The Philippines opens its AVC Women’s Cup campaign against Uzbekistan in Candon City on Saturday, June 6, as 12 women’s national teams from Asia begin competition in the 10-day tournament. The opening marks the start of international volleyball action hosted in the city with full local participation.

Candon City Mayor Eric Singson said the local government prepared extensively for the event and committed to delivering a successful international competition. He said, “As a developing city, we have prepared the very best that we can offer,” stressing the importance of hosting major sporting events outside metropolitan centers.

He added that the city embraced the challenge of hosting the tournament with determination and commitment to excellence, while also expressing hope that visiting teams would remember the experience positively.

The Philippine Sports Commission emphasized that international events have greater impact when brought to communities that actively support sports development.

Host City Commitment

Candon City officials highlighted their readiness to host the AVC Women’s Cup and emphasized preparation efforts focused on infrastructure, logistics, and support for visiting teams. Local leaders said the event reflects the city’s growing role in international sports hosting.

Candon City also reinforced its long-term commitment to developing sports tourism and positioning itself as a sustainable venue for international competitions. Local officials said this initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen community engagement through sports.

Tournament Oversight

The AVC Women’s Cup is being monitored by an FIVB-appointed committee following developments involving the Philippine National Volleyball Federation. The committee is ensuring operational continuity and coordination across all participating teams and stakeholders.

The oversight body said its priority is to maintain smooth operations throughout the tournament and ensure that all participating teams compete under properly coordinated conditions.

AVC president Ramon Suzara thanked Candon City for its support and highlighted the importance of bringing volleyball closer to fans across Asia.

Alas Pilipinas Women, led by Alyssa Valdez and Jovelyn Gonzaga, will face Uzbekistan in their opening match at 3 p.m. Other fixtures include Vietnam versus Lebanon, Kazakhstan versus Hong Kong, Iran versus Indonesia, and South Korea versus Kyrgyzstan.

Alas Pilipinas Women begin their campaign against Uzbekistan in their opening match of the AVC Women’s Cup. The team enters the competition facing strong opposition from established Asian volleyball programs in a 10-day continental tournament.

The match marks the start of the Philippines’ participation in the tournament as they take on Uzbekistan in their opening assignment.