By ADRIAN STEWART CO

De La Salle University (DLSU) Lady Spikers star Angel Canino emphasized that winning a championship remains her top priority as they head into the UAAP Season 88 women’s volleyball finals.

Now one of the team’s senior leaders, Negrense Canino said her focus has always been on collective success rather than individual recognition.

“Mas importante talaga sa akin ‘yung championship. Wala ng iba. I think from the very start talaga,” she said.

Canino, who has been among the league’s standout performers since her rookie season, downplayed personal accolades, describing them as secondary to the team’s goals.

“Even when I was a rookie, hindi ko priority ‘yung individual awards — blessing lang ‘yun from God na binigay niya sa akin. I have to share it to other people,” she said.

With La Salle advancing to the finals, the 21-year-old outside hitter expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress but remained focused on the bigger objective.

“Pero, as of now, kung ano man ang magiging result, happy ako patungo na ‘yung team ko sa finals. And ‘yun lang talaga ‘yung focus namin,” she said.

The Lady Spikers secured an outright finals berth after sweeping the elimination round, placing them in prime position to contend for the championship.

As La Salle prepares for the title series, Canino’s mindset reflects the team’s approach — prioritizing unity and the ultimate goal of bringing home the crown./ASC, WDJ