Jia De Guzman donning the Philippines' red, white, and blue just hits different.
It was exactly 988 days since the six-time PVL Best Setter wore the country's colors but she's back like she never even left.
The last time De Guzman repped the country was back in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, also at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
Then she had to beg off from the PNVF's national team tryout last March since the 27-year-old playmaker only received the invite 11 days before the event.
Her return to the national team was also delayed by a match after she missed their game against Vietnam due to health reasons.
But in her 2022 AVC Cup for Women debut, she was just outstanding against five-time champion China.
"Going up against China, we were able to stick with them for most of the game. It is something that we can be proud of and something we will bring for the next two games," said De Guzman after the country's brave stand against China, 16-25, 22-25, 20-25, on Wednesday.
De Guzman even took the scoring cudgels at times with her iconic dump balls, three of them, and two service aces for five points.
And just like every other player that has worn the Philippine jersey, it is pure ecstasy for De Guzman every time even after all these years of representing.
“It feels great to represent the flag again," shared De Guzman.
“We always say with my teammates, it is always a privilege to represent the flag the best we can. And we’re going into this campaign with everything we’ve learned these past few years as a team. So, we’re just praying for everyone’s kind support."
With Creamline-PH gallant challenge against Vietnam and China, captain De Guzman hopes they've earned and continue to earn the support of the Filipino fans.
Up next for the Philippines will be Iran on Wednesday and then South Korea on Thursday.
"Each player who goes to represent the flag, every team that goes to represent the flag, iba-iba kami ng experiences doing it. So one thing is for sure, any player going into the court representing the flag will do their best."
“So, hopefully, everyone supports us.”
