CANDON, Ilocos Sur — After years of battling on opposite sides of one of the fiercest rivalries in collegiate volleyball, Alyssa Valdez and Ara Galang are finally sharing the same court as teammates — this time, united under the Philippine flag.
Now leading a retooled Alas Pilipinas women’s volleyball squad, the former UAAP stars are relishing a partnership that once seemed unlikely during their prime years.
Valdez, the face of Ateneo de Manila University’s dominance, and Galang, a cornerstone of De La Salle University’s success, built a storied rivalry that saw them clash in four UAAP Finals starting Season 74. Both were known as prolific scorers and leaders of their respective squads.
Years later, fate has brought them together — not as rivals, but as allies.
“We are so happy. After a long time, we’re finally teammates,” said Galang. “We did not expect it, but maybe it was destined. It’s even more special because we’re playing for the country.”
The duo recently suited up together as Alas Pilipinas took on powerhouse South Korea in the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Cup. Despite a straight-sets loss, 16-25, 18-25, 22-25, the team showed promise, particularly in the third set.
“We fell short, but it’s okay. We showed a good fight in the last set and proved that we can compete against stronger teams,” Galang added.
For Galang, the moment carries even deeper meaning. Her long-awaited national team debut had been delayed for years due to injuries, including an ACL tear in 2015 that forced her to miss major international tournaments such as the 2017 Women’s Volleyball Championship and the 2018 Southeast Asian Games.
“I really did not expect this,” she said. “I’m just very grateful for the opportunity.”
Valdez echoed the sentiment, acknowledging that while their partnership may have come late in their careers, its timing feels just right.
“It may be late, but it’s the right time,” said Valdez. “It’s the right time to inspire each other, and I’m very happy to finally team up with Ara.”
At long last, two of Philippine volleyball’s biggest names are no longer divided by a net — but united by one goal: to bring pride to the nation.
