The Growing Popularity of Volleyball in the Philippines: The Power of Fans and Regional Expansion

Volleyball in the Philippines has seen remarkable growth in recent years, and few understand the sport's passionate fan base better than Savannah Davidson of the PLDT High Speed Hitters. Having experienced the sport's immense following firsthand, Savannah recognizes just how special the Filipino volleyball community has become.

“I was blown away,” Savannah recalled when describing her introduction to the PVL. Coming to the Philippines, she expected basketball to dominate the sports scene, but what she found was a vibrant and dedicated volleyball fan base. “I remember hearing screams when Choco Mucho came in, when Creamline came in,” Savannah shared, still surprised by the overwhelming support. “Some of these players have millions of followers — it’s wild. It’s still shocking to me.”

The passionate fan base has brought a unique energy to the PVL, making each match feel like an event. Savannah praised the way supporters rally behind their favorite teams and players, transforming games into electric atmospheres that rival those of top volleyball leagues worldwide.

The PVL’s growing popularity isn’t confined to Manila, either. As the league continues expanding its presence in regional provinces, more fans are getting to experience professional volleyball up close. Savannah recalled a memorable trip to Cagayan de Oro, where her team was met with overwhelming support. “We literally had security detail from our bus to the hotel because there were so many fans waiting for us,” she recalled.

For many fans in the provinces, these visits are a rare chance to see their favorite players in person. “It’s a big deal,” Savannah explained. “They can’t always come to Manila, so having these games out there means a lot to them.” She praised the PVL for embracing this expansion, noting how meaningful it is for families and supporters to witness the action live after only being able to stream matches in the past.

While passionate fans can energize players, Savannah also acknowledged the pressure that comes with their intense loyalty. Reflecting on her injury absence, she recalled feeling the weight of fan expectations. “When I was going through rehab, I’d go to games and see comments asking, ‘When’s Savannah playing again?’” she shared. “It’s flattering, but there’s definitely pressure to get back out there.”

Still, Savannah embraces the responsibility that comes with being part of such a beloved sport. For her, the fans' dedication is a testament to how deeply volleyball resonates in the Philippines — and why the PVL’s continued growth shows no signs of slowing down.