Malacañang throws support behind PNVF's hosting of VNL, World Beach Pro Tour

Malacañang is throwing its full support behind the two major international volleyball tournaments that the Philippine National Volleyball Federation is hosting this year.

The PNVF is set to serve as the host country for the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) from July 4 to 9 at the Mall of Asia Arena and the Volleyball Beach Pro Tour Challenge from November 30 to December 3 in Taguig City.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed on behalf of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. Memorandum Circular No. 17 that “directs all government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled corporations, and encouraging local government units” to support both tournaments.

PNVF president Ramon "Tats" Suzara said that with the support of the government, the volleyball body will be more motivated in promoting the sport as well as the success of the hosting.

“We guarantee the success of both tournaments that not only help promote the sport in world level, but also showcase the country’s tourism," Suzara said.

This is not the first time that PNVF is hosting a VNL event as it already hosted the men and women's legs of the tournament in July 2022 at the Araneta Coliseum.

This July’s VNL features world No. 1 Poland and No. 2 Italy alongside Brazil, Japan, Slovenia,  The Netherlands, Canada, and China.

The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour Challenge is also returning to the country this year months after Sisi Rondina and Jovelyn Gonzaga won the gold medal in an all-Filipino championship clash against Jen Eslapor and Floremel Rodriguez in the tournament played last December in Subic.

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News