PLDT Home Fibr backs PHL volleyball squads

MANILA, Philippines – Philippine volleyball has received a shot in the arm after PLDT Home Fibr has thrown its support to the men's and women's national team that launched its ambitious bid of not just winning the gold medal in the Southeast Asian Games but also possible slots in the World Championships and the Olympics.

"PLDT Home Fibr's support to our national teams is a big boost to Philippine volleyball," said Phl Volleyball Federationa secretary-general Ottie Camangian in Tuesday's final day of a two-day tryout at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Interestingly, the announcement came right after Gilas Pilipinas' memorable performance in the FIBA World Cup in Spain.

The national basketball team, of course, is supported by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan, who also happens to lead PLDT Home Fibr, which is now Phl volleyball's patron.

And Camangian said they would like to also do a Gilas.

"With PLDT Home Fibr around, we can now dream of regaining prominence not just in Southeast Asia but in Asia as well while dreaming of realizing a long-term goal, which is to make it to the World Championships and the Olympics," said Camangian.

The day before, the PVF officially announced the appointment of La Salle's Ramil de Jesus and Santo Tomas' Odjie Mamon as coaches of the men's and women's national teams, respectively.

Over a hundred players – 54 women's and 52 men's – attended the first day of tryouts and more are expected.

Among the notable names in the list were Jovelyn Gonzaga and Tina Salak of reigning Shakey's V-League and Phl Super Liga champion Army, Angeli Tabaquero of Cagayan Valley, sisters Dindin and Jaja Santiago and former La Salle star Aby Marano.

Ateneo's Alyssa Valdez is reportedly joining the tryouts too.