Customs’ Alyssa Valdez admits language barrier a problem with Thai imports

MANILA, Philippines – For Bureau of Customs' team captain Alyssa Valdez, playing with Thai imports is a "different world."

"Language barrier is really (hard)," Valdez said.

Having played under Thai head coach Anusorn Bundit for two years when she was still playing for Ateneo, Valdez said it's more difficult when a foreigner is inside the court.

"Kasi kapag nasa labas yung coach mo at lahat kayo Pinoy sa loob. You can talk and do your own thing. Pag nasa loob kasi yung Thai, it's a new world talaga." she said. 

"You have to communicate well, you have to look eye to eye talaga," Valdez added.

With their Thai imports, the Transformers are considered favorites to win the 13th Shakey's V-League Collegiate Conference crown.

But even without imports Kanjana Kuthaisong and Natthanicha Jaisaen, they swept University of the Philippines on Monday, 25-23, 25-18, 25-22.

The Thais are still fixing their clearance papers, and Valdez hopes they will finally get to see action in their succeeding games.

"We would love to see them play and sana makita din lahat ng tao kung paano sila maglaro because definitely it's worth watching talaga," said Valdez.