Alas Pilipinas man Bryan Bagunas. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Bryan Bagunas returned to the Philippines under the new system of Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni in the SEA V League and was supported by young players like Buds Budin and Louie Ramirez.
After struggling in the last two sets, Bagunas kept its trust in national team newcomers Badin and Ramirez to hold the lead before scoring the game-winning goal to beat Vietnam 25-21, 25-22, 18-25, 25-23 in a SEA VLeague first stage match on Friday.
Alas, the team captain who is one of the few long-time national team players left on the roster, scored a game-high 19 points on 15 attacks, two blocks and two aces, but he gave credit to Budin and Ramirez
Schedule: Alas Philippines men’s team in first stage of SEA VLeague
“I’m very proud of both of those players because this is their first time, Badin was called up late. And yet they both did well. Being their seniors, I’m very proud, I believe our men’s volleyball has a bright future,” Bagunas said in Filipino.
Bagunas, whose career has flourished leading Winstrike to two consecutive championships in Taiwan, is honored to learn from world-class coach Frigoni, who is preparing the team for hosting and participation in the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
“We are learning a lot from here. And what he is teaching us is world class. As a world champion, he is a huge help to us. And I know we will learn to play at a higher level,” the Signal star said.
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Ending a dry spell following a forgettable SEA VLeague campaign last year, Bagunas enjoyed a return to his national team after missing out on the AVC Challenge Cup in Bahrain last June.
He said, “I am happy to represent the country. It is every player’s dream. And I am proud to be back here.”
After the winning start, Bagunas insisted the job is not yet done, as the men’s team eye their second win of the season against defending champions Indonesia on Saturday.
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“This victory is a huge achievement for us. But we will not stop here. We will continue to work hard in every match,” Bagunas said.
