PNVF suspended by FIVB over governance concerns, alleged violations

MANILA, Philippines — The FIVB has suspended the Philippine National Volleyball Federation with immediate effect, citing “serious governance concerns and multiple purported violations.”

The FIVB Board of Administration on Friday night made the shocking announcement, saying it was obliged to suspend the PNVF in accordance with Article 13.1.1 of the FIVB Disciplinary Regulations.

READ: Alas Pilipinas withdrawals, De Brito case rock PNVF

“Despite continued diplomatic efforts by the FIVB to find a sustainable path forward for Philippine volleyball, the suspension was deemed necessary to safeguard the sport, ensure athletes are prioritised, and uphold the long-term development commitments made for volleyball in the Philippines,” the word governing body wrote.

The FIVB said it wanted to safeguard the seven-year empowerment and development agreement with the PNVF, the Philippine Sports Commission, and the Asian Volleyball Confederation.

PNVF president Tony Boy Liao. –PVL PHOTO

During the suspension, a committee will be tasked to oversee PNVF affairs. A path for the local federation’s reinstatement has also been established, according to the FIVB.

The ad hoc committee will be composed of Hila Asanuma, Chair and FIVB Executive Committee member; Mathieu Mériaux, FIVB Asia Regional Officer and Empowerment Manager; Stephen Bock, FIVB Head of Legal and General Counsel; Hitesh Malhotra, FIVB Head of Empowerment and National Federation Relations; and Alexa Dabao, FIVB Legal Contractor in the Philippines.

READ: PNVF now open to talks over player welfare, unpaid dues

FIVB vows to continue supporting Philippine volleyball with several events scheduled for the next few months. Alas Pilipinas women will be competing in the AVC Women’s Cup in Candon City from June 6 to 14, followed by the hosting of Volleyball Nations League (VNL) women’s division at Philsports Arena.

“Its immediate priorities will be to support the participation of Philippine national team athletes in upcoming international competitions, alongside guaranteeing the successful delivery of the upcoming Women’s VNL stop in the Philippines, in close coordination with local organisers and relevant stakeholders,” said the FIVB.

“The FIVB remains fully committed to protecting the integrity of Philippine volleyball at all levels and supporting its sustainable long-term growth.”

The PNVF has yet to issue a statement following its suspension.

The AVC Board of Administration also reaffirmed its full confidence in AVC President Ramon Suzara and its “commitment to institutional stability and good governance.”

“Following its review of the communication submitted by the PNVF, the Board stated that there is no statutory basis for unilateral action against the office of the AVC President by a single National Federation,” the AVC wrote.

Former PNVF president Tats Suzara remained as the AVC president and FIVB Executive Vice President after losing the local elections to Tonyboy Liao last December.

The Philippine Sports Commission also reportedly suspended its funding support and engagements involving the PNVF and PNVF-adjacent activities due to a breach of “contractual obligations” related to the recent Beach Pro Tour Nuvali and “continuing operational misalignment with the LOC and PSC in the handling and execution of events.”