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In recent years, women’s volleyball in the Philippines has surged in popularity, transforming the sport into a national phenomenon. At the heart of this rise are the players who have captured the hearts and minds of Filipino fans with their exceptional talent, leadership, and charisma. These volleyball queens are not just athletes; they are cultural icons and role models who have inspired a new generation of players and fans alike. This article introduces some of the most influential Filipino volleyball players today, highlighting their impact on the sport and their contributions to its growing prominence in the country.
Position: Outside Hitter
Team: Creamline Cool Smashers (PVL)
Achievements: Multiple UAAP MVP awards, PVL MVP awards, National team member
Alyssa Valdez is arguably the most recognizable name in Philippine volleyball today. Known as “The Phenom,” Valdez’s influence on the sport is unparalleled. Her journey to stardom began at Ateneo de Manila University, where she led the Lady Eagles to multiple UAAP championships and earned several MVP awards. Her on-court prowess, characterized by powerful spikes, sharp serves, and exceptional court awareness, quickly made her a fan favorite.
Valdez’s impact extends far beyond her playing abilities. She has been a central figure in popularizing volleyball in the Philippines, helping to draw large crowds and significant media attention to the sport. Her leadership and work ethic have made her a role model for young athletes, while her humility and approachable personality have endeared her to fans across the country.
Today, Valdez continues to dominate the court as a key player for the Creamline Cool Smashers in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). She remains a fixture on the national team, representing the Philippines in international competitions and inspiring a new generation of volleyball players.
Position: Middle Blocker
Team: Saitama Ageo Medics (Japan V.League)
Achievements: UAAP Best Attacker, PVL MVP, Japanese V.League Champion, National team member
Standing at 6’5″, Jaja Santiago is one of the tallest and most dominant players in Philippine volleyball history. Her height and athleticism make her a formidable presence at the net, where she excels in blocking and attacking. Santiago’s volleyball journey began at National University (NU), where she was a key player for the Lady Bulldogs, earning numerous individual awards and leading her team to a UAAP championship.
Santiago’s talent has taken her beyond the Philippines, as she currently plays for the Saitama Ageo Medics in Japan’s V.League. Her success abroad has not only raised her profile but also demonstrated the potential of Filipino players on the international stage. Santiago’s achievements in Japan, including helping her team win the V.League championship, have made her a source of pride for the Philippines.
As a member of the national team, Santiago continues to contribute to the growth of volleyball in the country. Her journey from local courts to international success serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and highlights the global opportunities available to Filipino volleyball players.
Position: Setter
Team: F2 Logistics Cargo Movers (PVL)
Achievements: Multiple UAAP Best Setter awards, PVL Best Setter, National team member
Kim Fajardo is widely regarded as one of the best setters in the Philippines. Her precision, quick decision-making, and ability to orchestrate plays have earned her multiple Best Setter awards in the UAAP and the PVL. Fajardo’s volleyball career began at De La Salle University (DLSU), where she played a crucial role in the Lady Spikers’ dominance, leading them to several UAAP championships.
Fajardo’s influence on the court is not limited to her setting skills; she is also known for her leadership and composure under pressure. As the captain of the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers, she has guided her team to numerous titles in the PVL and other domestic leagues. Her ability to rally her teammates and execute plays with precision has made her a key figure in Philippine volleyball.
Off the court, Fajardo is a respected mentor to younger players, often sharing her experience and knowledge to help them develop their skills. Her commitment to the sport and her role as a leader both on and off the court have solidified her status as one of the most influential volleyball players in the Philippines.
Position: Setter
Team: Creamline Cool Smashers (PVL)
Achievements: Multiple UAAP Best Setter awards, PVL Best Setter, National team member
Jia Morado is another standout setter who has made a significant impact on Philippine volleyball. Known for her intelligent playmaking and exceptional court vision, Morado has been a key player for the Creamline Cool Smashers in the PVL. Her ability to set up her teammates for success, combined with her quick reflexes and tactical awareness, has earned her multiple Best Setter awards in the UAAP and PVL.
Morado’s volleyball career took off at Ateneo de Manila University, where she played a pivotal role in the Lady Eagles’ UAAP championship runs. Her leadership and calm demeanor under pressure have made her one of the most reliable and respected setters in the country. Morado’s influence extends beyond her technical skills, as she is also known for her positive attitude and sportsmanship.
As a member of the national team, Morado has represented the Philippines in various international tournaments, bringing her playmaking skills to the global stage. Her commitment to the sport and her ability to inspire her teammates have made her a beloved figure in the Philippine volleyball community.
Position: Middle Blocker
Team: F2 Logistics Cargo Movers (PVL)
Achievements: Multiple UAAP Best Blocker awards, PVL MVP, National team captain
Aby Maraño, affectionately known as “Tyang Aby,” is one of the most passionate and dynamic players in Philippine volleyball. As a middle blocker, Maraño is known for her powerful attacks, solid blocking, and infectious energy on the court. Her volleyball journey began at De La Salle University, where she became a key player for the Lady Spikers, earning numerous individual awards and leading her team to multiple UAAP championships.
Maraño’s impact on the sport goes beyond her physical abilities. Her leadership, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to her team have made her the heart and soul of every squad she has played for. As the captain of the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers, Maraño has led her team to several titles in the PVL, showcasing her ability to inspire and motivate her teammates.
Maraño’s influence extends to the national team, where she has served as captain, leading the Philippines in various international competitions. Her dedication to the sport and her role as a mentor to younger players have earned her immense respect in the volleyball community. Maraño’s passion for the game and her ability to rally her team in the face of adversity have made her one of the most influential figures in Philippine volleyball.
Position: Libero
Team: F2 Logistics Cargo Movers (PVL)
Achievements: UAAP Best Libero, PVL Best Libero, National team member
Dawn Macandili is widely regarded as one of the best liberos in the Philippines. Her exceptional defensive skills, quick reflexes, and ability to read the game have made her a vital asset to any team she plays for. Macandili’s volleyball career began at De La Salle University, where she quickly established herself as a standout libero, earning multiple Best Libero awards in the UAAP.
Macandili’s impact on the court is defined by her ability to make crucial digs and provide stability to her team’s defense. Her tenacity and fearless approach to the game have made her a fan favorite and a key player for the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers. Macandili’s defensive prowess has been instrumental in her team’s success in the PVL and other domestic leagues.
As a member of the national team, Macandili has represented the Philippines in various international tournaments, showcasing her defensive skills on the global stage. Her influence as a libero has inspired many young players to take up the position, and she continues to set the standard for defensive excellence in Philippine volleyball.
The rise of women’s volleyball in the Philippines has been driven by the talent, leadership, and charisma of these exceptional athletes. Alyssa Valdez, Jaja Santiago, Kim Fajardo, Jia Morado, Aby Maraño, and Dawn Macandili have not only achieved great success on the court but have also become cultural icons who inspire fans and players alike.
These volleyball queens have played a pivotal role in transforming the sport into a national passion, drawing widespread attention and support from fans across the country. As they continue to compete and lead their teams to victory, their influence on Philippine volleyball will only grow, paving the way for the next generation of players to follow in their footsteps.
Their stories of dedication, perseverance, and excellence serve as a testament to the power of sports to inspire and unite. The legacy of these volleyball queens will continue to shape the future of the sport in the Philippines, ensuring that women’s volleyball remains at the forefront of the nation’s sports culture for years to come.
