Dawn, ace floor protector, brings new light to Flying Titans

Dawn Macandili-Catindig –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Dawn Macandili-Catindig is embracing a fresh start with Choco Mucho ahead of the new Premier Volleyball League season.

The decorated libero admitted it was heartbreaking to see Cignal step away from the league just days after the HD Spikers fought their way to a runner-up finish in the finals. But like when F2 Logistics disbanded three years ago, Macandili-Catindig knew she had to move forward.

She found a new home with the Flying Titans, drawn by the organization’s vision and family-oriented culture.

“Having a great support system like Rebisco, which is family-oriented and aims to leave a positive impact on the Filipino community, aligns with what I want moving forward,” Macandili-Catindig told the Inquirer through her management, Hustle and Groove. “After my Cignal stint, I want to continue making an impact with my new team and in the volleyball community.”

The Alas Pilipinas standout, who helped the national team secure podium finishes over the past two seasons, hopes to bring the same culture-building mindset she developed with Cignal to Choco Mucho, a team still trying to regain its footing after missing the semifinals since last year’s All-Filipino Conference.

“What we built with Cignal was the team culture. We understood how the small things make up the bigger picture,” she said. “I hope to share my vision and passion with my new team and help build something better.”

Macandili-Catindig will also team up with four-time PVL Best Libero Thang Ponce, creating one of the league’s strongest defensive tandems. While both players are expected to split minutes at the position, the former La Salle Finals MVP sees the partnership as an opportunity to grow.

“It’s an honor to play alongside the best like Thang,” she said. “I know I’ll learn a lot from her, and I hope I can share a few things with her as well.”

Choco Mucho also added young spiker Jewel Encarnacion, who joined Cignal last season after being drafted by Galeries Tower in 2023. The former University of the Philippines standout provided solid minutes off the bench for the HD Spikers.

The Flying Titans are expected to continue reshaping their roster after a disappointing play-in exit in the All-Filipino Conference despite the additions of Eya Laure and the return of Sisi Rondina. Choco Mucho owns the No. 3 pick in the PVL Rookie Draft set for June 3 at Novotel.