MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF) officially recognized the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) as the only professional volleyball league in the Philippines, backing up the league in terms of officiating.

PNVF President Ramon "Tats" Suzara formally announced the partnership with the PVL, and also declared the inclusion of international neutral referees to fortify the game officiating in the six-month-long 2024-2025 All-Filipino Conference.

"This way, it also raise the level of our referees now in the PVL. Put international referees in all the matches."

"So now, as [part] of the stronger partnership with the PNVF, and our meeting with Sherwin [Malonzo], the commissioner, is to appoint now Yulo Benosa, our chairman of the referees commission of the PNVF, to now directly delegate for the PVL. This way, it also raise the level of our referees now in the PVL," Suzara said.

Suzara also mentioned that there will be international referees during the semifinals and finals of the conference.

"As agreed with the PVL, the PNVF will support the PVL in the semifinals and the finals in bringing international neutral referees [from] nearby [countries]. From Hong Kong, Thailand, for two weeks or three weeks so that there is really a fair decision by the officiating referees. They can't say that the referee is bias. We will put international referees so there's no bias," he added.

This way, it also raise the level of our referees now in the PVL. Put international referees in all the matches.

PVL held a press briefing on Nov. 4. at the Novotel Hotel in Quezon City, ahead of its six-month-long 2024-25 All-Filipino Conference. This marks as the longest conference of the league.

Suzara also mentioned that the champion of the conference will represent the country in the AVC Champions League, formerly Asian Club Championship, in Seoul, Korea next year.

He also acknowledged that PVL is the No. 1 league in the country.

"I would like to recognize and certify the Premier Volleyball League as the Philippines' number one and only professional volleyball league in the Philippines. I'd like to congratulate the PVL and I'd like to give this certificate of recognition to the PVL, to Ricky Palou as the Philippines' number one and only professional volleyball league in the Philippines."

The All-Filipino Conference is set to begin on Nov. 9 with Choco Mucho and Petro Gazz's clash; Akari and Galeries' duel at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.