The Alas Pilipinas women’s volleyball team remains optimistic of its chances in the upcoming AVC Challenge Cup despite the limited time in preparations.

Some team members are coming off from their respective stints in the Premier Volleyball League and the UAAP, but  skipper Jia De Guzman believed in the capabilities of her teammates.

“We keep saying that we have a short preparation, but moving forward, hopefully all the parties involved will continue to cooperate so that we could achieve our goals better in the future,” said De Guzman during the team launch on Monday, May 20, at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel.

“The team is very eager. Everyone is being strong. If there are any adjustments, we try to make it as much as we can,” she added.

Team coach Jorge De Brito is also confident of his stalwarts.

“We are a competitive team, no matter what. We are always here to fight, no matter the circumstances,” said De Brito.

Bracketed in Pool A, the Nationals face an acid test when they take on Australia on Thursday, May 23, followed by India on Friday, May 24; Iran on Saturday, May 25; and Chinese Taipei on Sunday, May 26.

The other pool is composed of Vietnam, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Singapore and Hong Kong.

The annual tournament stakes a berth in the 2024 FIVB Volleyball Women’s Challenger Cup slated in July.

“We have a very solid lineup and I’m positive that our players will do their best in this tournament,” said Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) President Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara.

“This ushers in a very momentous occasion,” added Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Executive Director Paolo Tatad. “ It signals a good thing in the next couple of years for Philippine volleyball. We are excited for what they are able to achieve.”

Also present in the event were Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Bambol Tolentino, Rebisco's Rollie Delfino and PVL President Ricky Palou.

Aside from De Guzman, the team is composed of Dawn Catindig, Vanie Gandler, Dell Palomata, Sisi Rondina, Cherry Nunag, Fifi Sharma, Faith Nisperos, Eya Laure, Jen Nierva and collegiate standouts Angel Canino, Thea Gagate, Julia Coronel and Ara Panique.