All news tagged PetroGazzAngels

The PLDT High Speed Hitters etched their name in Premier Volleyball League (PVL) history after outlasting Chery Tiggo in a thrilling five-set, 25-17, 25-17, 19-25, 24-26, 15-8, to capture the 2025 PVL On Tour title on Sunday, August 17, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Guided by head coach Rald Ricafort, PLDT completed a flawless run throughout the tournament—sweeping the group stage with a 5-0 slate before dispatching ZUS Coffee and Creamline in the knockout rounds. 

The breakthrough marked the High Speed Hitters’ first-ever appearance and victory in a PVL championship stage.

Akari clinched a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour after defeating short-handed Petro Gazz, 32-30, 25-22, 25-19, on Tuesday, August 5, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

The Chargers regrouped from a chaotic first set, where they wasted six points, before finding their rhythm and pulling away behind a well-balanced attack and improved composure. 

The win not only sealed their place in the knockout round but also marked a turning point for the young team, who are steadily adapting to the system of their head coach, Tina Salak.

The final two quarterfinal spots are on the line today, August 5, as the PVL On Tour returns to the Philsports Arena in Pasig for a pivotal doubleheader.

Reigning All-Filipino champions Petro Gazz Angels take on the Akari Chargers at 4 PM, followed by a high-stakes clash between the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles and the Choco Mucho Flying Titans at 6:30 PM.

Both Petro Gazz and Akari had inconsistent performances during the eliminations, but each showed flashes of brilliance in their recent outings. The Angels stunned the Flying Titans in four sets last July 29 in Candon, Ilocos Sur, while the Chargers swept the Capital1 Solar Spikers back on July 15 at the Playtime FilOil Centre.

In a crucial moment for Petro Gazz, veteran Nicole Tiamzon delivered when it mattered most.

With the Angels reeling from two straight losses and fighting for survival in the PVL On Tour, Tiamzon emerged as a steadying force, firing 16 points on 15 attacks and a block to help Petro Gazz turn back Choco Mucho in four sets, 20-25, 25-19, 26-24, 25-17, Tuesday night, July 29, at the Candon City Arena in Ilocos Sur.

It was the perfect time for Tiamzon to break out, stepping into the spotlight as Petro Gazz navigated its first match without Japanese head coach Koji Tsuzurabara. 

Under interim tactician Brian Esquibel, the Angels played with renewed energy and composure—traits Tiamzon embodied throughout the match.

The Petro Gazz Angels are now embracing a new era as interim coach Brian Esquibel steps in following the departure of Japanese head coach Koji Tsuzurabara.

Despite the recent coaching change, the defending champions have remained focused and resilient, clinching the No. 4 seed in Pool A. They will now face the fifth-seeded Akari squad from Pool B in the upcoming knockout round.

Coach Esquibel commended his players for their unwavering determination and teamwork amid adversity.

"Para sa mga bata talaga 'to eh. Nakita niyo naman kung papano sila nagtulong-tulong. ‘Yung effort nila kahit mahabang rally, kami ‘yung nakakuha ng puntos dahil hindi sila bumibigay. Nandu'n pa rin ‘yung pusong kampeon ng mga bata," Esquibel said.

As they continue their title defense, the Angels are determined to uphold the grit and unity that have defined their campaign. With Esquibel’s steady leadership and the team’s championship spirit, Petro Gazz is poised to overcome challenges and pursue another title run.

Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara has parted ways with the Angels.

In an exclusive message to Scoreline.ph, the 60-year-old coach confirmed his decision, stating: “As you may have heard, I’ve decided to leave the team. I’ll go to a country that needs me. See you soon.”

Tsuzurabara added that his agent is actively searching for his next team but assured fans that he’s open to returning: “If a PVL team needs me, I’ll come back to the Philippines.”

His departure means Tsuzurabara will miss the Angels’ crucial final pool match against Choco Mucho on July 29 at the Candon City Arena.

Meanwhile, in a Facebook post by the Petro Gazz Angels, they expressed their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to their former mentor, who dedicated his life—especially for the legacy he left behind.

“Coach Koji, as you return home to Japan to be with your family, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude. Your decision to pursue new opportunities in your continuing volleyball journey is acknowledged with deep respect.

Thank you for the time and dedication you have shared with us. You have been more than just a coach—you have been a mentor, a teacher, and a true inspiration. We are especially grateful for the legacy you leave behind, having led us to our first-ever All-Filipino Championship in the PVL. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”

During his tenure, Tsuzurabara made history with the Angels, guiding them to become the first local team in the league’s pro era to defeat Creamline in the PVL Finals since Chery Tiggo’s 2021 Open Conference victory.

Before his PVL debut in January last year, he steered Petro Gazz to gold in the 2024 PNVF Champions League, sweeping Cignal in the finals.

Tsuzurabara led the Angels to the podium twice in three conferences—earning bronze in his first All-Filipino Conference, finishing sixth in the import-laden tournament, and eventually capturing the PVL crown.

In the small community in Morong, Bataan, a passionate group of young people known as Volleybukids has emerged, united by their love for volleyball.

Founded in 2020 by Pedro Aquino Jr.—was then a college student and avid volleyball enthusiast at the time—the group has become a beacon of hope for young athletes in the area.

Initially, establishing Volleybukids was not without challenges. The community had long favored baseball and softball, supported by strong local government initiatives, leaving volleyball in the shadows.

Nevertheless, Pedro’s dedication to uplifting and nurturing the volleyball skills of local youth fueled his determination. He took it upon himself to secure the necessary equipment, slowly turning his dream into reality.

Pedro and his teammates aspire to someday join the ranks of the top volleyball teams they admire across the country. Reflecting on their journey, Pedro shared their humble beginnings:

"Nagsimula kami noong 2020, noong nagkaroon ng COVID-19 pandemic. Lumang duyan at rubber ball ang ginagamit namin sa paglalaro ng volleyball dito sa aming lugar. Minsan kaming humingi ng tulong sa mga opisyal sa aming lugar para suportahan ang aming grupo, pero mas priority nila ang ibang sports gaya ng baseball kaysa volleyball. Nakaranas din ang grupo namin ng diskriminasyon, pero hindi kami nawalan ng pag-asa," he said.

Determined to keep moving forward, Pedro reached out to Spike and Serve Philippines, an organization led by former UAAP volleyball player and current Petro Gazz Angels member Nicole “Tiammy” Tiamzon.

"Sinubukan kong mag-reach out kay Ate Nicole at sa Spike and Serve para ilapit sa kanila ang aming club, at agad nila kaming tinulungan. Very thankful ako kay Ate Nicole sa tulong at suporta na ibinigay nila sa akin at sa aming grupo," he expressed.

Pedro’s unwavering commitment did not go unnoticed. Coach Tiammy and the Spike and Serve team were inspired by his grassroots efforts and determination to uplift his community through volleyball.

"Ini-reach out kami ni Pedro noong 2020 at ipinakita niya sa amin ang ginawa niyang pagtulong at pagbuo sa grupong Volleybukids. So we helped them and gave them the things they needed," Tiamzon shared.

As a result, Spike and Serve donated new volleyball equipment, including nets and balls, and even installed solar-powered lights in their practice area.

"Nag-donate kami ng mga bola at net para sa kanila, at pinakabitan namin sila ng mga solar lights para may ilaw sa lugar nila kapag maglalaro at mag-eensayo sila ng volleyball," Coach Tiammy added.

This generous support has motivated the youth of Volleybukids to further enhance their skills and pursue their dreams—many now hoping to compete on national and even international stages.

With unshakable determination and the support of Spike and Serve, the Volleybukids are paving the way for a brighter future in volleyball—nurturing not only athletes but also responsible and values-driven citizens.

"Hindi lang skills sa larong volleyball ang gusto naming ma-develop sa mga kabataang aming tinutulungan. Mahalaga at importante sa lahat ay ang hubugin sila na magkaroon ng magandang pag-uugali. Dahil iyan ang layunin ng Spike and Serve—‘Building Community through Sports,’” Coach Tiammy concluded.

Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara is fully committed to training and nurturing young volleyball talent at the grassroots level.

In an exclusive interview with Scoreline.ph, Coach Tsuzurabara emphasized that the outreach event held last Tuesday, July 1, inMorong, Bataan was his own idea and initiative—aimed at discovering and developing the skills of young boys and girls interested in volleyball.

"This is my initiative, and I want to help these children develop their skills in playing volleyball," said Coach Tsuzurabara.

He added that as long as he has the opportunity to stay in the Philippines, he is eager to contribute to grassroots volleyball development. His goal is to help these young players refine their skills so they can one day join PVL teams or even the national squad.

Coach Koji also shared valuable insights on what it takes to become a successful volleyball player, emphasizing the importance of discipline, teamwork, and passion for the sport.

The Japanese coach brings a visionary approach to youth development—one that emphasizes skill-building, discipline, teamwork, and above all, love for the game."

Nicole Tiamzon, founder of Spike and Serve Philippines, affirmed that the outreach efforts were inspired by Coach Koji’s vision.

“All of this was Coach Koji’s idea and initiative,” Tiamzon said. “He’s truly happy when he sees grassroots players in the country who are eager to learn and play volleyball.”

This shared vision is the reason behind the collaboration between Spike and Serve Philippines Inc. and the Petro Gazz Angels, working together to help Volleybukid participants develop their volleyball skills and potential.

“Coach Koji wants to help children like them become successful and competitive volleyball players,” Tiamzon added.

She also emphasized that the current group of young players shows great promise.

“These kids from Volleybukids have potential. It’s not just about the skills—we’re also teaching the coaches that values formation is equally important,” she said.

Coach Tsuzurabara’s long-term vision includes developing a feeder system that connects local talent with collegiate and national-level volleyball programs. By bridging the gap between recreational and competitive play, he hopes to turn raw potential into real achievement.

Spike and Serve Philippines Inc. is once again on the move, driven by its passion for reaching and helping aspiring athletes in communities across the country. The primary objective of their latest outreach, held on Tuesday, July 1, was to support the active grassroots volleyball scene in Barangay Sabang, Morong, Bataan.

Led by founder Nicole “Tiammy” Tiamzon—who is also a member of the PVL All-Filipino champions, Petro Gazz Angels—Spike & Serve returned to Barangay Sabang to engage with the Volleybukids program. 

These young grassroots athletes were given a hands-on opportunity to deepen their understanding of the sport and learn directly from professionals. In line with the mission, vision, and goals of Spike and Serve Philippines, the organization remains committed to helping the youth not just become better athletes, but also responsible citizens and future leaders in their communities.

Aiza Maizo-Pontillas’s rise in Philippine volleyball is a story of passion, leadership, and relentless pursuit of excellence. 

Born on a leap day, February 29, 1988, Aiza’s journey began at Passi National High School, where the seeds of her volleyball dreams were planted. But it was at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) that she truly blossomed — transforming from a back-up setter into one of the fiercest opposite hitters the country has seen.

Her collegiate years with the UST Golden Tigresses were nothing short of remarkable. Starting in UAAP Season 68, she was a bench player, quietly learning the ropes. But by the next season, her coach August Sta. Maria saw her potential and shifted her to opposite hitter — a position that would showcase her explosive attacks and fierce presence on the court.

In UAAP Season 69, she helped lead UST to their 15th championship, marking her first taste of glory. But Aiza was just getting started. As team captain in Season 71, she guided the Tigresses to a bronze finish, personally earning the Best Attacker award. 

Then came Season 72, a season to remember, as UST claimed their 16th UAAP championship by toppling fierce rivals De La Salle University. Aiza’s leadership and skill were instrumental in this triumph.

Her final collegiate season ended with a bittersweet silver finish after a hard-fought series against La Salle, but she was recognized as both the Best Scorer and Best Receiver — a testament to her all-around game.

Aiza’s dominance extended beyond the UAAP. In the Shakey’s V-League, she led UST to five championship titles, including a historic three-peat. She earned accolades across the board: Best Server, Best Blocker, Conference MVP, and Finals MVP. 

She was the first Filipina to win both Finals and Season MVP twice in a single conference, a feat that cemented her legendary status in the league.

Jonah Sabete’s journey to becoming a standout volleyball player is one of determination, heart, and humble beginnings. Born on January 29, 1994, in the quiet town of Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, Jonah’s early life was far from the bright lights of major volleyball arenas. 

As a child, she was a marathon runner — a testament to her endurance and grit — but it wasn’t until a coach convinced her to try volleyball that her true path began to unfold.

Moving away from her hometown, Jonah attended San Pedro High School in Hagonoy, Bulacan, where she started to carve her name in the sport. 

“Even if I had to study by myself, I did everything I could because I had a dream,” she once said, revealing the fire that kept her going despite challenges.

Standing at 5-foot-6, Jonah wasn’t the tallest on the court, but she made up for it with incredible vertical leaps and fierce determination. Her powerful attacks and unwavering commitment made her a key player for Bulacan’s volleyball team in the Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLRAA), where she proved that heart and skill can outmatch physical stature.

Jonah’s college years were spent at Bulacan State University, proudly representing the BulSU Gold Gears. 

Her hard work and talent earned her numerous accolades: she was named to the 2014 Bulacan Collegiate Athletic Association (BCAA) Mythical Six, crowned MVP and Athlete of the Year in 2015, and repeated as Athlete of the Year in 2016. She also made the UCLAA Mythical Six, solidifying her status as one of Bulacan’s brightest volleyball stars.

Djanel Cheng, born on August 28, 1994, is a Filipino volleyball player serving as a setter for the Petro Gazz Angels in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). 

Known for her smart playmaking and steady leadership on the court, Cheng has built a steady career across multiple local volleyball leagues. She is the sister of fellow volleyball player Desiree Cheng.

Cheng began her collegiate volleyball career at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde (CSB), where she played a key role in leading the Lady Blazers to their historic first NCAA women’s volleyball championship in Season 91.

Mary Joy Dacoron, born on October 11, 1995, is a Filipino professional volleyball player currently playing as a middle blocker for the Petro Gazz Angels in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL). Hailing from Oslob, Cebu and raised in Balamban, Dacoron has built a reputation not just as a solid presence on the court, but also as a woman of resilience, intelligence, and heart.

Her journey in volleyball began when she was scouted by Fr. Max Rendon, CM, then Vice President for Finance at Adamson University, during her senior year of high school. 

She moved to Manila to pursue her studies and was granted an athletic scholarship. Initially aspiring to take up BS Accountancy, she eventually shifted to BSBA Financial Management due to the demands of her volleyball training.

Dacoron started as a developmental player for two years with Adamson’s Team B. It was not until UAAP Season 77 that she was officially part of the women’s volleyball roster, although she spent most of that season on the bench.

Her breakthrough game happened in the UAAP Season 79 under head coach Air Padda, who helped unlock her full potential. By Season 80, she was recognized as one of the top middle blockers in the league.

Despite a difficult campaign in Season 81, Dacoron remained grateful for her five years with Adamson, saying, “Adamson is my life. I stayed in Adamson, so it’s already in my blood.”

Petro Gazz reignited its campaign in the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League with a commanding straight-sets victory over Hong Kong’s Hip Hing, 25-8, 25-12, 25-12, on Tuesday, April 22, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

The win not only marked their first in the tournament but also secured them the final quarterfinal berth, setting up a high-stakes clash with Chinese powerhouse Beijing Baic Motor.

After dropping their opening match to Pool B leader Kaohsiung Taipower in four sets (15-25, 16-25, 25-19, 20-25), the Angels bounced back in emphatic fashion, delivering a near-flawless performance against the winless Hong Kong side. 

From the first whistle, Petro Gazz established its dominance, allowing Hip Hing no room to build momentum during the swift one-hour, 13-minute match.

Fresh off their historic Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Championship win, the Petro Gazz Angels were brought back down to earth in their first match on the continental stage, falling in four sets to Chinese Taipei’s Kaohsiung Taipower, 15-25, 16-25, 25-19, 20-25, at the 2025 AVC Women’s Champions League on Monday afternoon, April 21, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.

Despite the momentum of a landmark local title just over a week ago, the Angels couldn’t find their rhythm against the well-drilled and youthful Taipower squad. 

The nine-time Top Volleyball League champions leaned on the consistency of 21-year-old outside hitter Hsu Wan-Yun and 23-year-old wing spiker Tsai Yu-Chun to maintain their unbeaten record (2-0) and clinch the top spot in Pool B.

Every team, every sport, and every coaching staff shares one objective: to attain victory and claim the championship. For the Petro Gazz Angels, this dream became a reality.

After a thrilling 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference Finals, the Angels proved to themselves that the win was theirs. They dethroned the Creamline Cool Smashers with a commanding 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19 victory in Game 3 on Saturday, April 12.

For Petro Gazz Coach Koji Tsuzurabara, the championship was the culmination of a long-held dream.

Tsuzurabara never doubted his team. He believed in the players he had—players capable of going all the way.

Tsuzurabara was fortunate and thrilled to have a talented team, including standout players like Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Philips, who not only secured the championship but also earned the Conference MVP and Finals MVP awards, respectively.

“I trust the player we could win. I’m lucky to have a great team with great players,”  Tsuzurabara said.

For now, the Angels are preparing for the upcoming AVC Women's Champions League to be held on April 20 to 27, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig wherein they will face the teams of Chinese Taipei and Hong Kong. 

For Brooke Van Sickle, the PVL Conference MVP, the upcoming international tournament is especially exciting, as it marks her debut in international competition. She is eager to see how other countries play volleyball and learn from the experience.

“This is my first time with international play. So I'm just excited to see good volleyball and just be able to see how other countries play the sport and to learn from them and grow and just to see the intensity. So I'm super stoked,” said Van Sickle.

The Petro Gazz Angels, alongside PLDT High Speed Hitters and Creamline Cool Smashers, will represent the Philippines at the AVC Women’s Champions League, fighting not just for victory, but for national pride and honor.

The Petro Gazz Angels soared to new heights as they captured their first-ever All-Filipino Conference championship, stunning the powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers in four thrilling sets, 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19, in front of 10,226 fans, on Saturday, April 12, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

Creamline came out blazing in the opening set, showing the poise of a champion with clean execution and relentless energy. 

The two teams battled early, with a 15-10 scoreline marking their first long rally. MJ Phillips sparked a 3-0 Petro Gazz run, trimming the gap to 13-15 before a costly error by Mafe Galanza tied the match at 15-all. 

However, it was Brooke Van Sickle who turned the tide, scoring three consecutive kills to put Petro Gazz ahead 19-16. 

Alyssa Valdez provided a spark off the bench, but the Angels countered with composure and power to take Set 1.

Petro Gazz's dominance continued in the second frame. They opened with an 8-4 lead by shutting down Creamline’s offense and capitalized on unforced errors. Phillips remained unstoppable, while Jonah Sabete and Djanel Cheng delivered the blows—Sabete with smart attacks, and Cheng with three consecutive service aces. 

Creamline struggled to recover as the Angels cruised to a 25-16 win behind their heavy service pressure.

Petro Gazz secured the final slot in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference semifinals after decisively sweeping feisty ZUS Coffee in a must-win Game 3 on Tuesday, March 25, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

The Angels cruised to victory with a straight-sets victory, 25-21, 25-19, 25-23.

With this triumph, Petro Gazz joins defending champions Creamline, along with Choco Mucho and Akari, in the round-robin semifinals. The two teams with the best records will then advance to the best-of-three finals to determine the league champion.

Despite cruising through the first two sets, Petro Gazz faced strong resistance in the third, as the young and determined Thunderbelles fought to extend the match. However, the Angels maintained their composure when it mattered most.

ZUS Coffee delivered a shocking sweep of Petro Gazz, 25-21, 25-23, 27-25, in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference quarterfinals on Tuesday night, March 18, at the PhilSports Arena. 

The victory not only snapped the Angels’ 10-game winning streak but also pushed the Thunderbelles to the verge of their first-ever semifinal appearance. 

In one of their most balanced performances yet, five players scored in double digits, proving their depth and teamwork against an established PVL contender.

Setter Cloanne Mondoñedo orchestrated the offense brilliantly with 19 excellent sets, while Chai Troncoso led all scorers with 14 markers. Thea Gagate and Jovelyn Gonzaga tallied 11 apiece, while Mich Gamit and Chinnie Arroyo contributed 10 each in a well-rounded attack.

The Thunderbelles also dominated at the net, recording 11 blocks compared to Petro Gazz’s five. Troncoso anchored the defense with five kill blocks, while Gagate added three.

The Philippines will have three teams competing in the AVC Women’s Champions League as the host country, with PLDT joining Creamline and Petro Gazz in the tournament.

Just hours before the official draw in Bangkok, Thailand, the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) awarded the Philippines an additional slot for the inaugural club competition, set to take place from April 20 to 27 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig. 

Creamline and Petro Gazz were the first to qualify for the tournament after finishing at the top of the preliminary round in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference and advancing to the quarterfinals.