Following Petro Gazz’s surprising decision to take a leave of absence, Nxled has moved decisively, securing the services of three former Angels in what appears to be the start of an aggressive recruitment push ahead of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
The Chameleons announced on Tuesday the addition of veteran outside hitter Jonah Sabete, reliable playmaker Djanel Cheng, and steady middle blocker Ranya Musa to bolster their young core.
The signings come amid reports that a proposed merger between Petro Gazz and Nxled had been submitted to the league office but was rejected for potentially disrupting competitive balance among the other clubs.
Nxled also strengthened its frontline with the addition of veteran middle blocker Aby Maraño, formerly of Chery Tiggo, and ex-Choco Mucho Flying Titan Aduke Ogunsanya, joining Krich Macaslang and Jaycel delos Reyes.
Amid the recruitment spree, the Chameleons released Jaila Atienza, Maji Mangulabnan, Lycha Ebon, Rachel Jorvina, and Jaja Maraguinot. Atienza has since signed with Choco Mucho, Jorvina moved to Capital1, and Ebon found a new home with the revamped Galeries Tower.
Key holdovers from the Etorre Guidetti-coached squad include team captain Chiara Permentilla, fourth overall pick Lyann de Guzman, EJ Laure, Jovelyn Fernandez, Lucille Almonte, Mayang Nuique, and Krich Macaslang.
After missing the playoffs in the season-ending Reinforced Conference, Nxled is expected to announce several more signings in the coming days.
