Young opposite hitter Leo Ordiales knows that nothing is guaranteed, but if he earns a spot in the final roster for Alas Pilipinas at the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, he is ready to embrace whatever role is assigned.

Only 22, Ordiales is among 21 hopefuls aiming for the Final 14 that will represent the Philippines in the 32-nation world championship, set from September 12 to 28 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Ordiales has been part of the national pool since last year, including a three-country training stint in Morocco, Romania, and Portugal, where he learned from veteran wingers Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, and Steven Rotter.

“For me, it’s not about age or experience. Whatever role is given to me—whether I’m in the first six, coming off the bench, or just in training—I’ll embrace it and give my all for the team,” said the National University product.

Young talent ready to step up

The Philippines opens the championship against Tunisia at 6 p.m. on September 12 at SM Mall of Asia Arena, followed by matches against Egypt on September 16 and Iran on September 18 in Pool A action. The opening ceremony will feature K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR and Cebuana singer-songwriter-actress Karencitta.

Ordiales said trust is central to his approach: “I’ll just fulfill whatever role is given to me. Of course, it all starts with trust. I trust them because they also trust me. We’re all helping each other.”

He has already contributed instant scoring off the bench during team build-ups and hopes to make the home crowd proud. “My only goal is to give my best, especially since we’ll be playing in front of our fellow Filipinos. Whatever happens in the world championship, I want people to leave the arena saying they were proud of how the team played.”

At 6-foot-6, the young spiker sees the opportunity not just as part of the present, but as a glimpse into the future of the national program. “Of course, I’m honored because not everyone is given this kind of opportunity. Out of the millions who play volleyball in the Philippines and the many young athletes who dream of this, I feel truly grateful to be given this chance.”