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Alas Pilipinas Men at the 20th Asian Games. POC MediaThe Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) has apologized for the "difficulties experienced" by Alas Pilipinas Men for their 20th Asian Games campaign.
In a statement released Sunday night, replying to Bryan Bagunas' account of Alas Men's lack of financial support for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asiad, the PNVF acknowledged that the national athletes "should not endure" this kind of hardship.
Bagunas earlier asserted that several players had to borrow money just to attend practices. Currently in Japan, Bagunas said that they had to shell out own money just to eat, as hotel meal times are usually in conflict with their training schedules.
READ: 'Sobrang nakakalungkot': Alas captain Bagunas rues lack of support ahead of Asiad campaign
"PNVF extends its sincerest apologies to all our National Athletes for the difficulties they have experienced. Our athletes have dedicated themselves to representing our country, and they deserve nothing less than the full support of the Federation," said the federation, which has Frank Lao as president.
"We recognize the sacrifices our athletes have made, including having to shoulder their own expenses and, in some instances, borrow money. This is a situation that no National Athlete should ever have to endure," it added.
READ: Errors prove costly as Alas Pilipinas Men swept by South Korea in Asiad opener
The federation, embattled all year long due to issues concerning its governance of the sport, said that the leadership of Lao has "inherited a Federation burdened with substantial financial liabilities and outstanding obligations."
Despite this, PNVF is seeking to establish a clear picture of its financial position to further support volleyball athletes.
"[T]he current leadership is in the midst of a comprehensive inventory and accounting of its financial records, including reconciling funds previously received and determining their corresponding disbursements. We remain committed to establishing a clear and accurate picture of the Federation's financial position and ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of its resources," it said.
"Under the leadership of President Frank Lao, PNVF is committed to rebuilding the Federation, strengthening its financial accountability, and establishing a system that provides our athletes with the support they rightfully deserve."
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