Players from Cignal and Imus-Ivy Tuason Photography were not in attendance during the first training day of the Philippine Men’s National Volleyball Team on Sunday at UST’s Quadricentennial Pavilion.
These five players were vital cogs during the Philippines’ historic silver finish in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, namely HD Spikers Marck Espejo, Manuel Sumanguid, and Ysay Marasigan; and AJAA Spikers Ish Polvorosa and Kim Malabunga.
Also not attending was Cignal’s Chu Njigha.
“Management decision” was cited by multiple reports as to the reason why they have begged off from the team.
Also begging off prior was Bryan Bagunas as he is set to get married to fiance Nicole Tracy Tan, according to reports.
The national team began its 10-day training camp on Sunday before heading to Taiwan.
In attendance were Jade Disquitado (Iloilo), Lloyd Josafat (Cotabato), Rex Intal (Cotabato), Rwenzmel Taguibolos (NU team B), Leo Ordiales (NU team B), Joshua Umandal (Cotabato), Vince Lorenzo (Cotabato), Jay Rack Dela Noche (UST), Madz Gampong (Cotabato), Kim Dayandante (Cotabato), Jelex Mendiola (Cotabato), Vince Mangulabnan (Ateneo assistant coach), and Edward Camposano (Cotabato).
Completing the squad are La Salle’s Noel Kampton and Cotabato’s Jayvee Sumagaysay.
Odjie Mamon will be the interim head coach of the team and will be assisted by Rommel Abella and Mark Alfafara.