CANDON, Ilocos Sur – Alyssa Valdez has witnessed Philippine volleyball evolve right before her eyes, and the 2026 Volleyball All-Star Showcase served as a clear reminder of just how far the sport has come — and where it is heading.
For the longtime face of the game, the exhibition was more than just a gathering of stars. It was a reflection of depth, growth, and a thriving community that continues to expand with each passing year.
Inside the packed Candon City Arena here, the energy was unmistakable. Fans cheered not only for their favorites, but for the sport itself — an atmosphere that Valdez believes speaks volumes about volleyball’s current state in the country.
The All-Star event brought together established names and rising talents from both the Premier Volleyball League and the Spikers’ Turf, showcasing a blend of experience and youth that highlighted the leagues’ growing competitiveness.
(C) PVL Images
Valdez, who played a pivotal role in the sport’s rise, now finds herself sharing the spotlight with a new wave of players eager to make their mark.
For her, that shift is something to celebrate rather than resist.
“Nakakatuwa kasi napaka — ‘yung players are quality talaga. Talagang marami tayong volleyball players, and I would say they are quality players,” said the Creamline star, who scored 10 points to help Team Heart secure a 25-18, 18-25, 25-23, 25-17 win over Team Hustle.
“That’s, I think, one thing that we can bank on moving forward in the next few years — na meron tayong volleyball community na susuportahan at meron tayong opportunity to have a career in volleyball,” she added.
With more athletes emerging and opportunities widening, the foundation of Philippine volleyball appears stronger than ever.
Valdez pointed to the next generation — led by players like Bella Belen — as a key reason for optimism, noting how young stars are already stepping into leadership roles while pushing veterans to stay sharp.
“I think it’s because, for sure, ‘yan sila Bella na isa sa mga magli-lead diyan sa younger generation, and sa amin din, nagiging inspirasyon namin ‘yung mga kabataan,” said the three-time league MVP.
(C) PVL Images
Beyond the competition, however, what stood out most for Valdez was the spirit surrounding the event: the camaraderie, the shared joy, and the connection between players and fans. And she hopes that the Volleyball All-Star Showcase was able to spread good vibes across the volleyball community.
“Pero ayun, I’m very, very happy, and sana — isa lang ‘yung wish ko talaga — magkaroon ng… We spread good vibes in the whole community on and off the court. Maraming salamat po, especially sa nagkaroon ng All-Star na ganito. Sana nakita ng lahat na good vibes and happy for everybody.”
