FIVB suspends PNVF, cites governance concerns, violations of ethics code

The FIVB announced on Friday that it has suspended the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), citing governance concerns and violations of the international federation’s code of ethics.

According to the volleyball body’s website, the move to suspend the national federation “was deemed necessary to safeguard the sport, ensure athletes are prioritized, and uphold the long-term development commitments made for volleyball in the Philippines.”

“To ensure stability and proper governance during this suspension, an Ad Hoc Committee has been appointed to temporarily oversee the affairs of the PNVF in accordance with Article 1.9.1 of the FIVB General Regulations. A clear and constructive path towards the PNVF’s return to full standing has also been established by the FIVB.”

The committee, according to FIVB, will be composed of Hila Asanuma, chair and FIVB Executive Committee member; Mathieu Mériaux, FIVB Asia Regional Officer and Empowerment Manager; Stephen Bock, FIVB Head of Legal and General Counsel; Hitesh Malhotra, FIVB Head of Empowerment and National Federation Relations; and Alexa Dabao, FIVB Legal Contractor in the Philippines.

The FIVB also said it will support the participation of Philippine national team athletes in international competitions, as well as the hosting of the Women’s VNL.

“The FIVB remains fully committed to protecting the integrity of Philippine volleyball at all levels and supporting its sustainable long-term growth,” the federation added.

GMA News Online has reached out to PNVF for its reaction to the suspension.

—JKC, GMA News