MANILA, Philippines – When Cignal played Farm Fresh in the 2024–25 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference on Saturday night, the Ynares Center was a hive of activity. Yet, despite the activity, Cignal mainstays Ces Molina and Vanie Gandler shared sad emotions about a wasted opportunity: a reunion on the court with former colleagues Rachel Daquis and Jheck Dionela.

The HD Spikers had expected a nostalgic matchup with Daquis and Dionela, two players who made a lasting impression while playing for Cignal. The pair did not, however, attend Farm Fresh’s season premiere. Daquis, a six-year veteran of Cignal, is anticipated to miss the opening games of the five-month event as she continues to intensify her conditioning.

Although she admitted that the occasion had not yet come to pass as she had hoped, Chin-Chin Molina stated that she was looking forward to an intriguing clash against their opponents. She expressed hope for more opportunities to play against them in the future, especially when both teams are actively using the court.

Molina emphasized the importance of playing against formidable opponents since it not only puts a team’s skills to the test but also encourages development and resiliency. According to her, taking on these kinds of challenges is an essential part of the sport since it gives players the chance to improve their abilities and broaden their knowledge of the rules. Molina is optimistic and looking forward to the day when both teams can play competitively to the fullest despite the current situation.

Her remarks are representative of a larger view of sportsmanship, which places an emphasis on respect for the opposition and a desire for exciting and fair competition. Molina’s perspective, which emphasizes the value of tenacity and preparation, is in line with the volleyball spirit. She is optimistic that the eagerly anticipated battle will take place and provide both teams an opportunity to demonstrate their skill and tenacity. For the time being, she and her team are staying focused and preparing for the challenges that are yet to come.

Gandler expressed her eagerness for a future matchup against well-known opponents, echoing her teammate’s feelings. Naturally, I’m excited. Going up against familiar faces is usually interesting and enjoyable. We hope to play against them soon,” she remarked.

After an incredible six years with Cignal, Rachel Daquis last appeared in the 2023 Invitationals. She and other former Cignal athletes will make their eagerly awaited comeback with Farm Fresh following a year-long hiatus.

With 11 years with the team, Jheck Dionela, on the other hand, left an enduring legacy as the player with the longest tenure in Cignal history. She and another former HD Spiker, AJ Jingco, have embarked on a new chapter with their transfer to Farm Fresh.

In keeping with the league’s changing landscape, Chai Troncoso, Chin Basas, Gen Casugod, and Jovelyn Gonzaga are all leaving the Cignal squad.

As her former comrades started a new chapter with Farm Fresh, Chin-Chin Molina offered her sincere support for them. Even though it was difficult to watch them go, Molina emphasized the strong connection she still has with her former colleagues, highlighting the fact that volleyball friendship transcends team allegiance. She expressed her joy and excitement at being in a position where they may advance their careers and make significant contributions.

Molina’s words demonstrate her good sportsmanship and gratitude for their shared experience on the court. Her words of encouragement show how players respect and admire one another despite their different routes. She emphasized how each player’s performance benefits the larger volleyball community and acknowledged the value of supporting one another, whether as teammates or rivals.

Molina is still certain that her old teammates can make a difference wherever they play, even as they move on to new possibilities. Her words of support not only reflect her personal qualities but also serve as a model of harmony and decency in the cutthroat realm of athletics. This viewpoint guarantees that the bonds made in volleyball endure, creating a positive atmosphere for all participants.

Molina, however, shown little tenderness on the court. In a decisive victory of 25-15, 25-18, and 25-21, the former PVL MVP led Cignal with a game-high 14 points, which included 11 attacks and three aces.