Philippines brims with confidence as solo host of 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship

The Philippines will leave no stone unturned in its preparation as solo host of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship, slated to run from September 12 to 28.

The country is set to stage the prestigious tournament for the first time in history, and officials expressed readiness to deliver a monumental event that will captivate audiences and leave a lasting legacy.

“I am ready. We are ready. The team is ready. The Philippines is ready to face the challenges and fulfill a dream as our hearts beat collectively to serve the sport," said PNVF President Ramon “Tats” Suzara in a press conference at the Marquis Events Place in Taguig on Tuesday.

The Philippines is the first solo host of the global showpiece since Poland in 2014, and the first Asian country to secure the hosting duties since Japan in 2006.

The decision to entrust the country with the sole hosting rights for this prestigious event is a testament to the nation's dedication to sports and its ability to provide a welcoming environment for athletes, officials, and spectators alike.

"I think the very reason we won the bid out of 31 countries - and it boiled down to Japan and Indonesia as the last three competing bids - was the success of the Filipino fans for the last two years," Suzara said.

Sen. Allan Cayetano, who serves as the chairman emeritus of the PNVF, will helm the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the renowned tilt, working hand-in-hand with Suzara, Department of Tourism Director for Film and Sports Tourism Roberto Alabado III, and Cignal TV president and CEO Jane Basas.

“It’s how we, as a people, welcome the rest of the world. I believe that our hope in a successful hosting will be by faith and action—faith in God and action as a community,” said Cayetano, who also chaired the LOC during the successful Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) in 2019.

“I believe that it’s time for the world volleyball to see how united the Philippine volleyball community is.”

The draw for the event will be held on September 12 in Manila, marking the start of the buildup for the Philippine men's national volleyball team, which has gained a slot in the 32-team clash as part of the hosting privilege.

The PNVF, which sealed a partnership with PLDT and Cignal, will also announce the official moniker for the national squad in the coming months. 

To ensure the success of the event, Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay and the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, the places that housed global fans during the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, will serve as venues for the showpiece.
 
And to further broaden the reach of men's volleyball, Cignal promises to showcase the world-class action as the host broadcaster.