THE Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) has apologized to Alas Pilipinas following team captain Bryan Bagunas' claims on the national teams’ financial struggles, while pointing to inherited liabilities as it works to address the funding issues.
In an official statement Sunday, the PNVF acknowledged that some national athletes had been forced to shoulder their own expenses and even borrow money while representing the country.
READ: Alas Men, Women players claim paying for own expenses at Asiad
“The [PNVF] extends its sincerest apologies to all oUr National Athletes for the difficulties they have experienced [...] This is a situation that no National Athlete should ever have to endure,” the federation said.
Bagunas earlier revealed that Alas Men had gone without their regular allowances since July, forcing some players to borrow money for training and shoulder meal expenses. The women’s team also encountered similar financial difficulties during its Asian Games campaign.
The PNVF said president Frank Lao inherited substantial financial liabilities and outstanding obligations when he assumed leadership in August.
Its current leadership is now conducting a comprehensive accounting of the federation’s finances, including tracing previously received funds and their corresponding disbursements.
Lao, according to the statement, personally advanced funds to address immediate national team needs, including allowances for Alas Men before the Asian Games, ticketing and visa requirements, and an additional round-trip ticket for one team member.
But the federation conceded that these stopgap measures were far from enough.
“Nevertheless, we agree with Mr. Bagunas. These efforts are not enough,” it said.
The PNVF vowed to strengthen financial accountability and establish a more sustainable support system for its athletes, even as questions persist over the federation’s funding and the financial difficulties experienced by its national teams.
“Rebuilding trust requires more than words. It requires concrete action, accountability, and a genuine commitment to putting our athletes first,” the statement read.
“Our athletes deserve better. Philippine volleyball deserves better. And we will work tirelessly to deliver better.”
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