Mandaue Volleyball Open unfolds today

CEBU, Philippines - Exciting volleyball action will greet the new year as the Baybayon, Looc, Mandaue City Volleyball Open fires off today at the Mandaue City Sports and Cultural Complex.

Two teams from the Philippine Army will vie for the coveted women’s title but they will surely face tough opposition against three of the best squads in the Queen City of the South.

 The visitors will be up against back-to-back Governor Gwen Garcia Unity Volleyball (GUV) Cup champion Mandaue City, Talisay and Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) grandslam winner Southwestern University (SWU).

Among those who will suit up for the PHL side are Joanne Bunag, the Carolino sisters, Michelle and Mayeth, Mary Jean Balse, Dahlia Cruz, Ers Iratay, Ailyn Ege, Tina Salak and Rachel Anne Daquis.

 The GUV Cup champs will field in PHL Youth member Genie Sabas, Erika Camille Verano, Apple Eve Saraum, Kennette Garces, Rachelle Hannah Singson and Jusabelle Brillo.

The Jordan Paca-mentored SWU Lady Cobras will bank on Princess Anne Pido, Danika Yolanda Gendrauli, Raphril Aguilar and Fritzie, while the Talisay belles will squeeze the most from ullette Mae Marikit, Marissa Lagancia and Florian Guttierrez.

 Aside from trophies, the champion will receive P30,000, while the second and third placers will get P15,000 and P10,000, respectively.

 Supported by the Froilan couple Erlinda and Rene, the three-day tilt is among the highlights of the fiesta celebration of Baybayon, Looc in honor of their beloved Mother of Perpetual Help.   - (THE FREEMAN)