ILAGAN, ISABELA — During Petro Gazz’s championship run in the 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, some critics were quick to label Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Phillips as “imports.”
But the criticism was misguided. Both standout Angels are Filipino-Americans, proudly carrying their heritage — and now, their flag.
For Van Sickle, who made her debut with Alas Pilipinas in the VTV Cup last June, the chance to finally suit up for the Philippines was nothing short of meaningful.
“It’s an amazing feeling,” she said on Saturday at the Capital Arena here in Ilagan during the PVL On Tour. “I mean, I’ve always wanted to be recognized, MJ too, as Filipino. We are of Filipino blood, and we want to represent our country as best as we can. To finally be able to have that opportunity is huge and awesome. It’s heartwarming.
“That’s our dream and goal, and it’s finally coming together, and we can’t be happier. It’s awesome to be able to meet all the girls and coaching staff, and everyone. It’s just an awesome experience.”
While the official transfer of federation for Van Sickle, Phillips, and even Tia Andaya is still pending, the trio was allowed to suit up for Alas Pilipinas in the VTV Cup since it is not an FIVB-sanctioned tournament — giving them a rare opportunity to play under the flag.
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Van Sickle made the most of that opportunity, emerging as one of the team’s top scorers in several matches as the Philippines placed fourth in a tournament featuring national squads from Vietnam and Chinese Taipei, along with club teams from Russia, Thailand, and China.
“It was surreal. It was just an awesome experience and opportunity to be able to wear the flag on my chest, represent our country,” Van Sickle said.
“It was just an honor to be able to meet the girls finally. I always hear about all the top stars of the PVL, and it’s cool to finally get to know everyone personally.”
She also spoke about the bond formed off the court, particularly with her roommate during the tournament.
“Eya Laure was my roommate, and it’s phenomenal, a super cool experience to not only represent our country and give our best and fight really hard but also develop connection and chemistry and all those friendships,” she shared. “I’m just really excited to see how the future goes. I’m just super happy. It’s just awesome.”
With the federation transfer process still underway, Van Sickle remains hopeful that she’ll get more chances to wear the national colors. But should the outcome be different, she’s ready to support from the sidelines.
“It’s out of our control, but we can only sit and continue to wait. I’m very excited and hopefully it works out for the best,” she said.
“If it doesn’t, everyone’s gonna be phenomenal anyways. I’m just excited—if I can wear the flag? Then amazing. If I can’t? Then I’m gonna be cheering as hard as possible. I’m just waiting and seeing what happens.”
#WATCH: Brooke Van Sickle expresses her excitement to represent the Philippines again, but says that even if she doesn’t suit up, she’ll continue supporting Alas Pilipinas all the way! 🇵🇭🏐
🎥 @justinvalencia_ /Tiebreaker Times#PVLonTour pic.twitter.com/QGRzWYJq2O
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) July 12, 2025
