The Senate on Wednesday, October 1, adopted a resolution commending the Philippine men’s national volleyball team, Alas Pilipinas, for its milestone 19th-place finish in the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.

Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano, who sponsored Proposed Senate Resolution No. 143, said the team’s breakthrough run “brought immense pride and honor” to the country and showed that Filipino athletes can excel when given the right support. “Sports brings Filipinos together. This team not only made us proud during the SEA Games, but they also made sure they will pleasantly surprise us,” Cayetano said in his sponsorship speech.

Senators unite in praise for Alas Pilipinas

The resolution, unanimously adopted by all 24 senators, highlighted the Philippines’ historic achievement as the tournament’s sole host. Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senators Francis Pangilinan, Joel Villanueva, and Erwin Tulfo joined Cayetano in congratulating the team.

Present at the Senate were Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, secretary-general Donaldo Caringal, head coach Angiolino Frigoni, deputy coach Ogie Mamon, and team captain Bryan Bagunas. The resolution also cited Bagunas, who finished third among the tournament’s top scorers, and Marck Espejo, who ranked fourth among receivers, as proof of Filipino grit and world-class talent.

Paving the way for future success

Cayetano credited the coaching staff and reforms under the PNVF, which expanded access to international tournaments and strengthened training programs. He said honoring the team is about more than celebrating success—it is also about sustaining momentum for sports development nationwide.

“Honoring Filipino athletes serves a public purpose because their achievements inspire national pride, set standards for sports programs, and justify sustained investment in facilities, training, and athlete support,” Cayetano said.

The senator added that the team’s performance set the stage for the Philippines to host the FIVB Women’s Volleyball Championship in 2029 with greater readiness and confidence.