As the Philippines prepares to host the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in 2025, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano stressed the importance of building a strong foundation—not only for hosting the event but also for fostering community development and national transformation.
Cayetano, Chairman Emeritus of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), highlighted this during his message at the Drawing of Lots (DOL) ceremony held on September 14, 2024, at Solaire Resort.
“We all know that to achieve these, you need a good seed, good soil, and the right environment,” said Cayetano. “Volleyball is a good seed. It’s an instrument to change the world, individuals, teams, schools, and communities,” he added.
The senator praised the country’s capability in hosting international sporting events such as the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, and the AVC Women’s Challenge Cup, where the Philippine Women’s National Volleyball Team secured a bronze medal.
Cayetano also emphasized the growing fanbase of volleyball in the country, noting that Filipinos support not just the national team but also foreign competitors. He attributed this to the “legendary hospitality” of the Philippines, where “everyone cheers not only for their country.”
Together with Local Organizing Committee (LOC) co-chairs William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, PNVF President Ramon “Tats” Suzara, Senator Pia Cayetano, and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, Cayetano led the launch of the one-year countdown to the championship.
Cayetano assured that the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025, scheduled for September 12-28, will be a unique and memorable event. “Allow us to show you our gratitude through our actions. Please wait and see what we can do with the good soil and seed of the Men’s World Championship 2025,” he remarked.
In a post-event interview, Cayetano shared the potential benefits of hosting the championship, not only for the country but also for athletes and the sports community.
“We hope this will provide many opportunities for the country. Hosting this event, with 800 million fans worldwide, is a win-win for us,” he stated.
“Sports is something we can truly use for transformation,” Cayetano concluded.