Amid an investigation by an independent panel.
On Friday, May 29, the FIVB Board of Administration announced that it has fecided to suspend the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) with “immediate effect.”
The move, it told, was “in accordance with Article 13.1.1 of the FIVB Disciplinary Regulations,” which was caused by the “serious governance concerns and multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics (by PNVF) which are currently under investigation by the independent FIVB Ethics Panel.”
“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,” it added.
It also mentioned the landmark seven-year empowerment and development agreement between the FIVB, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Asian Volleyball Confederation and the PNVF as its moves to accelerate the growth of volleyball across the country.
Hence, to ensure stability and proper governance in the interim, an Ad Hoc Committee has been appointed to temporarily oversee the affairs of the PNVF, which is then in accordance with Article 1.9.1 of the FIVB General Regulations.
“A clear and constructive path towards the PNVF’s return to full standing has also been established by the FIVB,” it added.
The committee members have also been named, led by 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.
“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,” explained the organization.
Lastly, the FIVB said that it “remains fully committed to protecting the integrity of Philippine volleyball at all levels and supporting its sustainable long-term growth.”
PNVF’S RESPONSE
Meanwhile, on Sunday, May 31, the PNVF responded to the suspension through a statement.
“The Federation acknowledges receipt of the FIVB communication dated 29 May 2026 and is carefully reviewing its implications with the appropriate advisers and stakeholders,” it said.
“PNVF’s immediate priority is to serve the Filipino athlete, preserve the country’s participation in international volleyball, and ensure continuity for the sport.“
The Federation also said that it respects the important roles of the FIVB, PSC (Philippine Sports Commission), POC (Philippine Olympic Committee), and all relevant institutions in Philippine and international sport.
The PNVF also said that it is “[…]prepared to engage constructively through the proper channels.”
“Given the seriousness of the matter, PNVF will seek a full understanding of the issues raised, the process moving forward, and the operational implications for Philippine volleyball,” it continued, adding that further updates will be provided “once appropriate.”