The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) is looking to sit down with the Alas Pilipinas women’s team amid concerns over player welfare and a proposed draft.

PNVF president Tonyboy Liao and executive director Iby Bautista admitted there have been delays in salaries, saying they are still sorting out financial records left by the previous administration.

“When we took over, there was a lot of mess, especially in the finances,” Bautista said.

 

“Our 2023 financial statement isn’t even complete yet. There are missing receipts and unaccounted items. So we’re still working on gathering all the supporting documents, and it will take time.”

Bautista added that they also found discrepancies in how funds were used. The delayed liquidation reports were a major reason why players have not been paid.

“We saw several inconsistencies. Some funds that were supposed to be used for certain programs were used for something else,” he said.

“One of the main issues is late liquidation—some are delayed by as much as six months. That’s why everything is also delayed,” Bautista said. “We’ve started partial payments for the beach volleyball team, and we’re working on doing the same for the indoor team. Rest assured, we are committed to fixing this.”

The federation also plans to meet with the players to hear their concerns directly.

“We want to sit down with them so they can air their grievances,” Bautista said.

The issue gained attention after national team captain Jia De Guzman and Fifi Sharma spoke out on social media. Young players Angel Canino, Bella Belen, Shaina Nitura, and Jennifer Nierva also shared posts calling for better financial support and a proper off-season.

“At the same time, I believe athletes should be in an environment where they can continue to grow, compete, and be supported— without being put in a position where they have to choose between the national team and their careers in the league,” said the Alas captain.

“Many countries have found ways to make this work — allowing athletes to develop in both environments — and have seen the positive results and growth it brings to the sport over time. I believe that is something we can achieve as well.”

Liao said the PNVF is open to meeting the players anytime.

“We’re open whenever they want to talk,” Liao said. “If Jia, as captain, wants to lead the team in a discussion, that’s fine with us.”

Looking ahead, Liao said the plan is to keep the core of the Southeast Asian Games team for the AVC Women’s Cup in Candon this June, though participation will not be forced.

“The players from the SEA Games pool are the ones we plan to field. But if they don’t want to join, we can’t force them,” he said. 

 

“We’ll invite them and coordinate with their clubs.”

The PNVF will also discuss former Alas Pilipinas coach Jorge de Brito’s ‘unpaid bonuses and salaries’ and his work visa in the country with the Brazilian’s lawyer next week.

Bautista emphasized that resolving the players’ unpaid dues is the top priority.

“This new PNVF leadership is committed to being transparent,” he said. 

 

“We want everyone to work together so we can better represent the country in future tournaments.”