Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP), a distinguished sports patron and influential figure in Philippine sports, has committed to guaranteeing the successful hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in 2025. The prestigious tournament is set to take place from September 12 to 28, 2025, with Pangilinan’s support promising a world-class event for volleyball fans across the globe.
Pangilinan’s commitment was confirmed during a recent meeting at his PLDT office in Makati City. The meeting was attended by key figures including Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, MVP Sports Foundation president Al Panlilio, and PLDT Business Transformation Group Head and sports leader Ricky Vargas.
Ramon Suzara praised Pangilinan’s dedication, stating, “Mr. MVP has once again elevated the role of a sports patron to a superlative level. With Mr. MVP’s support, the Local Organizing Committee [LOC] will be able to accelerate preparations for the world championship, which is just over a year away.”
The national men’s volleyball team, Alas Pilipinas, has already begun making waves. Despite being formed just a month ago, the team secured bronze medals at the Southeast Asia Men’s V.League held in Manila and Indonesia. “These bronze medals are significant milestones for Philippine men’s volleyball,” noted Suzara. “We are confident that Alas Pilipinas will make a substantial impact at the world championship.”
The FIVB Men’s World Championship 2025 will showcase the top 32 teams from around the world, with the Philippines proudly hosting the event. The games will be held at two premier venues—the Smart Araneta Coliseum and the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The official tournament draw is scheduled for September 14, 2025, and will be preceded by friendly matches featuring two leading Japanese club teams and the Alas Pilipinas Men and Women squads on September 7 and 8, 2025, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Suzara expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming championship, stating, “This historic hosting will give Filipino fans the chance to witness elite volleyball action from 32 top teams.”
Manny V. Pangilinan is a crucial member of the FIVB Men’s World Championship LOC Board, which is co-chaired by Presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, and Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco. The board also includes Senator Pia Cayetano, Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, and Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann.
With Pangilinan’s robust support, the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship promises to be an unforgettable event that will elevate the profile of Philippine volleyball on the global stage.