BANGKOK — Semifinal-bound Alas Pilipinas wraps up its Group B campaign against defending champion Indonesia on Tuesday, December 16, at the Indoor Stadium Huamark in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games men’s indoor volleyball tournament. While already assured of a spot in the last four, the Filipinos are targeting momentum and favorable seeding heading into the knockout stage.

Alas returns to action at 1:30 p.m. following a commanding straight-sets victory over Myanmar last Saturday. That performance highlighted the team’s improved cohesion and attacking balance as the competition intensifies.

The Philippines officially clinched a semifinal berth after Indonesia swept Myanmar on Monday, eliminating the Burmese from contention. The result confirmed Alas’ return to the semifinals for the first time since its runner-up finish in the 2019 Manila edition.

That breakthrough already surpasses the team’s back-to-back fifth-place finishes in the Hanoi and Phnom Penh Games. Still, the Filipinos remain focused on building toward a deeper title run.

Alas prepares for familiar test

Head coach Angiolino Frigoni is leaning on the offensive trio of Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, and Leo Ordiales to challenge an Indonesian squad that has long dominated regional volleyball. The matchup also revisits a rivalry that saw Indonesia deny the Philippines a long-awaited gold medal six years ago.

Bagunas, who erupted for 18 points in Alas’ tournament opener, stressed the importance of sustaining intensity regardless of the standings. He emphasized that every match serves as preparation for the pressure-filled knockout rounds.

The coaching staff has also pointed to discipline and execution as key priorities, particularly against a veteran Indonesian side. Limiting errors and maintaining composure will be crucial against the defending champions.

Semifinal path at stake

The winner of Tuesday’s match will take on the No. 2 team from Group A in Thursday’s semifinals. The loser, meanwhile, will face the top seed from the opposite pool in a do-or-die knockout clash.

Vietnam and host Thailand currently lead Group A after remaining unbeaten in two matches. Singapore and Laos, meanwhile, have been eliminated from semifinal contention.

The tournament will conclude on Friday with the bronze medal match and the championship showdown. Alas Pilipinas hopes its steady rise translates into a podium finish in Bangkok.