Leila Cruz and Vanie Gandler proudly represent Alas Pilipinas on and off the court as official candidates for Ms. VTV Volleyball Rose at the 2025 VTV Cup.
The Filipinas are not just winning sets — they’re winning hearts.
At the 2025 VTV International Women’s Volleyball Cup, Alas Pilipinas stars Leila Cruz and Vanie Gandler are flying the flag for the country in more ways than one.
Not only are they leading the national team to a promising campaign, but they’ve also been officially named as candidates for Ms. VTV Volleyball Rose — a fan-favorite pageant celebrating grace, charm, and character among the tournament's players.
This annual tradition has long been a lighthearted yet meaningful recognition of athletes who captivate fans beyond their skills.
This year, Cruz and Gandler join a special list of Filipina players who’ve been selected for the title.
In previous editions of the VTV Cup, the Philippines was represented by Bella Belen, Caitlin Viray, and Des Cheng.
Now it’s Cruz and Gandler’s turn to step into the spotlight — and they’re doing so with pride.
Both players have become fan favorites not just for their stellar performances, but for their grace under pressure.
On the court, they’ve helped steer Alas Pilipinas to back-to-back wins, sweeping Vietnam in the opener before making quick work of Australia, 25-13, 25-15, 25-20, to clinch a quarter finals berth.
Cruz, in particular, showcased her focus and sense of humor in a postgame interview after their win over Chinese club Sichuan Wuliangchun. Asked what the team did differently after facing Vietnam.
“We studied the Chinese team and really focused on their spikes and defensive patterns,” she said.
When the conversation shifted to the Ms. VTV Cup Title, Cruz couldn’t help but smile.
“Are you saying I’m a candidate?” she said with a laugh. “I’m just grateful that the fans see me as beautiful — and yeah, I’m very happy.”
Vanie Gandler, known for her composed court presence and effortless elegance, rounds out the Philippines’ candidates this year. The two represent a new generation of Filipina athletes — fierce in competition, graceful in presence.
And while their goal remains locked in on volleyball glory — “Our objective this year is hopefully to make it to the finals and win this cup,” Cruz noted — their presence in the Volleyball Rose pageant is a reminder of something deeper. That in representing the Philippines, beauty and bravery can go hand in hand.
As Alas Pilipinas marches forward in the tournament, Cruz and Gandler continue a proud legacy — proving that there’s truly nothing in this world like a Filipina girl.
Watch the full interview here: