[EXCLUSIVE] Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio has assured the full support of the government for Alas Pilipinas Men as the national squad gears up for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship, set to be hosted in the country in less than two months.
In an exclusive interview DZRHTV, Gregorio expressed satisfaction over the growing backing for the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) and emphasized the importance of maximizing the remaining 60 days before the international tournament kicks off.
“Syempre, very happy, gano’n naman dapat diba… Congratulations sa suporta na nakukuha ng PNVF,” Gregorio said. “We have 60 days to go, marami pa ang pwedeng sumuporta para maging successful ‘yung hosting natin.”
Gregorio pointed out how crucial such support is in motivating the players, especially as the spotlight turns to the men’s team, which continues to gain recognition in the local sports scene.
“Motivated sila, gusto nilang ipakita sa taumbayan na ang volleyball ay very successful na at tsaka ‘yung skill level nila ay mataas na,” he noted. “It motivates the athlete, so they train harder, they prepare for the event. World event ito—we really have to make sure that we perform well.”
The PSC chief also emphasized the agency’s proactive role in ensuring that the national team gets what it needs—not only in terms of funding but also manpower and logistics.
“Well, ang effort ay talagang direct collaboration and very close coordination,” he explained. “Madali naman ‘yan kasi alam ko naman ang capability ng PNVF. At kami naman sa PSC, aside from financial support, ‘yung manpower, and kung ano pang kailangang tulong, nandito lang kami.”
As the tournament nears, Gregorio left a firm message of support for Alas Pilipinas Men.
“Athletes, tuloy ang training, let’s prepare for this volleyball tournament,” he said. “May darating din na Southeast Asian Games, we have to prepare. Nandito ang PSC to support you all the way, promise ‘yan.”
