Creamline's Alyssa Valdez and Jia Morado, both part of the 20-woman national team pool, have yet to seek clearance to play in the Philippine Superliga (PSL) Invitational Conference.
Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas, Inc. (LVPI) announced last week that the Philippine team will join the PSL as part of its buildup for international tournaments. The problem is that some players, including Valdez and Morado, are playing in the rival Premier Volleyball League (PVL).
"I talked to the PVL players. I told them to ask permission and clarify that we are not included in the PSL tournament. We are just getting tuneup games with the PSL teams," LVPI vice president Peter Cayco said, stressing that the national team will only participate as a guest squad with no bearing on the league standings.
The Cool Smashers, however, are currently in the middle of their PVL campaign, which will overlap with the PSL Invitational that opens on June 23.
"I think the question is not just for us players, but of course, for our mother teams as well. We also have managers that we're committed to so we have to ask permission from them. We're committed to them and we're signed to them so that's our responsibility as an athlete," said Valdez.
"We're waiting also for the formal letter (from the LVPI). It's gonna be a long process for everyone," the former Ateneo star added. "If Creamline will see the benefit of this for our team and the national team, I think there's no question. I think we have to meet halfway also."
While Valdez's desire to fight for the flag is unquestionable, she still needs to ensure that no conflict will arise as she tries to fulfill her duties to both camps.
"In all honesty, all the coaches have been talking to us about what's going to happen, what the plans are for the tournament. It's still at an early stage for the national team. We're open to talking about our priorities and our commitments and the scheduling," the Phenom assured.