FIVB approves PNVF elections
FRANK Lao’s leadership at the Philippine National Volleyball Federation is expected to run smoothly after the International Volleyball Federation formally recognized his election as federation president.
SGA PHOTO
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) received clearance from the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) over its recent elections, marking another step in the national body’s efforts to move past its leadership dispute.
In a letter dated 2 November, the FIVB informed the PNVF that its legal department found the election documents and process compliant with the international federation’s legal and administrative requirements.
“The FIVB hereby informs you that the election process at the Philippine National Volleyball Federation satisfies the legal and administrative requirements in compliance with the FIVB Regulations,” read the letter signed by FIVB Head of Legal and General Counsel Stephen Bock.
The FIVB said it would update its official records, including the PNVF’s entry in its online directory.
Businessman and noted sports patron Frank Lao was elected as PNVF president last August following the resignation of the previous board of officers.
He took over a federation embroiled in a leadership dispute after the ouster of Ramon “Tats” Suzara and the subsequent suspension of his successor, Tonyboy Liao.
The FIVB suspended the PNVF in May over governance issues and violations of its Code of Ethics, prompting the formation of an ad hoc committee, in coordination with the Philippine Olympic Committee, to oversee the federation’s affairs.
With the election process now cleared, the PNVF can turn its attention to projects such as hosting the 2029 FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Cup and identifying naturalized players for the men’s and women’s national teams.
PNVF deputy executive director Juanito Gregorio said the federation’s priority is to ensure a smooth path forward for athletes and coaches.
“We're not here to point fingers at the previous administration. The problems are already there, and our job is to fix them,” Gregorio told DAILY TRIBUNE.
“I assure everyone that our priority is to bring the federation, players and coaches together as we move forward. We all want one thing: victory for Philippine volleyball.”