MANILA, Philippines — Coach Jorge Souza De Brito on Thursday ended his four-year tenure with the Alas Pilipinas women’s national volleyball team following the squad’s fourth-place finish at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, which included a loss to Indonesia in the bronze-medal match.
De Brito said he respects the program’s decision to move in a new direction and leaves with well wishes and no hard feelings, adding that he will continue to support Philippine volleyball from afar.
National volleyball officials confirmed De Brito’s departure and said the search for a new head coach is underway. They will announce a replacement once the selection process and coaching staff finalization are complete.
Players and staff expressed gratitude to De Brito for his contributions over the past four years, citing his role in developing the national program and providing international exposure for the athletes.
Officials noted that the team will maintain its current training pool and regular practices while preparing for upcoming regional and continental competitions. They also plan to review the team’s performance at the SEA Games to guide the next phase of the program.