Galeries Tower unveils new PVL coaching staff led by Aying Esteban

The Galeries Tower Highrisers ushered in a new era on Thursday, unveiling a revamped coaching staff led by returning PVL tactician Aying Esteban ahead of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference.

The Highrisers announced the changes by posting a photo of its new coaches, with Esteban set to call the shots and steer the Highrisers through a full rebuild. 

He becomes the third head coach since pioneering mentor Lerma Giron parted ways with the franchise last year, following a difficult Reinforced Conference campaign handled by Godfrey Okumu that ended without a win.

[ALSO READ: Godfrey Okumu zeroes in on biggest change expected from Galeries Tower as new head coach]

Esteban brings familiarity and league experience to the role, having previously handled the Chery Tiggo Crossovers in 2022. He also had a stint as an assistant coach with the now-defunct BaliPure Purest Water Defenders.

Joining him on the Galeries bench is former PVL champion coach John Abella, whose track record includes two Shakey’s V-League titles with Pocari Sweat.

Beyond the professional ranks, Esteban is also deeply entrenched in the local volleyball scene. He currently coaches the University of Santo Tomas boys’ team and is part of the Golden Spikers’ coaching staff.

Roster-wise, Galeries Tower is expected to soon unveil new recruits to build around cornerstone pieces such as No. 2 overall pick Jean Asis and Alas Pilipinas setter Julia Coronel. 

The offseason, however, has already seen significant departures, with Dimdim Pacres, Fhen Emnas, and Ivy Perez bidding farewell, while Ysa Jimenez and France Ronquillo have moved on to the Capital1 Solar Spikers.

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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.