MANILA, Philippines — Alas Pilipinas Women will face defending champion China right away, but Bella Belen insists they are ready for the big battle on Wednesday at the Okazaki Central Park General Stadium in Okazaki, Japan.
Belen and other members of the Philippine team arrived in the bustling metropolis last Sunday (September13), three days ahead of the competition proper.
“We will do our very best against China,” said Belen during the flight from Manila.
After China, the Alas Women tackle Kazakhstan the following day. There are only three teams in Pool B and Alas needs to beat Kazakhstan to advance to the quarters of the event long dominated by the Chinese.
The Chinese defeated the Japanese in straight sets at the 2023Hangzhou Games to clinch their 9th gold medal The men’s competition will start on Sept. 27, while beach volleyball will begin right on Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Hekinan Ryokuchi Beach Court.
Qatar and China are defending their titles in the men’s and women’s divisions This marks the first time Alas will play in the continental showpiece since the 2018 Jakarta Games. Grizzled veteran and captain Jia De Guzman was part of that team.
Other members of the team are Eya Laure, Angel Canino, Shaina Nitura, Alyssa Solomon, Amie Provido, Thea Gagate, Dell Palomata, Niña Ytang, Mars Alba, and Justine Jazareno, TMT