No distractions. Alas Pilipinas must stay locked in, eyes solely on the next match.
Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara hailed the Philippines’ breakthrough victory in pool play at the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship as proof that the system is working, laying the foundation for bigger ambitions for the national team.
But Suzara was quick to refocus the spotlight: the only priority now is Iran.
“As I said—step by step,” Suzara emphasized.
Led by Bryan Bagunas, Leo Ordiales, and Marck Espejo, Alas Pilipinas overcame African champion Egypt in a gritty four-set triumph, 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21, on Tuesday. The next big test comes Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena against Iran in a do-or-die clash for a coveted spot in the Round of 16.
Suzara expressed optimism that Alas Pilipinas could emerge as a medal contender in the Southeast Asian Games, with the men’s program poised for greater recognition and more international opportunities.
Still, he urged the team to stay grounded, noting that details of future plans would be revealed in time.
“We will continue this program with our men’s volleyball team and build on the momentum,” Suzara said.
“I really hope we play even better. Let’s give Iran a match to remember.”
Marck Espejo, who has consistently championed excellence as a means to inspire and uplift others, agreed that there is more work ahead for the Philippines in this World Championship.
“I hope that by hosting the World Championship, more people will get interested in volleyball—and maybe even represent the country in the future when we’re no longer playing,” said the 28-year-old Espejo, one of the few Filipinos to have played professional volleyball overseas.
“I really think the Philippines has potential for growth.”
The Philippines and Iran both hold 1-1 records, the same as Egypt and Tunisia, setting up a high-stakes Thursday clash.
Iran lost to Egypt in four sets in the opener before regaining its footing with a four-set win over Tunisia.
All eyes will again be on 21-year-old rising star Poriya Kandzadeh and 26-year-old skipper Morteza Sharifi as the Iranians—the top-ranked Asian team in contention after Japan’s exit—seek to reach the last 16.
“We’ll approach it the same way we did today—we’re just going to enjoy the game,” Espejo said.
“We’ve got nothing to lose. Of course, there’s a bit of pressure since we already won one game, so we still have a chance to make it to the Round of 16. That win really boosted our confidence.”
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