Ara Galang may now be playing a different role for the Farm Fresh Foxies, but her connection with volleyball fans remains as strong as ever.
That was evident on Saturday when the veteran outside spiker returned to a familiar setting at the Victorias City Coliseum, where the Negrense crowd greeted her with loud cheers every time she stepped onto the court.
Galang responded with the kind of performance that reminded everyone why she remains a difference‑maker, helping Farm Fresh rally past the Capital1 Solar Spikers, 20‑25, 25‑19, 22‑25, 25‑12, 15‑10, in the first five‑setter of the 2026 PVL On Tour Showdown.
The 31‑year‑old delivered 14 points on eight attacks, three blocks, and three aces as the Foxies completed their campaign with back‑to‑back victories.
For Galang, however, the moment was about more than the win.
“Nakaka‑miss kasi college madalas kami maglaro dito, Unigames, so nakaka‑miss yung ganyang crowd talaga. Nakakatuwa siyempre na maraming sumusuporta sa akin and sa team ng Farm Fresh. Very thankful ako,” said Galang, who hails from Pampanga.
Her connection with the crowd was especially noticeable whenever she was called into the game. The cheers grew louder, and Galang made sure to give the fans something to celebrate.
With Capital1 leading 2‑1, Ara Galang helped change the direction of the match in the fourth set. Her combination of attacks, blocks, and service aces helped Farm Fresh build a commanding 16‑6 advantage and force a deciding frame.
Ara Galang Always Ready
For someone who has embraced a reduced role off the bench, Ara Galang knows that staying ready is just as important as getting the opportunity to start.
“Siguro yung kumpiyansa lang din pagpasok, yung pag‑jell sa team. Kasi nga kailangan ready lang ako kahit kailan ako ipasok, kung kailangan kong mag‑step up. Basta pilit ko lang gagawin yung best ko para maka‑contribute ako ng positive sa team,” she said.
Trisha Tubu led Farm Fresh’s offense with 24 points, while Ces Molina added 16 points, 17 excellent receptions, and 11 excellent digs.
The victory gave the Foxies a 2‑1 record in the On Tour and a positive finish heading into the next stage of the season.
Farm Fresh will now turn its attention to the PVL Invitational Conference, which runs from August 31 to September 8 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Foxies will face fellow Philippine teams Creamline Cool Smashers, defending champion PLDT High Speed Hitters, and Nxled Chameleons, along with guest teams Ho Chi Minh City of Vietnam and EST Cola of Thailand.
