The Philippines takes on Uzbekistan at the start of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) Women’s Cup on Saturday, and the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) monitors the developments closely.
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The tournament was gleamingly opened on Thursday night by Mayor Eric Singson. However, the competition begins under a cloud of institutional scrutiny. The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) was suspended last Friday, and immediate steps are being taken by an appointed ad hoc committee to guarantee the successful staging of the games.
If the local organizers fail to cope up with the stringent standards required by the international body, the suspension could result to further complications for the host city, unless the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the local government step in to ensure complete accountability.
According to the official schedule released, the opening hostilities would commence at 9 a.m. with Vietnam facing Lebanon. Matches would continue from morning to night, featuring Kazakhstan against Hong Kong at 12 p.m., Iran against Indonesia at 6 p.m., and South Korea against Kyrgyzstan at 9 p.m. Finally, Alas Pilipinas Women, led by thirty-two-year-old Alyssa Valdez and thirty-four-year-old Jovelyn Gonzaga, would battle the Uzbeks in the 3 p.m. match.
Twelve of the continent’s top women’s teams are seeing action for ten days at the Candon City Arena. Chairman Patrick Gregorio of the commission stressed that international events create the greatest impact when brought to local communities.
"As a developing city, we have prepared the very best that we can offer," the mayor said during the welcome dinner for all delegates at the Hotel Van Gogh on Thursday. He added that while events of this magnitude are often hosted by major metropolitan centers, the local government embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, determination and a commitment to excellence.
Singson expressed his hope that this edition of the tournament would be remembered as a successful experience reflecting the warmth, hospitality and genuine affection of the city.
Meanwhile, Hila Asanuma, head of the ad hoc committee, stated in an email to President Ramon Suzara of the confederation that the body is working to ensure there are no operational or organizational gaps arising from the suspension. Crucial informations regarding the logistics were disseminated to all participating groups, e.g., athletes, officials and stakeholders.
"The committee’s immediate priorities include supporting the participation of Philippine national teams in upcoming international competitions and ensuring the successful delivery of scheduled international events," Asanuma added.
Suzara expressed appreciation to the city and the mayor. Through the leadership of the commission and its National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee, the country continues to strengthen sports tourism, expanding the reach of the sport and bringing world-class competition closer to fans.
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