The leadership crisis surrounding the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) intensified on Saturday after a majority of its Executive Board formally withdrew support for President Tonyboy Liao, citing a growing loss of trust and mounting concerns over governance within the federation.
In a collective statement, PNVF chairman Arnel Hajan, vice president Yul Benosa, secretary-general Otie Camangian, auditor Roger Banzuela, and board members Sherwin Maganda, Fr. Vic Calvo, OP, Danilo Cong-o, Marico Calleja-Uy, and Edward Lee issued what they described as a formal withdrawal of support from Liao’s leadership.
The group stressed that the move was not driven by personal or political differences, but by concerns regarding accountability, transparency, inclusivity, and governance.
“We, the Majority of the Executive Board of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, issue this Formal Withdrawal of Support in the leadership and stewardship of the PNVF President Anthony ‘Tonyboy’ Liao,” the statement read.
“We recognize the time, effort, and sacrifices that leadership demands, and we acknowledge every positive contribution that has been made in service of our sport. However, leadership is ultimately measured not only by intentions, but by the trust it inspires, the unity it fosters, and the accountability it upholds.”
Unresolved Issues Hound PNVF
According to the board, concerns raised by athletes, coaches, and member organizations regarding governance reforms and consultation processes have persisted for some time and remain unresolved.
The development comes at a critical juncture for Philippine volleyball following recent actions taken by both local and international governing bodies.
On May 29, the Philippine Sports Commission (POC) suspended funding support for the federation, citing several operational concerns. On the same day, the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) suspended the PNVF with immediate effect over what it described as serious governance concerns and alleged violations of its Code of Ethics, which are currently under investigation by the independent FIVB Ethics Panel.
The suspension prompted the creation of an FIVB-appointed Ad Hoc Committee to temporarily oversee the federation’s affairs and establish a roadmap toward reinstatement.
The POC has likewise indicated that it will abide by the FIVB’s decision, further complicating the federation’s position within the country’s sporting landscape.
Eroding Trust in PNVF Leadership
While acknowledging that the allegations against the federation remain under investigation, the board said the gravity of the situation has affected confidence in the organization’s leadership.
“While the merits of the allegations and issues surrounding these proceedings remain subject to investigation and proper determination by the appropriate authorities, we believe that the seriousness of these circumstances has created a situation where continued leadership by President Liao may undermine public confidence in the Federation’s independence, impartiality, and credibility,” the statement said.
The Executive Board emphasized that its decision should not be interpreted as a judgment on the ongoing investigations, but rather as a step toward protecting the integrity of the process.
“However, for investigations and proceedings to be viewed as credible, objective, and free from undue influence, they must be conducted in an environment where investigators, regulators, and governing bodies are able to perform their duties independently and without apprehension of interference, whether actual or perceived.”
The statement concluded with a call for leadership reform and renewed trust within the federation, describing the move as necessary for the long-term stability and credibility of Philippine volleyball.
“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 board stated.
“When trust is lost, leadership loses its mandate.”
