Angel Canino (left) and Eya Laure. Photograph COURTESY OF PNVF
VOLLEY

Reunion with Alas teammates thrills Eya

Mark Escarlote

Eya Laure looks forward to Alas Pilipinas women’s team members and other players called up for the national pool tryouts to join the build-up for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.

The decorated winger expects to reunite with other Alas mainstays once the collegiate season ends and those from the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) return after a much-needed break.

“We understand that some players are still competing, especially those playing in the UAAP (University Athletic Association of the Philippines). The elimination round just ended,” Laure said during the partnership signing between the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and the MVP Group for the country’s hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025 on Monday at the Meralco headquarters in Ortigas.

“And then the PVL players are just coming back from their break after a long PVL (All-Filipino Conference). So, all we could do now is wait.”

Laure, who also serves as the Men’s World Championship ambassador, has been working out with head coach Jorge Souza de Brito to stay in shape following a long layoff since she opted for an early release of her contract with PVL club Chery Tiggo last year.

Alas is expected to get its preparations for the SEA Games, slated from 9 to 20 December, rolling soon.

“Hopefully, this week or next week, more will show up in training. As of now, there are only a few of us, but it’s understandable; besides, we still have time,” Laure said.

Expectations are high after Alas’ successful 2024 campaign, which saw the team achieve a breakthrough bronze medal finish in the AVC Challenge Cup and back-to-back third place in the SEA V.League.