The stage is set for Alas Pilipinas as they prepare to make history in their first-ever appearance at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships. The tournament, which runs from September 12 to 28 at the Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum, also marks the Philippines’ debut as host of the prestigious 32-nation event.
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A Journey of Pride and Preparation
Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara emphasized the magnitude of the occasion during the team’s media day.
“We are ready to make history,” Suzara declared, rallying support from fans while highlighting the country’s historic hosting. “We are days away from history. Let’s make this happen and show the world that the Filipinos are one of the best fans in the world.”
Ahead of their matches, the national squad drew inspiration from a symbolic visit to the National Museum of Natural History, where players and coaches reflected on Filipino heritage before stepping into the global stage.
Led by captain Bryan Bagunas and veteran spiker Marck Espejo, the team will face formidable opponents in Pool A, including world No. 13 Iran, 11-time African champion Egypt, and No. 42 Tunisia. Italian head coach Angiolino Frigoni, who has been with the program for a year, believes their training camps in Romania, Morocco, and Portugal have sharpened the squad’s readiness.
“We’re still working. We did everything possible. I’m happy with how they practiced, how they played the last friendly matches. We improved a lot in one year,” Frigoni explained. “Filipinos never played in the world championship in their volleyball life so it will be emotional. We don’t have anything to lose in this experience.”
Playing for Country
For Espejo, competing on home soil amplifies both the pressure and the pride.
“It’s an honor to be part of this historic event. We’re excited to play and show the level and brand of Philippine volleyball on the world stage,” he said.
"During our long training in Europe, we got to know each other even more. We are ready to play for the country. We promise to give our best, not just to keep up or win a set, but to win games,” Espejo expressed in Tagalog.
Alas Pilipinas begins its campaign against Tunisia on September 12, followed by matches against Egypt on September 16 and Iran on September 18.
A Historic Stage for Filipino Fans
The opening ceremony will be headlined by K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR alongside Cebuana singer Karencitta, adding spectacle to the competition. Global volleyball powerhouses like world No. 1 Poland, Argentina, Germany, and Slovenia have already arrived in Manila.
“A lot of support from the Filipino fans, again, we’re one of the best volleyball fans in the world, especially our fan zone. I wish everyone, our Alas Pilipinas, good luck for the first game on Sept. 12,” Suzara expressed in optimism.
For the first time, Filipino spikers will showcase their talent on volleyball’s grandest stage. Win or lose, their debut is already a milestone in the country’s sporting history.
