By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
It may have been just one win in the pool stage of the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, but for Alas Pilipinas, it was a giant leap forward for Philippine volleyball.
The Filipino spikers proved they have what it takes to compete against the best in the planet after shocking African champion Egypt, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, last Tuesday, Sept. 16, before the energetic crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
It was a historic first victory for the Nationals on the world stage and signaled the dawn of a new era for the men’s sport in the country that has been overshadowed by the popularity of its female counterpart.
“Meron po talagang ibubuga ang Pilipinas,” said Marck Espejo.
“Hindi man ganung katangkad or kasing-physically fit kumpara sa ibang teams, pero I hope na itong hosting natin ng world championship, makakuha pa po ng mga gustong maglaro ng volleyball and hopefully, mag-represent ng Philippines kapag wala na kami dito,” he added.
Team captain Bryan Bagunas agreed, hoping that what they are doing right now would give confidence to players aspiring to make it to the national team.
“Malayo pa mararating natin sobra kasi tingin ko sobrang underdog ng Pilipinas,” he said.
“Pero sa tiyaga at sa suporta ng mga Pinoy, nandun na tayo. Parang kaya nating ibigay yung best natin at kaya natin makipag-compete sa high level,” Bagunas added.
