A concert at Malacañang marks the start of the countdown to the Philippines' hosting of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, September 15, 2024. Katrina Domingo, ABS-CBN News

MANILA --  Malacañang on Sunday held a concert to mark the beginning of its year-long countdown for hosting of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship in 2025.

The Alas Pilipinas players and their coaches were invited to the Malacañang for a feast and a 2-hour concert entitled, "PH to Serve: A Concert for the One-Year Countdown to the Philippine Hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men's World Championship 2025."

"With a whole year to plan, it also aims to show strong backing from agencies and sports bodies, including the Philippine National Volleyball Federation (PNVF), that are working tirelessly to ensure the successful staging of the FIVB Men’s World Championship," the Presidential Communications Office said in a statement.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. received a volleyball and a painting from FIVB director general Fabio Acevedo and Philippine National Volleyball Federation President Ramon "Tats" Suzara to officially mark the turnover of hosting duties to the Philippines.

Among the performers were Filipino singers who competed at the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA), as well as laser lights and LED artists.

The Philippines will host the Men's Volleyball World Championship from September 12 to 28 next year.

As the host country, the Alas Pilipinas team will be automatic qualifiers, along with defending champion Italy.

In the draw held Saturday night at the Solaire Grand Ballroom, the Philippines was grouped with Iran, Egypt, and Tunisia in Pool A.

READ: Alas Pilipinas Men pooled with Iran, Egypt, Tunisia in FIVB World Championship