Bella Belen Feels the Energy Shift as Capital1 Finds Its Groove

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by Misha Cruz

Capital1 star Bella Belen (4).
Capital1 star Bella Belen (4). Photo: PVL Images.

It looks like the Capital1 Solar Spikers are finally syncing up, and none other than Bella Belen can feel it.

In what might just be their biggest breakthrough of the season, Capital1 recently stunned perennial contender Cignal HD with a thrilling straight-sets win, 25-23, 25-23, 25-21, in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Centre. The game wasn’t just about points or stats; it was about heart, connection, and finally clicking as a team.

For Belen, this one hit differently. “For me, this is a good sign. Slowly, the team’s chemistry and system are really coming together,” shared the league’s top overall draft pick, who turned in another all-around effort with 11 points and 14 excellent digs.

Capital1’s fight was tested early when they trailed by seven in the second set, 10-17. But instead of fading, the Solar Spikers flipped the switch, and the crowd felt it. With Belen’s trademark fire keeping the team alive, imports Ekaterina Bytsenko and Pia Abbu teamed up with Rachel Austero to fuel a stunning 13-5 comeback run that flipped the set in their favor. A Bytsenko hammer and a Cignal error closed it out, sparking wild cheers from the Capital1 bench.

Bella Belen (4) celebrates with her teammates during their win over Cignal.
Bella Belen (4) celebrates with her teammates during their win over Cignal. Photo: PVL Images.

By the third set, it was all business. The Solar Spikers kept their composure, executed with precision, and shut the door on Cignal for the sweep, proof that Coach Roger Gorayeb’s system is starting to take root.

“We always train for tight games,” Belen said, smiling. “Even if we’re behind, we remind ourselves — until the other team hits 25, we still have a chance. That mindset really helped us stay calm.”

There’s a quiet confidence growing in this young squad, and Belen is right at the center of it, leading by energy, focus, and that steady belief that they belong among the league’s best.

Now at 2-1, Capital1’s record might not scream dominance just yet, but to those watching closely, this was the night something changed.

“I’m excited for what’s next,” Belen added. “We’re still learning, still improving, but you can already feel it… we’re starting to really play as one.”