Palarong Pambansa standout Andrei Bolabola from Surigao del Sur will play for the NU men’s volleyball team in the UAAP. –HANDOUT PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — One of Mindanao’s brightest volleyball prospects, Andrei Bolabola, has officially committed to the five-peat UAAP champion National University.

The 18-year-old setter from Jacinto P. Elpa National High School in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur, is eligible to join the Bulldogs next year when they gun for their sixth consecutive UAAP men’s volleyball championship.

The 6-foot Bolabola is set to join Greg Ancheta and Jeffe Gallego in setting the plays for Buds Buddin, Leo Ordiales, Jade Disquitado, Peng Taguibolos, and Obed Mukaba.

“It was a dream for me since I started playing volleyball,” said Bolabola in a statement through VP Global Management, which also handles former NU greats Bryan Bagunas and Owa Retamar and reigning Finals MVP Leo Aringo.

“With my skills and determination, I know we could sustain the championship title far longer.”

The Grade 12 Palarong Pambansa standout, who competed in this year’s edition in Ilocos Norte, is set to be coached by Dante Alinsunurin and his assistant Jessie Lopez, a decorated setter in the Philippine men’s volleyball scene.

“I know for sure that with their guidance, it will make me a better player both on and off the court,” Bolabola said.

The incoming rookie dedicates his big leap from Mindanao to Manila to his family.

“[I am now] turning dreams into reality,” he said. “Thank you to everyone who believed in me—my family, my coaches, my teammates, and my community in Tandag. This is for all of you.”