The Philippines settled for the silver medal after losing to host Vietnam, 15-25, 17-25, 14-25, in the final at Dong Anh Arena in Hanoi on Saturday (June 14, 2025).
The Philippine women’s volleyball team is determined to come back stronger after securing the silver medal at the 2024 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup on Saturday night.
Host nation Vietnam, ranked 25th in the world, retained their title with a dominant 25-15, 25-17, 25-14 victory over the Philippines in the finals at the Dong Anh Arena.
Despite falling short of the gold, head coach Jorge Souza De Brito remained optimistic. “We’re happy with the second-place finish. We’re on the right path—it’s a process,” said the Brazilian coach in a statement released Sunday.
“With the full support of the federation and the presence of promising players, this group will only grow stronger year after year. I’m certain of that,” he added.
Under De Brito’s leadership, the Philippine squad—now known as Alas Pilipinas—has made significant strides over the past three years. From a bronze medal finish last year to silver this year, the team is steadily rising in the regional ranks.
“This silver medal means everything. It’s proof that the sport is growing in the Philippines,” said team captain and two-time Best Setter awardee Jia de Guzman. “After last year’s bronze, this result motivates us to return to training with renewed energy. We’re committed to this long-term program.”
Joining De Guzman among the tournament’s top performers were Angel Canino, who earned Best Outside Spiker honors, and Dell Palomata, named Best Middle Blocker.
“Step by step, we’re making progress in volleyball, and I’m incredibly proud of what this team has achieved,” De Guzman added.
The national team’s progress has coincided with reforms initiated by the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), which took over the sport’s administration in 2021. Backed by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB), the PNVF’s Empowerment Program has elevated both the men’s and women’s teams in international rankings and performance.
“The team’s improvement—from the athletes to the coaching staff—reflects a unified effort. None of this would have been possible without the collaboration of our stakeholders,” said PNVF and AVC President Ramon Suzara.
Throughout the AVC Nations Cup, the Philippine team posted a 4-2 win-loss record.
Coach De Brito praised the team’s mindset and resilience: “I hope this group stays together. They trust the process, remain strong even during setbacks, and never stop trying. That kind of character represents not just volleyball—but the nation.”
De Brito’s contract with the FIVB, which includes working with the Philippines as part of its global volleyball development program, is set to conclude after the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December.
The team’s world ranking has climbed significantly—from No. 156 in 2021 to No. 66 in 2023, and now No. 58 in 2024—underscoring its rapid development and potential for even greater success.