Alas Pilipinas anchors World Championship hopes on defense as Malabunga, Taguibolos, Josafat lead net protection

Alas Pilipinas is putting its trust in defense as it braces for a historic debut in the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, which kicks off Friday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

With the world’s best teams looming, the national squad knows its defensive backbone — from the middle blockers to the liberos — will play a decisive role in keeping matches within reach.

“It’s a big challenge for us middle blockers because we have to protect the team through our blocking,” said 6-foot-5 veteran Kim Malabunga, who leads a frontline rotation that includes Peng Taguibolos, Lloyd Josafat, Lucca Mamone, and JP Bugaoan.

“That’s why we need to apply everything Coach Angiolino is teaching us so we can help the team. So far, our training has been really good. Our transitions are improving,” he added.

Taguibolos (6-foot-6) and Josafat (6-foot-4) will face taller opponents throughout the tournament, but both are determined to adapt their game and contribute in other ways beyond outright blocks.

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With their historic FIVB Men’s World Championship debut just around the corner, coach Angiolino Frigoni is calling on Filipino fans to show their full support as the Alas Pilipinas Men take on Tunisia in the opening match this Friday, September 12.#MWCH2025 #AlasPilipinas pic.twitter.com/WDVwmqOP8j

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) September 9, 2025

“I know it’s going to be difficult for me because of the height disparity. Our opponents will be much taller for sure. But if we can’t score on the attack or get a clean block, we’ll find other ways to contribute to the team,” said Taguibolos.

“Coach Angiolino [Frigoni] always reminds us that it doesn’t have to be a complete block. What matters is at least getting a touch on the ball, slowing it down — that’s the goal. That will help our team,” Josafat echoed.

At the backline, liberos Jack Kalingking and Vince Lorenzo, together with Josh Ybanez, shoulder the equally crucial responsibility of sustaining rallies with consistent digs and receptions.

“I’ll just apply what we learned in Europe, what our coaches taught us, and of course, it feels great that if I manage to dig or receive the ball, it’s already a big accomplishment. It means I’ve done my role,” Lorenzo said.

For Kalingking, leadership and composure will be just as vital. “The most important thing is probably guiding them the right way — showing the right character, how to help the team, and of course, building their confidence so they can show they’re not afraid on the court.”

Alas Pilipinas begins its Pool A campaign on home soil against world No. 43 Tunisia on Friday at 7:00 p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. 

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