PNVF responds to board members' no-confidence move vs Liao
At A Glance
- In a statement released Monday, June 8, the PNVF said the withdrawal of support came before the completion of ongoing investigations and formal proceedings, warning that it could jeopardize the federation's appeal as it prepares its formal response to the allegations.
The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) said the decision of several board members to withdraw their support for president Tonyboy Liao was premature and could affect ongoing review and appeal proceedings.
In a statement released Monday, June 8, the PNVF said the withdrawal of support came before the completion of ongoing investigations and formal proceedings, warning that it could jeopardize the federation’s appeal as it prepares its formal response to the allegations.
“Most concerning is that the statement itself admits that the merits of the allegations remain subject to investigation and proper determination,” the statement read.
“Despite this admission, its signatories chose to publicly pre-judge the matter and create the impression that a conclusion has already been reached before the full facts have been examined,” it added.
The PNVF is referring to a two-page statement released to the media a few days ago by the majority of the executive board members, stressing their withdrawal of support to Liao due to loss of trust and confidence.
Nine board members signed the document.
“This Vote of No Confidence is a reflection of that widespread loss of trust and confidence and the urgent need to restore credibility within the Federation,” the letter stated.
The move came after the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) suspended the PNVF. The Philippine Sports Commission also announced that it was withdrawing funding support for the federation, while the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) would abide by the FIVB’s decision at its next general assembly this month.
The PNVF said it is ready to dispute claims behind the allegations, and pointed out to the challenges it faced when it took office in November last year, saying it inherited operation, financial and governance issues without a proper transition process.
It also addressed concerns over national team selection, saying roster decisions should not be treated as governance violations and that player selection is competitive and should remain under the coaching staff’s discretion.
“National team coaches must be allowed to evaluate players and make decisions based on performance, preparation, and the best interests of the team,” the statement said.
The federation added Liao is ready to cooperate with any investigations and remains committed to accountability where needed.
“Accountability must proceed,” the statement concluded. “But it must proceed properly.”