Foton acquires UP stars Carlos, Molde

MANILA, Philippines – Foton intensifies its journey back to the throne as it tapped two college stars for the remainder of the Chooks to Go-Philippine Superliga Grand Prix.

Team manager Diane Santiago formally announced Monday that they will be fielding University of the Philippines stars Diana Carlos and Isa Molde when they clash with Sta. Lucia Realty in the quarterfinals of this prestigious women’s club tourney on Tuesday at Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan.

Santiago explained that Carlos is part of their final lineup while Molde is one of their reserves. A roster spot, however, opened up when middle blocker Gen Casugod crashed with a left knee injury during their training.

“Gen suffered a sprain on her left knee and is now undergoing rehab,” said Santiago, adding that her younger sister — Jaja Santiago — is also in their final roster and would suit up depending on the outcome of National University’s campaign in the ongoing University Athletic Association of the Philippines.

“We’re excited to have Tots (Carlos) and Isa in our team. With both of them suiting up tomorrow against Sta. Lucia, our imports, Channon (Thompson) and Ely (Wendel) will get additional support.”

Carlos and Molde could definitely help the Tornadoes.

Carlos led the Lady Fighting Maroons in scoring with 19.5 points per game while Molde backs her up with a norm of 14.4 hits aside from tons of intangibles on both ends of the floor.

Their season ended when UP failed to catch the last bus to the Final Four, finishing with a 6-8 win-loss mark together with Adamson University.

On the other hand, Jaja and the Lady Bulldogs emerged with a 7-7 record and would face mighty De La Salle Univeristy in the next round.

The match, however, is set this weekend, casting a cloud of gloom on the possibility of having her suit up for the Tornadoes.

“We want NU to go all the way to the finals and we’re ready to play without Jaja,” said Santiago.

“This is her final year in the UAAP and we’re all praying for her success.”

Santiago added that their hopes are high on Carlos and Molde, who have both finished their junior season in the UAAP.

“This would be their first time to see action in the PSL, but the locals are already familiar to them,” she said, adding that both Carlos and Molde already reported for duty last Sunday.

“We hope their transfer would lead us back to the title.”