LEILA Barros will serve as the guest of honor for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship finals in the Philippines next month.
Barros, 53, accepted the invitation of PNVF and AVC president Ramon ‘Tats’ Suzara to return to Manila during the country’s historic hosting of the global conclave.
READ: Coach Jorge says he learned about PH volleyball from Leila Barros
The 5-foot-10 Brazilian volleyball icon-turned-senator was a fan favorite during the final round of the 2000 FIVB Volleyball World Grand Prix at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I receive this very special invitation. Returning to the Philippines, where I have always been welcomed with such warmth, is incredibly exciting," Barros said.
"What a joy it will be to reconnect with these passionate volleyball fans. See you soon!”
Brazil secured the bronze medal in that tournament, with Barros not only winning the best opposite hitter plum but also the hearts of many Filipinos during her nine-day stay.
Welcoming volleyball icons to Manila
The local crowd darling’s ‘Leila Mania’ nearly two-and-a-half decades ago was among the first catalysts of the sport’s popularity in the country.
Just like the 2000 Grand Prix, the Philippines will again welcome some of world volleyball’s biggest names and powerhouse nations in the men’s edition of the World Championship.
Alas Pilipinas Men will kick off hostilities on Sept. 12 against Tunisia, 7:30 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena. The tournament will run until Sept. 28 with Brazil's two-time Olympic bronze medalist and two-time World Cup medalist watching on from the sidelines for the finale at the same Pasay City venue.
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