PNVF eyes joint World Cup hosting
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) is looking at a partnership with a couple of Southeast Asian countries to co-host the slightly delayed 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Cup.
PNVF deputy executive director Juanito Gregorio said the federation remains committed to hosting the prestigious tournament but is also open to sharing the rights to stage the competition with neighboring nations.
Taking cue from the Philippines’ successful co-hosting of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, PNVF is considering Vietnam and Indonesia as possible co-hosts.
“We’re also considering a co-hosting arrangement with other countries, similar to what FIBA did in 2023. Vietnam and Indonesia are being considered as possible co-hosts, with the Philippines as the main host,” Gregorio said during his appearance in the DAILY TRIBUNE’s weekly online sports show Off the Court on Thursday.
“We’re studying different options, but we remain committed to bringing the event to the country,” he added.
The PNVF will try to follow how Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas worked with Japan and Indonesia in staging basketball’s biggest tournament.
Each partner country will host group stage matches, while the playoffs and championship will be held in the Philippines.
The newly opened SM Seaside Arena Cebu is also being considered as one of the venues along with traditional big venues in Metro Manila.
Last year, FIVB awarded the 2029 Women’s World Cup hosting rights to the Philippines. It was announced on the final day of the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Championship held in Manila.
The PNVF will also have more time to prepare with the competition pushed back to January 2030.
“I think it may take place in 2030, possibly during the first two weeks of the year. So, it will be delayed a little,” Gregorio said.
“Our communication with the FIVB and Volleyball World continues, and we’re working to make sure the event pushes through in the Philippines.”
Gregorio admitted that it will be a huge undertaking, but the federation is committed to bringing world-class women’s volleyball competition closer to Filipino fans.
“It will be a major challenge, but we know how popular volleyball is in the country, and we’re excited about bringing such a big event here,” he said.
“PSC (Philippine Sports Commission) chairman Pato Gregorio has been advocating sports tourism and wants to bring major international events to the Philippines.”