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'Nag-aaral din kami': Bella Belen responds to critics after earning college diploma

nu lad

Published May 13, 2025 03:28 pm
National University star Bella Belen (UAAP Media)
National University star Bella Belen (UAAP Media)

National University star Bella Belen is one of the most talented players in the collegiate ranks, and her brilliance goes well beyond the four corners of the court.

Despite having a hectic schedule due to her responsibilities as a student-athlete, Belen worked her way to fulfill her parents' dream --  to finish her education.

Belen made her loved ones proud after earning her BS Psychology diploma at NU last Friday, May 16.

“I’m very happy kasi syempre ‘yong diploma hindi sya biro sa isang estudyante, siyempre isa po ‘yon sa gusto naming makuha kasi hindi siya madali,” said Belen after leading the Lady Bulldogs to a 25-17, 25-21, 13-25, 25-17 Game 1 win over De La Salle Lady Spikers last weekend.

“Kahit na may mga tao na nagsasabi na porket student-athlete, ganyan, talagang nakapasa lang kami dahil ganun kami, pero hindi, nag-aaral din kami, nagpupuyat and I’m very happy na nakuha nako ng diploma from NU,” she added.

Belen said there were plenty of obstacles to overcome along the way, with her obligations as a varsity and a student mixing up during tough times.

The first-ever Rookie-MVP in UAAP women’s volleyball also has a message for aspiring athletes like her, saying nothing is impossible and discipline is a must.

“Hindi siya imposible, na kahit student-athlete ka, na busy ‘yong training schedules, and at the same time may classes,” said Belen.

“Talagang kailangan lang magsumikap and kailangan marunong din sa time management and priorities din.”

Belen is poised to win her third MVP plum this season and a Game 2 victory over La Salle this Wednesday, May 14, at Mall of Asia Arena, could make it sweeter in possibly her final game as a Lady Bulldog.

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