Asian Volleyball Confederation president Tats Suzara welcomed the International Volleyball Federation’s official recognition of Frank Lao’s leadership at the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, saying the development would allow Philippine volleyball to move forward without further administrative hurdles.
Suzara expressed relief over the international governing body’s decision, emphasizing the importance of having a stable and harmonious working relationship among national federations and their respective continental confederations.
“As president of the AVC, I now feel comfort that finally, the FIVB has recognized the new leadership of the PNVF,” Suzara said on Tuesday.
“The confederation always wants a healthy and harmonious operation of all its member national federations.”
He added that the recognition would clear the way for the PNVF to carry out its operations without complications stemming from the absence of FIVB acknowledgment.
“Philippine volleyball can now move on and operate hitch-free of the FIVB recognition,” Suzara said.
Alongside his statement, Suzara also extended the AVC’s congratulations to Lao following his election as PNVF president, expressing confidence in the federation’s direction under its new administration.
He described Lao’s appointment as a reflection of the trust placed in his leadership by the Philippine volleyball community and expressed the AVC’s willingness to strengthen its partnership with the national federation.
The AVC also expressed optimism that the new leadership would help Philippine volleyball achieve greater success while promoting innovation and collaboration within the sport.
The FIVB formally confirmed its recognition of Lao’s election in a letter dated November 2, following a review of the documents submitted by the PNVF.
According to the international governing body, its Legal Department assessed the federation’s election process in accordance with Article 1.6 of the FIVB General Regulations.
“The FIVB hereby informs you that the election process at the Philippine National Volleyball Federation satisfies the legal and administrative requirements in compliance with the FIVB Regulations,” the letter stated.
The FIVB further confirmed that it would recognize the election and update its official records, including the leadership information listed on its website directory.
The recognition marks an important development for the PNVF as Lao and his administration move forward with the task of overseeing Philippine volleyball.
