The Alas Pilipinas men’s national volleyball team has arrived in Nagoya, Japan, ahead of the 2026 Asian Games. The squad, featuring standout players Marck Espejo and Bryan Bagunas, is set to begin their campaign against South Korea on September 27.
Aiming for Redemption in Pool D
Team Philippines is placed in Pool D, where they will also face China and Chinese Taipei. Their opening match against South Korea is scheduled for 12 p.m. at the Park Arena Komaki.
The team's goal is to advance to the second round, something they aim to achieve this time around.
Alas Pilipinas Coach Angiolino Frigoni
- 2022 Asian Games finish: 13th in men's volleyball
- Best finish: Fourth place in 1958
- Current world ranking: 114th
Having recently gained valuable experience at the FIVB World Championship, where they secured a historic win against Egypt, the team is looking to build on that momentum.
Historically, the Philippines last reached the semifinals in 1958. Since then, their best finishes in subsequent Asian Games have been ninth in 1962, eighth in 1966, and sixth in 1974.
To progress past the group stage, Alas Pilipinas must secure at least two wins, as only the top two teams from each pool will qualify for the quarterfinals.
Coach Angiolino Frigoni will need to strategize effectively against higher-ranked opponents. South Korea, China, and Chinese Taipei are positioned at 25th, 34th, and 55th in global rankings, respectively.
In addition to Espejo and Bagunas, the team includes Jude Garcia, Leo Ordiales, and John Lirck Mendoza, with Lloyd Josafat, Peng Taguibolos, and Joshua Magalaman filling the middle blocker positions.
The playmaking duties will be handled by Greg Augustus Luis Ancheta and Adi Villados, while Josh Ybañez serves as the team's libero.