President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. (center) graces the opening of the 65th Palarong Pambansa at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on May 24, 2025. The President has approved the funding support for the country’s hosting of the FIVB Men’s World Championship on Sept. 12 to 28. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) has extended its gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for approving the funding request for the country’s hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025, scheduled for September.
“We sincerely thank President Marcos for his significant support of the world championship,” said PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara in a statement released Friday.
The PNVF is spearheading the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the tournament, which the Philippines will be hosting solo for the first time from September 12 to 28.
Suzara also acknowledged the contribution of First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta Marcos, saying, “Our appreciation also extends to the First Lady, whose love for volleyball from the very beginning mirrors the passion shared by millions of Filipinos.” Suzara currently serves as the president of the Asian Volleyball Confederation.
Malacañang formally approved the funding through a memo signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin. The document was addressed to Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairperson Richard Bachmann.
“The entire Philippine sports community is grateful for President Marcos Jr.’s dedication to ensuring a successful and historic hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship,” said Bachmann.
The LOC is co-chaired by presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. The LOC board also includes Senator Pia Cayetano, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, and sports patron Manuel V. Pangilinan, with Bachmann serving as board chair.
“President Marcos’s leadership has brought together both public and private sectors, unifying the sports community to ensure the tournament’s success,” Bachmann added. “This collective support underscores the Philippines’ position as a premier destination for global sporting events.”
Alas Pilipinas team captains and official tournament ambassadors Bryan Bagunas and Eya Laure also expressed their appreciation for the President’s backing.
“We were already inspired to represent the country on home soil,” said Bagunas, captain of the men’s team. “But this show of support from President Marcos gives us even greater motivation.”
A total of 32 nations, including host country Philippines, will compete in the championship, which will take place at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
With 98 days to go before the event, preparations are ramping up. The build-up begins with the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals, which kick off Tuesday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The government’s full support for the event was initially formalized through Administrative Order No. 30, directing various government agencies to assist in the hosting of the championship.