Volleyball action officially returns on Saturday, January 31, as the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference tips off, marking the start of another highly anticipated chapter in Philippine volleyball. After a month of roster shuffles, surprise signings, and strategic retooling, teams now shift their focus from speculation to execution.
Before the opening serve, the spotlight turns to the key additions that could redefine each squad’s fortunes. From championship-proven veterans and headline-grabbing reunions to young talents ready to take on bigger roles, these offseason moves have reshaped the league’s competitive landscape. As the All-Filipino Conference once again puts a premium on chemistry, depth, and system fit, every new name on a roster carries the potential to swing momentum.
Ahead of the first whistle, here is Part 1 of a two-part series, as Rebanse takes a closer look at the players and personnel changes that could make the biggest impact in the 2026 PVL season.
Nxled Chameleons
Who’s In: Brooke Van Sickle, Myla Pablo, MJ Phillips, Jonah Sabete, Aby Maraño, Djanel Cheng, Jules Tolentino, Joyme Cagande, Aduke Ogunsanya, Ranya Musa, Jellie Tempiatura, Bang Pineda, Nicole Tiamzon, Antonette Adolfo
In the last PVL All-Filipino Conference, the Nxled Chameleons finished at the bottom of the standings after managing just two wins across the entire conference. However, the 2026 season presents a vastly different picture for the franchise.
With the core of the Petro Gazz Angels—the eventual champions of the same conference—now effectively merging with Nxled the Chameleons suddenly boast one of the most stacked rosters in the league. The arrival of seasoned veterans like Aby Maraño and Myla Pablo, combined with the all-around brilliance of Brooke Van Sickle, gives Nxled not just star power but championship-level experience.
Beyond the names on paper, the biggest shift for Nxled is expectation. From a rebuilding side last season, the Chameleons now enter 2026 with legitimate title aspirations. At the very least, advancing past the elimination round should now be considered the floor rather than the ceiling.
Capital1 Solar Spikers
Who’s In: Pauline Gaston, Cherry Nunag, France Ronquillo, Ysa Jimenez, Shaya Adorador, Jasmine Nabor, Rachel Jorvina, Ezra Madrigal
The Capital1 Solar Spikers ended the 2024–25 PVL All-Filipino Conference in 11th place, narrowly ahead of Nxled. While the results reflected a team still searching for its identity, the offseason signaled a clear intent to change that narrative.
Capital1 made waves by securing multi-time UAAP champion Bella Belen, a move that instantly upgraded their offensive options and on-court leadership. Her presence provides the Solar Spikers with a reliable go-to scorer and a stabilizing force in crucial moments.
Surrounded by a developing core and complemented by experienced pieces, Capital1 now looks far more competitive on paper. Whether this revamped roster translates to wins will depend on cohesion and system execution, but there is no denying that the Solar Spikers are positioned to climb out of the league’s lower tier.
Farm Fresh Foxies
Who’s In: Koji Tsuzurabara (head coach), Ara Galang, Mylene Paat, Imee Hernandez, Royse Tubino, Bia General, Remy Palma
Few teams underwent a more noticeable transformation this offseason than the Farm Fresh Foxies. The appointment of Koji Tsuzurabara as head coach signals a shift not only in leadership but also in philosophy, with the team expected to adopt a more structured, system-oriented approach.
On the court, the additions of Ara Galang and Mylene Paat immediately elevate Farm Fresh’s offensive ceiling. Galang brings consistency and composure, while Paat provides a proven scoring punch capable of taking over matches. Veteran setter Remy Palma further stabilizes the squad, giving the Foxies a reliable floor general who can maximize their attacking options.
With a solid mix of experience and youth, Farm Fresh enters the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference no longer as a rebuilding team, but as a legitimate playoff threat.
Cignal HD Spikers
Who’s In: Ivy Perez
The Cignal HD Spikers continue to make calculated moves, and the acquisition of Ivy Perez fits right into that pattern. Known for her court awareness and playmaking ability, Perez strengthens Cignal’s backcourt and complements an already well-balanced lineup.
With the HD Spikers consistently hovering near the top of the standings in recent PVL conferences, this addition appears aimed less at rebuilding and more at fine-tuning. Perez’s role could be crucial in sustaining Cignal’s defensive discipline, especially against high-powered offenses.
Galeries Tower Highrisers
Who’s In: Aying Esteban (head coach), Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, Baby Love Barbon, Erika Raagas, Jules Samonte, Gayle Pascual, Camille Victoria, Shola Alvarez, Lycha Ebon, Julia Angeles, Dolly Versoza, Erika Deloria, Sharya Ancheta, Venice Puzon, Maji Mangulabnan
Expectations remain modest for the Galeries Tower Highrisers as they head into the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference, particularly with the introduction of a new coaching staff and system under Aying Esteban. Transition periods often come with growing pains, especially for teams still establishing their identity.
That said, Galeries Tower did not stand pat in the offseason. The acquisition of veteran opposite spiker Aiza Maizo-Pontillas brings much-needed experience, leadership, and a reliable scoring option inside the court. Her presence could be vital in steadying a young roster and guiding them through tight matches.
While a deep playoff run may be ambitious, incremental progress and more competitive outings would already mark a successful PVL season for the Highrisers.
