[EXCLUSIVE] The Alas Pilipinas Men’s Volleyball Team is set to bring excitement and national pride to the Filipino community in the United States at the upcoming Serve-Spike-Unite 2! on June 1 at the Saint Francis Preparatory School Gym in Fresh Meadows, New York.
The event, organized by Fil-Nation Select in partnership with the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), aims to strengthen the connection between the national team and overseas Filipinos.
"Unang una talaga is to celebrate the independence day sa New York, magpa-participate kami ron to represent the Philippine National Volleyball Team," said middle blocker JP Bugaoan.
The highlight of the event will be an exhibition match between Alas Pilipinas and Fil-Am Nation Select.
In addition, a free volleyball clinic for young athletes and a meet-and-greet session for VIP ticket holders will give fans a chance to interact with their volleyball idols.
"Sobrang grateful kasi nabigyan kami ng ganitong opportunity. Once in a blue talaga ito, kaya sobrang saya na makapag-participate sa independence day," added Bugaoan.
Before the main event, senior men’s volleyball national team tryouts will be held on May 31, spearheaded by the PNVF. This will also serve as a scouting ground for potential Fil-Am athletes who could be future additions to the national squad.
The event forms part of the Alas Pilipinas team’s preparations for major upcoming competitions such as the 2025 AVC Men’s Nations Cup and the 2025 FIVB World Championship.
"This is a preparation of September but volleyball doesn’t finish in September. Because after the world championship, we have SEA Games that for us are more important than the world championship," said head coach Angiolino Frigoni.
"Sobrang halaga para makita namin kung paano ang international leagues kumbaga magkakaroon kami ng exhibition games doon para sa scout ng mga Fil-Am na makasali sa Philippine National Volleyball team," Bugaoan emphasized.
Serve-Spike-Unite 2! promises to be more than just a volleyball showcase — it will be a celebration of culture, community, and Filipino excellence.
