Philippine Volleyball Team Faces Financial Strain Ahead of Asian Games, Federation Apologizes

After a 25‑16, 27‑25, 25‑22 opening loss to South Korea, captain Bryan Bagunas highlighted that Alas Pilipinas Men players have not received allowances since July, forcing some to borrow money to travel and attend training. The team’s limited daily attendance—often only seven or eight players—was attributed to financial constraints and mismatched hotel meal times. The Philippine National Volleyball Federation issued an apology, noting inherited financial liabilities and that new president Frank Lao has begun advancing funds to address the issue. The federation pledged to work harder for athletes and improve support for future competitions.