Uncertain if she would even play, Vanie Gandler powered through a recent illness to lead Cignal past a gritty Farm Fresh, securing a hard-fought third straight victory in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
Just a day before the match, Gandler had visited the hospital for a gastroenteritis checkup and medication. Yet she recovered in time to suit up for the Super Spikers’ clash with the Foxies at the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday.
“Right after practice yesterday, I went to the clinic to get meds,” said the 25-year-old winger, who had been battling the illness over the past few days.
“My number one priority was to be able to eat so that I have enough energy today. I just took the meds, I rested, and thankfully I was able to play.”
Gandler delivered her best performance of the conference, tallying 25 points on 24 attacks and one ace, along with 14 excellent digs and 15 excellent receptions, for a massive triple-double that propelled her team to a 3-0 start in the all-local tournament.
(C) PVL Images
“I just think of any way I can contribute to the team. So, if I’m in the front row, with scoring, and [when I’m in the] back row, defense. I don’t really think of the stats. It’s just where else I can help with the team to get this win,” said the Alas Pilipinas standout.
The high-flying, 5-foot-9 outside spiker has been a crucial piece in Cignal’s unbeaten start, scoring 14 points in their win over Galeries Tower before posting 16 points against Choco Mucho.
Gandler expressed pride in the team’s progress, noting that their hard work and willingness to learn over the past few months are finally paying off.
“I’m really proud of my team because we work really hard and we really try our best to apply everything that’s taught to us. We still have many lapses, many things to work on, but I’m very happy with how we’re willing to learn and improve each training,” she said.
“I think it’s just the experiences that I’ve had and, of course, the environment that I have to always improve. My improvement is because of the help of my teammates, my coaches. So, yeah, I’m grateful for everything that they teach me and that my teammates give me confidence every time.”
