Up against some of the world’s best spikers, Alas Pilipinas places its hopes on its middle blockers and liberos — who vow that, no matter the odds, they will stand as the team’s first and last line of defense.
The Philippines’ defensive team is bracing itself for an uphill climb in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, knowing that every dig, reception, or block could spell the difference between survival and surrender against taller, more seasoned squads.
Middle blockers Kim Malabunga, Peng Taguibolos, and Lloyd Josafat are well aware of the uphill battle that awaits them at the net.
Still, rather than fixating on the height disadvantage, the trio leans on meticulous preparation, teamwork, and determination to hold their ground against the world’s elite — and with that mindset, they are ready to meet the challenge head-on.
“It’s a big challenge for us middle blockers because we have to protect the team through our blocking,” said the 6-foot-5 Malabunga, the most seasoned middle blocker in the pool that also includes Lucca Mamone and JP Bugaoan.
“That’s why we need to apply everything Coach Angiolino is teaching us so we can help the team. So far, our training has been really good. Our transitions are improving,” he added.
Standing at 6-foot-6 and 6-foot-4, respectively, Taguibolos and Josafat face the daunting task of matching up against far taller opponents.
Yet rather than letting that intimidate them, they concentrate on adapting their game and discovering ways to help the team beyond mere blocking.
“I know it’s going to be difficult for me because of the height disparity. Our opponents will be much taller for sure. But if we can’t score on the attack or get a clean block, we’ll find other ways to contribute to the team,” said Taguibolos.
“Coach Angiolino [Frigoni] always reminds us that it doesn’t have to be a complete block. What matters is at least getting a touch on the ball, slowing it down — that’s the goal. That will help our team,” echoed Josafat.
Meanwhile, liberos Jack Kalingking and Vince Lorenzo, together with Josh Yñanez, carry the task of sustaining every rally, understanding that their consistency could prove crucial in the nation’s World Championship debut
“I’ll just apply what we learned in Europe, what our coaches taught us, and of course, it feels great that if I manage to dig or receive the ball, it’s already a big accomplishment. It means I’ve done my role,” Lorenzo said.
“The most important thing is probably guiding them the right way — showing the right character, how to help the team, and of course, building their confidence so they can show they’re not afraid on the court,” added Kalingking.
Alas Pilipinas will open its Pool A campaign at the SM Mall of Asia Arena this Friday, taking on world No. 43 Tunisia at 7:00 PM, following a grand opening show featuring Korean pop group BOYNEXTDOOR and Cebuana artist Karencitta.
The Filipinos will then face another steep challenge against No. 23 Egypt on September 16, before meeting powerhouse No. 13 Iran on September 18.
Tickets are available through the official website: https://www.philippineswch2025.com.
