VOLLEYBALL made its presence felt Malacañang’s grounds last as the Drawing of Lots the night before extended to a “Concierto sa Palacio” that marked a weekend of celebration for the country’s solo hosting of the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship next year.

President Marcos Jr., First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and William Vincent Araneta Marcos, co-chair of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the world championship, entertained more than 300 guests with a two-hour concert filled with fun and enthusiasm.

“It’s really unbelievable, I didn’t expect this concert for the world championship, we never expect this,” said Ramon “Tats” Suzara, president of the Philippine National Volleyball Federation and the Asian Volleyball Confederation.

The entourage from the PNVF and FIVB with national athletes in volleyball and sitting volleyball started arriving at the Palace at 5 p.m. and, to their surprise, a billboard-type tarp wall saying “PH to Serve” greeted them.

The Palace prepare a big Sunday night, the wall splashing a comprehensive gist on a brief history of the sport to the 32 nations competing in the worlds and a collage of action photos of the men’s national team.

“The commitment and effort of the government is extraordinary, and we would like to thank thee President, First Lady and Vinnie,” Suzara said.

The atmosphere was relaxed and party-like all night long as the guests were entertained by a lively number from the group that won at the World Championships of Performing Arts or more popularly known as the “Talent Olympics,” in Hollywood.