ERIKA Santos is stepping into the national spotlight after being named to the new pool of the Alas Pilipinas women’s volleyball team, a nod to her breakout run as the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour Most Valuable Player.
Fresh from leading the Cignal Super Spikers to a finals appearance in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference against the Creamline Cool Smashers, Santos welcomed the opportunity to represent the country — but stopped short of making a firm commitment.
“I’m honored to be part of the pool. It feels different when you’re representing the Philippines,” Santos told The Manila Times, expressing gratitude for the recognition.
Still, the rising star admitted she remains undecided about fully embracing national team duties.
“Right now, I’m 50/50,” she said.
Should she commit, it would mark her first time donning the national colors — a major milestone in an already surging career.
Off the court, Santos is also navigating a fresh chapter, recently joining the Capital1 Solar Spikers alongside Vanie Gandler, where they will team up with top rookie Bella Belen.
“Leaving Cignal is emotional, but this is an exciting new beginning. I’m ready to help Capital1 reach its goals,” she shared.
Her potential inclusion comes at a critical time for the national program, as the Philippine National Volleyball Federation rebuilds its roster following the decision of several 2025 Southeast Asian Games players to step away.
Among the notable absences is team captain Jia de Guzman, who has opted not to return, leaving only Angel Canino and Amie Provido as confirmed holdovers.
With the national team in transition, Santos now finds herself at a crossroads — poised between personal growth and the chance to carry the flag on the international stage. NICOLE ANNE BUGAUISAN
