The Senate on Wednesday adopted a resolution filed by Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano commending the Philippine men’s national volleyball team, Alas Pilipinas, for its milestone 19th-place finish in the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.
Cayetano, who sponsored Proposed Senate Resolution No. 143, said the team’s breakthrough run “brought immense pride and honor” to the country and proved that Filipino athletes can excel when given the right opportunities.
“Sports bring Filipinos together. This team not only made us proud during the SEA Games, but they also made sure they would pleasantly surprise us,” he said during his sponsorship speech.
The senator emphasized that sports are a “God-given activity” that promotes health and well-being, fosters unity even in the midst of political divides, and elevates the Philippines’ global image through international success.
The Senate resolution highlighted that the achievement was made even more significant by the Philippines’ role as the tournament’s sole host.
All 24 senators supported and adopted the resolution, with Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri and Senators Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, Joel Villanueva, and Erwin Tulfo delivering their manifestations congratulating the national team.
Present at the Senate were Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, secretary-general Donaldo Caringal, and members of Alas Pilipinas, led by head coach Angiolino Frigoni, deputy coach Ogie Mamon, and team captain Bryan Bagunas.
The resolution also recognized standout players, led by captain Bryan Bagunas, who finished third among the tournament’s top scorers, and Marck Espejo, who ranked fourth among receivers. Cayetano said their feats demonstrate the grit and talent of Filipino athletes on the world stage.
The senator likewise credited the coaching staff led by Angiolino Frigoni and the reforms implemented by the PNVF under Suzara, which opened doors to overseas tournaments and strengthened training programs for national players.
Cayetano, who also serves as Co-chair of the Local Organizing Committee and Chairman Emeritus of the PNVF, added that honoring Alas Pilipinas is not only about celebrating their success but also about sustaining momentum for long-term sports development.
“Honoring Filipino athletes serves a public purpose because their achievements inspire national pride, set standards for sports programs, and justify sustained investment in facilities, training, and athlete support nationwide,” he said.
This success, Cayetano added, sets the stage for the Philippines to host the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Championship in 2029, with greater readiness and confidence.
“Because of their performance and because of the successful hosting, two years from now, iyon namang Women’s Volleyball Championship will be held in the Philippines and this time around we have much more time to prepare,” he said.
