Belen top pick; Capital1 drafts Abbu, Aquino, signs key players

Bella Belen was selected as the top overall pick by Capital1 at the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft on Sunday, marking a new era for the team.

Capital1's owners Milka and Mandy Romero expressed their excitement about signing Belen, whom they describe as a 'franchise maker' and 'game-changer', despite her absence in Vietnam due to Alas Pilipinas Women competing in the AVC Nations Cup.

In addition to drafting Belen, Capital1 also selected Pia Abbu from UST and Ivy Aquino from Asian Institute of Maritime Studies in the second and third rounds respectively, aiming to strengthen their lineup.

The team made additional acquisitions through free agency, including Jerillie Malabanan, Rachel Austero, Ypril Tapia, KC Galdones, and Nikka Yandoc, among others, further bolstering their roster for the upcoming PVL season.

Former head coach Roger Gorayeb is now in a consultant role while Jorge de Brito has been appointed as the new head coach of Capital1 after his successful stint with Alas Pilipinas Women.

Filipino-American volleyball players Tia Andaya and MJ Phillips are close to having their federation transfer approved by FIVB, potentially allowing them to play for Philippines in international competitions.