He is in town for some engagements.
On Friday, August 23, Japanese volleyball player Ran Takahashi held a meet-and-greet event in conjunction with a local home electronics brand Akari at the SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.
This marks the return of Takahashi, 22, to the Philippines after previously playing for his homeland in the Volleyball Nations League (VNL) that was held at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City last June 2024.
The following day, on Saturday, August 24, he then headed to the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) quarterfinals match between Akari Chargers and Farm Fresh Foxies at the FilOil Center in San Juan City.
His presence also boosted the morale of the team, as Chargers ended on top of the Foxies in four of the five sets, 17-25, 25-18, 25-22, 25-23.
Takahashi also graced a special event with the players of Akari and Nxled, where he also had interactions with various local volleyball stars.
Fifi Sharma, for one, was able to get a special signature from Ran, who signed “Ran Takahashi was here” on her white sneakers.
The Japanese player’s visit to Manila comes days after Akari’s announcement of him being their new brand ambassador.