The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has formally suspended the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) following a sanction imposed by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB). The decision was announced by POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on June 26, 2026, during a press conference in Davao City.
Automatic Suspension Under POC Rules
Tolentino stated that the suspension was unanimously approved by the POC executive board and was automatic under POC rules. “The suspension comes automatically from the international federation’s suspension of its national federation,” he said.
The FIVB suspended the PNVF on May 29, citing “serious governance concerns and multiple purported violations of the FIVB Code of Ethics.” As a result, the PNVF is barred from participating in all POC activities, including the General Assembly.
Funding Halted and Leadership Dispute
The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has also stopped all funding support for the federation, citing governance issues and non-compliance with its requirements. Tolentino further noted that the POC does not recognize the PNVF’s recent leadership change. “Their latest election, for the POC, is invalid—no notice to the POC and no observer from the POC,” he explained.
The POC added that some PNVF board members have withdrawn support from the current leadership, indicating a loss of confidence within the organization. PNVF president Anthony “Tonyboy” Liao has expressed willingness to cooperate with authorities to address the issues.
Awaiting FIVB Action
The POC is awaiting further action from the FIVB, including the formation of an ad hoc committee that will oversee volleyball operations while the federation remains suspended.
