Titans have work cut out for them, says coach
Despite the return of Sisi Rondina and the arrival of Eya Laure, Dante Alinsunurin is keeping expectations in check for the Choco Mucho Flying Titans heading into the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
Rondina is back after helping deliver the Philippines’ first Southeast Asian Games beach volleyball gold medal, while Laure joins the Flying Titans after years as one of the most recognizable faces of collegiate volleyball. Still, Alinsunurin said cohesion—not star power—will dictate Choco Mucho’s fortunes.
“For now, I’m not really putting out specific expectations about what we can achieve,” Alinsunurin said in Filipino during Wednesday’s press conference at Discovery Suites. “What matters most is building the team first. A lot of new players joined us.”
The Flying Titans open their campaign against the Akari Chargers on Saturday at Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City. Alinsunurin, who led Choco Mucho to runner-up finishes in the 2023 and 2024 All-Filipino Conferences, said communication and chemistry remain his priorities.
“Our main focus right now is how we communicate, how we jell and what we can add to improve once the games start,” he said.
Reshaped rosters
Alinsunurin also expects a tougher field, with Creamline regaining Jia De Guzman and Bernadeth Pons, Nxled bolstering its lineup with former Petro Gazz stars led by Brooke Van Sickle and several teams reshaping their rosters following the exit of Chery Tiggo and the Angels.
“There are teams already at the top and most teams are chasing that number one spot,” he said. “What’s important is that we stay focused and approach every game—and every set—step by step.”
The coach welcomed the return of Rondina, a former league MVP, saying her presence alone has lifted the team’s intensity.
“From the very start of practice, you can feel the energy,” Alinsunurin said. “She pushes everyone—on defense, offense, even during breaks. Her leadership really shows.”
Rondina also reunites with Laure, her former University of Santo Tomas teammate, when the Golden Tigresses reached the UAAP Season 81 finals in 2019. Alinsunurin said Laure is still adjusting.
“Her skill set is already there,” he said. “We just need to fine-tune some movements. She’s very open to being coached, which helps a lot.”
Choco Mucho also added Caitlin Viray, Alina Bicar and Jaila Atienza to a deep roster led by Deanna Wong, Kat Tolentino, Dindin Santiago-Manabat, Maddie Madayag and Isa Molde.
“I’m grateful for the roster we have,” Alinsunurin said. “But we still have work to do.”
