MANILA, Philippines — Cagayan Valley isn’t taking any chances in its title defense in the Shakey’s V-League Season 11 Open Conference that kicks off Sunday at Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan.
The Rising Suns, who pulled off a rare 16-game sweep in their title run last year, shored up their roster with the acquisition of Adamson ace Faye Guevara and Gemelyn Seguirre from the Gonzaga National High in Cagayan.
Janine Marciano, formerly of Philippine National Police, and former Far Eastern U stalwart Chie Saet and ex-Adamson standout Pau Soriano are also in the squad as the Rising Suns brace for a tougher challenge this time.
Former champions Ateneo and National U head the list of Cagayan’s challengers.
With Alyssa Valdez and Amy Ahomiro at the helm, the reigning UAAP champion Lady Eagles are hoping for a turnaround after a disappointing finish in the First Conference where they failed to reach the semifinals.
The Lady Bulldogs are raring to end a string of heartbreaks with the Santiago sisters Dindin and Jaja leading the way. NU bowed to Far Eastern U in the finals of the first conference.
After leading the Lady Tamaraws to the crown, Rachel Ann Daquis and Jovelyn Gonzaga will suit up for Philippine Army, making the Lady Troopers instant title contenders.
With a team built around Michelle Datuin, Aidie Castro, Tyne Tadeo and Frances Molina, PNP is also tipped to make an impact along with Air Force and PLDT Home Telpad. Also seeing action in the eight-team tournament is University of the Philippines.