After seven seasons of thrilling volleyball, championship glory, and defining moments in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), the Petro Gazz Angels have announced a leave of absence from competition, bringing an unexpected pause to one of the league’s most successful franchises.
“Petro Gazz announces its decision to take a leave of absence from the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), marking a pause in its competitive participation after seven successful years,” the team said in a statement.
Petro Gazz and a Championship Pedigree Built Through the Years
The Angels emphasized that the move was not made lightly, stressing how deeply volleyball has been ingrained in the organization since its entry into the professional ranks in 2018.
“This decision was made with careful consideration, as volleyball has always been at the core of Petro Gazz’s identity. Over the years, the team built a legacy of excellence—winning four PVL championships, developing national team-caliber athletes, and establishing itself as one of the league’s pillars,” the statement continued.
Over the years, Petro Gazz lived up to that billing. The Angels emerged as a consistent title contender, capturing four PVL championships and sweeping both the All-Filipino and Reinforced Conference titles in 2025. Their sustained success, star-studded lineups, and competitive culture no doubt helped define a golden era of the league.
Behind the scenes, however, the possibility of an exit had been quietly taking shape. Reports indicate that the Angels had been considering their future as early as the 2025 Reinforced Conference. One potential option involved a proposed merger with the Nxled Chameleons, but the plan did not receive approval from the PVL board.
Talented Angels in Free Agency
With the leave of absence now official, Petro Gazz’s decorated roster has entered free agency, instantly reshaping the PVL landscape. Headlining the list are three-time league MVP Brooke Van Sickle and two-time MVPs Myla Pablo and MJ Phillips, alongside Jules Tolentino, Jonah Sabete, and veteran opposite Aiza Maizo-Pontillas.
Even before the announcement, roster movement had already begun. Former Angels Remy Palma and Chie Saet signed with Strong Group Athletics, while Baby Love Barbon moved to the Galeries Tower Highrisers.
Despite stepping away from active competition, Petro Gazz reiterated that it is not leaving volleyball behind. Instead, the organization plans to redirect its efforts toward grassroots development, long-term talent formation, and broader contributions to the sport, including continued support for the Nxled Chameleons.
For now, the Angels’ banners remain as markers of a dominant chapter in PVL history. Whether this pause eventually leads to a return remains to be seen, but Petro Gazz’s influence on Philippine volleyball is firmly etched, and its absence will be keenly felt when the league resumes.
(Relive highlights of Petro Gazz’s title-clinching match from last conference:)
