PAVA to stage collegiate, secondary tourneys in Baguio

The Philippine Amateur Volleyball Association (PAVA) announced yesterday the staging of the 2003 National Intercollegiate and the National Intersecondary Championships in Baguio in April.

The announcement coincide with the association’s induction of its new set of officers, led by president Roger Banzuela and chairman Rolando Dizon.

Banzuela said that premier amateur tournament in the country takes center stage once more after taking a year of absence last year.

"Last year, the tournament was bumped off because the playing dates coincided with the staging of the Batang Pinoy. We’re bringing it back this year and we’re excited to note that a handful of teams have already signified their interest to join," said Banzuela.

UAAP men’s defending champion University of Santo Tomas heads the stellar cast with University of the Philippines, Far Eastern University and St. Francis of Assisi confirming its participation.

Rep. Monico Puentevella led the induction rites among PAVA officers led by Banzuel.

PAVA’s newly-elected officers include Pedro Mendoza (vice-president), Jacob Uichico (secretary-general), Ricky Palou (treasurer), Annalee Sepico (auditor), and Ramon Suzara (ex-officio). Augusto Santamaria was elected commissioner with directors Fr. Ermito de Sagon, O.P., Jane Asuncion, Victor Abalos, Edwin Velez, Dinno Depositatio, Joey San Juan, D’Artagan Yambao and Constante Reyes completing the list.<