Alas Pilipinas beats Uzbekistan in sweeping debut at AVC Women’s Cup

Alyssa Valdez (2) and Alas Pilipinas celebrate during a game against Uzbekistan in the AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City, Ilocos Sur.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

SCHEDULE: Alas Pilipinas at AVC Women’s Nations Cup 2026

CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur — It felt like 2019 all over again, with captain Alyssa Valdez, Jovelyn Gonzaga, and Ces Molina leading Alas Pilipinas’ offense.

Valdez, Molina, and Gonzaga gave Alas Pilipinas a winning start in the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Cup with a 25-16, 25-12, 25-14 sweep of Uzbekistan in Pool A on Saturday at Candon City Arena here.

They last played together in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in Manila and are now reunited with interim coach Shaq Delos Santos to lead a younger core.

READ: Alas Pilipinas at AVC Women’s Nations Cup 2026: what to know

The veteran trio, who heeded the country’s call amid the ex-core players’ withdrawals and recent issues with the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), proved that they still got it when it comes to the international stage.

Valdez, who last played for the national team three years ago, made an impressive comeback with 14 points to lead the new-look squad.

Gonzaga, the Philippines’ oldest player at 34, remained one of the country’s reliable scorers with 12 points, while Molina chipped in 11.

READ: Alyssa Valdez ready to serve again for Alas Pilipinas in AVC tilt

Niña Ytang also turned heads in her Alas debut with 12 points off eight kills and four blocks. Kyle Negrito ran the offense, while liberos Kyla Atienza and Alyssa Eroa took turns in protecting the floor.

Alas eyes its second win in Pool A against Australia on Sunday at 3 p.m. in the AVC tournament presented by the PSC, FIVB, Volleyball World and Candon City headed by Mayor Eric Singson.