MANILA — Western Visayas volleyball talents are set to test their mettle on the professional stage as several homegrown standouts joined a powerhouse field of aspirants in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League Rookie Draft slated June 3 at Novotel Manila.
Headlining the region’s hopefuls is Guimarasnon setter Camilla Lamina, the two-time UAAP Best Setter from National University, who enters the draft as one of the most decorated collegiate playmakers in the country.
Also carrying the Western Visayas banner are Ilongga libero Lara Mae Silva of Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Bacolodnon University of the Philippines standout Joan Marie Monares, and Antiqueña Irah Jaboneta, who are all seeking to secure spots in the country’s premier professional volleyball league.
The four are part of a loaded 42-player draft pool expected to reshape several PVL franchises heading into the new season.
Leading the highly touted class is National University star Alyssa Solomon, widely projected as the potential top overall pick after building an impressive résumé highlighted by international exposure and championship success.
The draft pool also features several elite UAAP standouts, including University of Santo Tomas stars Bernadett “Detdet” Pepito, Jonna Perdido, and Xyza Gula, along with UP’s Niña Ytang, Heart Magsombol, and Jum Gayo.
Far Eastern University will be represented by Tin Ubaldo, Ann Asis, and Florize Papa, while De La Salle University is sending Ela Raagas, Michelle Beterina, Jade Fuentes, and Sophia Sindayen into the professional selection process.
Also joining the applicant list are University of the East players KC Cepada, Tin Ecalla, and Kayce Balingit, Adamson’s Barbie Jamili, and Ateneo setter Taks Fujimoto.
The NCAA contingent is likewise expected to make a strong push in the draft.
Letran will parade Natalie Estreller and Julienne Castro, while San Sebastian College-Recoletos fields Katherine Santos, Christina Marasigan, and Kristine Dionisio. Jose Rizal University is represented by Marianne Alona and Gayle Batara.
Lyceum of the Philippines University’s Johna Dolorito, Jericha Lopez, and Janeth Tulang, Mapua’s Grace Cabadin and Alyanna Ong, San Beda’s Erin Navarro, and University of Perpetual Help’s Fianne Ariola also joined the expanding draft class.
Provincial standouts hoping to break into the professional ranks include University of Nueva Caceres-Sorsogon middle blocker Kirsty Destajo and University of San Carlos ace blocker Angel Galinato.
All applicants are scheduled to participate in the mandatory Draft Combine on May 28 and 29 at Gameville Ballpark in Mandaluyong City before the official draft day. Players may still withdraw their applications until June 1./PN
