Bella Belen reflects on PVL quarterfinals run as eyes turn to SEA Games debut

For Bella Belen, the end of the Capital1 Solar Spikers’ run in the PVL Reinforced Conference is not a moment of defeat — it’s a stepping stone. Despite the quarterfinal exit at the hands of powerhouse ZUS Coffee, 25-14, 25-20, 25-18, the three-time UAAP MVP embraced the experience as a unique opportunity to grow, both as a player and as a future member of the national team.

Belen finished the match with nine points and 19 exceptional receptions, showcasing her versatility and leadership on the court. Though tears came after her first PVL campaign concluded, she left the Araneta Coliseum with lessons she plans to carry into the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand next month.

“For me, this conference helped a lot. It’s a different system, but it really prepares me for the SEA Games because I already know what I need to work on and what role I need to play,” Belen shared. “I’m also very happy that we reached the quarterfinals. There are so many lessons I can take with me to the next games.”

Balancing PVL commitments with ongoing practices for Alas Pilipinas, Belen has been immersed in preparation for a possible SEA Games debut. Her focus is clear: readiness and adaptability. 

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Bella Belen shifts her focus to the SEA Games. #PVL2025 @INQUIRERSports pic.twitter.com/8w0YjZzc5k

— Lance Agcaoili (@LanceAgcaoilINQ) November 24, 2025

“As of now, my mindset is still to show up and be ready. For the SEA Games, whoever makes the lineup, everyone deserves it. It’s not guaranteed that I’ll always be playing, but whenever I do get the chance to step in, I’ll make sure I give my best for the national team and for the Philippine flag,” she said.

Belen highlighted the challenge of coordinating training between her club and the national squad. “Alas has been practicing continuously, leading up to the SEA Games. For us at Capital1, we’re also starting training little by little. When we don’t have team training with Capital1, we train for the national team. Right now, I’m hoping everyone can start training together soon because it’s really hard to prepare in just a few days, especially since our opponents for the SEA Games have been preparing for a long time.”

Despite the challenges, Belen remains optimistic about the national team’s prospects. “I really hope we can make it to the podium. We’ll work for it. It’s tough, but tougher things can also be more fulfilling.”

Her PVL debut, filled with moments of intensity against imports like Sasha Bytsenko, proved to be a high-level education. “It was very challenging. The PVL is on a different level compared to the UAAP. The level of competition is much higher, and you have to know how to handle your emotions and excitement every game. Every team adjusts really fast, so we also have to be like that in Capital1. We have to know when and how to make things work for us,” Belen said.

She also acknowledged the progress of her team and her own development: “We improved a lot as a team. But of course, we’re still hoping and I’m still hoping that we can continue to grow because all the teams are on an upward trend. I’m really looking forward to what more we can do in the next conference.”

For Bella Belen, the PVL experience is less about wins and losses and more about preparation, resilience, and embracing the challenge of stepping onto bigger stages with the Philippine flag on the line.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!