PVL stars and their rides: A glimpse into their motor vehicles
‘It’s very comfortable, and I have peace of mind whenever I drive because I feel very safe with my car’s features.’
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‘It’s very comfortable, and I have peace of mind whenever I drive because I feel very safe with my car’s features.’
Choco Mucho’s Sisi Rondina interview with the DAILY TRIBUNE after their PVL game at the Philsports Arena.
Photographs by JASON MAGO for the Daily Tribune
For professional athletes in the Philippines, owning a motor vehicle is more than just a luxury — it is a necessity. The demands of training, games and media engagements require them to move efficiently, avoiding the hassles of public transport and heavy traffic. A personal vehicle provides convenience, safety, and a means to express their individuality beyond the volleyball court.
In the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), several players have chosen vehicles that suit their fast-paced lifestyles. From stylish scooters to powerful cars, these rides reflect their personalities and priorities.
University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Choco Mucho setter Mars Alba opts for a Vespa Sprint 150, allowing her to navigate through traffic with ease.
“The traffic is terrible these days, so I find it easier to use a motorcycle than a car,” Alba shared in an interview with the DAILY TRIBUNE.
The Vespa Sprint 150 is powered by a 155cc single-cylinder engine, producing 12.7 horsepower and 12.8 Nm of torque — ideal for city commuting. It boasts excellent fuel efficiency at 45-50 km/l, making it a cost-effective choice for daily travel.
Alba particularly appreciates the unique design of her scooter’s gauge, which features a combination of a classic analog speedometer and a digital multi-function display.
“My favorite feature is the gauge — it changes colors, which makes it stand out [for me].”
Multi-awarded PVL star Sisi Rondina, who currently plays for the Flying Titans, takes pride in her customized Nissan Juke.
“It’s secondhand, but it’s customized. It already came with gold-colored mags and HKS upgrades,” said Rondina in Filipino.
The Nissan Juke is known for its bold design and dynamic performance. Its 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 engine delivers 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
Rondina’s Juke, enhanced with HKS performance parts, packs an even bigger punch — potentially pushing beyond 250 horsepower. With upgraded HKS coilovers, handling is improved, reducing body roll while maintaining ride comfort.
Despite its compact size, the Juke’s air conditioning system provides efficient cooling — one of Rondina’s favorite features.
“The air conditioning is amazing!” she exclaimed.
Meanwhile, PVL Open Conference MVP Grethcel Soltones cruises on a Yamaha XMAX, a maxi-scooter that blends sporty performance with practical features.
With a 292cc liquid-cooled engine and an impressive 73 mpg fuel economy, the XMAX is a reliable ride for both city commuting and long-distance travel. It is designed with aerodynamics in mind, featuring ABS, traction control, and LED lighting for enhanced safety.
“The way it straightens itself is impressive. You know how some motorcycles can feel wobbly? The stabilizer really makes a difference,” said Soltones, praising the scooter’s stability on the road.
The Yamaha XMAX’s Traction Control System prevents wheel slippage during acceleration, ensuring a steady and secure ride.
Soltones’ teammate in Akari, Faith Nisperos, drives a Toyota Veloz — a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that combines power, style, and advanced safety features.
Powered by a 1.5-liter Dual VVT-i engine, the Veloz delivers a smooth yet responsive performance, perfect for both city driving and road trips. Its sharp LED headlamps, bold grille, and sculpted body lines give it a modern, commanding presence on the road.
For Nisperos, safety is a top priority, which is why she is particular about the safety technologies in her car.
“My favorite feature of my car is the safety technology. The sensors are very sensitive — it warns me if there’s someone beside me or nearby,” she shared.
“It even has an emergency brake if I get too close to the front.”
With Toyota Safety Sense, the Veloz includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alerts, and a pre-collision system, ensuring a secure driving experience.
“It’s very comfortable, and I have peace of mind whenever I drive because I feel very safe with my car’s features.”
Beyond their stellar performances on the volleyball court, these PVL athletes find comfort, efficiency, and style in their chosen vehicles. Whether it is a sleek Vespa, a turbocharged crossover, a sporty scooter, or a safety-focused MPV, these rides embody their personalities and support their demanding lifestyles.
