Majority of PNVF executive board withdraws support for Tonyboy Liao

CANDON CITY, Ilocos Sur — The majority of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) executive board has withdrawn its support for its president Tonyboy Liao following the suspension slapped by the FIVB. A letter signed by Chairman Dr. Arnel Hajan, Vice President Yul Benosa, Secretary General Otie Camangian, and Auditor Roger Banzuela expressing their vote of no confidence in Liao surfaced online. Board members Sherwin Maganda, Fr. Victor Calvo Jr., Danilo Cong-o, Socorro Calleja-Uy, and Edward Lee also signed the letter.

READ: PNVF puts focus on national team programs after FIVB suspension

“We recognize the time, effort, and sacrifices that leadership demands, and we acknowledge every positive contribution that has been made in service of our sport. However, leadership is ultimately measured not only by intentions, but by the trust it inspires, the unity it fosters, and the accountability it upholds. This declaration is made with deep regret and a profound sense of responsibility to the sport we have devoted ourselves to promoting and developing,” the letter read. “It is not motivated by personal differences, political interests, or prejudice against any individual. Rather, it arises from our collective concern for the credibility of the Federation, integrity of the processes, transparency to our stakeholders, and most importantly, welfare of our athletes. Over time, concerns raised by athletes, coaches, and member organizations and their repeated calls for transparency, accountability, good governance, inclusivity, meaningful consultation, and responsive leadership have echoed throughout the Federation, yet many feel that these concerns have not been given the attention they deserve.” The majority of the executive board said it “can no longer ignore the public outcry arising from persistent concerns regarding leadership, inclusivity, good governance, and accountability. Athletes, coaches, member organizations, sponsors, and supporters have repeatedly voiced their apprehensions, creating a clear and growing call for change.” The Philippine Sports Commission had recently paused its financial assistance to the PNVF following the FIVB suspension. The Philippine Olympic Committee is also set to suspend the PNVF in its upcoming general assembly. The FIVB Ad Hoc Committee, headed by Hila Asanuma, assured that they will continue to support the Philippine national teams and the country’s upcoming hosting of international tournaments.

READ: PNVF suspended by FIVB over governance issues, alleged violations

“These developments have caused significant uncertainty among athletes, coaches, member-clubs, sponsors, and other stakeholders, while placing the future participation and development opportunities of our athletes at risk. While the merits of the allegations and issues surrounding these proceedings remain subject to investigation and proper determination by the appropriate authorities, we believe that the seriousness of these circumstances has created a situation where continued leadership by President Liao may undermine public confidence in the Federation’s independence, impartiality, and credibility,” the board wrote. “This Vote of No Confidence is a reflection of that widespread loss of trust and confidence and the urgent need to restore credibility within the Federation. Our sport deserves leadership that unites stakeholders, promotes transparency, embraces accountability, advocates inclusivity, practices good governance and prioritizes the interests of athletes above all else. At this critical juncture, restoring confidence in the Federation requires allowing the appropriate institutions and governing bodies to conduct their investigations and make their determinations freely, impartially, and independently. When trust is lost, leadership loses its mandate.” Liao and the executive board were elected last November, taking over ahead of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, where the women’s beach volleyball team won gold and the Alas men’s indoor team earned the bronze. The women’s indoor team, meanwhile, missed the podium. Earlier this year, Jia De Guzman led the Alas women’s core in calling out the federation for its lack of support over the past few months, then withdrew from representing the country ahead of the AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City.