Justine Jazareno is drawing added motivation from her Best Libero award in the SEA V.League Leg 2, as she eyes a stronger run with Alas Pilipinas in their next tournaments.
Fresh off being named Best Libero in Leg 2 of the 5th SEA V.League, Justine Jazareno is extra motivated to take her game on another level for Alas Pilipinas.
Jazareno, who was present for the official campaign kickoff of the FIVB Men's World Championships 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, admitted she was overwhelmed by the recognition, calling it a product of her relentless effort.
The Akari Chargers star even revealed holding back tears when the award was announced.
“Super happy lang ako kasi siyempre, lahat naman nag-work hard. 'Yun nga, lagi kong sinasabi na hard work pays off,” Jazareno told reporters. “Hindi ako titigil even if nakuha ko na 'yun. I’ll do more and I’ll be better.”
“Sobrang naiyak talaga ako nu’n pero pinigilan ko kasi nahihiya talaga ako eh na makita nila yung reaction ko na umiiyak pero super happy,” she added.
Having joined Alas during the 2025 VTV Cup, Jazareno credited the team's commitment to sticking with the system as a key to their continued success and progress.
“We have to always stick to the system, always go back to the system kasi yun naman lagi yung pinaghuhugutan namin to be better and to improve more para mapatunayan namin na we are getting better and stronger,” she said.
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On a personal level, the 25-year-old libero is vowing to carry her leadership and learnings from international play back to her mother team in the PVL.
Jazareno also highlighted the influence of veteran libero Dawn Cantidig, whom she considers a role model and mentor.
“More on naging mentor ko siya, na tinutulungan niya ko even if meron siyang mga responsibilities na ginagawa for herself para matulungan ‘yung team, naging anchor ko siya. Naging ate talaga siya for me,” said Jazareno.
With the SEA V.League experience under their belt, Jazareno believes Alas is poised to perform even better in future battles, including the upcoming 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, in December.
“Added motivation and inspiration yung mga nakuha namin na experience dito sa SEA V.League. Alam namin na mas magiging strong kami,” she concluded.
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(With reports from Vlon Bandivas/One Sports)