Niña Ytang is hoping a potential stint with Alas Pilipinas will further strengthen her case ahead of the 2026 PVL Draft.
Fresh off a decorated collegiate career with the UP Fighting Maroons, the four‑time UAAP Best Middle Blocker was named to the Philippine women’s national team pool for the AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup set from June 6 to 14 in Candon, Ilocos Sur.
For Ytang, the opportunity to represent the country comes at an ideal time as she prepares to take the next step in her volleyball journey.
“Sa ngayon po ‘yung nararamdaman ko, sobrang grateful sa mga opportunities na na‑e‑experience ko ngayon. Looking forward sa mga matututunan ko sa Alas na I’m sure na madadala ko naman po sa PVL team na kukuha sa akin,” Ytang said during the PVL Draft Combine.
Niña Ytang Is a Likely Early Pick
The 5‑foot‑11 middle blocker enters the draft as one of the most sought‑after prospects in the 42‑player pool after establishing herself as one of the most dominant players in the UAAP during her five‑year stay with UP.
Ytang is widely expected to hear her name called early on draft day alongside fellow top prospects Alyssa Solomon, Lams Lamina, and Detdet Pepito.
“I think that’s a big advantage sa aming draftees na kasama ko sa Alas. I think isa rin yun sa sanang maging dahilan ng mga PVL teams na makuha kami kasi may exposure and yung opportunity nga na makakapaglaro kami against international players,” she added.
The national team call‑up, however, comes amid uncertainty following the FIVB’s suspension of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) over governance concerns and alleged violations of its Code of Ethics.
Despite the suspension, the world governing body has appointed an Ad Hoc Committee to oversee Philippine volleyball affairs and ensure the participation of national team athletes in upcoming international competitions, including the AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup.
Aside from Ytang, fellow draft aspirants Tin Ubaldo, Natalie Estreller, and Lara Mae Silva were also included in the national team pool.
The 2026 PVL Draft is on June 3, with Galeries Tower holding the coveted first overall selection, followed by the Capital1 Solar Spikers, Choco Mucho Flying Titans, and Zus Coffee Thunderbelles.
