Japan volleyball extends help to PH to boost grassroots programs

FIVB Executive Vice President and AVC president Ramon “Tats” Suzara and Japan Minister and Consul General Takahiro Hanada with Alas Pilipinas members Thea Gagate, Dawn Catindig, Vince Lorenzo and EJ Casaña. –HANDOUT PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) got a shot in the arm from the Japan Volleyball Association (JVA) in the country’s bid to strengthen the sport by donating volleyball equipment.

Japan Minister and Consul General Takahiro Hanada handed the volleyball supplies from the JVA to the PNVF headed by Asian Volleyball Confederation president Tats Suzara on Thursday at the new PNVF Office at The Bonifacio Prime in Taguig City.

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“Japan is very fortunate to host some of the best players the Philippines has to offer in our own professional volleyball teams and leagues,” said Hanada. “So with the Philippines hosting the FIVB Men’s World Championship this September, we want to keep this momentum going and will continue to work together with the Philippines to support the development of the volleyball in both our countries that is true people to people exchange and provide us some basis for our very well running bilateral relations as well.”

The volleyballs donated by Japan will boost the grassroots development program in provinces. 

“The Philippines is a volleyball country. That’s our main slogan now,” said Suzara, also the FIVB executive vice president.

“These equipment will fuel the enthusiasm of young players in the provinces… These balls will reach many young players in Mindanao, Visayas and Luzon. We appreciate Japan’s continuing support of Asian volleyball and we hope to continue this relationship with Japan not only in terms of equipment but also coaching, national team training camps and even management.” 

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The Embassy of Japan led the turnover ceremony attended by Alas Pilipinas stars Thea Gagate, Dawn Catindig, Vince Lorenzo, and EJ Casaña promoting its program of ‘Sport for Tomorrow’ — an international exchange and cooperation program on sports based on the commitment of the Japanese government. 

“With the sport seeing record-breaking attendances and emerging talents, I believe our cooperation comes at an exciting time for volleyball’s culture. We eagerly take this opportunity to support the Philippines’ emerging volleyball scene… We are proud to have this equipment in the hands of young and eager Filipinos. It is my hope that these volleyballs play a vital part in fueling the dreams and connections of the Philippines’ youth,” Hanada added.

The Alas players said this partnership will encourage more aspiring volleyball athletes to strive for their dream of playing in the pros and even internationally. 

“Happy kasi yung ganitong kind of support yung kailangan talaga ng mga less fortunate na schools and players sa provinces and hopefully mainspire sila na pagbutihin pa and reach for their dreams,” said Catindig.

“With this opportunity mas makakatulong talaga siya sa mga athletes na nasa provinces. Sana mas mainspire sila to work hard because nothing is impossible,” added Gagate.

Suzara is grateful for Japan’s initiative as the partner country is also set to donate nets and poles. 

He also showed the new PNVF Office to the Japanese consul general as it will serve as the headquarters of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship and additionally, houses the AVC president’s office.