The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) is expected to formally suspend the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) during its General Assembly in June following the federation’s suspension by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB).

The development came shortly after the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) moved to withhold funding from the national sports association. The FIVB’s decision has placed the future of Philippine volleyball governance under increased scrutiny while raising questions about the federation’s immediate operations.

POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino confirmed that the organization received official communication from the FIVB regarding the suspension. The action also followed developments involving support for Asian Volleyball Confederation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, who previously served as PNVF president.

Tolentino explained that the POC’s position is tied to the recognition status of national federations by their respective international governing bodies. As a result, the local Olympic body is expected to align its actions with the FIVB ruling.

FIVB cites concerns

According to the FIVB, the suspension of the PNVF under president Tony Boy Liao takes effect immediately. The international federation cited serious governance concerns and multiple alleged violations of its Code of Ethics that are currently being investigated by an independent ethics panel.

The FIVB said the decision was necessary while the investigation remains ongoing. The move is intended to protect the integrity of the sport and ensure proper oversight during the review process.

To maintain stability, the FIVB established an Ad Hoc Committee tasked with temporarily overseeing the affairs of the PNVF. The committee will operate under the provisions of the federation’s general regulations while the suspension remains in effect.

The panel is composed of five FIVB officials assigned to handle sensitive responsibilities during the transition period. Among them is Alexa Dabao, who serves as the FIVB’s legal contractor in the Philippines.

Tolentino said the POC would seek further clarification regarding the extent of the committee’s authority. He noted that determining who will manage the federation’s domestic responsibilities remains an important issue moving forward.

Athletes remain priority

Despite the sanctions, Tolentino emphasized that the welfare of athletes remains the POC’s primary concern. He stressed that developmental programs and the broader Olympic movement should continue regardless of administrative challenges.

“The POC will abide by the decision of the IF,” Tolentino said. He added that while the issue involves the federation’s internal rules, support for athletes should remain a priority.

Once the POC formally suspends the federation, the PSC is also expected to continue withholding support from the organization. This would further impact the federation’s ability to operate while the investigation proceeds.

The POC has previously assumed caretaker responsibilities for national sports associations that encountered problems with their international federations. Similar arrangements have been implemented in sports such as tennis and billiards when governance issues arose.

One of the immediate concerns involves the women’s national volleyball team, which is scheduled to compete in the Asian Volleyball Confederation Women’s Volleyball Cup. The tournament is set to begin on June 6 in Candon City, creating urgency regarding administrative oversight and preparations.

The situation leaves Philippine volleyball facing a period of uncertainty as officials work to address governance concerns while ensuring that athletes remain capable of competing on the international stage.