Alas Pilipinas Men continued their downward spiral in the 2025 AVC Challenge Cup for Men, falling in straight sets to a determined Thailand squad, 21-25, 20-25, 18-25, in the 9th–11th classification match held early Saturday (Manila time) at the Isa Bin Rashid Hall in Manama, Bahrain.
The defeat dropped the Philippines to a 0-4 record in the tournament, while Thailand got sweet revenge after losing to the Filipinos in a thrilling five-setter, 25-21, 21-25, 22-25, 25-21, 12-15, during the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals last June at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
There would be no repeat of that upset this time around, as Thailand came out composed and clinical from the opening serve to the final point. The Thais maintained control throughout the contest, showcasing a potent offensive arsenal and a solid block that stifled the Philippine attack.
With the score tight at 16-14 in the second frame, Thailand pulled away behind a decisive 7-2 run, spearheaded by Nilsawai Kissadam, Thungkham Chaiwat, Phanram Anurak, and Ramsin Kiadtiphum. That spurt effectively broke the Filipinos’ momentum and handed the Thais a commanding two-set lead.
Thailand wasted no time in the third, quickly establishing a 10-5 advantage before outside hitter Khonhan Amornthep took over down the stretch. Amornthep delivered the knockout blow with a service ace that sealed the match after just one hour and 20 minutes of play.
Meanwhile, the Philippines struggled to find consistency despite head coach Angiolino Frigoni constantly rotating his lineup in search of a spark. No player breached double digits in scoring, with Michaelo Buddin leading the way with eight points.
Louie Ramirez and Peng Taguibolos each chipped in six points, while Leo Ordiales and Steven Rotter added five apiece. However, the Filipinos were undone by their errors, surrendering 26 free points to the Thais.
In contrast, Thailand had three players in double figures, with Amornthep finishing with a game-high 14 points on 12 attacks and two service aces. Anurak and Chaiwat both tallied 12 points apiece on identical 11-of-22 spiking efficiency.
Alas Pilipinas will get one final opportunity to end their campaign on a winning note when they face New Zealand on Tuesday at 5 p.m. (Manila time).
