If the roar of a Filipino crowd wasn’t enough, Alas Pilipinas Men will have an added surge of support from afar as the Philippines braces for a high-stakes showdown against Asian powerhouse Iran in the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
Fresh from a historic victory over defending African champion Egypt last Tuesday, the Nationals will look to harness the energy of their home crowd once more as they aim to secure the country’s first-ever Round of 16 berth in the World Championship.
The battle takes place later this afternoon at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Adding a unique international flavor to the cheering section is Korea’s Brazilian head coach Issanaye Ramires, a familiar face in Philippine volleyball circles.
Ramires shares close ties with former national team mentor Sergio Veloso of the Ateneo Blue Eagles and current Alas Women and Capital1 tactician Jorge de Brito.
Having spent 11 years alongside Veloso at a top-flight club in Brazil, Ramires also forged strong bonds with De Brito along the way.
(C) Nicks Hernandez/UAAP Season 86 Media Team
“I’m really proud, especially of the Philippines team, how they pushed each other to win the match against Egypt. We are here cheering for them. I have a couple of friends here — coach Sergio Veloso, we worked together for around 11 years in the same club in Brazil. And the coach from the women’s team, Jorge de Brito, I know him very well,” Ramires told reporters after Korea’s four-set loss to Finland, which ended its World Championship campaign.
“I am here to support you and I hope the Philippines keeps going in the tournament. Even though we are working, we’ll be watching the game on TV for sure.”
Beyond offering encouragement, Ramires highlighted the rising prominence of Asian volleyball.
While all eyes will be on the showdown between Alas Men and Iran to determine the continent’s lone Round of 16 representative, Korea also showcased its potential by appearing in its first World Championship since 2014 — an 11-year milestone.
Despite finishing winless in their pool, Ramires emphasized the lessons and inspiration his team gained from competing in Asia.
“Playing in Asia is always amazing. The atmosphere and environment are unique. Our players gave everything on the court. We showed our big passion for the game, and we’ll come back stronger with the same dedication,” he concluded.
#WATCH: Korea coach Issanaye Ramires vows to cheer for Alas Men in their do-or-die vs Iran, honoring his friends Sergio Veloso & Jorge de Brito, and applauds the rise of Asian volleyball! 🇰🇷🏐
📹 @ErnestTuazon /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/FZ2xbv68C9
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 18, 2025
