Jia de Guzman, captain of the Alas Pilipinas Women’s Volleyball Team, has voiced her opposition to the proposed “Alas Draft” in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), arguing that national team athletes can balance professional careers with representing the country.
Breaking her silence on the issue through a series of Instagram stories, the veteran setter said she took time to process developments before speaking out, emphasizing the honor and importance of playing for the national team.
The controversy arose after the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) introduced the concept of an “Alas Draft,” in which selected players would be invited to play exclusively for the national team. PNVF President Tony Boy Liao said the draft was intended to ensure athlete availability for national competitions.
However, de Guzman, who has professional experience playing in Japan while representing the Philippines, believes that athletes can effectively manage both club and national team commitments. She stressed that no player should be forced to choose between their professional career and national duty.
“I believe athletes should be in an environment where they can continue to grow, compete, and be supported, without being put in a position where they have to choose between the national team and their careers in the league,” de Guzman said.
An eight-time PVL Best Setter, de Guzman pointed to other countries where athletes successfully balance dual commitments, resulting in stronger player development and a more competitive national team.
“Many countries have found ways to make this work, allowing athletes to develop in both environments and have seen the positive results and growth it brings to the sport over time,” De Guzman said in her online statement.
“I believe that is something we can achieve as well,” she added.
The PNVF had previously called on players, stakeholders, and fans to support the federation’s initiatives, but the issue has sparked heated discussions regarding athlete welfare and the direction of the national team.
