Senator Alan Peter Cayetano believes the success of single-hosting the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines in 2025 depends on the Filipino people’s sense of community and their faith in God.
“It’s up to us,” Cayetano said at a press conference on March 26, 2024, in the City of Taguig.
“Ang pag-asa natin sa successful hosting will be two elements: One, faith and action, faith in God, and number two, action as a community,” he said.
Chairing the Local Organizing Committee of the international event, Cayetano underscored the importance of the Filipino people, particularly those volunteering their efforts during the competition, in showcasing the nation’s capabilities.
“I’m reminded how beautiful our country is and how our number one resource is underutilized. Our number one resource is the Filipinos and Filipinas, the men and women of the Philippines,” he asserted.
The hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025 marks the first instance in nearly a decade where a sole country will bear the responsibility alone.
With all facets of the tournament slated to unfold within the Philippines over a span of approximately 17 days, the absence of additional co-hosts distinguishes this event from other major tournaments such as the FIBA World Cup.
Citing the burgeoning sector of sports tourism which is projected to contribute significantly to the global economy, Cayetano outlined the potential economic dividends awaiting the Philippines.
“As one of the fastest-growing sectors in tourism generating 800 billion dollars worldwide, sports can have a positive impact on the country’s economy,” he noted, referring to the anticipated growth of sports tourism in the Philippines.
Cayetano also said the championship is a good platform to showcase the renowned Filipino hospitality.
“We are still known in the whole world to be the most hospitable people. I’m talking about how we as a people, welcome the rest of the world,” he said.
Beyond the games
Cayetano, an avid sports fan who has supported the industry throughout his political career, said the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship Philippines 2025 can also spur future development in sports in the country.
He expressed the need to establish a dedicated Department of Sports that would institutionalize consistent and widespread support for sports development.
He said while he appreciates the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), its reach is limited due to its very nature. The games it hosts are also few and far between, he said, and do not address the need for regular competitions that would hone the country’s athletes.
