CANDON, Ilocos Sur — Niña Ytang wasted little time making her presence felt in her Alas Pilipinas debut, helping set the tone in a commanding win over Uzbekistan in the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup, presented by the Philippine Sports Commission, on Saturday.
Ytang had recently withdrawn from the recent Premier Volleyball League Draft to focus on national team duty. Here, she teamed up with veterans Alyssa Valdez and Ces Molina in a lopsided 25-16, 25-12, 25-14 victory to open the Philippines’ Pool A campaign at 1-0.
The former University of the Philippines middle blocker delivered 12 points on eight attacks and four kill blocks in her much-anticipated national team debut in the tournament co-presented by the FIVB, AVC, Volleyball World, and Candon City headed by Mayor Eric Singson.
(C) AVC
Beyond her on-court contributions, team captain Valdez was struck by Ytang’s personality and fighting spirit, saying it helped energize the squad throughout their buildup and in their opening-day win.
“Niña Ytang is such a jolly person and gives energy to the team,” said the 32-year-old Valdez.
“More than her skills, I think her personality actually helps the team’s chemistry to be better and to improve our game in the next few games.”
Valdez also praised the younger players in the squad, led by Tin Ubaldo and Cla Loresco, as well as pool members Jaz Ellarina, Lara Mae Silva, and Natalie Estreller, among others.
With a clear mission to help develop the younger core, the three-time PVL MVP said she felt pleased with what she saw from the up-and-coming players, highlighting their leadership qualities and eagerness to learn.
“Nakakatuwa kasi leader na rin ‘yung mga bata ngayon,” she said.
“Grabe ‘yung personality nila and character development nila throughout the three weeks na we are together, so we are very, very happy to be here at makita rin ‘yung growth nila as individuals.”
