VIGAN, Ilocos Sur — Justine Jazareno is embracing the bigger role for the Akari Chargers as their newest captain ahead of the PVL on Tour.

After Mich Cobb’s retirement and promotion as assistant team manager and setting coach, the Jazareno is now tasked to lead the way for the Chargers under new coach Tina Salak, who was also her high school coach at La Salle Zobel.

SCHEDULE: 2025 PVL on Tour preseason tournament

“I haven’t fully adjusted yet, but I’m slowly embracing the role. And my teammates are really helping me adjust and carry it out,” Jazareno told the reporters in Filipino after their welcome dinner in Ilocos Sur.

Jazareno, also a member of the Alas Pilipinas pool, said the Chargers have been adjusting well with new coach Salak, who replaced Taka Minowa after two consecutive podium finishes in the past two conferences.

New Akari captain Justine Jazareno embraces the bigger responsibility. #PVL2025 | @LanceAgcaoilINQ pic.twitter.com/IiH9xkCLvg

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“So far, the adjustment to her system has been smooth. Everyone’s cooperating, and we’re all doing our part to adapt properly to the system,” she said.

And having her high school coach on her side makes it easier for her to live up to a bigger role as a team captain.

“Since I already know Coach Tina and she’s coached me before, it helps a lot with our coordination and communication,” she said.

Akari kicks off its Pool B campaign against Cignal on Sunday at Chavit Coliseum before the rematch of last year’s Reinforced Conference final against Creamline on Monday.