ANTIPOLO — The Ynares Center here buzzed with excitement as Cignal faced Farm Fresh on Saturday night in the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference. Yet, amidst the action, Cignal stalwarts Ces Molina and Vanie Gandler expressed bittersweet emotions over a missed opportunity: a reunion on the court with former teammates Rachel Daquis and Jheck Dionela.
The HD Spikers had anticipated a nostalgic showdown against Daquis and Dionela, two players who left an indelible mark during their tenure with Cignal. However, the duo was absent from Farm Fresh’s season debut. Daquis, a six-year Cignal veteran, is still ramping up her conditioning and is expected to sit out the early games of the five-month tournament.
"Today, we’re looking forward na makalaban sila. Kaso ‘yun nga, wala pa sila. Marami pa namang chance na makalaban sila na nandoon sila sa loob ng court and naglalaro rin sila," said Molina.
Gandler echoed her teammate’s sentiments, sharing her excitement for a future matchup against familiar faces. “Excited, of course. It’s always fun and exciting to go against familiar faces. Hopefully, soon we get to play against them,” she said.
Rachel Daquis last suited up in the 2023 Invitationals, marking the end of a remarkable six-year stint with Cignal. After a year-long break, she’s set to make her highly anticipated return with Farm Fresh, alongside other former Cignal players.
Jheck Dionela, meanwhile, carved out an enduring legacy as the longest-tenured player in Cignal history, spending 11 years with the franchise. Her move to Farm Fresh represents a new chapter, one shared with AJ Jingco, another former HD Spiker.
Also departing from the Cignal roster are Chai Troncoso, Chin Basas, Gen Casugod, and Jovelyn Gonzaga, reflecting the evolving landscape of the league.
Despite their departure, Molina shared heartfelt support for her former teammates as they embarked on their new journey with Farm Fresh. “Happy and proud kami na kung nasaan man sila ngayon I know na makakapag-contribute sila,” said Molina, underscoring the enduring camaraderie that transcends team boundaries.
But on the court, Molina showed no signs of sentimentality. The former PVL MVP was in dominant form, leading Cignal with a game-high 14 points, including 11 attacks and three aces, in a commanding 25-15, 25-18, 25-21 victory.
Gandler also showcased her versatility, delivering six points, seven excellent digs, and six excellent receptions in a solid all-around performance.
