A remarkable journey awaits: the rise of the Alas Pilipinas Women's Volleyball Team. From a fresh start in 2024 to a regional powerhouse, they're now aiming for glory at the 2025 SEA Games. But here's where it gets interesting...
A New Era Begins
In 2024, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation unveiled a bold new vision with the 'Alas Pilipinas' program, a name that embodies national pride and confidence. And they've certainly lived up to it!
May 2024: A Fresh Start
On May 15, 2024, the PNVF officially introduced the Alas Pilipinas brand, marking a new chapter for both the men's and women's national teams. With a unified identity, they set out to redefine the Philippines' place in international volleyball.
Historic Bronze: The AVC Challenge Cup
Their first tournament under the new banner was a historic one. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, the Alas Women secured a bronze medal at the AVC Challenge Cup. This marked a significant milestone, as it was the country's first podium finish in an AVC-sanctioned tournament in over 60 years!
Team captain and setter Jia De Guzman led with precision and calm, earning praise for her leadership. Rising star Angel Canino made a stunning debut, powering the team's offense and clinching the Best Opposite Spiker award.
Building Consistency: The 2024 SEA V.League
Riding the wave of their continental success, the team carried their momentum into the 2024 SEA Women's V.League. Competing against the best in Southeast Asia, they earned back-to-back bronze medals, showcasing their growing consistency.
New additions like Alyssa Solomon and Dell Palomata made an impact, adding depth to the squad. De Guzman and Thea Gagate also took home individual awards, further solidifying their status as key players.
Silver in Hanoi: The AVC Nations Cup
The defining moment for Alas Pilipinas came in June 2025 at the AVC Women's Nations Cup in Hanoi, Vietnam. After a series of impressive wins, the Filipina spikers stormed into the Finals and secured a historic silver medal, their best-ever finish in a continental competition.
De Guzman's playmaking skills were on full display, ranking among the top setters. Angel Canino continued her scoring prowess, finishing among the AVC leaders in various categories. Eya Laure shone in the breakthrough semifinals victory against Chinese Taipei, showcasing her clutch performance.
Sustaining Success: The 2025 SEA V.League
Just weeks after their Nations Cup triumph, Alas returned to the regional stage with a strong showing. They claimed bronze medals in both legs of the 2025 SEA Women's V.League, held in Thailand and Vietnam.
The team's depth was evident, with Canino, Belen, and Palomata leading the way. Newcomer Justine Jazareno also made her mark, taking home the Best Libero award.
The Ultimate Challenge: SEA Games 2025
All eyes are now on the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand. It's been two decades since the Philippines last tasted SEA Games success, and they're hungry for more. With a strong lineup and experienced leadership, Alas Women are determined to raise the country's flag higher than ever.
The biennial meet will take place from December 10 to 19 at the Huamark Indoor Stadium in Bangkok. Will they bring home the gold?
And this is the part most people miss... the journey of a sportswriter like Kiko Demigillo, whose passion for games and athletes led him to a fulfilling career. He covers a wide range of sports, bringing us the stories of these incredible athletes.
What do you think? Will Alas Pilipinas Women bring home the gold at the SEA Games? Share your thoughts in the comments!
