De Guzman leads Alas’ 20-woman pool for SEA Games bid

Setter Jia De Guzman will spearhead the Alas Pilipinas Women’s 20-player pool as she returns to the international scene for the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand this coming December.

In the initial roster released by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), De Guzman will be joined by Julia Coronel and Mars Alba as the playmakers for the team.

According to PNVF president Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara, the federation aims for “nothing less than the gold medal” for the 33rd edition of SEA Games.

All the way from Japan, rookie Alyssa Solomon strengthens the opposite hitter position alongside Kat Tolentino and Leila Cruz.

Meanwhile, the outside hitter group will feature Shaina Nitura, Eya Laure, Vanie Gandler, Angel Canino, Bella Belen, and Alleiah Malaluan, all of whom possess experience from previous international campaigns.

Defensive duties will be handled by middle blockers Dell Palomata, Amie Provido, Maddie Madayag, Thea Gagate, and Fifi Sharma.

Completing the pool are liberos Dawn Macandili-Catindig, Jen Nierva, and Justine Jazareno

According to PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, the national team is also set to hold a training camp either in Japan or Taiwan in preparation for the SEA Games, Scheduled from Nov. 15 to Nov. 30.