Bryan Bagunas determined to recover in time for World Championship

MANILA, Philippines — Alas Pilipinas men's team ace spiker Bryan Bagunas expressed his determination to recover from his knee injury in time for the FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championship, which the Philippines will host from September 12 to 28.

"This doesn't happen often in my life, getting to join the World Championships," said Bagunas, who was introduced as one of the two ambassadors for the aforementioned tournament -- the other being Alas women's Eya Laure -- in a press conference at The Vault in W Global Center in Bonifacio Global City on Monday.

"Of course, I'll do my best to recover quickly so I can join Alas Pilipinas," added Bagunas, who sustained his injury last August during Alas SEA V.League first leg match against Indonesia.

Fortunately, Bagunas, the 2024 Spikers' Turf Open Conference Finals MVP with Cignal, has made some strides in his recovery, saying he will soon begin jumping exercises.

"So far, my recovery is going well. I'm already moving around now, and by this month, I should be back to jumping exercises. I'm really focusing on therapy so I can return to playing as soon as possible," said the 6-foot-3 spiker.

As Bagunas continues to recover, he has added inspiration to continue working as he will soon be a father.

"I'm so inspired, especially with my baby coming soon. I want my child to see that their father is representing the Philippines. That's the greatest thing for me—being able to represent our country is such an honor."

Bagunas, along with the Philippine men's national team during the 2019 SEA Games, made history after claiming a historic silver medal in the aforementioned tournament.

This time at the Worlds, Bagunas knows that competition is far superior but the 2023 MVP at Taiwan's Top Volleyball League with Win Streak will always carry the mentality of playing his hearts out.

"Just being part of the World Championship is already a huge achievement for me. When we play, we just need to show what we've got," said Bagunas.

"We know we're the underdogs—our opponents are much bigger and more experienced, having played in tournaments like this before. But we just have to prove that we won't be left behind and that we'll fight with everything we have."