Suzara now at helm of Philippine volleyball

MANILA, Philippines — Ramon “Tatz” Suzara was elected president of the newly-formed Philippine National Volleyball Federation, Inc. (PNVFI) with hopes of building and fostering lasting unity in the sport in the country.

Suzara, who enjoys strong relations with the FIVB, the world governing body, won unopposed and received all 31 votes cast in yesterday’s polls at the East Ocean Palace Restaurant in Parañaque.

He will lead the association that will succeed the Larong Volleyball sa Pilipinas, Inc. (LVPI), which was headed by Jose Romasanta.

Also elected unopposed were Ariel Paredes (chairman), Arnel Hajan (vice president), Don Caringal (secretary-general), Rod Roque (treasurer), Yul Benoso (auditor) and board members Ricky Palou, Tony Boy Liao, Charo Soriano, Carmela Gamboa, Fr. Vic Calvo, OP, Karl Chan and Wharton Chan.

“I hope our common love for the sport will provide us with the will to unite and collaborate in elevating the status of our national teams in the continental and world stages,” said Suzara.

“We are thankful to all the stakeholders. We’ve been longing for this and the true winner here is Philippine volleyball,” said Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham Tolentino.