Search begins for Philippine volleyball team moniker

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine women’s volleyball team that will vie in the 18th Asian Games in August is in search of a name.

If there’s Gilas, Perlas and Alab for the national basketball teams, the Larong Volleyball ng Pilipinas, Inc. wants a name of its own, too.

“A name that can represent the Philippines well,” said LVPI president Jose Romasanta.

The LVPI, together with broadcast partner TV5, wants to find the name in time for the Asian Games in Indonesia.

“It’s all about branding but at the same time we want our own identity. Something with a patriotic connotation,” said Romasanta.

LVPI vice president Peter Cayco said they are open to suggestions.

“What we’ve agreed upon so far is that we cannot drop Pilipinas in the name and in the jersey,” said Cayco.

“Whatever name we choose, Pilipinas will be there,” he added.

The Philippines is fielding a women’s volleyball team in the Asian Games for the first time in 36 years.

The LVPI announced the 12 players and two alternates who will compete in the Asian Games, led by Alyssa Valdez, Jaja Santiago and skipper Aby Marano.

“This is the strongest Philippine team I’ve seen,” said Romasanta.

“They all want to be part of this team. Others are even volunteering to be just part of the pool,” he said.

 All they need is a name.