Belen shines in breakout PVL season, named Rookie of the Year

Bella Belen capped off a standout debut campaign with Capital1 in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL), emerging as a transformative force after finally being fielded in her delayed rookie season.

Fully adjusted to her new team, the Alas Pilipinas standout quickly became the Solar Spikers’ go-to scorer, leading their attack in both the Reinforced Conference and the season-ending All-Filipino Conference.

Her impressive run earned her the Rookie of the Year honor at the 2nd Pilipinas Live PVL Press Corps Awards Night, set on May 30 at Novotel Manila Araneta City in Quezon City.

The top overall pick from National University topped the voting with 69 media votes and 26 team votes, alongside 91.284 statistical points for a total of 186.284, securing the prestigious award.

A three-time UAAP champion and MVP, Belen outpaced fellow 2025 Draft classmates AC Miner (85 points), Jean Asis (83.896), and Riza Nogales (64.479) for the top rookie distinction.

The 23-year-old winger also delivered strong numbers throughout the season-ending All-Filipino Conference, finishing third in scoring during the preliminary round with 218 points while posting a 35.16 percent attack efficiency. She also ranked second in reception with a 40.84 percent success rate, showcasing her all-around game.

Belen is also set to headline the Mythical Team at the formal awards night organized by Sports Vision, which recognizes the league’s top performers.

She will likewise receive the Best Outside Spiker award after leading all contenders with 91.284 SPs, along with 45 media votes and 33.4 team votes.

PLDT’s Savi Davison will share the Best Outside Spiker honors after tallying 89.252 SPs, supported by 44.4 media votes and 19.4 team votes.

Other awardees include Cignal setter Gel Cayuna as Best Setter (95.039 SPs), PLDT libero Kath Arado as Best Libero (91.267 SPs), and Creamline veteran Pangs Panaga alongside PLDT’s Majoy Baron as Best Middle Blockers.

Trisha Tubu rounds out the major individual honors as Best Opposite Spiker after powering Farm Fresh to a historic fourth-place finish in the 2026 All-Filipino Conference, finishing with 108.868 SPs, 63 media votes, and 36.4 team votes.