Philippines returns to Asian Games men’s volleyball competition after 49-year absence

The Philippine national men’s volleyball team is set for its comeback in the prestigious Asian Games as the Filipino spikers will compete in the 19th edition this September in Hangzhou, China for the first time in 49 years.

According to Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Ramon “Tats” Suzara, the Asian Games delegation will be composed mainly of the players who bannered the country in the recently-concluded Southeast Asia Volleyball League (SEA VLeague) in Laguna.

“I think the core players here will definitely go to the Asian Games,” said Suzara.

The troika of Bryan Bagunas, Marck Espejo, and Steven Rotter are tipped to lead the squad as the Philippines will play in the Asian Games for the first time since 1974. During that edition, the country placed sixth.

“I think we’re back in the level of men’s volleyball. We have new young players coming in and with the experience of Bagunas and Espejo, it will drive more encouragement enthusiasm to our national team,” Suzara added.

The Philippines has been bunched with Asian powerhouse and VNL 2023 bronze medalist Japan, reigning three-time SEA Games gold medalist Indonesia, and Afghanistan.

The Filipinos will look to built on the chemistry they built during the SEA VLeague, where they ended up with a winless run.

“I hope that this will continue. I know we have a lot of work to do in many aspects,” Suzara said. “But we will get there.”

No women’s volleyball team, however, will be sent to the Asiad tourney.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News