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The Capital1 Solar Spikers ushered in a new era with what team officials called a “game-changing” decision during the Premier Volleyball League Rookie Draft held Sunday night at Novotel Manila in Cubao.
With the No. 1 overall pick, Capital1 selected National University’s decorated outside hitter Mhicaela “Bella” Belen, a move that, while largely anticipated, still came as a surprise – even to Belen herself.
Currently in Vietnam as part of the Alas Pilipinas squad competing in the AVC Nations Cup, Belen delivered her acceptance speech via a recorded video.
“Ako?” she asked in disbelief, reacting to the announcement of her selection. Composing herself, Belen extended heartfelt thanks to Capital1 management for their trust.
“It’s been my dream to become a professional volleyball player. Kahit wala ako sa Novotel, andyan pa rin ako in spirit,” she said. “I’m very proud of all the draftees and excited to start this journey with Capital1. From golden blue to yellow and blue – parang walang nagbago.”
The 22-year-old Belen, a three-time UAAP MVP, was long regarded as a top-tier talent, and her entry into the pro ranks has been widely anticipated. Known for her dynamic play, all-around excellence and on-court leadership, she is expected to instantly elevate Capital1’s competitiveness in the upcoming conference of the league organized by Sports Vision.
She will be reunited with familiar faces at the Capital1 camp, including head coach Jorge Souza de Brito and outside hitter Leila Cruz, her coach and teammate, respectively, with Alas Pilipinas.
“We’re enjoying every moment of this draft,” said team owner Mandy Romero. “We are truly honored to have had the first overall pick. Bella is a generational talent. She’s a game-changer. This marks a new era for Capital1.”
Galeries Tower followed suit by selecting former Far Eastern U standout middle blocker Jean Asis with the second overall pick.
“As an athlete, it feels amazing. Sobrang saya, sobrang proud,” said Asis. “Thank you to coach Lerma (Giron) and the Galeries Tower team for believing in me. Hindi kayo magsisisi sa pagpili sa akin. I’ll give everything I have.”
Galeries Tower officials also expressed optimism for a stronger campaign this season, saying: “We believe we’re in a special position with the second overall pick. It’s now up to her to prove herself, and we have full confidence in her potential.”
As expected, Farm Fresh used the third overall pick to select Filipino-American setter Alohi Robins-Hardy, strengthening the Foxies’ playmaking unit anchored by Louie Romero.
Nxled followed by picking Lyann De Guzman of Ateneo, while her fellow Lady Blue Eagle, AC Miner, was selected fifth overall by ZUS Coffee. Cignal fortified its frontline by choosing Erin Pangilinan of NU with the sixth pick.
In a surprising move, Choco Mucho added a third setter to its roster, selecting Filipino-American playmaker Tia Andaya with the seventh overall pick, joining fellow setters Deanna Wong and Mars Alba.
Two standout players from De La Salle U came off the board next, with Jyne Soreño joining Chery Tiggo and Alleiah Malaluan heading to PLDT.
Chen Tagaod, meanwhile, is set to reunite with her college coach Tina Salak, now the newly-appointed head coach of Akari, as she was selected 10th overall by the Chargers.
Defending All-Filipino Conference champion Petro Gazz used the 11th pick to bring in La Salle setter Jules Tolentino, who will learn under the guidance of veteran playmakers Chie Saet and Djanel Cheng.
Rounding out the first round, 10-time PVL champion Creamline selected NU middle blocker Sheena Toring, who will continue her volleyball journey under the tutelage of her college coach Sherwin Meneses.
The second PVL Rookie Draft was more than a roster-building exercise – it was a clear indication of the shifting landscape in Philippine women’s volleyball. Teams are investing in youth, talent and potential more than ever, with the likes of Belen and Asis seen as the vanguard of the sport’s next generation.
With players like Belen leading the charge, Capital1’s message is clear: the future is now.
