Bryan Bagunas and Alex Eala were named flagbearers for Team Philippines at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games opening ceremonies, with Bagunas leading the national delegation in the parade of nations.
The honor marks a milestone for Bagunas, the first Filipino volleyball player in a decade to carry the flag since Alyssa Valdez in 2015, highlighting the growing impact of Philippine volleyball.
Bagunas expressed pride in representing both himself and the sport while walking alongside world No. 50-ranked Eala, a strong medal contender in tennis.
The Philippine men’s volleyball team, coming off international exposures including the recent FIVB World Championship, aims to end a medal drought from the 2019 SEA Games.
They are set to face Myanmar on Saturday, followed by a crucial match against four-time defending champions Indonesia on December 16.
Source: PhilNews24 | December 10, 2025
