ASIDE from the country hosting the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship in 2029, there’s another big thing that elates Alas Pilipinas skipper Jia de Guzman—the team’s core that promises to be no pushover.
“We’re really happy kasi they also announced a long-term seven-year program. This is something we’ve been waiting for—everyone sa volleyball community— men’s, women’s, beach volleyball,” de Guzman said. “This is the kind of program we’ve been waiting for, for years.
“It’s inspiring also for the next generation to come in right now. It’s a really good time to come into Alas and show the world what we’ve got,” she added.
De Guzman will be 34 years old when the best belles in the world show their wares but her veteran presence will surely be a big boost to a squad that will likely feature the likes of today’s top guns such as Eya Laure (26), Bella Belen (23), Angel Canino (22), Shaina Nitura (20), Fifi Sharma (24), Thea Gagate (25), and Vanie Gandler (24).
De Guzman said support and unity from all fronts in Philippine volleyball will be needed when the Filipina spikers see action in the prestigious showpiece.
“We need the best of the best talaga. Not just the best of the best. We need people who want to work for the country, who want to learn from us also,” de Guzman said. “Iyong team, training with the best talents from high school to college. Ang laking bagay sa amin to invite everyone na sumali sa ganitong klaseng programa ngayon.”
The presence of Brazilian legend Leila Barros during the final two days of the Men’s World Championship, ruled by now two-time defending champion Italy.
“Si Leila Barros, even our parents know her. Ganoon siya ka-classic, ka-vintage and it’s very inspiring for our generation to witness this kind of greatness, not just her, but also the past Olympians have come to this World Championship,” De Guzman said.
“We know that the Philippines has been hosting pretty well this momentous event, so I’m happy.”
