JIA de Guzman has made her stand clear amid the growing tension surrounding Alas Pilipinas and the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF).
For the longtime national team captain, the issue cuts to one point more than anything else: athletes should be supported, not forced into choosing between serving the country and sustaining their careers in the league.
READ Fifi speaks up on Alas issue: 'Passion can't justify neglect'
In a statement on Thursday, de Guzman said she took time to process the breadth of a troubling situation before speaking out as debate continued to build around the national team setup, athlete welfare and the direction of Philippine volleyball.
Her message was firm.
“I believe athletes should be in an environment where they can continue to grow, compete, and be supported without being put in a position where they have to choose between the national team and their careers in the league,” de Guzman wrote.
That has become one of the biggest flashpoints in the ongoing storm involving the PNVF and Alas Pilipinas, especially after the federation’s proposed setup drew criticism and concern from stakeholders over player welfare, calendar alignment and the possibility of athletes being boxed into an either-or situation.
The Alas Women skipper argued that this should not be an impossible balancing act.
She pointed out that other countries have found ways for national teams and domestic leagues to coexist, allowing players to develop in both spaces while helping the sport grow over time.
The veteran setter added that representing the country has always meant a lot to her, but said protecting athletes and building a stronger future for the next generation should remain at the center of the conversation.
"Many countries have found ways to make this work, allowing athletes to develop in both environments, and have seen the positive results and growth it brings to the sport over time. I believe that is something we can achieve as well," said de Guzman.
"I strongly believe that we can build a system where both the national team and our local leagues can grow together, while allowing athletes to continue competing and developing in both environments.
"As these conversations continue, it’s important that we stay grounded in what truly matters — our athletes, and the future we are building for them."
READ: Fifi speaks up on Alas issue: 'Passion can't justify neglect'
On Wednesday, fellow national team mainstay Fifi Sharma also spoke up, stressing that love for flag and country should not come at the expense of proper athlete care and support.
With two respected voices from Alas Pilipinas now speaking out, the pressure continues to build on the federation to come up with a system where national team duty and league careers no longer have to collide head-on.
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