The country’s largest integrated network company PLDT Inc. (PLDT) is supporting the development and promotion of volleyball in the Philippines by signing a two-year deal with the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF).

Present at the ceremony were PLDT and Smart Communications President and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio, PLDT Home Senior Business Advisor Jeremiah de la Cruz, PNVF President Ramon "Tats" Suzara, PNVF Secretary General Don Caringal, and national team captains Johnvic de Guzman and Aby Maraño.

“The PLDT group has always been big in sports, and we are happy to support volleyball in its aspiration to compete well internationally. Together with PNVF, we can continue our commitment in nation-building through sports,” said Panlilio, who also serves as the First Vice President of the Philippine Olympic Committee.

“PLDT Home, along with the PLDT group, is keen on supporting all forms of sports by working at the grassroots level and developing our communities. We are involved quite extensively at the national level. We also have our professional volleyball team and in professional volleyball leagues,” said de la Cruz.

Under this deal, PLDT will work with PNVF in various efforts to train and empower Filipino volleyball players and promote the sport in the country.

“This is a very good day for volleyball. I’d like to thank PLDT for their support to sports, particularly by bringing Philippine volleyball to a higher level. The backing of PLDT makes us more enthusiastic and energetic. We have a lot of young players coming in, so it inspires the youth. And with PLDT there, it gives more chances for volleyball to shine,” said Suzara. 

Suzara also wants to further promote the sport as a family-oriented event. Currently, PLDT’s wireless unit Smart is able to bring volleyball and Filipino volleyball athletes closer to fans by streaming games on its platform, Smart GigaPlay.

Panlilio also wishes the national athletes the best of luck in their upcoming tournaments. “They should be proud in carrying the flag on their chests when they represent the country in these international events. We want them to really focus on their training and try their very best, with the support of the federation and us at PLDT. Good luck to all of you!”