MANILA, Philippines – Business tycoon Manny Pangilinan committed his support as the country hosts the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in September 2025.
As host, the Philippines automatically qualifies for the global showdown, which will feature a total of 32 teams. It is set to be held at the Araneta Coliseum and Mall of Asia Arena.
“Mr. MVP has once again brought the meaning of sports patron to a superlative level,” said Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
Formed barely a month ago, Alas Pilipinas has shown promise ahead of the world championship after winning a pair of bronze medals in the Southeast Asia Men’s V. League staged in Manila and Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
“Those bronze medals are already milestones for Philippine men’s volleyball in Southeast Asia,” said Suzara. “The program is working and we are confident that Alas Pilipinas will make an impact in the world championship.”
Other qualified teams include newly crowned Olympic champion France, silver medalist Poland, bronze medalist United States, Italy, Japan, Iran, Qatar, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Canada, Cuba, Egypt, Algeria, Slovenia, and Libya.
Fifteen more teams will earn their world championship berths, with the draw set for September 14.
The lead-up to the world championship will also feature friendly matches between two top Japanese clubs and Alas Pilipinas Men and Women on September 7 and 8 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
“We are all excited about this historic hosting because Filipino fans will get the opportunity to witness elite volleyball action from 32 teams,” Suzara said. – Rappler.com
