FIVB president Fabio Azevedo and Brazilian superstar Leila Barros jointly announced Sunday that the Philippines will host the 2029 FIVB Women’s World Championship.

Azevedo made the declaration before the gold medal match between Italy and Bulgaria at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, telling fans, “Thank you very much for your warm welcome. Thank you for hosting the best world championships ever. But now, when you’re thinking that we’re going to the end, we have an amazing surprise … Philippines, are you ready?”

Barros, who earned a special place in Filipino hearts during her playing days 25 years ago, followed in Portuguese: “Congratulations Philippines! You are hosting the 2029 FIVB Women’s World Championships! Mahal ko kayo!” The crowd erupted in applause as the arena filled for the final showdown.

A blueprint for volleyball growth in the Philippines

The landmark hosting is the centerpiece of a seven-year volleyball development program unveiled by Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Patrick Gregorio. The initiative aims to make the Philippines a global hub for volleyball through elite athlete development, sports tourism, and international partnerships.

“This long-term partnership with FIVB and Volleyball World is a transformative empowerment program for our athletes first, and a bold push for sports tourism toward economic growth second,” Gregorio said. “It will set a historic blueprint for Philippine sports development overall.”

The 2029 Women’s World Championship will headline 20 international events scheduled in the Philippines from 2026 to 2032, leading into the Brisbane Olympics.

FIVB leaders back Philippine roadmap

FIVB officials, including Volleyball World CEO Ugo Valensi and Asian Volleyball Confederation president Ramon Suzara, praised the ambitious roadmap. “Building on the success of the Men’s World Championship here in 2025, we know the Philippines offers the perfect stage to inspire the next generation and connect communities,” Valensi said.

Suzara, who also heads the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, emphasized the impact: “It is an honor to see the sport that I love contribute meaningfully to my nation’s sports and tourism agenda.”

Gregorio confirmed that the program will also include beach volleyball tours, continental championships, sports education initiatives, and broadcast production enhancements, with support from both government and private sectors.