By ADRIAN STEWART CO

National University (NU) standout Leo Ordiales will be one of the players to watch as the Philippines makes its first-ever appearance in the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship in Manila today.

The promising wing spiker from Negros Occidental’s Talisay City earned a spot in the 14-man lineup, joining veteran leaders Bryan Bagunas and Marck Espejo in the country’s historic campaign.

Ordiales, who has shown flashes of brilliance in the collegiate ranks, is tipped to bring youthful energy alongside fellow NU teammates Buds Buddin, Peng Taguibolos and Jade Disquitado.

The nationals will open their Pool A run against Tunisia at the SM Mall of Asia Arena tonight, before taking on Egypt on September 16 and powerhouse Iran on September 18.

SEA Games silver medalists Owa Retamar, Kim Malabunga and Jack Kalingking will return to provide experience, while UAAP MVP Josh Ybañez and NCAA MVP Louie Ramirez bolster the team’s offensive arsenal.

Lloyd Josafat, Vince Lorenzo and Eco Adajar round out the roster as the Philippines braces for the biggest world championship yet, featuring 32 teams from around the globe./ASC, WDJ