CAGAYAN DE ORO — The city delivered another electrifying welcome to the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Volleyball Championship over the weekend, as the “Set Na Natin ‘To Trophy and Mascot Tour” wrapped up its three-city run at SM Downtown CDO.

Fans were treated to a lively showcase featuring Alas Pilipinas pool member Elijah Kim and former volleyball player-turned-actor Dylan Ytorralde, who entertained alongside crowd favorites Hataw and Koolog, the official tournament mascots. The finale carried the same high-energy atmosphere that marked the start of the tour in Cebu three weeks earlier.

Suzara lauds fans’ energy

PNVF and Asian Volleyball Confederation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support. He noted that the strong turnout in every city underlined the country’s passion for the sport ahead of the global spectacle.

“We’re 12 days to Day 1 and we appreciate the warm and raucous reception for the world championship in these three-city tour,” Suzara said.

Countdown to the world stage

The championship begins September 12 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, with Alas Pilipinas facing Tunisia in a Pool A clash at 6 p.m., followed by an electrifying opening ceremony headlined by K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR and Filipino artist Karencitta.

From September 12 to 28, the 32-nation tournament will unfold across the SM MOA Arena and Smart Araneta Coliseum. Tickets remain available at the official tournament website: www.philippineswch2025.com