Alas Pilipinas targets podium finish as SEA V Cup men’s tournament begins

CANDON, Ilocos Sur — Alas Pilipinas is determined to make a return trip to the podium as the 2026 Southeast Asian Volleyball Cup (SEA V Cup) men’s competition officially begins Wednesday at the Candon City Arena.

The national team will be bannered by 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship veterans Louie Ramirez, Lloyd Josafat, Vince Lorenzo, and Josh Ybañez as the Philippines looks to improve on its fourth-place finishes in both legs of last year’s tournament, previously known as the SEA V.League.

Also drawing attention is the indoor national team debut of Jude Garcia, the five-time Spikers’ Turf Most Valuable Player who previously helped the Philippine beach volleyball squad secure a bronze medal at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games.

Alas Pilipinas begins its Group B campaign against Cambodia at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, with the tournament offering crucial FIVB World Ranking points.

The opening match of the competition features reigning first-leg champion Thailand facing Vietnam in a Group A showdown at 2 p.m.

The 2026 edition features a stronger six-team field following Myanmar’s inclusion. Group A consists of Thailand, Vietnam, and Myanmar, while Group B features the Philippines, Cambodia, and Indonesia.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals scheduled on Saturday, followed by the medal matches on Sunday.

Asian Volleyball Confederation president Ramon “Tats” Suzara praised Candon City and Mayor Eric Singson for their continued commitment to hosting major international volleyball events.

“My heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Eric Singson and the Local Organizing Committee for their outstanding efforts in staging this event. Following the successful hosting of the AVC Women’s Cup, Candon City has once again demonstrated its capability and passion for delivering world-class international volleyball competitions,” Suzara said.

Singson, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of bringing international competitions to the city, noting their contribution to sports tourism and local development.

“Hosting this prestigious championship for the second consecutive year is another significant milestone for Candon City and reflects the confidence entrusted to us in staging international sporting events,” Singson said.

He added that the event allows Candon City to showcase Filipino hospitality while promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and community development through sports.