Alas Pilipinas head coach Jorge De Brito underscores the value of facing powerhouse Dominican Republic as part of the team's buildup for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.
Alas Pilipinas Women gained valuable experience after a series of tune-up games against world no. 11 Dominican Republic over the past week.
The national team, coming off back-to-back bronze medal finishes in the 2025 SEA V.League, managed to take the opening set before falling in four, 27-25, 21-25, 17-25, 19-25, in their first match against the Caribbean powerhouse.
The Filipinas had another tune-up game against the Dominicans, failing to secure a set, 17-25, 19-25, 22-25, 13-25. Still, head coach Jorge De Brito is liking what he's been seeing from his squad.
“Tune-ups against the Dominican Republic were really good. Very good experience to see and feel the difference between 46 to 11. One thing to keep in mind: we are on the way—on the right way,” De Brito told One Sports.
The Brazilian tactician emphasized that competing with world-class teams is crucial to the development of Alas Pilipinas.
“Skills, physical, we are lacking for sure, but how much more international exposure that we can afford to our players is better for us. We need this kind of experience,” he added.
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The Dominican Republic squad arrived in the Philippines in mid-August and faced Alas Women as part of their buildup for the 2025 FIVB Women's Volleyball World Championship in Thailand this September.
For Alas, the matches serve as an important step in their preparation for the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in December, hoping to bring home an elusive medal.