Manila: Philippine Handball Federation Inc. (PHFI) president Dr. Ernesto "Jay" Adalem has expressed optimism regarding the national women's team's campaign at the upcoming 12th IHF Beach Handball World Championships. The event is scheduled to take place from June 23 to 28 in Zagreb, Croatia, which will host the competition for the first time, featuring 16 men's and 16 women's teams.

According to Philippines News Agency, Adalem shared his confidence during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) forum held at the Philippine Sports Commission media room in Malate. He emphasized the team's preparedness and determination to improve on their 12th place finish from the previous edition held in 2024 on Pingtan Island in Fuzhou, China, where Germany clinched the championship.

This year, the Philippines is grouped in Group D alongside 2024 runner-up Argentina, Denmark, and Benin. To advance to the next round, the Philippines must secure a Top 3 finish in the group. Adalem acknowledged the challenges but expressed hope in surpassing their previous performance. He highlighted the team's current global rank of No. 12 and their position as No. 2 in Asia, just behind Vietnam.

Head coach Joanna Franquelli, playing coach AA Adriano, and players Za Mateo, Joe Ong, and Shang Berte were also present at the forum. Franquelli recalled the team's past performance, where they finished second in a group that included China, Portugal, and Australia, and expressed hopes for even better results this time around.

Beach handball, a fast-paced sport played on sand, involves two 10-minute sets and features teams of four players, including one goalkeeper. Adalem expressed his desire for the sport to gain more recognition in the Philippines, noting improvements in the national team's game and extending gratitude to PSC chairperson John Patrick Gregorio for supporting the indoor handball team by allowing them to share the futsal venue at Philsports Arena.