National volleyball team blows the whistle on federation issues
communityMetro Manila, Philippines2h ago
"Athletes are being treated like commodities." Speaking anonymously to Go Hard Girls, a source revealed a lack of communication & serious concerns about athlete welfare. The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) recently announced plans for an ‘Alas Draft.’” The national team would have first pick of players from the PVL draft. Players would be signed to exclusive contracts for at least 2 years, with each player receiving the same salary. Let’s break down what the problem is. 1) Current Alas Pilipinas players had been waiting since the SEA Games to learn about the federation’s plans. They only learned about the Alas Draft through social media. 2) Alas draft picks would not be allowed to refuse the national team’s offer — effectively removing the players’ right to choose, limiting both earnings and exposure. 3) When players asked PNVF whether the exclusivity clause & flat salary would apply to current members who play for club teams, no answer was given. When PNVF leadership was questioned about issues with the Alas Draft, they said they’re banking on athletes’ ‘love for the country.’” Our source says, "While it’s an honor to play for the flag, that commitment is not something that should be forced or obligated." “The Alas Draft is a way of sidestepping what the real issue is, which is scheduling and calendar alignment in the Philippines,” says our source. “FIVB releases the calendar every Olympic cycle, so that’s four years of knowing. So why are other countries able to plan around it, but not the Philippines?” Why does this matter? For this to happen during Women's Month, and in a sport which is already popular and commercially strong? There should be no excuse. We can’t grow the game without protecting the athletes who play it. Here is the link to the full story from March 13, 2026: https://www.instagram.com/_gohardgirls/p/DV0qA1KFPYK/ About Go Hard Girls: We are an independent media company that tells the stories of Filipina athletes & advocates for equity in sport.