Ara Galang expressed her admiration for Bella Belen after their first PVL matchup, saying that the Capital1 star is destined for even greater heights.
Separate eras of greatness converged on the PVL taraflex Tuesday night.
Ara Galang had nothing but praise for Bella Belen after facing the young superstar for the first time in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference, where Chery Tiggo outlasted Capital1 in five grueling sets, 27-25, 23-25, 25-12, 22-25, 15-13, at the FilOil EcoOil Arena in San Juan City.
Galang, who finished with 11 points in the win, described Belen as a rare talent with a sharp volleyball mind and a fierce competitive drive.
[ALSO READ: Jen Nierva commends former NU teammate Bella Belen after first PVL matchup]
“Siyempre isa rin siya sa mga nilu-look up na player dito sa Philippines,” Galang told reporters. “As a rookie, nakita mo talaga na palaban. Iba kasi ‘yung diskarte ni Bella, matalinong bata talaga. Parang madali sa kanya ‘yung volleyball."
“So, siyempre, happy ako na nagka-abot kami kasi maganda rin na nakatapat ko siya.”
‘Idol ng mga idols’
From her days in DLSU to her decorated professional career, Galang has long been one of Philippine volleyball's benchmark figures.
Ara Galang spikes the ball during Chery Tiggo's Reinforced Conference match vs Capital1. | Photo: PVL
Still recognized and admired by today’s generation of players, including Belen herself, Galang said she feels deeply grateful to see her years of hard work still inspiring others.
“Siyempre nakakataba ng puso. Na-acknowledge at na-recognize ‘yung pinagtrabahuhan ko for many years,” Galang said. “Nakakatuwa din na nakikita nila. To think na ‘yung effort ko may bunga naman.”
Bright future ahead
When asked how far she believes Belen’s career can go, Galang didn’t hesitate to give her full confidence.
“Malayo,” she said with a smile. “Rookie pa lang siya. Mahaba pa, madaming chances and opportunity darating sa kanya. Hindi lang dito sa PVL, siyempre sa Alas Pilipinas. Magandang opportunity. Malayo pa mararating niya for sure.”
[ALSO READ: Ara Galang proud to be an inspiration for the next generation of PH volleyball greats]
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.