As the 2025 AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup draws near, the Philippines once again rallies behind a team that has become a symbol of grit, unity, and national pride — Alas Pilipinas Women. With their 14-woman roster finally unveiled, the stage is set for a new chapter in the country’s volleyball journey — one defined by the perfect blend of seasoned veterans and fearless newcomers ready to conquer Asia.
Head coach Jorge de Brito has assembled a lineup that reflects both continuity and change — a mixture of experience, chemistry, and youthful energy.
Leading the charge are stalwarts Bella Belen, Eya Laure, and Angel Canino, three of the country’s most electrifying outside hitters who embody the fighting spirit of the modern Filipina athlete. They are joined by rising names like Shaina Nitura and Vanie Gandler, whose hunger for international competition adds depth to the squad.
The middle is fortified by the towering presence of Thea Gagate, Fifi Sharma, and Dell Palomata, ready to dominate the net with their height and timing. At the heart of the team’s playmaking is Jia De Guzman, whose leadership and court vision remain unmatched, supported by young setter Julia Coronel. Completing the defensive wall are Jen Nierva and Dawn Catindig, two liberos who bring agility and heart to the backcourt.
Opposite hitters Alyssa Solomon and Cla Loresco round out the team — both known for their versatility and clutch performances in pressure moments.
From Bronze to Bold Ambitions
Fresh from their historic bronze medal finish at the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup, Alas Pilipinas enters this year’s Nations Cup not just as participants, but as contenders. The bronze was a breakthrough — proof that the Philippines can stand toe-to-toe with Asia’s best. Now, the mission is clear: to transform that breakthrough into a new standard.
“This lineup represents the next step in our evolution,” De Brito shared in an interview. “We’re not just building a team — we’re building belief.”
Heart, Chemistry, and the Filipino Spirit
What makes this team different is not just skill, but chemistry. Many of the players have competed together in both collegiate and professional leagues, creating a familiarity that fuels their on-court synergy. Each spike, dig, and block isn’t just a move — it’s a reflection of months of shared sweat, sacrifice, and sisterhood.
For players like Eya Laure, wearing the national colors is more than an honor — it’s a calling.
“Every time I step on that court, I remember the people who believe in us,” she said. “We play not just for ourselves, but for every Filipino who dreams big.”
The Philippines will open its Nations Cup campaign on June 7 against Mongolia, before facing tough rivals like Indonesia, Iran, New Zealand, and Kazakhstan. It’s a daunting group — but one that could bring out the best in the team.
Analysts expect the key to victory will lie in defensive consistency and serve-receive stability, especially against taller, more experienced teams. But if there’s one thing Alas Pilipinas has proven, it’s that heart can match height — and passion can outplay pedigree.
Beyond the Court
Alas Pilipinas is more than a volleyball team — it’s a movement. Every dig and spike resonates beyond the sports hall, inspiring a generation of young Filipinos to dream, to persevere, and to believe in the power of teamwork.
From provincial courts to packed arenas, their rise has reignited the nation’s love for volleyball, and with the Nations Cup on the horizon, their story continues to inspire.
The Final Whistle
This year’s Alas Pilipinas lineup isn’t just a roster — it’s a reflection of a nation’s hope. Blending the courage of the past with the promise of the future, these 14 women carry the banner of Philippine volleyball with pride, passion, and purpose.
As they step onto the Asian stage once again, one thing is certain — win or lose, Alas Pilipinas will fight with heart.
Head coach Jorge de Brito has assembled a lineup that reflects both continuity and change — a mixture of experience, chemistry, and youthful energy.
Leading the charge are stalwarts Bella Belen, Eya Laure, and Angel Canino, three of the country’s most electrifying outside hitters who embody the fighting spirit of the modern Filipina athlete. They are joined by rising names like Shaina Nitura and Vanie Gandler, whose hunger for international competition adds depth to the squad.
The middle is fortified by the towering presence of Thea Gagate, Fifi Sharma, and Dell Palomata, ready to dominate the net with their height and timing. At the heart of the team’s playmaking is Jia De Guzman, whose leadership and court vision remain unmatched, supported by young setter Julia Coronel. Completing the defensive wall are Jen Nierva and Dawn Catindig, two liberos who bring agility and heart to the backcourt.
Opposite hitters Alyssa Solomon and Cla Loresco round out the team — both known for their versatility and clutch performances in pressure moments.
From Bronze to Bold Ambitions
Fresh from their historic bronze medal finish at the 2024 AVC Challenge Cup, Alas Pilipinas enters this year’s Nations Cup not just as participants, but as contenders. The bronze was a breakthrough — proof that the Philippines can stand toe-to-toe with Asia’s best. Now, the mission is clear: to transform that breakthrough into a new standard.
“This lineup represents the next step in our evolution,” De Brito shared in an interview. “We’re not just building a team — we’re building belief.”
Heart, Chemistry, and the Filipino Spirit
What makes this team different is not just skill, but chemistry. Many of the players have competed together in both collegiate and professional leagues, creating a familiarity that fuels their on-court synergy. Each spike, dig, and block isn’t just a move — it’s a reflection of months of shared sweat, sacrifice, and sisterhood.
For players like Eya Laure, wearing the national colors is more than an honor — it’s a calling.
“Every time I step on that court, I remember the people who believe in us,” she said. “We play not just for ourselves, but for every Filipino who dreams big.”
The Philippines will open its Nations Cup campaign on June 7 against Mongolia, before facing tough rivals like Indonesia, Iran, New Zealand, and Kazakhstan. It’s a daunting group — but one that could bring out the best in the team.
Analysts expect the key to victory will lie in defensive consistency and serve-receive stability, especially against taller, more experienced teams. But if there’s one thing Alas Pilipinas has proven, it’s that heart can match height — and passion can outplay pedigree.
Beyond the Court
Alas Pilipinas is more than a volleyball team — it’s a movement. Every dig and spike resonates beyond the sports hall, inspiring a generation of young Filipinos to dream, to persevere, and to believe in the power of teamwork.
From provincial courts to packed arenas, their rise has reignited the nation’s love for volleyball, and with the Nations Cup on the horizon, their story continues to inspire.
The Final Whistle
This year’s Alas Pilipinas lineup isn’t just a roster — it’s a reflection of a nation’s hope. Blending the courage of the past with the promise of the future, these 14 women carry the banner of Philippine volleyball with pride, passion, and purpose.
As they step onto the Asian stage once again, one thing is certain — win or lose, Alas Pilipinas will fight with heart.
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Written by Insight PH
Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
