Mandy Romero eyes final piece to complete Capital1 puzzle in PVL Draft

The early favorite for the top pick is fresh-from-Japan Alyssa Solomon, leaving setter Camilla Lamina, middle blocker Niña Ytang, and libero Detdet Pepito as the next biggest names available.

“Of course, we’re very, very happy… We’ve had a lot of changes in the offseason at sana talaga this next draft naman will bring together all the passion, the grit, and the fire that we need to be a champion contender. ‘Yon talaga yung dream namin,” said Romero.

(C) PVL Images

Capital1 already made a big splash prior to the draft, signing two former Most Valuable Players in Erika Santos and Vanie Gandler from the now-defunct Cignal squad.

Now, they are looking for the player who can complete the puzzle.

“We’re looking for someone who can bring leadership to our team and also bring the much-needed firepower that pagpasok pa lang nila on the court, they’re ready to be part of this team, they’re ready and very determined to achieve our new heights together,” said Romero.

After the league released the 42-player applicant list earlier, Romero already had names in mind.

This marks the Solar Spikers’ third straight year picking in the top two of the draft. The team selected Leila Cruz at second in the 2024 edition before taking Bella Belen as the top pick in the 2025 version.

“Yes, of course, and we saw earlier today, like na-release na yung buong lineup. I think it might be, no more additions to this initial list,” she said.

“And again, as we’ve said earlier, we’re looking for that missing piece to bring that extra edge dito sa Capital1, sino kaya ‘yon?”