Volcanoes seek Asian division title

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Volcanoes National Men’s 15s team in partnership with headline sponsor Seapac Philippines will resume its bid in the Asian Rugby Championship Division 1, which kicks off on Sunday in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The Philippines will be vying for the title against Malaysia, Singapore and defending champion Sri Lanka. The Volcanoes have been preparing for the tournament in difficult, hot conditions at the Southern Plains Rugby High Performance Centre in Silangan, Laguna under head coach Stu Woodhouse, forwards coach Dave Johnston, and set-piece coach Chris Hickey.

“The team is progressing well throughout a tough training camp. There’s a good mix of youth and experience in this squad and we’re looking forward to implementing what we have been working on into next week’s tournament,” said team captain Oliver Saunders.

The Philippine Volcanoes will depart for Malaysia on Saturday, in preparation for their first game against the host nation on Sunday, followed by a rematch with Singapore May 11 before their final game against Sri Lanka May 14.  

The Volcanoes have experienced campaigners Austin Dacanay, Justin Villazor Coveney, Michael Estrada Duhig, Jake Robirgado Letts and Matt Abalos Saunders and rookies Andrew Pagalilauan Ramsden and Aldrin Harvey Mercado.