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Libero Josh Ybañez refuses to guarantee results but promises heart as Alas Pilipinas prepares to battle Egypt at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship this afternoon at MOA Arena.  

The 22-year-old defensive stalwart admires Egypt’s composure and discipline, calling their recent win over Iran a standard to aspire to.

“They played really well, very organized and disciplined,” Ybañez said in Filipino, describing Egypt’s win. “What really stood out to me was their composure under pressure and how consistent they were with their execution. It was a big learning experience for us, because that’s the kind of standard we want to reach, too.”

Last Friday, the Philippines, coming off a spirited late rally against Tunisia in its World Championship debut, looks to build on lessons learned as it faces the world No. 18 squad. 

“We learned a lot from our first game, especially on the defensive side. It gave us more confidence that we can keep up. For the second game, we’ll bring that same energy and hopefully, we can apply the coaches’ adjustments even better.” Ybanez said. 

Ybañez, a two-time UAAP MVP now anchoring the national team’s defense, believes composure and grit will be key. Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni will again rely on Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, and Owa Retamar to lead the charge.

“Our mindset is simple: fight with all our heart and give everything we’ve got. What we can promise is that we’ll do everything to prove we’re worthy to carry the Philippine flag and represent the country on this stage.” Ybañez added,

Canada wasted no time securing their place in the Round of 16 of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship after dominating Japan in straight sets, 25-20, 25-23, 25-22, on Monday, September 15, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

After defeating Libya in their game opener, the Canadians now joined Turkiye at the top of their pool, bolstered by the efforts of Sharone Vernon-Evans and Nicholas Hoag with 14 and 13 points, respectively.

Veteran spikers Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo will headline Alas Pilipinas Men as the team makes its first-ever appearance at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025. 

“Ito, big tournament talaga. Lahat naman po kami talaga ready. Pero siyempre as a team, malayo pa. Malayo pa yung kailangan gawin. Pero malayo na rin ang in-improve ng team since nagsama-sama kami before training camp sa Europe,” said Espejo. 

The duo will lead a roster featuring Leo Ordiales, Michaelo Buddin, Jade Disquitado, Louie Ramirez, setter Owa Retamar, and backup Eco Adajar.

The middle blockers are Kim Malabunga, Peng Taguibolos, and Lloyd Josafat, with defensive duties handled by Josh Ybañez, Jack Kalingking, and Vince Lorenzo. 

“It’s a big challenge for us middle blockers because we have to protect the team through our blocking,” said Malabunga. 

“That’s why we need to apply everything coach Angiolino [Frigoni] is teaching us so we can help the team. So far, our training has been really good. Our transitions are improving,” he added. 

Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni will steer the squad, who prepared with a European training camp.

“Coach Angiolino [Frigoni] always reminds us that it doesn’t have to be a complete block. What matters is at least getting a touch on the ball, slowing it down — that’s the goal. That will help our team,” echoed Josafat.

“I know it’s going to be difficult for me because of the height disparity. Our opponents will be much taller for sure. But if we can’t score on the attack or get a clean block, we’ll find other ways to contribute to the team,” Taguibolos said.

And if the middle blockers form the wall at the net, the liberos are the shield on the floor — the last line of defense, keeping rallies alive with every dig and reception.

Jack Kalingking and Vince Lorenzo, along with Josh Ybañez, take on the responsibility of keeping rallies alive, knowing their steadiness could make all the difference in the nation’s World Championship debut.

“I’ll just apply what we learned in Europe, what our coaches taught us, and of course, it feels great that if I manage to dig or receive the ball, it’s already a big accomplishment. It means I’ve done my role,” Lorenzo said.

Veteran Kalingking, who was also part of the national team that claimed silver in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, serves as an anchor not only on the floor but also in the minds of his younger teammates.

“The most important thing is probably guiding them the right way — showing the right character, how to help the team, and of course, building their confidence so they can show they’re not afraid on the court,” he said.

Meanwhile, with the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship looming from September 12-28 Alas Pilipinas’ defenders are preparing for the toughest challenge of their careers. 

Knowing that every dig, reception, and block could be decisive against taller, more experienced opponents, Alas Pilipinas’ backline is sharpening its discipline and resilience ahead of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship. 

The Philippines opens its campaign against Tunisia this Friday, September 12 at the Mall of Asia Arena, determined to hold their own against the world’s best.

Candon City, Ilocos Sur, is set to host the 2026 AVC Women’s Volleyball Nations Cup from June 6 to 14, marking the first time the event will be held in the region. 

The announcement came during AVC meetings in Bangkok, with PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and Mayor Eric Singson leading the Philippine delegation.

The 12-nation tournament offers Alas Pilipinas Women a chance to complete a medal hat-trick on home soil, after recent bronze and silver finishes. 

The city plans to upgrade its 8,000-seat arena, expand accommodations, and enhance facilities to meet international standards.

Mayor Singson and Suzara both highlighted Candon’s appeal as a host city, emphasizing the boost to local tourism and Philippine volleyball. 

“I think we will have to improve our arena to accommodate what is needed for these international games. We’re also looking at expanding accommodations because we expect a lot of guests coming from several countries. We have to be ready for that,” Singson said. 

“Candon is a beautiful seaside city. Ang ganda ng beach. It’s the ‘Santorini of the North,’ and they bring a lot of tourists. Using volleyball as a product to promote the Philippines abroad will be good not only for our sport but also for tourism,” Suzara stated. 

Following its successful staging of the Men’s SEA V.League, Candon City prepares to welcome Asia’s top women’s teams for a landmark event.

The ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles carved history in Davao, clinching their first-ever franchise championship after outlasting the powerhouse De La Salle University Lady Spikers, 25-17, 25-19, 23-25, 25-23, in the finals of the 2025 Davao Invitational Volleyball Tournament on Sunday, September 7, at the University of Southeastern Philippines Gymnasium and Cultural Center.

Led by Guimaras native Jovelyn Gonzaga, the Thunderbelles capped an unbeaten four-game campaign, dropping just one set throughout the week-long tilt. 

Gonzaga, who made her much-anticipated return after sitting out the PVL Invitational, shone brightest as she claimed both the Most Valuable Player and Best Opposite Hitter awards.

ZUS Coffee’s depth also came to the fore as team captain Cloanne Mondoñedo earned the Best Setter citation, Chinnie Arroyo was named Best Outside Hitter, and promising rookie Mycah Go took home the Best Server award.

Ateneo de Manila University regained momentum in its semifinal push, sweeping winless Arellano University, 26-24, 25-18, 25-22, in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Sunday afternoon, September 7, at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.

Shaking off the sting of a narrow loss to archrival La Salle the day before, the Blue Eagles leaned on the leadership of team captain Jian Salarzon and the consistency of Amil Pacinio to keep their campaign alive.

Arellano University displayed resilience after a shaky second set to edge Colegio de San Juan, 25-14, 23-25, 25-22, 26-24, and seize solo fourth place in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge on Sunday, September 7, at the Paco Arena Events and Sports Center in Manila.

Both squads entered the court carrying the fatigue of their five-set battles the day before, but the Lady Chiefs proved steadier. Led by the scoring trio of Laika Tudlasan, Sam Tiratira, and Crisanta Servidad, they notched their second straight win in the eight-team field.

Tudlasan spearheaded the charge with 19 points off 18 kills, while Tiratira chipped in 16 markers built on 12 attacks and four blocks. With the victory, Arellano climbed to 3-3, staying in the hunt for a semifinal berth.

“We’re happy to beat Letran because they’re a strong NCAA contender. I told my players that it’s in their hands — if they want to extend our season, it depends on how they respond. This win is all because of their effort,” said Lady Chiefs head coach Obet Javier.

Alas Pilipinas Men are ready to make history as the Philippines hosts the FIVB Men’s World Championship for the first time. 

The national volleyball team, led by star spiker Marck Espejo, expressed excitement at the recent Media Day held at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila.

“It’s an honor to be part of this historic event. We’re excited to play and show the level and brand of Philippine volleyball in the world stage,” Espejo said.

The team’s preparations included a European training camp and a home tune-up against Portugal. 

“Sa matagal naming pagsasama sa Europe, nakila po namin lalo ang isa’t isa. Ready na po kami maglaro para sa bayan. Pangakong gagawin po namin ‘yung best namin hindi lang basta makadikit o makakuha ng set pero para manalo ng games.” Espejo added

Organizers expect over 10,000 fans to fill the Mall of Asia Arena for the September 12 opener, where the Philippines will face Tunisia. K-pop group BoyNextDoor will also perform during the opening festivities.

With preparations complete and national pride on the line, Alas Pilipinas Men are fired up to compete on volleyball’s biggest stage.

This also highlights their excitement, recent training, and the significance of the upcoming tournament.

PNVF President, Ramon “Tats” Suzara also leads heads the world championship’s Local Organizing Committee co-chaired by Presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, explaining Alas’ first pre-event for the world stage was a visit at the National Museum. 

Alas, led by team captain Bryan Bagunas and veteran ace Marck Espejo, roamed around the museum for over an hour to take a trip down memory lane in 12 permanent galleries that exhibit the rich biological and geological diversity of the Philippines.

“We are days away from history. Let’s make this happen and show the world that the Filipinos are one of the best fans in the world,” Suzara said.

Adamson University stamped its dominance in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge, locking in the top semifinal seed with a convincing sweep of Colegio de San Juan de Letran, 25-18, 25-17, 25-16, on Wednesday at the Paco Arena in Manila.

The Lady Falcons kept their spotless slate intact at 6-0, riding on a balanced effort from rookie sensation Abby Segui, who fired 12 points, and star hitter Shaina Nitura, who added 10 points and anchored their floor defense. Frances Mordi also provided steady scoring with 12 markers in the win.

Adamson showed little mercy in the third set, quickly racing to a 14-3 advantage before sealing the match with Red Bascon’s emphatic block. Earlier, Segui and Lhouriz Tuddao combined for crucial points in the second frame to help the Falcons gain full control.

Ateneo de Manila University finally entered the win column in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge after dispatching Arellano University in four sets, 25-13, 9-25, 25-21, 25-20, on Wednesday, September 3, at Paco Arena in Manila.

The Blue Eagles stumbled against NCAA teams College of Saint Benilde, Mapua, and Pepetual before finding their rhythm against the Lady Chiefs to avoid slipping further down the standings.

Zey Pacia powered Ateneo’s bounce-back with a standout performance of 23 points built on 22 kills and an ace, while also steadying the defense with five excellent digs and five excellent receptions.

The Philippines is set to become the epicenter of world volleyball as the FIVB Men’s World Championship unfolds from September 12 to 28 at the Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.

“Elite at its highest level,” said Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon Suzara, as he welcomed the arrival of powerhouse teams.

Headlining the tournament are World No. 1 Poland, reigning world champion Italy, Olympic gold medalist France, and perennial powerhouse Brazil.

Poland, led by VNL MVP middle blocker Jakub Kochanowski and star spiker Wilfredo Leon, reclaimed the FIVB’s top ranking after sweeping Italy in last month’s VNL Finals. 

France, two-time Olympic gold medalists, are favored with Paris Games MVP Earvin Ngapeth at the helm, aiming for redemption after a quarterfinal exit in 2022.

Defending world champion Italy will count on Simone Giannelli (VNL Best Setter) and rising star Alessandro Michieletto (Best Outside Spiker), while Brazil’s stacked lineup—featuring Alan Souza, Ricardo Lucarelli, Mathias Bispo dos Santos, and veteran setter Bruno Fernando—looks to improve on their previous bronze finish.

With 32 nations vying for glory, Manila is primed for world-class action and historic volleyball showdowns as the sport’s elite chase the ultimate crown.

Jaja Santiago, now known as Sachi Minowa, embarks on a new chapter in her volleyball career after officially signing with the Denso Airybees in Japan’s SV.League.

The Airybees confirmed her arrival on Wedsnesday, August 27, marking the Filipina middle blocker’s seventh season in Japan’s premier league and her third stint with a Japanese club.

The 6-foot-5 standout recently concludied a successful two-year run with Osaka, where she played a key role in delivering the championship in the previous SV.League season. Before that, she spent four productive years with the Saitama Ageo Medics.

Former Petro Gazz Angels head coach Koji Tsuzurabara is embarking on a new chapter, having officially signed with the SG Hawks of Mongolia.

Tsuzurabara’s contract runs from September 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, offering the seasoned Japanese mentor a fresh opportunity on the international volleyball stage. 

He is set to depart for Ulaanbaatar via Seoul on September 3, where he will immediately begin preparations with his new squad.

“It’s a fresh start with a new team. Although it will be a short stay, I’m committed to working hard and giving my best for my new home team,” Tsuzurabara told Scoreline.ph.

The move follows his tenure with the Petro Gazz Angels in the Premier Volleyball League, where his tactical expertise and steady leadership were instrumental. 

Last April of this year, the Angels proved to themselves that the win was theirs. They dethroned the Creamline Cool Smashers with a commanding 25-21, 25-16, 23-25, 25-19 victory in their Game 3 battle.

For the former Petro Gazz head coach, their championship was the culmination of a long-held dream.

Tsuzurabara then never doubted his team. He believed in the players he had—players capable of going all the way.

Tsuzurabara was also fortunate and thrilled to have a talented team, including standout players like Brooke Van Sickle and MJ Philips, who not only secured the championship but also earned the Conference MVP and Finals MVP awards, respectively.

“I trust the players we could win. I’m lucky to have a great team with great players,”  Tsuzurabara said.

And now in Mongolia, Tsuzurabara aims to bring the same experience and passion as he leads the SG Hawks in their upcoming campaign.

Laoag City threw its full support behind the country’s historic hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Volleyball Championship by staging the “Set Na Natin ‘To Trophy and Mascot Tour” at Laoag City over the weekend.

Cignal stars Josh Umandal, JM Ronquillo, and Vince Malinao attended the festivities, which included a mini-tournament at Dap-Ayan Park. The Block Builders, led by MVP John Paul Lorenzo, claimed victory over North Western University, the Laoag men’s team, and Pasuquin.

PNVF and AVC president Tats Suzara expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and acknowledged the efforts of local officials and partners in making the event possible.

“We are very thankful to the City of Laoag and the Province of Ilocos Norte for the warm welcome and enthusiastic support for the world championships,” said PNVF and AVC president Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

The tour, which launched at SM Seaside Cebu, will culminate at SM Downtown Cagayan de Oro.

Fans enjoyed appearances by official mascots KidLat and Hataw, as well as participation from Department of Tourism officials and SM City Laoag representatives.

The 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship kicks off September 12 at Mall of Asia Arena, with Alas Pilipinas debuting against Tunisia at 6 p.m. The opening ceremony will feature a performance by K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR.

The tournament runs through September 28, bringing together 32 nations for one of volleyball’s biggest events.

Rookie wing spiker Alleiah Malaluan wasted no time making her presence felt in her Premier Volleyball League (PVL) debut, powering PLDT to a commanding 25-16, 25-14, 25-20 over Chery Tiggo in the 2025 PVL Invitational on Thursday, August 21, at the Philsports Arena.

The De La Salle University standout fired 11 points built on 10 attacks and one ace, while also anchoring PLDT’s defense with 13 excellent digs and nine excellent receptions.

Fresh from her stint with Alas Pilipinas, Malaluan expressed her gratitude for finally joining her mother club.

“I’m really grateful for this opportunity because I’ve been with the team for a few months already, and this experience has been a stepping stone for me to build a connection with them. Of course, I need to develop that chemistry with everyone,” Malaluan said after the match.

A mini volleyball tournament featuring four local teams will highlight the “Set Na Natin ‘To” Trophy and Mascot Tour this Saturday, August 24, at the newly-opened SM City Laoag.

Competing at Dap Ayan Park are Block Builders, Laoag MVT, PSQ, and NWU, in what organizers say will be both a celebration of the sort and a showcase of Ilocos Norte’s grassroots talent.

The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) has officially given the green light for Alas Pilipinas players to return to their mother clubs in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL).

However, the nationals will only be eligible to compete in the Reinforced Conference, scheduled from October to November, and will sit out the league’s short Invitational Conference kicking off this Thursday. The PVL’s long-running All-Filipino Conference is tentatively slated to open in January 2026.

The PLDT High Speed Hitters etched their name in Premier Volleyball League (PVL) history after outlasting Chery Tiggo in a thrilling five-set, 25-17, 25-17, 19-25, 24-26, 15-8, to capture the 2025 PVL On Tour title on Sunday, August 17, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Guided by head coach Rald Ricafort, PLDT completed a flawless run throughout the tournament—sweeping the group stage with a 5-0 slate before dispatching ZUS Coffee and Creamline in the knockout rounds. 

The breakthrough marked the High Speed Hitters’ first-ever appearance and victory in a PVL championship stage.

Shaina Nitura made a rousing V-League debut for Adamson University, while College of Saint Benilde held firm against a late rally by Colegio de San Juan de Letran as both squads preserved their spotless records in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge, Tuesday, August 12, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center in Manila.

Fresh from her stint with Alas Pilipinas in the SEA V.League, the Adamson sophomore outside hitter unleashed a 28-point explosion off 27 from attacks and one from a block to cruise the Lady Falcons past Far Eastern University in a five-set thriller, 25-22, 25-21, 17-25, 22-25, 15-11.

Nitura came up big in the decider, firing five crucial points to give Adamson a 23-20 cushion before closing out the match and notching the team’s second straight win.

Head coach JP Yude admitted that passing woes in the middle frames nearly derailed their momentum but lauded the grit his players showed down the stretch.

“We started as a new group, and this is where we’re gaining our confidence. This is also where their character is really tested,” Yude said.

Frances Mordi backed Nitura with 15 points, while Lhouriz Tuddao and MG Del Moral chipped in eight each for Adamson, which now shares the tournament lead with Benilde. 

FEU’s Gerzel Petallo finished with 18 points, while Jaz Ellarina added 16, including seven blocks.

De La Salle University and University of Santo Tomas kept their winning streaks intact in the 2025 V-League Collegiate Challenge, dispatching their opponents in contrasting styles Tuesday, August 12, at the Paco Arena Sports and Events Center.

The Green Spikers fended off a late scare to sweep National University, 21-17, 21-15, 33-31, for their second straight win. La Salle nearly let a 22-18 lead slip in the third set, but Cameroonian middle blocker Issa Ousseini delivered a crucial service ace to reach match point. 

Ousseini posted nine points from four attacks, four blocks, and an ace, including two excellent  digs. Eugene Gloria and MJ Fortuna also tallied nine markers apiece, while timely contributions from bench players Rui Ventura and Yoyong Mendoza helped seal the win.

Coach Jose Roque said he challenged his team to show growth from their opening match. 

“I only told the team one thing before the game — to see if we can perform better than in our first match, so we have a gauge if we’re improving or not. No pressure because this is just pre-competition. Winning is just a reward; what matters is moving well and showing something on the court,” Roque explained.

Mac Bandiola led NU with 14 points, all from attacks, while Jan Abanilla chipped in seven.