The Philippines takes on Uzbekistan at the start of competition on Saturday in the AVC Women’s Cup, which Candon City Mayor Eric Singson officially opened on Thursday night, with the FIVB closely monitoring developments following its suspension of the national federation a week ago.
Twelve of the continent’s top women’s teams will see action over 10 days at the Candon City Arena, with Pato Gregorio, chairman of presentor Philippine Sports Commission, stressing that “international events create the greatest impact when brought to communities that embrace the sport.”
“As a developing city, we have prepared the very best that we can offer,” Singson said during the welcome dinner for all delegates at Hotel Van Gogh on Thursday. “While events of this magnitude are often hosted by major metropolitan centers and capital cities, we embraced this challenge with enthusiasm, determination, and a commitment to excellence.
“Our hope is that this edition of the AVC Women’s Cup will not only be remembered as a successful tournament, but also as an experience that leaves a special place in your hearts, reflecting the warmth, hospitality, and genuine affection for which our City of Love and Care is known.”
The FIVB, meanwhile, tasked the AVC to ensure the successful staging of the competition by closely monitoring the Local Organizing Committee led by Singson and the city of Candon, following the suspension of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation last Friday.
“In view of the upcoming 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup in Candon City, Philippines, the Ad Hoc Committee is taking immediate steps to ensure that there are no operational or organizational gaps arising from the PNVF’s suspension and that the event proceeds smoothly for all participating teams, athletes, officials, organisers, and stakeholders,” said Hila Asanuma, head of the FIVB-appointed Ad Hoc Committee, in an email to AVC president Tats Suzara dated June 4.
“The committee’s immediate priorities include supporting the participation of Philippine national teams in upcoming international competitions and ensuring the successful delivery of scheduled international events.”
Suzara, meanwhile, expressed appreciation to Candon City and Singson for their support of the sport.
“Through the leadership of the PSC and its National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee (NST-IAC), the country continues to strengthen sports development and sports tourism by bringing international events closer to local communities,” Suzara said.
“AVC shares this same vision of expanding the reach of volleyball across Asia and bringing world-class competition closer to fans everywhere.”
Alyssa Valdez, 32, and Jovelyn Gonzaga, 34, are expected to carry the leadership mantle as Alas Pilipinas Women take on the Uzbeks in Saturday’s 3 p.m. match.
Vietnam and Lebanon open hostilities at 9 a.m., followed by Kazakhstan against Hong Kong at 12 noon, Iran against Indonesia at 6 p.m., and South Korea against Kyrgyzstan in the nightcap at 9 p.m.
