Liao, who is also a veteran volleyball official, brings a wealth of experience to govern the most sensitive and crucial position in the newly-formed national sports association for volleyball following its admission of its officers into office on Wednesday by Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Rep. Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino at The Vault restaurant at the BGC in Taguig City.

PNVFI president Ramon “Tats” Suzara shared that Liao was the best choice as his credentials proved to be—substantial experience and involvement with the national team that won its first-ever women’s gold medal in the 1993 SEA Game in Singapore.

“Mr. Liao was a former manager of the national team for many years. He also managed two of the most successful collegiate teams, De La Salle and Ateneo,’’ Suzara averred.

“He has vast experience in managing teams and players and is highly-versed on volleyball rules,” he continued. 

Liao is currently based in the United States but has attended PNVFI’s first board meeting online.

“It’s a privilege to head the department and I know that the task is challenging but I promise to do my best,” said Liao. 

“I will immediately form my team and discuss the criteria of selection of the players and coaching staff,” he added.

Also appointed were Richard Palou (deputy secretary-general for international affairs), Roger Banzuela (deputy secretary-general for member relations), Carmela Gamboa (events council), Jerry Yee (technical and coaches), Prof. Robert Calo (refeering and rules), Karl Geoffrey Chan II (development), Donald Caringal (marketing), Rosario Soriano (beach volleyball), Benson Bocboc (VIS), Dr. Jose Raul Canlas (Medical), Rodrigo Roque (finance), Fr. Victor Calvo (legal and ethics) and Alyssa Valdez (athletes) with members Abigail Marano, Dennise Lazaro, and Johnvic de Guzman.