A NEW era for Philippine men’s volleyball has begun in earnest.
Alas Pilipinas Men won its first match under Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni, 25-21, 25-22, 18-25, 25-23, over reigning silver medalist Vietnam in Leg 1 of the 2024 SEA V.League on Friday at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
It also marked the nationals’ first-ever victory since joining the regional meet last year, having lost all six of its matches in both legs of the 2023 edition.
READ Italian Olympian Frigoni takes charge as Alas men's team coach
Bagunas returned to the national team for the first time since Leg 2 of last year’s SEA V. League and led from the front alongside Alas debutant Michaelo Buddin, one of seven past and present NU Bulldogs in the squad.
Newly-converted libero and UAAP MVP Josh Ybañez shared the limelight with another national team debutant in reigning NCAA MVP Louie Ramirez, who made a strong first impression on the scoring front.
The Philippines can further boost its medal chances and lock in at least a silver medal with a second win over Indonesia on Saturday.
Bagunas stood out against the 11th-ranked Asian side with 19 points on 15 attacks, two blocks and two aces.
Filling in for Marck Espejo at outside hitter, Buddin added 14 points on nine attacks, three blocks and two aces while Ramirez fired 11 attacks — most on clutch hits in Set 4 when Bagunas was momentarily sat out.
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