The campaign to promote the country’s hosting of the FIVB Men’s World Championship 2025 picked up speed as the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) kicked off a high-impact promotional partnership on Tuesday, July 15. A specially wrapped train on LRT-2 was unveiled during a lively trip from Recto Station to the Santolan depot in Pasig City, signaling the start of a nationwide promotional push.

The launch was attended by Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio, Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, and LRTA Administrator Atty. Hernando Cabrera.

“Starting today, people using Line 2 will see promotional materials for the FIVB MWCH inside and outside the trains,” said Cabrera. “We’ve wrapped one train and filled it with materials designed to highlight this very special occasion.”

Volleyball stars, fan clubs add energy to promotional event

Filipino volleyball icons Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo of Alas Pilipinas Men, along with beach volleyball standout Sisi Rondina, led the athletes’ presence at the campaign launch, which marked 59 days before the championship begins on September 12. The tournament runs until September 28 and will take place at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Suzara extended gratitude to LRTA for boosting visibility of the event and highlighted the inclusion of K-pop group BOYNEXTDOOR’s fan club, which will play a role in the September 12 opening ceremony following the Alas Pilipinas vs Tunisia match at SM MOA Arena.

Gregorio, who leads the government’s Task Force for the championship, emphasized the tournament’s potential for sports tourism. “This is a beautiful example of how sports can drive tourism,” he said.

Next in the countdown is “Set Na Natin ‘To! An Electrifying Launch,” scheduled for Friday, July 18, at SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The all-day fan event begins at 10 a.m., with the official program set for 6 p.m.