Alas Pilipinas Stars Light Up PVL Invitational Stage: What You Need to Know

The nation’s volleyball pride, Alas Pilipinas, is officially back — and ready to set the court on fire!

If you’ve been missing your favorite national team players in the local pro league matches, don’t worry — the wait is over. They’re hitting the floor in the PVL Invitational, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled. Let’s unpack what’s going on and what it means for Philippine volleyball.

A Welcome Call: National Stars Get PVL Green Light

Big news dropped from PVL President Ricky Palou: Alas Pilipinas players have been officially cleared by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) to return to club play. That means the wait is over for fans eager to see their favorite national athletes donning their club jerseys again.

“President Tats Suzara of PNVF released the players to the clubs… That’s when he announced that all the national team players could go back to their clubs and play,” Palou shared in a press chat.

And it’s already happening! Rising star Alleiah Malaluan, the No. 9 overall pick from the recent rookie draft, suited up for PLDT. Meanwhile, gritty libero Jennifer Nierva returned to action with Chery Tiggo — both bringing their A-game to the Philsports Arena stage.

Why the Green Light Now?

Technically, the national duty period extends until October 15. But with no more international matches scheduled until then, the decision was made to let players return to club action. A win-win, right?

“It was why hold them? There are no more games. That’s what we were discussing with President Suzara. He’s very accommodating,” Palou explained.

This approach ensures that athletes stay sharp by competing while staying available for any required training with the national squad.

Who’s Back – And Who’s Next?

While a few key players have already hit the ground running, others are still warming up for their PVL turn. Notable Alas athletes like Dell Palomata (PLDT), Vanie Gandler, and Dawn Catindig (both from Cignal) are expected to join in soon.

So if you’re wondering when your favorite volleyball heroes will show up in club matches — stay tuned. The fun’s just getting started.

What About Training for the SEA Games?

Here’s the cool part — the commitment to national duty continues. Even while representing their clubs, the Alas Pilipinas players are scheduled to train with the national team three times a week. So yes, they’re balancing both worlds.

“They will be practicing… until the end of this tournament. After that, they also plan to train abroad, depending on schedule,” Palou highlighted.

And with the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand just a few months away, every training session counts.

A Win for Fans and the Future of PH Volleyball

This decision to allow national players to join club games while maintaining national team duties feels like a slam dunk. Fans get the best of both worlds: thrilling PVL action and a well-prepared squad for the SEA Games.

The increased visibility of national team players in the local league can also boost interest in volleyball as a whole — fueling passion among young athletes and strengthening the volleyball community across the country.

TL;DR: Key Takeaways

🏐 Alas Pilipinas players are officially back playing with their club teams in the PVL Invitational.
✨ Alleiah Malaluan and Jennifer Nierva have already debuted.
📅 The national team period runs until October 15, but no more matches are scheduled, hence the clearance.
🏋️ Players will train with the national team thrice a week while playing for their clubs.
🌏 Plans are in place for international training before the SEA Games in December.

So, whether you’re cheering from the stands or watching from your couch, one thing’s for sure: Philippine volleyball is in for an action-packed ride — and we are 100% here for it.

🎉 Let the games (and spikes) begin!