PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara. MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara said the PNVF is aiming to host the FIVB Women’s World Championship set in 2025.
Suzara revealed the Philippines and four other Asian countries will bid to host one of the biggest tournaments in the sport.
“What I know is, there are five bidding countries including us, of course. I’d say we are a strong contender but Thailand is also a strong contender,” said Suzara in a press conference at Mall of Asia Arena on Sunday.
“Five of us will be in Poland to have the first bid meeting on July 21, on location for the VNL men’s finals.”
Joining the Philippines and Thailand in the bidding war are Hong Kong, Vietnam and Indonesia.
Suzara is optimistic about the country’s chances of winning the hosting rights.
Suzara also disclosed that the Philippine women’s team will also be included in the tournament.
“I’m always optimistic to get this world championship hosting for the first time. 1974 was the last time we competed, that will be 50 years almost, in 2025,” he said.
“It will depend on the talks we’ll have on the table, of course there’s an amount of rights fee but we will see but I’ll fight for it,” he added.
The Philippines, which is no stranger to hosting major volleyball events, is also slated to host another Volleyball Nations League leg next year.
“For sure, we’ll have VNL next year but I do not know if it’s men’s or women’s but there were discussions regarding bringing the men’s back of the interest and enthusiasm (of the fans).”