Four companies keen on joining PVL, says Ricky Palou

MANILA, Philippines — After the disbandment of F2 Logistics and Gerflor’s financial controversy, at least four companies are eyeing to join the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) next season.

PVL president Ricky Palou did not divulge the names of the interested companies but the league will only accept two applicants to maintain a 12-team field.

“There are four applying to us but we will only accept two,” Palou told Inquirer Sports in Filipino. “It will be hard if we have more than 12 teams because of the scheduling. At least with 12 teams, all of them will have at least one game per week.”

Palou said that the league will announce once the new teams are approved to join as the PVL organizing committee is still sitting with the interested parties to explore their capabilities and long-term commitment.

The PVL had its biggest tournament in the second All-Filipino Conference, which featured 12 teams, with Nxled, the sister company of Akari, and Galleries Tower joining this year’s newcomers Gerflor and Farm Fresh.

However, the Defenders faced financial problems along the way and were only able to finish the conference with the help of the league and a “good samaritan,” who will take over the team next season.

F2 Logistics, which entered the volleyball scene in 2016 and joined the PVL two years ago, also announced its disbandment to focus on grassroots.

When asked if the interested companies are open to absorbing the members of the Cargo Movers, Palou said that it would be a good idea but he heard that some of the players are close to finding their new home with other squads.

Before F2’s disbandment and Gerflor’s financial problems, Foton, the sister team of Chery Tiggo, only played one conference in the Invitationals and pulled out. The Army Lady Troopers haven’t returned since their leave of absence as well as BaliPure, Perlas Spikers, and Sta. Lucia.

That’s why securing a long-term commitment is crucial for the PVL.

“Before we accept anybody, we will assess them meet with them find out their interest and capability to maintain a team. And then, decide which of the applicants is better to accept,” Palou said. “We want to get a long-term commitment.”