The wait is finally over. For the first time in Philippine volleyball history, the national men’s team will stand shoulder to shoulder with the sport’s elite when Alas Pilipinas opens its campaign at the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship. Their first obstacle: powerhouse Tunisia, in a primetime clash Friday night at the Mall of Asia Arena.
A new chapter in Philippine volleyball
Alas Pilipinas enters the tournament ranked 82nd in the world—an underdog on paper, but one brimming with ambition. Spearheaded by international veterans Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo, the 14-man squad represents a new generation of Filipino volleyball, forged through overseas stints and sharpened in rigorous training camps in Portugal and Romania.
“This is uncharted territory for Philippine volleyball,” said head coach Angiolino Frigoni, who has guided the squad through its intensive European build-up. “There will be nerves, of course. But there will also be pride. What matters is how we rise to the moment.”
Battle-tested foes
While the Philippines will be making its historic debut, Tunisia arrives as a seasoned contender. Ranked 43rd in the world, the North African side boasts a rich pedigree, having captured 11 African championships—three of them in recent years (2017, 2019, 2021). Though dethroned in 2023, their core remains intact and brimming with Olympic experience.
Key players to watch include opposite hitter Hamza Nagga, setter Khaled Ben Slimene, outside hitter Ilyès Karamosli, and middle blockers Ahmed Kadhi and Selim Mbareki—all veterans of the Tokyo 2020 Games. Their poise and firepower pose a formidable challenge to the Filipino debutants.
The opening night spectacle
The Philippines-Tunisia showdown serves as the curtain-raiser of the 32-nation tournament, which will also see action at the Smart Araneta Coliseum with volleyball giants like Japan and Poland in the mix. Before first serve at 7:00 p.m., fans will be treated to a star-studded opening ceremony headlined by Korean boy group BOYNEXTDOOR at 4:30 p.m., alongside FIVB president Fabio Azevedo and PNVF chief Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
Beyond the result
Regardless of the outcome, the night promises to be a landmark moment for Philippine sports—a declaration that the country has arrived on volleyball’s world stage. For Bagunas, Espejo, and their teammates, this is more than just a match; it’s a chance to redefine what’s possible for the sport back home.
As the lights go up at MOA Arena, Alas Pilipinas steps onto the court not just to win a game, but to ignite a movement.