Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) president Frank Lao has apologized to the national volleyball players over the financial difficulties that disrupted their preparations for the 2026 Asian Games.
Lao issued his apology on Monday after Alas Pilipinas men’s team captain Bryan Bagunas disclosed that members of the squad had gone without allowances since July, with some players reportedly borrowing money to cover transportation and other expenses.
Taking responsibility for the situation, Lao said he inherited significant financial obligations when he assumed the PNVF presidency in August.
“As president of the PNVF, I take full accountability for what happened to the allowances of both Alas Pilipinas Men and Women squads as well as the beach volleyball teams,” Lao said.
Lao said the federation was left with more than P25 million in debts and outstanding payables when he took over.
“After taking over the PNVF in the middle of August, we were left with nothing but more than P25 million in debt. We are now starting to pay all the coaches, settle travel trips, and clear other payables that the federation owes them,” he said.
The new PNVF chief also said the federation’s financial situation had been further affected by the suspension and withdrawal of support from international and local sports bodies.
As the federation works to address its obligations, Lao said he had used personal funds to help cover some immediate needs, including coaching salaries and travel expenses.
Before the men’s team departed for the Asian Games in Japan, Lao personally provided P20,000 in pocket money to each player, according to the statement. He also covered the round-trip airfare of setter Ave Joshua “Owa” Retamar, who joined the team later in the preparation period.
Bagunas’ revelations had prompted the PNVF to issue an earlier statement acknowledging the athletes’ concerns and apologizing for the situation.
Lao said he chose to accept responsibility rather than dwell on the federation’s previous leadership problems and called for patience while the organization works to stabilize its finances.
“Ako na ang humihingi ng pasensya na nagkulang kami. Pero bigyan nyo kami ng pagkakataon na makabawi sa inyo,” Lao said.
“Just give me some time po. Sa akin ito bilang presidente ng PNVF. I take this responsibility. Sorry po.”
The controversy surfaced as Alas Pilipinas competed at the Asian Games in Japan, where the men’s team opened its campaign with losses to South Korea and China and was eliminated from quarterfinal contention. (Adrian Co)
