Myla Pablo stays focused on Petro Gazz’s PVL campaign despite Koji Tsuzurabara’s shock exit

The Petro Gazz Angels were recently dealt a major blow after head coach Koji Tsuzurabara parted ways with the franchise just three months after leading them to their first-ever Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference title.

However, the Angels did not let Tsuzurabara’s exit affect them. Under interim head coach Brian Esquibel, they ended their two-game skid by defeating the Choco Mucho Flying Titans 20-25, 25-19, 26-24, 25-17 at the Candon City Arena on Tuesday, July 29.

Veteran Myla Pablo stepped up when her team needed her, recording 23 points and 16 excellent receptions. After the game, she reiterated that the team remains focused on its goals amid off-court noise.

STAYING POSITIVE ❤️‍🔥

Myla Pablo says their recent win over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans gave the team a much-needed morale boost, especially as they adjust to a sudden coaching change following the departure of Japanese head coach Koji Tsuzurabara#PVL2025 #TheHeartofVolleyball pic.twitter.com/RF8OAWb3NX

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) July 30, 2025

“This game meant a lot for us, especially heading into the crossover. We want to carry this confidence into our next match. I know there are a lot of big issues going on with Petro Gazz right now, but as players, we just need to focus on what the coaches are telling us. Coach Brian Esquibel is also there to guide us on the court,” Pablo said.

The 31-year-old praised former coach Koji Tsuzurabara, especially for leading the team to its first PVL All-Filipino title, and promised to continue applying the lessons they learned under the Japanese tactician.

“Coach Koji’s departure was really sudden. So we told ourselves, let’s just finish the eliminations strong, starting with this game against Choco Mucho. After that, we’ll move forward to the crossover. We need to go for that must-win game. What he taught us over the past year is still with us. His presence is still felt, especially through the things he used to tell us. We’re just trying to enjoy the game the same way we did in the past conferences,” she added.

The victory ensured that Petro Gazz finished fourth in Pool A with a 2–3 win-loss record, setting up a clash with fifth-seeded Akari Chargers in a knockout game for a chance to secure a quarterfinal spot.

The win was more than just a morale booster for Bang Pineda and the Angels, who now have a short break to recharge before facing Akari on Tuesday, August 5, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

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