Petro Gazz adds firepower with Phillips, Pontillas, Pineda signing

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

Despite losing almost half of its core players recently, the Petro Gazz Angels are still one of the teams to beat after acquiring veterans MJ Phillips, Aiza Maizo-Pontillas, and Bang Pineda from the Sta. Lucia Realtors.

The Angels were quick to tap the services of the trio after Sta. Lucia’s announcement that they will be taking a leave of absence in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).

Questions surrounded the volleyball franchise after superstars Ria Meneses, Kath Arado, and Ces Molina decided to part ways with the team despite a consistent playoff outing in the PVL.

Aside from them, Jerrili Malabanan, Alina Bicar, Ivy Perez, Mean Mendrez, Jessey De Leon, and Rica Enclona also departed from Petro Gazz.

Meanwhile, Phillips will be a key addition to the team with her offensive and blocking prowess and was Sta. Lucia’s leading scorer during her four-year tenure.

The veteran Maizo-Pontillas, one of the most highly-respected opposite hitters until now, will seek to bring the same leadership she contributed to the Realtors alongside Pineda.

Petro Gazz also signed Nicole Tiamzon, Cienne Cruz, Djanel Cheng, Jonah Sabete, and Yeye Gabarda as reinforcements for the upcoming PVL season.

The PVL is yet to announce the final date for the first conference but they are eyeing February 16 as their kick-off.