Fresh from a three-country training camp in Europe, where they faced taller and more seasoned squads, Owa Retamar believes Alas Pilipinas have gained the poise and confidence needed to stand their ground in the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, which the Philippines will host next month.
Alas Pilipinas underwent an intense training camp in Morocco, Romania, and Portugal as part of their preparation for their historic debut on the world stage.
The trip allowed them to test their skills and composure against numerous European teams known for their size and experience.
The 25-year-old playmaker admitted that the experience was intimidating at first.
“At first, I was a bit nervous because everyone here is so tall. We felt like high schoolers compared to them,” Retamar said. “But we’re happy because we realized that even if we’re smaller, we can still keep up with them.”
As the games progressed, they adjusted and found ways to compete.
“They have a height advantage, but we can match their skills,” he said. “Our training camp has been exhausting, but it was so worth it. It helped us a lot.”
Retamar knows the feeling of being the underdog.
At just 19, he was the youngest member of the national team when he became a revelation at the 30th Southeast Asian Games. He stepped up as the main setter, helping the Philippines capture a historic silver medal.
Now, as the country gears up for its first-ever World Championship appearance — a 32-nation event on home soil — Retamar returns not as the young upstart, but as a steady leader. He is now guiding Alas Pilipinas’ young setters, Eco Adajar and Elijah Tae-yin Kim.
“The three of us really support each other, especially during games. We always talk about strategies to score quickly, so we’ve become a great trio on the court,” he said.
“Even now, I still struggle to act like a senior on the team. That’s why Kuya Bryan (Bagunas) and Kuya Marck (Espejo) always remind me that I need to step up and be a leader.”
Under the guidance of Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, a world champion mentor, the UAAP Finals MVP and Best Setter from National University continues to learn invaluable lessons both on and off the court.
“I’m improving in a lot of ways, even my attitude when it comes to volleyball. Even if I can’t always show it or do what’s expected of me right away, I’m really trying, for myself and for my team,” Retamar said.
Retamar is among the 21 players in the Alas Pilipinas pool, all vying for a spot in the Final 14 for their historic opener on September 12 against Tunisia at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The opening day will feature a first-of-its-kind ceremony with performances from K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR and Cebuana singer Karencitta, who will debut the tournament’s theme song, Electrify.
The Philippines will also face No. 23 Egypt on September 16 and No. 13 Iran on September 18 to close their Pool A campaign.
The 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship runs from September 12 to 28 at the MOA Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Tickets are available via the official website: www.philippineswch2025.com
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