Alas Pilipinas set for friendlies with world No. 11 Dominican Republic after SEA V.League

Alas Pilipinas will take on an elite challenge as they gear up for a series of friendlies against world-ranked No. 11 Dominican Republic this August.

Head coach Jorge De Brito confirmed that the Dominicans will arrive in the Philippines mid-August, following Alas Women's upcoming 2025 SEA V.League campaign.

This will provide the national team a rare opportunity to train and compete against a world-class squad regularly competing in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL).

“They are arriving on 12 or 13 August, right after the SEA V.League, and then we're gonna stay with them until 21st, training with them and playing,” De Brito told One Sports.

[ALSO READ: Jorge de Brito faces ‘good problem’ in selecting Alas Pilipinas' SEA V.League roster]

The tune-up games will not only serve as a test for Alas Pilipinas but also as part of the Dominican Republic’s buildup for the 2025 FIVB Women’s World Championship in Thailand this September.

De Brito stressed the significance of this exposure, citing the value of experiencing top-tier volleyball beyond the SEA region.

“One thing is just what the guys play on VNL or the World Championship, but the difference in top-of-the-ball control they have. Our system is good, but we have a lot to grow, a lot to learn,” he said. “Not only watch but be a part of the training with them, be a part of the game. It’s going to be really good for the team.”

[ALSO READ: Jorge de Brito reiterates role of system, chemistry in growing Alas Pilipinas program]

The Brazilian mentor also revealed that initial talks included Puerto Rico as another potential opponent, though those plans are now unlikely to push through.

With the Dominican Republic's arrival, fans can expect high-intensity scrimmages and friendly matches that will serve as a major learning curve for Alas Pilipinas as they continue their preparations for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.