Jackie Acuña has emerged as one of Nxled’s biggest defensive weapons in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Siklab series, anchoring the Chameleons’ imposing presence at the net as they raced to an unbeaten 5-0 start.
The 26-year-old middle blocker has been at the forefront of Nxled’s defensive surge, helping the team establish itself as one of the tournament’s most formidable blocking units with an average of 13.8 blocks per game.
Acuña, in particular, has been a major force in that department, averaging 3.4 blocks per game to lead the Chameleons’ net defense.
The former PVL Best Middle Blocker said her impressive numbers are a product of preparation, discipline, and a concerted effort to understand the tendencies of every opponent they face.
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“Talagang as a blocker, ginagawa ko yung best ko,” said Acuña, who finished with seven points, including three blocks, in Nxled’s dominant 25-13, 25-20, 25-18 sweep of Capital1 on Saturday at the Philsports Arena.
“Talagang inaaral ko yung opponents ko. Once na mapabagal ko yung bola or ma-block ko, malaking tulong yun sa teammates ko sa likod.”
She also credited Nxled head coach Ettore Guidetti for his guidance, particularly in helping her sharpen her reads and execute the team’s defensive schemes.
“And with the help of our coaches, Coach Ettore always guides me, and I’m very thankful for that. Yieee, charot,” Acuña added.
Her preparation, however, extends beyond the court. Acuña revealed that studying opponents and understanding the scouting instructions provided by the coaching staff have become essential parts of her routine.
“Yung secret ko? Tulog lang. Charot. Yung effort lang sa pag-aaral kasi yung binibigay nila, Coach talagang dinadrawing niya. Inaaral din niya talaga by himself. And ayun, tulog at tiyaga,” she said.
With the Chameleons sitting atop the standings at 5-0 and their blocking game proving to be a major difference-maker, Acuña will remain a key figure as Nxled looks to sustain its unbeaten run and strengthen its bid for the Siklab series crown.
