FIVB President Fabio Azevedo is having a memorable stay in the Philippines, not only for the 2025 Men’s Volleyball World Championship, but because he experienced firsthand how Filipinos toast a birthday boy.
Azevedo, who turned 54 three days ago, was serenaded with a birthday song in one of the rooms at the Smart Araneta Coliseum by a group led by Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) President Ramon “Tats” Suzara and Secretary-General Don Caringal.
He and his wife, Flavia, and other FIVB officials attended the opening rites at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City, welcoming 32 nations battling for fame and glory.
“Thank each and every one of you for hosting this world championship here in the Philippines and recently in Thailand. It looks amazing and I am hoping for more remarkable success here in the Philippines,” Azevedo said in his birthday message.
“We are looking forward to sharing more events here in the Philippines with you.”
Suzara, also the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) president, greeted and embraced Azevedo. Former FIVB president Ary Graca and AVC Secretary-General Hugh Graham also shared in the celebration.
It was a surprise birthday greeting to Azevedo after he watched the Belgium and Ukraine game, where the Belgians won 25-16, 25-17, 25-22.
Azevedo’s birthday came a day after the country celebrated the 68th birthday of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Saturday.
The President also supported the country’s first-ever hosting of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship together with First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Marcos, a member of the Local Organizing Committee.
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