure.

     

    Beyond Santos, the match was a showcase of Cignal’s cohesive team dynamics and strategic preparation. The Super Spikers displayed remarkable composure, particularly during critical stretches of the match where momentum could easily have swung in Creamline’s favor. The team’s disciplined rotations, quick transitions, and effective communication allowed them to execute key plays and capitalize on opportunities despite the hostile atmosphere.

     

    The win also reflected the team’s commitment to improvement after earlier matches in the conference. Adjustments in defensive schemes, serve-receive formations, and attack strategies demonstrated that Cignal’s coaching staff and players have been closely analyzing opponents and fine-tuning their approach for high-stakes matches.

     

    With this victory, Cignal now turns its focus to the semifinals, where even tougher opponents await. The team’s current form, combined with the confidence gained from outlasting Creamline, positions the Super Spikers as a legitimate contender for the championship. If their performance in this thriller is any indication, Cignal is peaking at the perfect time, blending individual brilliance with disciplined teamwork in pursuit of PVL glory.

     

    Fans can expect the Super Spikers to carry this momentum forward, relying on their depth, experience, and the fire ignited by matches like this as they take the next step toward what could be a historic championship run.

     

     

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  • Vanie Gandler relishes Cignal’s breakthrough win against rival Creamline

    Vanie Gandler relishes Cignal’s breakthrough win against rival Creamline

    For Cignal, beating Creamline was never just about one match. It was about finally breaking through in the kind of game that had repeatedly slipped away from the Super Spikers in the past.


    On Thursday night, that burden was still there, but this time it did not define the ending. Instead, Vanie Gandler turned those painful memories into motivation and helped power Cignal to a breakthrough 25-21, 24-26, 18-25, 25-22, 17-15 victory to clinch a semifinal berth in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

     

    It was more than just a win. For a team that had endured too many close losses in crucial moments, it felt like a release.

     

    Cignal had already experienced this exact kind of heartbreak before, especially against Creamline. Just five days earlier, the Super Spikers had dropped another painful five-set match to the Cool Smashers to close the preliminaries, making Thursday’s rematch feel even heavier.

     

    That recent loss, along with others before it, stayed with Vanie Gandler heading into the match.

    “We know how painful it is to lose our crucial games. We’ve been through it so many times,” she said during the post-game press conference.

     

    “So, I think that’s what we all always hold in our hearts, and we use that as our motivation to really fight with one another.”

     

    That mindset showed when the match began to tighten. Even as Creamline made its expected late push, Cignal stayed composed and refused to unravel in another high-pressure finish.

    At the center of that steadiness was Gandler, who once again showed that her value goes far beyond scoring. She finished with 22 points, 28 excellent receptions, and 13 digs, delivering one of her most complete performances of the conference.

     

    Whether it was stabilizing the floor, keeping rallies alive, or scoring in key stretches, Gandler remained at the heart of everything Cignal was trying to do.

     

    She also had plenty of help. Erika Santos provided the scoring punch with 26 points, while Gel Cayuna expertly ran the offense with 35 excellent sets and added 11 points of her own.

     

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    Together, they gave Cignal the balance and poise it has often searched for in pressure games against top-level opponents.

     

    The win became even more impressive considering the setting. The Smart Araneta Coliseum crowd heavily favored Creamline, but Gandler said the atmosphere barely registered once the match settled into its tense rhythm.

     

    “In matches like this, sometimes you’re so focused on the court. Sometimes, it’s scarier to be on the bench,” she said. “You don’t even notice anymore what’s going on because you’re so focused on what you need to do.”

     

    That focus mattered most in the fifth set, where Cignal had to survive multiple moments that could have broken them. The Super Spikers needed four match points before finally putting Creamline away, with the Cool Smashers repeatedly refusing to let the match end.

     

    That was what made the breakthrough feel so meaningful. In the kind of finish that had hurt them before, Cignal finally became the team that stayed upright long enough to finish the job.

     

    For a team that has often looked capable of contending but struggled to close the biggest matches, Thursday’s result may mean more than just a place in the semifinals. It may also be proof that the Super Spikers are finally learning how to win the matches that used to break them.

     

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  • Gel Cayuna backs up bold promise in Cignal’s win over Creamline

    Gel Cayuna backs up bold promise in Cignal’s win over Creamline

    The Cignal Super Spikers punched their ticket to the semifinals of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference after outlasting the Creamline Cool Smashers in a thrilling five-set battle, 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 15-17, during the Qualifying Round on Thursday, March 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

     

    In a match that showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and star power on both sides, Cignal leaned on a total team effort to overcome the league’s perennial contenders. The victory not only secured their place in the semifinals but also underscored their growing confidence as the tournament enters its final stretch.

     

    Leading the charge was Erika Santos, who delivered a standout performance with 26 points built on 23 attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Santos consistently provided the offensive spark, stepping up in crucial moments to keep Cignal within striking distance throughout the tightly contested encounter.

     

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    Backing her up was Vanie Gandler, who turned in an all-around performance with 22 points, while anchoring the team’s floor defense with 28 excellent receptions and 13 digs. Her stability in both offense and defense proved vital in neutralizing Creamline’s relentless attacks.

     

    However, the defining presence on the court came from setter Gel Cayuna, who masterfully orchestrated Cignal’s offense. Cayuna tallied 35 excellent sets while also contributing 11 points, effectively controlling the tempo and ensuring her hitters were put in the best positions to score. Her performance was particularly remarkable given the expectations she had set for herself prior to the match.

    Cayuna had confidently declared before the game that she aimed to register at least 30 excellent sets and reach double digits in scoring against Creamline—a goal she ultimately fulfilled in emphatic fashion.

     

    “Coach asked us about our goals, like how many excellent sets and points we wanted. I said 30 plus sets and double digits in scoring – so I’m glad I was able to achieve that,” Cayuna said in the postmatch press conference.

     

    Beyond individual achievements, the victory was a testament to Cignal’s preparation and collective resolve following their previous outing. The team showed marked improvements in execution, particularly in crucial stretches where composure often spells the difference between victory and defeat.

     

    “We finally felt relieved because we learned a lot from our last game. Our preparation was intense. We really studied Creamline so we could win today. I’m just really happy because everyone held on and fought. Even the coaches put in so much effort to win this game. We are happy, but we will keep working as we head into the semifinals,” she added.

     

    Cignal head coach Shaq Delos Santos echoed Cayuna’s sentiments, praising his squad’s discipline and commitment to the game plan. For Delos Santos, the win was a clear reflection of how well his players embraced their roles and executed under pressure.

     

    “They really committed because I told them to focus on our intention – what we needed to do to win. They executed exactly what we asked from them, so I’m really happy and proud that they were able to do it,” Delos Santos continued.

     

    With momentum on their side, the Super Spikers now shift their focus to the semifinals, where tougher challenges await. If their performance against Creamline is any indication, Cignal is peaking at the right time—and shaping up to be a serious contender for the championship.

     

     

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