WHILE their citizenship continues to be questioned, Petro Gazz’ Fil-American MVP duo in Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Phillips made one thing clear.
They are both Filipinos, by blood and by heart, albeit as dual citizens.
Van Sickle won the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference MVP and became the first player since Creamline’s Tots Carlos two years ago to defend the MVP nod in the same conference.
READ: Brooke Van Sickle named PVL All-Filipino Conference MVP once more
Meanwhile, Phillips copped the Finals MVP nod as the Angels completed a three-game title series victory over the Cool Smashers.
The 29-year-old Carson, California native and two-time PVL best middle blocker normed 15.33 points after firing 16 markers in the series-opening win and back-to-back 15-point performances to clinch the crown in three.
Neither of the Fil-American duo read comments online or hear about the public clamor on claims that they shouldn’t be playing in the All-Filipino Conference because of their American descents.
Regardless of what others say, expect Van Sickle and Phillips to wear their hearts on their sleeves when the call of duty for the country arrives.
“It is what it is. I'm here, and I want to represent the Philippines. I am Filipino. I do have a passport, and I caught it on my own. But, it's okay,” BVS said.
“I don't expect people to be open arms with us. I understand how they feel and I just hope that one day, they'll embrace us and just accept us," she added.
“I don't feel any hatred towards them. I wish the best for them. I just want to be able to play volleyball, the sport I love and continue to immerse myself in this culture, our culture. I did have years back in the States where I missed out on this, and I'm really grateful to be here now and experiencing it now.”
Phillips, meanwhile, bared how playing for the Philippines means a tad bit more as she hopes to pay homage to her late Filipina grandmother, Rowena.
“No words. I try to ignore the comments because everything is honestly for my mom and my Lola that passed away. Every time I look at the flag, I think of the Philippines,” Phillips said.
“It's all for my Lola, and may she rest in peace.”
Phillips traces her Filipino roots in Zambales while Van Sickle's local heritage goes up north in Ilocos Sur.
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