CANDON, Ilocos Sur — Alyssa Valdez held her head high despite Alas Pilipinas closing its 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Cup campaign with an eighth-place finish.
The Philippine squad absorbed a straight-set defeat to Iran, 25-21, 25-12, 25-21, in the classification round on Sunday afternoon at the Candon City Arena.
Amid controversies and external noise surrounding the current Alas Pilipinas roster, the 32-year-old veteran reflected on her deeper purpose for continuing her national team journey.
“I have been asking myself why I made this decision in my volleyball career. One thing that showed was the fact that the love that I had ever since I was young was the same — it’s still the same, my love for the country,” Valdez said, fighting back tears.
“While this is not the result that we wanted, I hope the younger generation will still have that fire to represent the country,” she added, noting the team’s inability to replicate its silver medal finish in the 2025 edition.
Valdez first donned the national colors in 2013 and captured a bronze medal in the 2014 Asean University Games. After a two-year hiatus following the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia, she returned to the fold this year.
Despite several players opting out of national team duties due to ongoing issues with the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), the “Phenom” remained committed, staying true to her principle of putting the flag above all else.
Against Iran, the Philippines struggled offensively, getting outscored in attacks, 42-31. Valdez was limited to just four points as she faced tight defensive coverage.
Alyssa Solomon led Alas Pilipinas with 12 points, while Jovelyn Gonzaga and Niña Ytang chipped in six and five points, respectively.
The team has faced criticism from fans, with some claiming that several players are already past their prime. Still, Valdez emphasized the importance of sustaining passion and commitment among younger athletes.
“We’re players representing the country. Outside of all the decisions that are there, everything is still uncertain. What I can say is the program is whole for them and for the next generations,” she said.
Alas Pilipinas wrapped up its Pool A campaign with a 2-3 record, securing victories over Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.
