VOLLEYBALL talent Isa Molde is foregoing her final year of eligibility for the University of the Philippines women’s volleyball team and will move on to play for the PLDT Home Fibr in the Premier Volleyball League.
Molde and her UP teammate Marist Layug are part of PLDT’s new bumper crop of players that include additions Eli Soyud, Chin Basas, Yeye Gabarda and Nieza Viray.
Molde, born and raised in the town of Catmon, Cebu, played in two games for UP last year before the UAAP season was shelved because of the Covid-19 pandemic. With amateur sports’ future in limbo, she decided it was best for her career to turn pro and join PLDT.
Molde brings with her an impressive resume that includes winning the conference and finals Most Valuable Player award during the 2018 PVL Collegiate Conference wherein she helped the Lady Maroons claim the championship, in the process breaking a long 36-year title drought.
PLDT head coach Roger Gorayeb mentioned that PLDT officials spoke with UP officials before signing Molde and Layug.
“They’re happy with everything Isa and Marist gave them during their four years with UP,” said Gorayeb.
Gorayeb has plenty of faith in Molde and her ability to help PLDT’s campaign in the PVL, which is slated to start this April at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna.
“Isa is an outside hitter. Her experience with UP and playing against other teams is a big thing. She brings a lot to our team,” Gorayeb said.