Alas Pilipinas Men renew their historic rivalry with Thailand as they battle for a spot in the SEA Games 2025 gold medal match in a high-stakes semifinal rematch.
Six years after a night that changed the trajectory of Philippine men’s volleyball, Alas Pilipinas Men find themselves back on the same road as they face Thailand in the semifinals of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games at the Indoor Stadium Huamark on Thursday, December 18.
The semifinal duel, set for 6:30 p.m., carries unmistakable echoes of 2019, when the Philippines stunned the region by dethroning Thailand in a five-set classic in the semifinal.
That historic breakthrough was anchored by holdovers Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, Owa Retamar, and Kim Malabunga — all of whom remain pillars of the national team heading into Bangkok.
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This time, however, the spotlight also shines on libero Josh Ybañez, whose rise into a reliable two-way contributor has added another dimension to Alas Pilipinas’ evolving identity.
Much has changed since that unforgettable 2019 upset, capped by Bagunas’ thunderous match-winner in an extended fifth set.
Thailand, too, arrives armed with familiarity, featuring veterans Amorntep Konhan, Kissada Nilsawai, Anuchit Pakdeekaew, and setter Boonyarid Wongtorn, all part of that dethroned squad six years ago.
The rivalry has been well tested in 2025 alone. The Philippines and Thailand have already met four times this year, with the Thais taking three of those encounters.
Alas Men’s lone victory came during the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals last June at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Thailand quickly reasserted control in the meetings that followed, sweeping the Philippines in the AVC Men’s Nations Cup classification round and later prevailing twice in the SEA V.League, including a reverse sweep in Jakarta.
Six years on, the stakes remain the same — familiar rivals, familiar faces, and the same prize within reach.
(With reports from Kiko Demigillo/One Sports)
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[Editor’s note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]