“We want to show who we are”: Alyssa Valdez sends strong message as Creamline returns to PVL Finals 

The Creamline Cool Smashers once again underscored their dynasty status in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), punching their ticket to yet another finals appearance after outlasting the Farm Fresh Foxies, 25-23, 14-25, 25-23, 25-19, in the All-Filipino Conference semifinals on Thursday, April 16, at a jampacked FilOil EcoOil Centre.

In a match that showcased both resilience and championship pedigree, Creamline leaned on its core veterans to overcome a spirited challenge from the upstart Foxies. Tots Carlos spearheaded the attack with 15 points, delivering in crucial stretches, particularly in the tightly contested first and third sets. She was ably supported by Jema Galanza and Jeanette Panaga, who chipped in 13 markers apiece to keep the offense balanced and unpredictable.

The victory marked the 15th finals appearance in franchise history for Creamline, further solidifying its reputation as the league’s gold standard. Even more impressive is their sustained dominance in the All-Filipino Conference, where this latest berth represents their ninth consecutive trip to the championship round—a testament to the organization’s consistency, depth, and winning culture.

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Despite their storied success, the Cool Smashers entered the conference with something to prove. The team experienced a rare dip in form over the past year, falling short in their title defense in the previous All-Filipino Conference and missing the finals in the three succeeding tournaments. For a team accustomed to competing for championships, the drought served as both a humbling experience and a source of motivation.

Team captain Alyssa Valdez, one of the most recognizable faces in Philippine volleyball, acknowledged the significance of their return to the finals. Speaking to reporters after the match, Valdez emphasized that the journey back has been as meaningful as the result itself.

Alyssa Valdez: Maybe this coming finals, we just want to show and demonstrate who the Creamline Cool Smashers are. #PVL2026 | @LanceAgcaoilINQ pic.twitter.com/tSs0y94OTe

— INQUIRER Sports (@inquirersports) April 16, 2026

“Coming into the Finals, we just want to show and even see for ourselves who the Creamline Cool Smashers really are after everything we have been through,” Valdez shared. “Of course, we are really happy. It feels so good to be back in the Finals. It’s been a while, right? Almost a year, three conferences without getting here. Honestly, it’s hard to put into words what we are feeling right now.”

Beyond the statistics and accolades, Valdez highlighted the importance of rediscovering team identity and chemistry. The Cool Smashers’ campaign in this conference has been bolstered by the return and reintegration of key players, including playmaker Jia De Guzman, versatile spiker Bernadeth Pons, and Galanza, giving the squad a sense of completeness that had been missing in previous tournaments.

“I think for this conference, our mindset has really been about getting to know ourselves better as Creamline,” Valdez explained. “This is the first time in a while that we are complete, so our growth and journey have been different. We have gotten to know each other on a deeper level because of all the challenges we went through. We are very thankful for that experience.”

That renewed cohesion was evident against Farm Fresh, particularly in how Creamline responded after dropping the second set convincingly. Instead of unraveling, the Cool Smashers regrouped, tightened their defense, and executed more efficiently in transition to regain control of the match.

Awaiting them in the finals is another formidable opponent in the Cignal HD Spikers, setting up a highly anticipated championship showdown between two of the league’s most competitive squads. Game 1 is scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum, where a large and passionate crowd is expected to witness the opening salvo of the series.

For Valdez and the Cool Smashers, the mission is clear: reclaim their place at the top of Philippine volleyball. With their core intact, confidence restored, and momentum on their side, Creamline now stands just steps away from adding another chapter to its already illustrious legacy.

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