LINE 2 of the Light Rail Transit Authority buzzed with excitement as Jia Morado-de Guzman led three other Alas Pilipinas Women members in promoting the upcoming FIVB Men’s World Championship 2025, which kicks off exactly a month from Tuesday. The special train ride from Recto to Santolan was part of LRTA’s support for the event, spearheaded by administrator Atty. Hernando Cabrera.

“This is a rare opportunity for the country to host such a prestigious event, the world championship,” said Morado-de Guzman, the revered “Kapitana” of Alas Pilipinas Women. She was joined by libero Dawn Macandili-Catindig and outside hitters Vanie Gandler and Alleiah Malaluan, who engaged with both the commuting public and members of the Local Organizing Committee.

The tournament runs from September 12 to 28 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum and SM Mall of Asia Arena, with tickets available at philippineswch2025.com. Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara noted, “One more month and the Philippines will be on the world volleyball map,” highlighting the significance of hosting the 32-nation event.

Star-studded opening and closing ceremonies planned

Alas Pilipinas head coach Jorge Edson Souza de Brito, a Barcelona 1992 Olympic gold medalist with Brazil, emphasized that the competition will showcase the best volleyball teams in the world. Pre-tournament activities will continue on August 13 with “Set Na ‘To! An Electrifying Launch” at SM MOA Music Hall, featuring mascots Hataw, Kidlat, and Kulog alongside the championship trophy.

The September 12 opening ceremony at MOA Arena will feature the popular K-pop group Boy Next Door, while the September 28 closing will include performances by Ben&Ben and a special appearance by Brazilian volleyball legend-turned-senator Leila Barros, who captivated Filipino fans in the 1990s.