When the Philippines was awarded the hosting rights for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, Alas Pilipinas knew it faced a monumental task.
Entering the global showpiece ranked 82nd in the world, expectations were tempered. They were grouped in Pool A with No. 13 Iran, No. 23 and reigning African champion Egypt, and No. 43 Tunisia.
When the tournament opened on Sept. 12, the result was no shock: the Philippines was dominated by Tunisia, 13-25, 17-25, 23-25.
Then, backed by thousands of fans inside the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City—and countless more watching from their devices—the Nationals did the improbable.
Alas Pilipinas stunned Egypt—and the world—with a 29-27, 23-25, 25-21, 25-21 victory to keep their Round of 16 hopes alive on Tuesday.
Riding high on confidence, the Philippines nearly toppled Iran in a marathon five-setter that delivered both exhilarating highs and heart-stopping lows for the team and the nation.
For Marck Espejo, the 25-21, 21-25, 25-17, 23-25, 20-22 loss to Iran stung, especially given its anticlimactic finish. Yet it also showcased the resilience, strength, and world-class caliber of Philippine volleyball.
“It’s a shame because we thought it was ours… it’s really a shame,” said Espejo after the game, his voice cracking. “Almost. Ah, it hurts. It should be ours, but it’s just not the time yet.”
Fans erupted when Kim Malabunga blocked Ali Haghparast at 20-18, seemingly sealing the win and advancing the hosts to the Round of 16. The arena buzzed with celebration.
However, Iran head coach Roberto Piazza challenged the play, citing a net fault. Video review confirmed Malabunga’s right hand grazed the net, nullifying the point and tying the score at 19-all.
Haghparast and Yousef Kazemi then combined to lead Team Melli to victory, breaking the hearts of Alas Pilipinas and 14,240 fans inside the MOA Arena.
“I’m really proud of this team and what we’ve achieved,” Espejo said, holding back tears. “No one expected us to reach this far. It’s historic: we lost only one set, but we still won a game and pushed Iran—the top team—to five sets.”
Facing the world’s best 31 teams, Alas Pilipinas proved it is no pushover. And for that, respect was earned.
“Of course, it’s surprising to achieve a result like this against top teams, but we really worked hard,” added the 6-foot-3 outside spiker. “We prepared to make sure we wouldn’t just get dumped or lose in the World Championship. Like Lolo A said, we have nothing to lose and so much to gain. This is the payoff of all our offseason work. We went through a lot, and it shows. But the team’s journey doesn’t end here.”
Now, the Philippines sets its sights on sustaining this momentum and proving that this is only the beginning of a bright future for men’s volleyball in the country.
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