By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
The Philippines has officially been named the host of the 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship, marking a historic milestone for the country’s sporting landscape.
FIVB President Fabio Azevedo and Brazilian volleyball legend Leila Barros made the announcement on Sunday, Sept. 28, ahead of the Men’s World Championships at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The hosting served as a centerpiece of a seven-year volleyball development program according to Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick Gregorio aimed at showcasing the country’s growing presence on the international stage.
“Hosting the Volleyball Women’s World Championship 2029 in the Philippines is an opportunity to again showcase not only the very best of volleyball but also the positive impact our sport has on society,” said Azevedo.
The 2029 Women’s World Championship is expected to be the highlight among 20 international tournaments lineup yp by the FIVB in the country from 2026 to 2032, culminating in the Brisbane Olympic Games.
“This long-term partnership with FIVB and Volleyball World — a transformative empowerment program for our athletes first, and a bold push for sports tourism toward economic growth second — will not only allow our country to be at the heart of volleyball’s global growth; it will set a historic blueprint for Philippine sports development overall,” said Gregorio.
Gregorio presented the ambitious roadmap before FIVB and Volleyball World officials led by Azevedo, Volleyball World CEO Ugo Valensi and FIVB Executive Vice President and Asian Volleyball Confederation President Ramon “Tats” Suzara.
Also present during Gregorio’s presentation were the five continental confederation presidents of volleyball’s world governing body and the 24-member FIVB Board of Administration as well as PNVF secretary general Don Caringal.
Among the tournaments lined up are a series of Volleyball National League (VNL) tournaments and Beach Volleyball Pro Tours, and the 2023 AVC Continental Championships which serves as the qualifiers to the 2023 Olympics.
