Alas Pilipinas Men Fall to South Korea in Asian Games Opener

Alas Pilipinas Men opened their 2026 Asian Games campaign with a straight-set loss to South Korea, 16-25, 25-27, 22-25, on Sunday at Park Arena Komaki.

Bryan Bagunas led the Philippines with 15 points, while Josh Magalaman contributed 13 in the Pool D matchup.

The Philippines struggled to keep up with South Korea in the opening set as the Koreans pulled away midway through the frame to take an early lead.

Alas Men put up a stronger fight in the second set and had two chances to level the match after reaching set point. South Korea, however, held its ground and capitalized on consecutive Philippine errors to take a 2-0 lead.

The Philippines remained within striking distance in the third set but could not complete the comeback as South Korea closed out the match in straight sets.

Owa Retamar also made his Asian Games debut after arriving from Azerbaijan just days before the tournament.

Retamar received permission from his club, Ordu Sports Club, to join the national team but had limited time to train with the squad before the opener.

Sungjin Lim paced South Korea with 13 points, while Hanyong Jeong and Im Donghyeok combined for 22 points.

Alas Men will look to bounce back against 2022 Asian Games silver medalist China on Monday, Sept. 28, at 12 p.m.