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  • Frank Lao takes PNVF helm as volleyball federation begins new chapter

    Frank Lao takes PNVF helm as volleyball federation begins new chapter

    The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) is turning the page on a turbulent stretch, with Strong Group Athletics owner Frank Lao taking over as president following a new leadership election supervised by the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

     

    Lao returns to the federation’s top post after his previous election in June was declared invalid by the POC. The earlier polls were held while the PNVF was under suspension and without proper POC representation.

     

    This time, the election was conducted under POC supervision, giving the federation a new leadership structure as it works toward satisfying the requirements needed to lift its suspension by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB).

     

    The change in leadership comes after the FIVB sanctioned the PNVF in May over governance issues during Tony Boy Liao’s administration and later laid out sweeping measures that the federation must address before it can regain its full standing.

     

    For Lao, the new mandate comes with an immediate priority: helping put the federation back on solid organizational footing while keeping Philippine volleyball moving forward.

     

    “This is a ‘committed team’ and I believe they could sustain the progress of volleyball that started when the PNVF was established in 2021,” said POC president Bambol Tolentino.

     

    The new leadership group will see Atty. Donn Kapunan serve as vice president, while Rommel Ng takes over as treasurer. Wharton Chan was elected auditor and will also represent the POC.

     

    Joining them on the Board of Trustees are Sienna Olaso, Francis Chad Salimbangon, Carmela Gamboa, Otie Camangian, Mohamad Bernan Jr., and Atty. Jonas Cabochan.

     

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    The 13-member board is not yet complete, with the remaining spots—including a POC appointee and male and female representatives from the athletes’ commission—still to be announced.

     

    One of the notable developments from the election is the return of Ramon “Tats” Suzara to the PNVF board. Suzara, who previously served as federation president, was among those who were removed from leadership before Liao took over. Former secretary-general Caringal is also making a return.

     

    Their comeback adds another layer to a leadership transition that effectively brings together familiar figures and new officials at a critical moment for Philippine volleyball.

     

    FIVB Ad Hoc Committee chair Hila Asanuma of Palau and FIVB external legal consultant Atty. Alexa Dabao were present at the proceedings, witnessing and certifying the election.

     

    The polls were held at the Solaire Theater Southlinks Boardroom 2M, with the POC overseeing the process.

     

    The election also signals the end of the POC’s temporary role as caretaker of the national volleyball federation. The POC assumed that responsibility after the FIVB suspension, but with a duly elected board now in place, governance of the PNVF has been returned to its own leadership.

     

    With the organizational structure restored, the Lao-led PNVF must work through the FIVB’s requirements and prove that it can establish the governance standards needed to end the international suspension.

     

    For Philippine volleyball, the election is therefore more than a change at the top. It is the first major step toward restoring stability and getting the national federation back on the international volleyball map.

     

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  • POC begins PNVF rebuild as entire board steps down amid volleyball crisis 

    POC begins PNVF rebuild as entire board steps down amid volleyball crisis 

    Philippine volleyball’s long road to recovery officially began Monday with a sweeping leadership reset.

     

    In what could become a turning point for the sport, every member of the suspended Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) board agreed to step down during a general assembly convened by the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), clearing the way for a complete restructuring of the federation.

     

    For POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, the mass resignation represents the breakthrough needed to move Philippine volleyball forward after months of uncertainty.

    “That’s the first step and they all agreed to resign,” Tolentino said after the assembly held at the Solaire Theater Board Room in Parañaque City.

     

    The POC has been serving as the caretaker of Philippine volleyball after the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) suspended the PNVF in May over governance issues. The suspension followed similar sanctions previously imposed by the Philippine Sports Commission and later by the POC itself.

     

    Rather than simply replacing officials, stakeholders agreed to overhaul the federation’s leadership structure in an effort to create broader representation across Philippine volleyball.

     

    A new 13-member board will now be formed, featuring athlete representatives from both men’s volleyball and women’s beach volleyball, along with representatives from the UAAP and NCAA.

     

    The move aims to strengthen cooperation between the country’s top collegiate leagues and the national team program, particularly when it comes to player availability for international competitions.

     

    The restructuring also removes the position of chairman, while giving the POC a permanent seat on the federation’s board. Under the approved amendments, the federation president will also appoint the secretary-general.

     

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    “This is to introduce inclusivity and, more importantly, that the stakeholders prioritize the call of the national team,” added Tolentino, who presided over the meeting alongside POC secretary-general Atty. Wharton Chan.

     

    The assembly drew close to 40 former board members and volleyball stakeholders, all of whom approved the proposed amendments to the PNVF constitution.

     

    With the structural reforms now in place, the POC is preparing for the next phase of the rebuilding process.

     

    Another general assembly has been scheduled for August 10, when stakeholders are expected to discuss the roadmap toward fresh elections that will determine the federation’s new leadership.

     

    After months of turmoil that led to the suspension of the country’s governing body, Monday’s developments marked the first concrete step toward restoring stability—and potentially rebuilding confidence—in Philippine volleyball.

     

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  • PVL explores new calendar as FIVB rules reshape 2027 season 

    PVL explores new calendar as FIVB rules reshape 2027 season 

    The PVL is already preparing for a future that could look very different—but not necessarily quieter.

     

    With the FIVB set to enforce a new international calendar beginning in 2027, the country’s premier professional volleyball league is mapping out ways to keep fans engaged without compromising the growing demands of Alas Pilipinas.

     

    Rather than disappearing for nearly five months during the FIVB’s designated national team season, the PVL is studying alternative formats that can coexist with international commitments, according to league control committee chairman Sherwin Malonzo.

     

    The discussion stems from one of the key conditions attached to the Philippine National Volleyball Federation’s reinstatement by the FIVB.

     

    Among the federation’s requirements is a written commitment that the PVL calendar will align with the FIVB Volleyball Calendar Framework starting in 2027, while ensuring national team players are released for international duty whenever called upon.

     

    Under the FIVB schedule, the annual national team window will run from May 3 to October 3, a period that traditionally overlaps with much of the PVL season.

     

    However, Malonzo clarified that the international federation’s regulations do not prohibit domestic leagues from holding competitions during that stretch.

     

    “Actually, if you read the rules, it doesn’t say naman na no league eh. Hindi naman sinasabing bawal,” Malonzo told SPIN.ph.

     

    “If you notice, may mga tournaments pa rin sa Korea, sa Vietnam, sa Indonesia. During the national team period, meron silang mga pocket tournaments, so it’s short tournaments usually.”

     

    Instead of banning leagues outright, Malonzo explained that the framework is designed to ensure national federations maintain authority over player availability and that national team commitments always take precedence.

     

    “It’s really about asking permission before hosting that league or organizing that league. That’s how I understood it. Based du’n din sa rules ng sports regulations ni FIVB, as long as the national team players must prioritize the national team,” he added.

     

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    That philosophy has already been put into practice this year through the PVL On Tour.

     

    With several Alas Pilipinas standouts unavailable because of national team duties, the preseason showcase shifted its focus toward developing younger players, giving reserve talents meaningful playing time while allowing established stars to concentrate on international preparations.

     

    For Malonzo, the tour serves as proof that the league and the national team can thrive side by side.

     

    “‘Yung ‘On Tour’ kasi, ‘di naman siya talagang tournament. We just need people to promote the league. If you’ll notice, ‘di naglaro ‘yung mga top players ng mga teams,” Malonzo said.

     

    The setup has also created opportunities for clubs to evaluate their full rosters instead of relying solely on their marquee players.

     

    “Kumbaga, opportunity to rest for them and opportunity for the other players to play. It’s a balance,” he added.

     

    As Philippine volleyball enters a new era under the FIVB’s calendar, the PVL appears intent on adapting rather than slowing down.

     

    Instead of leaving a lengthy gap in the domestic schedule, league officials are exploring shorter events and innovative formats that can sustain fan interest while fully respecting the international federation’s rules—ensuring that when the national team calls, Alas Pilipinas will always come first.

     

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  • POC formally suspends PNVF, declares recent leadership election invalid following FIVB sanction 

    POC formally suspends PNVF, declares recent leadership election invalid following FIVB sanction 

    The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) now finds itself increasingly isolated after the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) formally enforced the consequences of an international suspension imposed by the sport’s global governing body.


    The move marks another significant setback for the federation, which is already dealing with a funding freeze from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and an ongoing investigation by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) into alleged governance violations.

     

    POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino announced on Wednesday that the PNVF’s suspension automatically took effect following the FIVB’s decision to sanction the federation on May 29.

     

    According to Tolentino, the international body’s action was imposed under Article 13.1.1 of the FIVB Disciplinary Regulations and remains linked to an ongoing investigation being conducted by the independent FIVB Ethics Panel.

     

    “The suspension comes automatically from the international federation’s suspension of its national federation,” said Tolentino.

     

    The suspension effectively strips the PNVF of its standing within the POC, preventing the federation from participating in official Olympic committee functions, including attendance at the General Assembly.

     

    Beyond the suspension itself, the POC also questioned the legitimacy of the federation’s recent leadership transition, where Frank Lao assumed the presidency from Tonyboy Liao.

     

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    Tolentino made it clear that the election would not be recognized by the Olympic body, citing procedural shortcomings in the conduct of the vote.

     

    “Their latest election, for the POC, is invalid. There was no notice to the POC and no observer from the POC,” he said.

     

    The development further complicates the leadership situation within Philippine volleyball, with both the federation’s international standing and internal governance now under heightened examination.

     

    Earlier, the PSC had already halted funding support to the PNVF amid concerns similar to those now being investigated at the international level.

     

    While the suspension remains in place, the POC is awaiting recommendations and decisions from the Ad Hoc Committee established by the FIVB to oversee volleyball affairs in the Philippines during the federation’s suspension period.

     

    The matter was discussed during the POC board meeting attended by secretary-general Atty. Wharton R. Chan, second vice president Rep. Richard Gomez, treasurer Dr. Jose Raul Canlas, auditor Jose Donaldo Caringal, Athletes Commission representative Jessie Khing Lacuna, and board members Ferdinand Agustin, Leonora Escollante, Alexander Sulit, and Alvin Aguilar.

     

    With sanctions now coming from both domestic and international sports authorities, the future direction of Philippine volleyball remains uncertain as stakeholders await the outcome of the FIVB’s ongoing governance review.

     

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  • AVC ends speculation over covered PNVF marks on Alas player jerseys 

    AVC ends speculation over covered PNVF marks on Alas player jerseys 

    The missing PNVF logos on the uniforms of Alas Pilipinas Women sparked plenty of questions this week. As the national team continued its campaign in the AVC Women’s Cup, many wondered whether the taped-over federation markings were a silent message amid the growing turmoil surrounding the Philippine National Volleyball Federation.

     

    The Asian Volleyball Confederation has now provided a definitive answer.

     

    In a move aimed at ending speculation, the AVC clarified that the absence of the PNVF logo on the Philippine uniforms has nothing to do with the federation’s ongoing leadership crisis and everything to do with tournament regulations.

     

    Since Monday’s match against Kyrgyzstan, fans noticed that the PNVF markings on both the playing and warm-up jerseys of Alas Pilipinas had been covered. The timing naturally fueled discussions, with the federation currently facing suspension from the FIVB, the withdrawal of Philippine Sports Commission funding, and a widening internal dispute that has left president Tony Boy Liao under mounting pressure.

     

    However, according to the AVC, the matter is purely procedural.

     

    In a June 9 letter signed by AVC executive vice president and tournament control committee president Mohamed Latheef, the continental body explained that the Philippine team was simply following the uniform guidelines imposed for the tournament.

     

    Under AVC regulations, only specific identifiers are allowed in designated portions of the jersey, including the country flag, country name or code, approved manufacturer logo, and authorized sponsors. Federation logos are not permitted in those restricted areas.

     

    “The AVC does not allow any participating team to place supplementary graphics, including National Federation logos, in the specific positions reserved for the officially mandated country flags, country codes, manufacturer marks, or approved sponsors,” the letter stated.

     

    The governing body further stressed that any additional markings in those locations would violate tournament regulations.

     

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    “The Alas Pilipinas team is currently in full compliance with AVC rules by omitting the PNVF logo from these strictly regulated areas on their match jerseys,” the AVC wrote.

     

    The clarification comes at a time when the national team has been trying to keep its focus on competition despite the noise surrounding the federation.

     

    While administrative issues continue to dominate headlines off the court, officials have repeatedly urged the players to concentrate on representing the country.

     

    Among them is PSC chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, who recently called on stakeholders to rally behind Alas Pilipinas regardless of the ongoing controversy.

     

    “There is a time for commercial volleyball and there is a time for the national team. Kapag Alas ang pinag-uusapan, dapat lagi tayong magkakampi at sama-sama. The best gift you can give to yourself is to wear that Philippine team uniform. It is your gift to the nation,” Gregorio said.

     

    “We want all of you to just concentrate. Kalimutan nyo yung pulitika ng sports. Kalimutan nyo yung pulitika ng pederasyon nyo.”

     

    For now, the AVC’s clarification puts an end to one of the tournament’s biggest off-court talking points, confirming that the logos were covered not as a statement, but as a requirement. As far as the continental governing body is concerned, Alas Pilipinas remains fully compliant and fully focused on the competition at hand.

     

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  • Miko Vargas resigns from PNVF Executive Board, vows continued support for Philippine volleyball 

    Miko Vargas resigns from PNVF Executive Board, vows continued support for Philippine volleyball 

    The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) lost one of its longest-serving officials on Tuesday after Executive Board Member Miko Vargas announced his irrevocable resignation, ending a five-year tenure with the country’s governing body for volleyball.


    Vargas, the son of veteran sports executive Ricky Vargas, informed fellow board members of his decision through a formal letter that took effect immediately. 

     

    His departure comes at a crucial time for the federation, which has found itself at the center of several controversies involving governance, leadership, and the national team program.

     

    Having served under both former PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and current federation chief Tonyboy Liao, Vargas witnessed some of the most significant periods in Philippine volleyball’s recent history, including the sport’s resurgence on the international stage and the continued growth of local competitions.

     

    In his resignation letter, Vargas cited his inability to fully commit to the responsibilities expected of a federation executive.

     

    “Since early this year, I have found myself unable to dedicate the time, energy, and active participation toward the role of PNVF Executive Board member demands,” he wrote.

     

    Despite stepping down, Vargas emphasized that his resignation should not be interpreted as a departure from volleyball itself. 

     

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    He reiterated his commitment to supporting the sport’s development outside of an official capacity and called for unity within the volleyball community moving forward.

     

    “Ultimately, I stand leaving this organization with a reiteration for Unity as I have called for time and again,” Vargas concluded the letter.

     

    Notably, Vargas was not among the nine PNVF board members who recently signed a letter withdrawing their support for Liao’s leadership, a move that further exposed divisions within the federation’s executive board.

     

    While Vargas’ exit was framed as a personal decision rooted in time constraints, it nevertheless marks the first major resignation from the current board during one of the most challenging periods in the federation’s history. 

     

    With leadership questions still unresolved and multiple stakeholders calling for reforms, his departure underscores the uncertainty facing Philippine volleyball as it attempts to navigate a path toward stability and restore confidence among athletes and the sport itself.

     

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  • PSC keeps focus on national team development amid PNVF governance issues 

    PSC keeps focus on national team development amid PNVF governance issues 

    With Philippine volleyball facing another period of institutional turmoil, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is choosing to redirect attention away from controversy and toward long-term national team development.

     

    PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio confirmed that issues surrounding the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) are now being handled at the international and Olympic governance level, effectively placing the matter under the jurisdiction of the FIVB and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC). 


    The situation surrounding the PNVF has been placed under review by the FIVB and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), following reported governance concerns and internal issues within the federation. But for Gregorio, the priority is ensuring that the noise off the court does not disrupt the progress of the athletes representing the country.

     

    At the center of that vision is Alas Pilipinas and the broader national team program, which Gregorio believes must already be shaped with a long-term lens toward the country’s hosting of the 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Championship.

     

    “Ang sa akin po, programa. We are hosting the World Championship in 2029. Before you know it, it’s 2029. Kailangan i-focus natin ‘yung suporta natin sa development ng mga atleta,” Gregorio said.

     

    His message reflects a broader attempt to stabilize focus amid ongoing controversy surrounding the PNVF, which has recently been suspended by the FIVB over reported “serious governance concerns and multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.” 

     

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    Adding to the instability is internal friction, including the reported withdrawal of support from a majority of the federation’s executive board for its leadership under Tonyboy Liao—an issue that has intensified calls for resolution and reform.

     

    Gregorio made it clear that the PSC will not be drawn into administrative disputes, emphasizing that governance decisions are already being addressed by the appropriate bodies.

     

    “I don’t want to comment on that because nandoon na po ‘yan sa FIVB and assignment po ‘yan ng Philippine Olympic Committee. Basta sa amin lang po, kami sa Philippine Sports Commission, gusto lang namin na talagang ang focus is on the national team program,” Gregorio said.

     

    He stressed that unity and focus are essential, especially given the scale of investment from government and private stakeholders.

     

    “Pag ganitong mga hosting, gumagastos po ang pamahalaan, gumagastos ang probinsya, maraming gumagastos na sponsors. So ayaw namin ng hidwaan, lalo na kung ang hidwaan ay tungkol lang sa mga personalidad,” the PSC chairman said.

     

    Even as national-level issues continue to unfold, Gregorio pointed to encouraging developments at the grassroots and regional level, particularly the ongoing 2026 AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City, which he described as an example of strong local hosting capability.

     

    “Obviously, talaga namang expected ko na ‘to — it will be a very beautiful hosting. Candon City, sila Mayor Eric Singson, sanay na sanay mag-host ng international events,” said Gregorio.

     

    The PSC chief also reaffirmed his intention to decentralize Philippine sports hosting, pushing more international and national competitions outside Metro Manila to strengthen provincial sports ecosystems and broaden public engagement.

     

    “Kailangan maramdaman din ng taumbayan, ng mga probinsiya natin, na kaya naman talaga nila mag-host e. Kayang-kaya. Sa totoo lang, excited sila. So we have to do more sporting events outside of Metro Manila in the years to come. Pangako ko po ‘yan as PSC chairman,” he said.

     

    In the middle of governance disputes and organizational uncertainty, the PSC’s message is increasingly centered on continuity over conflict, keeping the focus on athletes, and expanding the country’s hosting footprint.

     

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  • “This public declaration is premature,” says Tony Boy Liao after PNVF board withdraws support 

    “This public declaration is premature,” says Tony Boy Liao after PNVF board withdraws support 

    With pressure mounting from both within and outside Philippine volleyball, embattled Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Anthony “Tony Boy” Liao is refusing to step aside without a fight.

     

    Days after a majority of the federation’s executive board publicly withdrew support for his leadership, Liao issued a firm response Monday, arguing that the ongoing controversy surrounding the PNVF remains far from settled and should undergo proper review before any conclusions are reached.

     

    Rather than treating the latest statement from federation officials as a final verdict, Liao framed it as a development occurring in the middle of a process that is still unfolding. The federation is currently preparing formal submissions and appeals to international volleyball authorities following the suspension imposed by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) late last month.

     

    “We take serious exception to the public statement issued by several members of the PNVF Board withdrawing support from President Anthony ‘Tonyboy’ Liao,” the statement read.

     

    “At a time when the Philippine National Volleyball Federation is preparing to pursue the proper appeal process and submit its formal response to the appropriate international bodies, this public declaration is premature, damaging, and risks prejudicing proceedings that have yet to be fully heard, reviewed, and decided.”

     

    The latest dispute comes amid one of the most turbulent periods in Philippine volleyball governance in recent memory.

     

    Liao assumed the PNVF presidency on January 1, 2026, after winning the federation’s elections in November last year. Less than six months into his term, however, the administration found itself at the center of a growing controversy that eventually led to the FIVB suspending the federation on May 29.

     

    The fallout was immediate. The Philippine Sports Commission announced the withdrawal of financial support for the federation, while the Asian Volleyball Confederation publicly reiterated its backing of AVC president Tats Suzara. Philippine Olympic Committee president Bambol Tolentino also signaled that the POC would respect the FIVB’s ruling during its next general assembly meeting.

     

    The pressure intensified further on June 6 when several top federation officials, including chairman Arnel Hajan, vice president Yul Benosa, secretary-general Otie Camangian, auditor Roger Banzuela, and multiple board members, announced that they had lost trust and confidence in Liao’s leadership.

     

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    For Liao, however, the public withdrawal of support does not automatically settle the matter.

     

    “Most concerning is that the statement itself admits that the merits of the allegations remain subject to investigation and proper determination,” the statement said.

     

    “Despite this admission, its signatories chose to publicly pre-judge the matter, undermine the federation’s appeal, and create the impression that a conclusion has already been reached before the full facts, records, and circumstances have been examined.”

     

    The federation’s response also sought to provide context behind several of the issues currently being scrutinized.

     

    According to Liao’s camp, the current administration inherited multiple operational, financial, contractual, governance, and administrative concerns when it took over leadership at the start of the year. The statement argued that many of those issues were inherited from the previous administration and were compounded by what it described as the absence of a comprehensive transition process.

     

    The PNVF likewise defended its handling of national team matters, particularly decisions involving player selection and roster composition.

     

    “National team coaches must be afforded the independence to evaluate talent and make decisions based on performance, preparation, and the best interests of the national team, free from political pressure, commercial considerations, external influence, or demands from any individual stakeholder group,” the statement added.

     

    Liao also addressed another issue that has surfaced amid the controversy, clarifying that he does not serve as chairman of the Premier Volleyball League despite claims and discussions linking him to the professional league.

     

    While acknowledging the board members’ decision to withdraw support, the federation stressed that such a move does not constitute a formal removal from office. Liao maintained that his mandate came through a democratic election process recognized by the FIVB, PSC, POC, and the broader volleyball community.

     

    “Therefore, while we respect the public statement, this does not qualify as a legal and proper reversal of that election,” the statement said.

     

    “A change of the administration and President of PNVF must be done through the proper process and not left to the whimsies and passions of its officers and members.”

     

    For now, Liao insists he will remain in office while the federation pursues its appeals and responds to the allegations raised against his administration.

     

    With Philippine volleyball facing uncertainty at both the domestic and international levels, the battle for control of the PNVF appears far from over.

     

    “Accountability must proceed,” the statement concluded.

     

    “But it must proceed properly.”

     

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  • Nine PNVF executive board members withdraw support for president Tonyboy Liao amid Philippine volleyball crisis

    Nine PNVF executive board members withdraw support for president Tonyboy Liao amid Philippine volleyball crisis

    Philippine volleyball has been thrust into a period of uncertainty following a developing governance controversy involving the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), after the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) imposed a suspension over what it described as “serious governance concerns” and “multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.”

     

    The FIVB issued the suspension on May 29, a move that immediately placed Philippine volleyball’s international standing under scrutiny. Since then, little formal progress has been publicly disclosed regarding the resolution of the issues raised, leaving stakeholders, athletes, and supporters awaiting clarity on the sport’s administrative direction.

     

    The situation escalated further as a majority of the PNVF Executive Board reportedly withdrew its support for federation president Ramon “Tonyboy” Liao, citing a widespread loss of trust and confidence in leadership and governance practices.

     

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    In a significant development, nine members of the PNVF Executive Board have formally expressed their withdrawal of support. These include Yul Benosa (Vice-President and Chairman of the Refereeing and Rules of the Game Commission), Arnel Hajan (Chairman of the Executive Board and Development Commission), Rustico Camangian (Secretary-General), Roger Banzuela (Auditor and Chairman of the Membership Commission), Sherwin Maganda (Board Member and Chairman of the Coaches’ Commission), Fr. Victor Calvo (Board Member), Danilo Cong-o (Board Member), Maricor Socorro Calleja-Uy (Board Member), and Edward Lee (Board Member).

     

    The group emphasized that their decision stemmed from mounting concerns over leadership direction, accountability, and transparency within the organization.

    “The Majority of the Executive Board can no longer ignore the public outcry arising from persistent concerns regarding leadership, inclusivity, good governance, and accountability. This Vote of No Confidence is a reflection of that widespread loss of trust and confidence and the urgent need to restore credibility with the Federation. Our sport deserves leadership that unites stakeholders, promotes transparency, embraces accountability, advocates inclusivity, practices good governance and prioritizes the interests of athletes above all else,” the statement read.

     

    Their collective position marks one of the most significant internal fractures within the federation in recent years, raising questions about the immediate governance structure and the long-term direction of the sport in the country.

     

    The unfolding situation has also drawn the attention of the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), which is reportedly expected to address the matter during its upcoming General Assembly in June. Sources indicate that a possible suspension or further action involving the PNVF may be placed on the agenda, a move that could have far-reaching implications for the country’s international volleyball participation and administrative recognition.

     

    Should additional sanctions or interventions be imposed, the Philippines may face complications in fielding teams in upcoming international competitions, particularly with major tournaments scheduled to be hosted on home soil. This raises added pressure on stakeholders to resolve internal disputes swiftly in order to avoid disruptions to athlete preparation and international commitments.

     

    Despite the administrative turmoil, volleyball in the Philippines continues to enjoy strong public support and steady growth at both grassroots and professional levels. However, the current governance crisis now places the sport at a critical juncture, where administrative stability and international compliance are as crucial as on-court performance.

     

    As developments continue to unfold, Philippine volleyball stands at a crossroads—balancing urgent governance reforms with the need to protect the integrity of its national teams and preserve its standing within the international volleyball community.

     

     

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  • Ricky Palou does not see the suspension of PNVF affecting the PVL

    Ricky Palou does not see the suspension of PNVF affecting the PVL

    Philippine volleyball has been thrust into the spotlight amid a developing governance controversy following the International Volleyball Federation’s (FIVB) decision to suspend the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) over what it described as “serious governance concerns” and “multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.”

     

    The suspension, announced on Friday, May 29, takes immediate effect and comes at a critical juncture for the sport in the country, with the Philippines set to host the 2026 Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Cup in Candon City, Ilocos Sur, from June 6 to 14—less than two weeks after the ruling was made public.

     

    The timing of the decision has raised questions regarding administrative stability and tournament oversight, especially with the FIVB confirming the formation of an ad hoc committee tasked with temporarily overseeing the affairs of the PNVF during the suspension period.

     

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    Despite the uncertainty surrounding the governing body, Premier Volleyball League (PVL) president and PNVF Treasurer Ricky Palou downplayed concerns that the situation would have any immediate impact on the professional league’s operations or its upcoming plans.

     

    “About PNVF, I only know what you guys read on social media because I only arrived today. Kasi wala naman, no inkling ako, so sabi ko totoo kaya ito?,” Palou told reporters, expressing surprise over the development.

     

    Palou added that he intends to meet with current PNVF president Ramon “Tonyboy” Liao to clarify the details of the suspension and assess its potential implications for Philippine volleyball moving forward.

    The veteran sports executive also addressed speculation regarding league expansion, hinting that new teams could be joining the PVL in the upcoming conferences, although he declined to disclose specific names at this stage.

     

    “I don’t think so. Wala naman siguro diba? I don’t know even if the suspension holds. I will find out. Meron, meron. They told me not to, I’m not at liberty to announced kung sino. Pero meron, there are two of them actually. Basta electric, alam ko power company. Di pa next conference. Pinapag-aaralan din nila. They’re asking questions, they want to join, what are the requirements,” Palou said.

     

    He further clarified that the upcoming AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City is expected to proceed as scheduled, despite the administrative shake-up at the national federation level.

     

    “I think the one in Candon, tuloy na yun diba? I think it’s too late to cancel. But I don’t know, wala pa kaming ano. We reached out to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and other agencies concerned,” he added.

     

    The broader situation continues to develop, with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) reportedly set to consider a possible suspension of the PNVF during its General Assembly in June, which could further complicate governance and international representation issues for Philippine volleyball.

     

    In response to the FIVB decision, the PNVF released an official statement on Sunday, May 31, emphasizing its commitment to continuity and athlete welfare amid the ongoing uncertainty.

    At the core of its message, the federation reiterated its priority to ensure that Filipino athletes remain supported and that the country’s participation in international volleyball events remains uninterrupted.

     

    “The Federation respects the important roles of FIVB, PSC, POC, and all relevant institutions and Philippine and international sport, and is prepared to engage constructively through the proper channels,” the statement read.

     

    As the situation unfolds, Philippine volleyball now finds itself at a critical crossroads, balancing governance challenges at the administrative level with the immediate need to maintain stability ahead of a major international tournament on home soil.

     

     

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