Alas Pilipinas debuts in FIVB Men’s Worlds, eyes strong start vs Tunisia

The wait is over. Alas Pilipinas finally steps onto the global stage Friday night as it kicks off its historic campaign in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship against Tunisia at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Filipinos, under Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, carry the weight of both expectation and excitement as they headline the night session at 7 p.m. Team captain Bryan Bagunas leads a cast of 14 players that includes fellow star Marck Espejo, along with a mix of promising newcomers and seasoned standouts such as Leeo Ordiales, Michaelo Buddin, Jade Disquitado, Louie Ramirez, Kim Malabunga, Jack Kalingking, Vince Lorenzo, Owa Retamar, and Eco Adajar.

Bagunas sees a squad built for balance. “We have a great balance of veterans who bring experience and leadership, and younger players who bring energy and fresh perspectives,” the skipper said.

For Espejo, it’s about representing the Philippines with pride. “It’s an honor to be part of this historic event. We’re excited to play and show the level and brand of Philippine volleyball on the world stage,” he shared. 

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𝗦𝗲𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

The stage is set and all eyes are on Alas Pilipinas as they take on the 11-time African Champs Tunisia in the thrilling opening showdown of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship pic.twitter.com/mYVrPM6eeJ

— Philippine Sports Commission (@psc_gov) September 12, 2025

Preparation for this moment was anything but light. Alas Pilipinas traveled across Morocco, Romania, and Portugal in a European tour designed to harden the squad for battle against world-class competition. Yet, for Frigoni, training is only half the fight—he believes the fans will make the difference.

“I’m telling the Filipinos, please come. We need you. As supporters, we need you because we are going to fight together against Tunisia. Don’t let us fight alone,” the coach appealed.

Following Tunisia, the Philippines will take on Egypt on September 16 before facing powerhouse Iran on September 18, all at the same Pasay venue.

The Mall of Asia Arena will also feature other high-profile clashes such as USA vs Colombia, Germany vs Bulgaria, and Slovenia vs Chile. Meanwhile, simultaneous games at the Smart Araneta Coliseum will showcase heavyweights like Japan, the Netherlands, and defending champion Poland.

Backed by major partners including Rebisco, SM, PLDT, Smart, Metro Pacific Investments, Honda Philippines, and Meralco, the World Championship promises to put the spotlight firmly on the Philippines as host nation.

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