The PNVF and JVA reinforced their partnership, with Japan donating volleyball equipment to support the Philippines' volleyball development and hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and the Japan Volleyball Association (JVA) have committed to further strengthening their partnership in a bid to raise the profile of volleyball across the continent.
The two organizations are looking to build on their collaboration ahead of the Philippines' hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
Japan's Minister and Consul General Takahiro Hanada led the turnover of volleyball equipment to the PNVF at their new office in The Bonifacio Prime, Taguig City on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
Asian Volleyball Confederation president and PNVF chief Ramon “Tats” Suzara expressed his gratitude for the equipment, which is expected to provide a major boost to the Philippines’ volleyball development programs, especially as the country prepares for its World Championship hosting duties.
Suzara highlighted the importance of support in discovering new talents and expanding the sport’s popularity.
“We are a volleyball country,” Suzara proudly declared, referencing the Philippines’ deep connection to the sport. “These donations will inspire young athletes across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.”
[ALSO READ: PH ready to host 2025 FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championship, says AVC & PNVF President Tats Suzara]
Minister Hanada spoke of the exciting opportunities ahead for the Philippines’ volleyball scene, especially with the sport’s growing global audience and rising talent.
He emphasized that the donated volleyballs would help fuel the dreams and aspirations of the youth in the Philippines.
“I am hopeful that these volleyballs will play a vital part in shaping the future of Filipino volleyball,” Hanada said. “We are proud to see them in the hands of eager and passionate young athletes.”
The equipment handover, which included competition-grade volleyballs, took place during a ceremony attended by members of the Alas Pilipinas women’s and men’s teams—Thea Gagate, Dawn Catindig, Vince Lorenzo, and EJ Casaña.
[ALSO READ: Alas: Dawn Macandili-Catindig, Jen Nierva ready to absorb lessons from facing SAGA Hisamitsu Springs]
Through Japan’s “Sport for Tomorrow” program, the Japanese government has committed to using sports as a means of fostering international cooperation and global harmony.
In addition to the equipment donation, Suzara gave Hanada a tour of the new PNVF office, which is set to serve as the headquarters for the 2025 Men’s Volleyball World Championship, as well as the office for the AVC president.