PNVF president Tats Suzara thanked Filipino fans for making the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship in Manila a global success.
Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Tats Suzara was more than pleased as he credited Filipino fans for making the country’s hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship a resounding success.
After over two weeks of non-stop volleyball action, 16,429 spectators came to the Mall of Asia Arena to watch the gold medal match between Italy and Bulgaria, capping what has been a hugely successful competition in Manila.
“Today, I think it’s 16,000. If it wasn’t for the fans, our World Championship wouldn’t have been successful,” Suzara told reporters. “Now, they know that the Philippines can host any World Championship.”
[ALSO READ: FIVB President Fabio Azevedo hails Philippines’ hosting of World Champion: ‘10 out of 10’]
A milestone moment
Suzara emphasized the magnitude of the event, as this year marked the world championship's new biennial and 32-team format.
He also lauded the tireless efforts of the local organizing committee, who worked through challenges to deliver what many have described as an “unforgettable” edition of the tournament.
“I feel very emotional because Alas Pilipinas was given a chance to award the trophy to the winner for the first time,” Suzara added.
“We didn’t expect it. It’s like a mini-Olympics, na parang pinasa yung torch. It’s really something different that we are proud of as Filipinos.”
Looking ahead
While grateful for the praise from players and coaches worldwide, Suzara admitted there’s still room to grow, especially as the Philippines will host the Women's World Championship in 2029.
“They say it’s the best ever, unforgettable, but we still need to improve a lot in some areas. But I think we have given our best,” he said. “All the players and the coaches are all high praises satin.”
16,429 spectators came to watch the gold medal match of the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
More importantly, Suzara highlighted the future, pointing to the seven-year volleyball development plan now in place to strengthen Philippine volleyball at all levels.
“It’s not only about hosting the 2025 World Championship, but also about helping our national teams,” he said.
A lasting legacy
With record-breaking crowds, global recognition, and a historic moment where Filipino players stood on center court to present the trophy, Suzara said the tournament marked a turning point.
“Maraming salamat sa Filipino fans, sa lahat ng Filipinos, families here, and lahat ng nanood for the success of this,” Suzara said.
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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.