The Philippines will receive long-term backing from the International Volleyball Federation as it rolls out a seven-year development program aimed at strengthening its national indoor and beach volleyball squads.
Philippine National Volleyball Federation and Asian Volleyball Confederation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara confirmed the initiative on Monday amid the country’s historic hosting of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
“We’re preparing a seven-year development plan with the FIVB to strengthen our men’s volleyball team, as well as our women’s team. We have strong support from the FIVB and Volleyball World, and of course, the Philippine Sports Commission is also with us,” Suzara said.
“We have a really good collaboration with the FIVB, Volleyball World, and our local volleyball associations.”
The announcement came on the heels of the Philippines’ spirited campaign in the World Championship, where the underdog Nationals stunned Egypt in pool play and nearly shocked powerhouse Iran to reach the knockout phase.
Despite falling short, the 19th-place finish out of 32 teams marked the country’s best showing on the global stage in recent memory.
Suzara lauded the surge of interest in men’s volleyball following the team’s run.
“I’m very happy that people now love men’s volleyball. Before, it was only women’s volleyball that drew big support, but now fans are also embracing the men’s game with all the thrilling rallies and intense action,” he said.
Suzara also joined FIVB president Fabio Azevedo in unveiling a newly decorated LRT-2 train carrying the official artwork of the World Championship, symbolizing the federation’s commitment to push volleyball further into the local sporting consciousness.
#WATCH: FIVB President Fabio Azevedo gives the Philippines a perfect 10/10 for hosting #MWCH2025 🇵🇭🏐
📹 @jonashdcd /Tiebreaker Times pic.twitter.com/kbJXtMUmdK
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 22, 2025
