Manila, Aug. 5 -- After a grueling 32-hour trip, Alas Pilipinas has arrived in Santiago, Chile for the FIVB Volleyball Girls' U17 World Championship.

Philippine Ambassador to Chile Celeste Vinzon-Balatbat treated the squad to a hearty lunch and offered words of encouragement on Tuesday ahead of the tournament set Aug. 6-16.

Caera Celis, Jhaynna Love Bulandres, Irish May Mahinay and the rest of the Philippine team soaked in the warmth of the gesture as Balatbat, recalling her own student-athlete daughter, voiced confidence that these brave young ladies will grow into strong women.

"It's wonderful how sports is part of your life as young women. Sports help develop your character. It instills discipline in you. It instills grit in you. It...