Candon City is gearing up for the start of the AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup, with several participating nations already arriving ahead of the tournament’s opening matches at the Candon City Arena.

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Iran were among the first delegations to reach Ilocos Sur as organizers finalized preparations for the continental competition scheduled from June 7 to 14.

The tournament arrives during a pivotal period for Philippine volleyball. While the local volleyball community continues to navigate the aftermath of the International Volleyball Federation’s suspension of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, officials emphasized that national team programs and international competitions will continue moving forward.

POC, PSC back national team

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino expressed confidence that stakeholders will continue supporting athletes despite recent developments involving the sport’s national governing body.

Tolentino stressed the importance of maintaining momentum for volleyball programs and ensuring that athletes remain the priority as the sport enters a period of transition.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need to continue supporting national athletes and sustaining the sport’s growth across the country.

The FIVB suspension of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation took effect last Friday, prompting the creation of an Ad Hoc Committee tasked with overseeing volleyball affairs in the country. The Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine Sports Commission are also expected to play significant roles during the transition period.

Alas Pilipinas ready for campaign

Despite the administrative developments, Alas Pilipinas Women remains focused on its preparations for the AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup. The national squad is expected to arrive in Candon City on Monday as final tournament preparations continue.

Additional participating teams including South Korea, Indonesia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Uzbekistan, Australia, Vietnam and Lebanon are also set to arrive in the coming days.

AVC president Ramon “Tats” Suzara welcomed all 12 participating teams and expressed optimism about the event’s impact on Philippine volleyball.

The final roster of the Alas Pilipinas Women squad, coached by Shaq de los Santos, is expected to be confirmed during the tournament’s preliminary inquiry on Friday.

Following the conclusion of the AVC Women’s Volleyball Cup, the country will host another major international event as the Women’s Volleyball Nations League heads to the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City from June 17 to 21. The competition will feature powerhouse nations Japan, Italy, United States, Serbia, Dominican Republic and Czechia.