Alas Pilipinas weren’t even supposed to be in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship — but they proved they can not only compete, but also take down some of the best teams in the world.
The Philippines stunned reigning African champions Egypt — and the volleyball world — by securing a 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21 victory in front of an electrified crowd at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Tuesday.
For team captain Bryan Bagunas, the win is proof that despite being ranked 88th in the world, the Nationals truly belong on the global stage.
“For me, ayun nga, ito na siguro yung simula na para makita namin na hindi lang kami hanggang SEA Games, hindi lang kami hanggang Asian Games, may ibubuga rin kami sa World Championship kagaya nga nito,” said Bagunas.
“Siguro, nakita lang namin na yung mga natutunan namin sa coaching staff namin malaking bagay yun na nai-apply namin sa laro na ‘to,” he continued.
Bagunas spearheaded the Nationals’ attack, racking up 25 points on 23-of-40 spikes and two blocks, benefiting this time from the support that eluded him in the loss to Tunisia last Friday.
Leo Ordiales bounced back from a two-point outing, contributing 21 points, including 10 in the crucial fourth set. Meanwhile, Marck Espejo added 13 points — none more pivotal than his block against Abdelrahman Elhossiny that sealed the win.
Yet Bagunas insists this victory is just the beginning, with more milestones to chase.
Alas Pilipinas will face World No.14 Iran on Thursday at 5:30 PM, again at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, in what has become a virtual do-or-die clash for a spot in the Round of 16.
“Sa tingin ko, malayo, malayo sobra (ang puwedeng marating) kasi tingin ko sobrang underdog ng Pilipinas pero sa tiyaga at sa suporta ng Filipinos, nandoon tayo. Parang kaya nating ibigay yung best natin, kaya natin makipag-compete sa mga high level,” said the 6-foot-5 explosive spiker
#WATCH: Bryan Bagunas says this is just the beginning for Alas Pilipinas! 🇵🇭🏐#ReadMore 👉 https://t.co/j8ShPtoAQA
📹 @seol_gongchan /Tiebreaker Times#MWCH2025 #Sambansa pic.twitter.com/nBR65qtLUq
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 16, 2025
