Alas Pilipinas Men are focusing on what it takes to push through together as the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships loom.
When the going gets tough, Alas Pilipinas get going as the days draw near for the national team’s impending debut at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships which the country will host from September 12 to 28.
Set to face the best of the best in men’s volleyball for the first time ever, all eyes will be on Alas Pilipinas Men as they try to make an impact as hosts.
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Among the biggest stars in the local volleyball scene, Bryan Bagunas has been working his way back from an injury in time to join Alas for the historic tiff. Smack in the middle of their training camp in Romania, he reflected on the journey so far.
“We eat together, train hard together, and push each other,” Bagunas said.
“Training here is intense in the morning and in the afternoon session, we focus on strength, conditioning, and game systems.”
Since being part of that SEA Games team that won silver in 2019 that propelled men’s volleyball to the nation’s conscience, there has been much growth for Bagunas — both in terms of his play and the community.
Now with a chance to bring it to another level, the Alas Men are doing whatever it takes, including fully subscribing to coach Angiolino Frigoni’s system.
Despite missing out on the podium in both legs of the 2025 SEA V.League, Alas has been showing flashes of brilliance — including a sweep in the invitationals the team hosted in Manila a couple of months back.
This time though, it’s all about getting into the right mindset for their battles against higher-ranked teams.
“Coach Angiolino has been pushing us to be disciplined and smart on the court, and I think that’s making a big difference in our preparation,” said Bagunas.
“We have a great balance of veterans who bring experience and leadership, and younger players who bring energy and fresh perspectives,” he continued.
With the team knee-deep in preparation, Asian Volleyball Confederation and Philippine National Volleyball Federation President Ramon “Tats” Suzara is optimistic of what they can show, especially in front of an adoring home crowd.
“Our Alas Men's team is in Portugal and Romania, they're working so hard so that they can improve our level and I hope we can really play better for the World Championships,” he said.
The World Championships will be held both at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and the Smart Araneta Coliseum with tickets available on the tournament’s official website.
The Philippines opens its bid against Tunisia on September 12 at the MOA Arena, which will be the curtain raiser for the opening ceremony that will feature Korea’s BOYNEXTDOOR and Cebuana singer, songwriter and actress Karencitta who will be singing the them song of the tournament.
After Tunisia, Alas battles world no. 23 Egypt on September 16, and world no. 13 Iran on September 18.