MANILA, Philippines -- The Phlippine National Volleyball Federation acknowledged the grievances of Alas Pilipinas team captain Bryan Bagunas in an interview following the national team's 16-25, 25-27, 22-25 opening loss to South Korea in the 20th Asian Games men's volleyball tournament in Japan Sunday.
Bagunas said that the team lacked in financial support to the point that players have to shoulder expenses from their personal pockets and even borrow money.
"We acknowledge the concerns raised by Mr. Bagunas in his recent interview," the PNVF wrote in a statement.
"We recognize the sacrifices our athletes have made, including having to shoulder their own expenses and, in some instances, borrow money. This is a
situation that no National Athlete should ever have to endure."
Led by president Frank Lao, the PNVF said that it will work harder to cater to the needs of the athletes.
"Our national athletes deserve a Federation that works just as hard for them as they battle for our country. Our athletes deserve better. Philippine volleyball deserves better. And we will work tirelessly to deliver better."
PNVF shared that it inherited financial burden from the previous administration led by Tonyboy Liao, making it hard for the federation to function.
"When President Frank Lao assumed leadership of PNVF in August 2026, he inherited a Federation burdened with substantial financial liabilities and outstanding obligations," the PNVF shared.
"While there have been reports of funding received by the PNVF from various sources, the current leadership is in the midst of a comprehensive inventory and accounting of its financial records, including reconciling funds
previously received and determining their corresponding disbursements.
"We remain committed to establishing a clear and accurate picture of the Federation's financial position and ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of its resources."
The PNVF said these problems don't excuse the federation to cater to the urgent needs of the athletes today, though.
Hence, Lao used his personal funds to provide allowances to the men's national team.
This contradicts Bagunas' claims that the national team has only been receiving allowances from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and not from the PNVF.
"President Frank Lao has personally advanced funds to address many of the immediate concerns raised by our National Teams. In particular, before their departure for the Asian Games, President Lao personally provided allowances to the men's national team," the PNVF said.
"He also facilitated the necessary ticketing and visa
requirements to ensure that certain members of the National Team would be available to participate in the Asian Games.
Furthermore, when the National Team requested an additional round-trip ticket for one of its members, the Federation accommodated the request. These are among the measures undertaken by the current leadership to
address the immediate needs of our athletes while working toward more sustainable solutions. Nevertheless, we agree with Mr. Bagunas. These efforts are not enough."
