FIVB recognizes Lao’s election as PNVF chief

MANILA — The FIVB said it recognizes the election of Frank Lao as president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF).

In a letter dated November 2, the world governing body for the sport said the procedure “satisfies the legal and administrative requirements,” and was done in compliance of the volleyball body’s regulations.

With the recognition, the FIVB will now update its records, noting Lao as the president of the PNVF.

“The FIVB Legal Department reviewed the documentation submitted by your National Federation in accordance with Article 1.6 of the FIVB General Regulations. The FIVB hereby informs you that the election process at the Philippine National Volleyball Federation satisfies the legal and administrative requirements in compliance with the FIVB Regulations,” the FIVB letter said.

“Thus, the FIVB confirms that your elections are recognized by the FIVB and will update all of our records, including the FIVB website directory,” it added.

In a separate statement, the Asian Volleyball Confederation, led by Filipino sports executive Ramon Suzara, congratulated Lao for the recognition.

“On behalf of the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC), I extend my most heartfelt and enthusiastic congratulations to you on your recent election as President of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation,” said Suzara.

“As president of the AVC, I now feel comfort that finally, the FIVB has recognized the new leadership of the PNVF,” he added.

“The confederation always wants a healthy and harmonious operation of all its member national federations.”

The acknowledgement by the FIVB comes amid the PNVF’s efforts to be reinstated as the primary governing body of volleyball in the Philippines.