Strong Group Athletics has signed former Chery Tiggo standouts Cess Robles, Karen Verdeflor, and Renee Peñafiel, assuring the trio of a new PVL home.
Strong Group Athletics wasted no time reinforcing its volleyball program following Chery Tiggo’s sudden disbandment from the PVL, officially securing three key players on Wednesday, December 3.
Spikers Cess Robles and Renee Peñafiel, along with libero Karen Verdeflor, have all signed with SGA—the organization that currently manages PVL squads ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles (2025 PVL Reinforced Conference runner-up) and Farm Fresh Foxies (2025 PVL Reinforced Conference preliminary top seed).
“We were both surprised and saddened by Chery Tiggo's sudden decision to disband their team. It’s always difficult for players to face such unexpected changes, and my heart goes out to them,” Strong Group volleyball head Kiara Cruz said on the team’s website.
“At the same time, we’re thrilled to welcome Princess, Karen, and Renren to our Strong Group family, and we look forward to seeing them shine with us.”
[ALSO READ: New beginnings: Possible landing spots for Chery Tiggo stars after PVL exit]
Robles had been a fixture for the Crossovers since 2023. She emerged as one of their most reliable point-producers, racking up 446 total points built on 407 attacks, 37 blocks, and 22 aces throughout her stay.
Verdeflor, selected ninth overall in the 2024 PVL Draft out of Adamson University, developed into a dependable defensive piece behind main libero Jen Nierva, providing stability and versatility in the backrow.
Peñafiel, the former UST standout taken 26th overall in the 2025 draft, showed flashes of promise during her rookie year. She has scored 84 points in her budding pro career, tallying 71 attacks, six blocks, and seven aces.
With Chery Tiggo formally releasing its roster, the trio marks the first cluster of players absorbed into a new home.
[ALSO READ: Last ride: Crossovers post heartfelt tributes after Chery Tiggo EV PVL exit]
Their eventual landing spots are expected to be finalized in the coming days or weeks.
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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.