By ADRIAN STEWART CO

The Akari Power Chargers bolstered its defensive unit after acquiring Negrense libero Ann Monares from the Farm Fresh Foxies ahead of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour.

Monares, who was selected 16th overall by the Foxies in the 2025 PVL Rookie Draft, joins the Chargers after seeing limited action during her stint with Farm Fresh under Japanese coach Koji Tsuzurabara.

The former Far Eastern University (FEU) standout is also the younger sister of Joan Monares, who went undrafted in the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft before eventually being signed by the PLDT High Speed Hitters.

The move reunites Ann with several familiar faces in Akari, including FEU head coach Tina Salak and former Lady Tamaraws teammate Chennie Tagaod.

Ann is expected to provide additional depth at the libero position alongside Justine Jazareno as the Chargers reshape their roster following the departures of Dani Ravena and Max Juangco.

She joins an Akari squad bannered by Ivy Lacsina, Ced Domingo, Fifi Sharma, Grethcel Soltones, Eli Soyud and setter Mars Alba.

The Chargers are set to begin their campaign in the 2026 PVL On Tour against the ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles in Ilagan, Isabela on July 4./ASC, WDJ