

The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) apologized to Alas Pilipinas players after team captain Bryan Bagunas raised concerns over the national team’s financial support and preparations for the 2026 Asian Games.
Bagunas said the players had not received allowances from the PNVF since July, forcing some of them to borrow money for transportation to training and cover meals out of their own pockets.
He also said some training sessions had only seven or eight players because others could not afford transportation.
In a statement, the PNVF said it acknowledged the concerns raised by Bagunas, including instances when athletes had to shoulder their own expenses and borrow money.
The federation said it is conducting a “comprehensive inventory and accounting” of its financial records, including reconciling funds previously received and determining their corresponding disbursements.
PNVF said President Frank Lao, who assumed leadership of the federation in August 2026, inherited “substantial financial liabilities and outstanding obligations.”
The federation also said Lao personally advanced funds to address some immediate concerns of the national teams.
Before the Asian Games, Lao personally provided allowances to the men’s national team and facilitated ticketing and visa requirements for some members, the PNVF said. It added that the federation also provided an additional round-trip ticket requested for a national team member.
The PNVF acknowledged that these measures were not enough and said it would work to strengthen its financial accountability and improve the support provided to national athletes.
“Rebuilding trust requires more than words. It requires concrete action, accountability, and a genuine commitment to putting our athletes first,” the federation said.
Bagunas’ comments came after Alas Pilipinas’ opening match at the Asian Games, where the team raised concerns over the support and preparations provided to the national squad.
