Alas Pilipinas Men take center stage as the Philippines hosts the FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship for the first time, opening its historic campaign against Tunisia at the Mall of Asia Arena.
All roads lead to Manila as the Philippines takes center stage in world volleyball, hosting the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship for the first time from September 12 to 28 at the Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Thirty-two of the world’s best squads, including reigning champions Italy, world No. 1 Poland, Olympic gold medalist France, and perennial powerhouse Brazil, are descending on the country for what promises to be the biggest edition of the tournament yet.
[ALSO READ: Volleyball's elite head to Manila for 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship]
Host nation’s moment
Front and center is host squad Alas Pilipinas, ranked No. 82 in the world, which has spent the past year under Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni sharpening its system and chemistry.
The Filipinos face 11-time African champion Tunisia in the opening match at 7 p.m. on September 12, right after a grand opening ceremony headlined by K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR and local artist Karencitta.
“I’m telling the Filipinos, please come. We need you,” Frigoni urged. “As supporters, we need you because we are going to fight together against Tunisia. Don’t let us fight alone.”
[ALSO READ: Angiolino Frigoni wants MOA Arena packed for Alas’ FIVB Worlds debut: 'Don’t let us fight alone']
The final lineup boasts veterans Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo, alongside young guns like Leo Ordiales and Buds Buddin.
Anchoring the defense are Kim Malabunga, Peng Taguibolos, and Lloyd Josafat, while liberos Josh Ybañez, Jack Kalingking, and Vince Lorenzo provide floor coverage. Owa Retamar and Eco Adajar will call the plays at the setter.
More than just a game
PNVF president and AVC chief Ramon “Tats” Suzara emphasized the importance of hosting not just volleyball, but Philippine sports as a whole.
Suzara is joined in the Local Organizing Committee by Vinny Marcos, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, and Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco.
“Let’s make this happen and show the world that the Filipinos are one of the best fans in the world. Mabuhay ang Philippine volleyball,” said Suzara.
Tunisia and beyond
Though missing star Wassim Ben Tara, Tunisia remains formidable with veterans Hamza Nagga and Elyes Karamosli expected to test the Filipinos.
Pool A also features world No. 13 Iran and African champions Egypt.
The rest of the world’s elite — including Poland, Italy, France, Brazil, Japan, the USA, Slovenia, and more — begin play on September 13, with four matches daily split between the MOA Arena and Araneta Coliseum.
[ALSO READ: SCHEDULE, RESULTS | 32 teams compete in 2025 FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championship]
The top two squads from each of the eight groups advance to the knockout Round of 16.
Tickets are available via www.philippineswch2025.com
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.