The Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Men makes a much-ballyhooed return to the Philippines for the third consecutive year as eight of the globe’s best squads fight for bragging rights from June 18 to 23 at the Mall of Asia Arena.
Led by crowd favorites world no. 4 Japan, they are joined by first-timers United States (5th), making its first appearance in Manila.
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) has partnered anew with PLDT Home for the third consecutive year, helping bring world-class volleyball to fans and athletes alike.
“PLDT’s support has come a long way not only for our athletes, but for volleyball in general becoming popular in our school system and in small leagues around the Philippines,” said PNVF head Ramon “Tats” Suzara said.
“It brings us much pride when, as the host country, fans support international leagues and our teams perform well in competitions,” he added.
Four teams are making their return in the third week of the VNL, namely 2021 VNL kings Brazil, 2022 champion France, no. 11 Germany, and no. 12 Canada.
World no. 13 Netherlands, and no. 17 Iran are rounding out the participating nations as tickets continue to be scooped by an increasing number of volleyball fans in the country.
It will serve as a prelude to the Philippines’ hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship, two years after the archipelago’s successful hosting of the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
Japanese superstars Yuki Ishikawa, as well as Ran Takahashi, who have enjoyed a significant fanbase in the Philippines, are expected to make a triumphant return.
USA and Japan are expected to close out Week three with the marquee showdown on Sunday, June 23, at 7 p.m.
Some of the country’s top volleyball stars, such as Kim Fajardo, Kianna Dy, Majoy Baron, and PVL import Elena Samoilenko of the PLDT High Speed Hitters, will also be holding fan meet and greets at the MOA Arena during the event weekend.
Fans who aren’t able to watch games on-hand at the venue can do so through Cignal TV, which is bundled with PLDT Home’s new Fiber Unli All Plan 1799, which comes with unlimited fiber internet up to 200 Mbps, as well as free mobile calls to Smart and TNT.A P100 discount in monthly service fee for 12 months awaits new subscribers.