LIPA CITY, Philippines — Fancied Chery Tiggo begins its quest for another title when it battles Tuguegarao Perlas Spikers in the main game of the inaugural Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) Champions League triple-header opener at the Aquamarine Recreational Center gym here.
Fresh off a remarkable championship run in the maiden Premier Volleyball League (PVL) pro season three months ago, the Crossovers want no let-up despite the absence of star middle blocker Jaja Santiago.
Santiago is currently playing in the Japan V. League for the Ageo Medics, but the Crossover are still upbeat as they open their bid against Perlas at 4 p.m.
“Jaja has a major role in the team and it’s a big part to fill in but (her absence) also allows an opportunity for Dindin (Santiago-Manabat) to lead the squad,” said coach Aaron Velez, who is also banking on blockers Maika Ortiz, Joy Dacoron, Rachel Austero and Elaine Kasilag to hold the fort for the Crossovers.
“It’s a chance for (the team) to step up and display what they are made of,” he added.
Seasoned spiker Mylene Paat is also on board to assist Dindin in anchoring the Crossovers that have been tagged as among the favorites in the five-day, six-team tourney.
The other one is F2 Logistics, which is making its highly anticipated return at 1:30 p.m. against the young California Precision Sports squad after the Petro Gazz-Baguio collision at 10 a.m.
In this major comeback, the Cargo Movers shored up their roster with the addition of Iris Tolenada to reinforce the veteran core of Aby Maraño, Majoy Baron, Kalei Mau, Dawn Macandili, Kim Fajardo, Kianna Dy and Ara Galang.
The top team after a single-round robin play automatically claims the crown in the event backed by Rebisco, Top Speed, 1Pacman Partylist, Pitmaster Foundation Inc., Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Olympic Committee as platinum sponsors and F2 Logistics, PLDT, MVP Sports Foundation, Asics, Mikasa, BCDA, Philippine Red Cross, Puso Pilipinas and Lipa City as gold sponsors.