PNVF acknowledges Bagunas' concerns, vows to be better

MANILA, Philippines -- The Phlippine National Volleyball Federation acknowledged the grievances of Alas Pilipinas team captain Bryan Bagunas in an interview following the national team's 16-25, 25-27, 22-25 opening loss to South Korea in the 20th Asian Games men's volleyball tournament in Japan Sunday. Bagunas said that the team lacked in financial support to the point that players have to shoulder expenses from their personal pockets and even borrow money. "We acknowledge the concerns raised by Mr. Bagunas in his recent interview," the PNVF wrote in a statement.  "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." Led by president Frank Lao, the PNVF said that it will work harder to cater to the needs of the athletes.  "Our national athletes deserve a Federation that works just as hard for them as they battle for our country. Our athletes deserve better. Philippine volleyball deserves better. And we will work tirelessly to deliver better." PNVF shared that it inherited financial burden from the previous administration led by Tonyboy Liao, making it hard for the federation to function. "When President Frank Lao assumed leadership of...