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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Volleyball devider Alas Pilipinas middle blockers ready for battle

Alas Pilipinas middle blockers ready for battle

Published Sep 9, 2025 02:40 pm

At A Glance

  • Kim Malabunga, Peng Taguibolos and Lloyd Josafat believe that preparation, chemistry and heart will anchor their campaign in this prestigious tournament.
Alas Pilipinas coach Angiolino Frigoni talks to his stalwarts. (Alas Pilipinas Volley Facebook)
Alas Pilipinas coach Angiolino Frigoni talks to his stalwarts. (Alas Pilipinas Volley Facebook)
Alas Pilipinas middle blockers are aware of the challenges ahead when they face some of the best and tallest spikers in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championships set from Sept. 12 to 28 at the Mall of Asia Arena and the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Kim Malabunga, Peng Taguibolos and Lloyd Josafat believe that preparation, chemistry and heart will anchor their campaign in this prestigious tournament.
“It’s a big challenge for us middle blockers because we have to protect the team through our blocking,” said the 6-foot-5 Malabunga, the elder statesman among the middle blockers in the pool that also includes Lucca Mamone.
“That’s why we need to apply everything coach Angiolino [Frigoni] is teaching us so we can help the team. So far, our training has been really good. Our transitions are improving,” he added.
For the 6-foot-6 Taguibolos and 6-foot-4 Josafat, the challenge of going up against much taller opponents is undeniable, but instead of being discouraged, they focus on making adjustments and finding ways to contribute beyond just blocking.
“I know it’s going to be difficult for me because of the height disparity. Our opponents will be much taller for sure. But if we can’t score on the attack or get a clean block, we’ll find other ways to contribute to the team,” Taguibolos said.
“Coach Angiolino [Frigoni] always reminds us that it doesn’t have to be a complete block. What matters is at least getting a touch on the ball, slowing it down—that’s the goal. That will help our team,” Josafat added.
Alas Pilipinas kicks off its Pool A campaign on Friday, Sept. 12, at the Mall of Asia Arena as it goes up against world No. 43 Tunisia at 7 p.m. after the 4:30 p.m. opening ceremony.
They next face No. 23 Egypt on Sept. 16, then No. 13 Iran on Sept. 18.
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