The Brazilian volleyball legend reconnects with fans in the Philippines, celebrating a connection that started a generation ago
Leila Barros is in the Philippines as the guest of honour for the semifinals and finals of the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship.
Now a senator in Brazil, Leila returned to a country where she became one of the most recognisable figures in international volleyball at the turn of the millennium.
Her first appearance in the Philippines came in 1999 during a leg of the FIVB World Grand Prix. That year, she was named the tournament’s Most Popular Player after captivating local fans with her performance and personality. Supporters filled the stands with playful signs that read “Leila, will you marry me?” and “Leila for President!” – gestures that reflected the strong impression she made on Filipino audiences.
“The arena was packed, completely full. And the posters – ‘Leila, marry me,’ ‘Leila for president.’ Well, today I’m actually in politics. I think the people in the Philippines already imagined my future in politics. It’s very funny,” Leila said.
She returned in 2000 when Manila hosted the Grand Prix Final Round. Brazil’s matches often felt like home games, as Pinoys or Filipino fans filled the stands with cheers that made every point feel personal.
Pinoy is an informal term Filipinos use to refer to themselves and their culture. It reflects the pride and warmth that greeted Leila each time she played in the country.
“What’s special about the Philippines? Everything. Everything, the people, the country, the passion for volleyball. It’s a country that welcomes not only us Brazilians, but anyone who comes to visit, discover its natural beauty and enjoy great sport. You’ll easily understand why I’m so passionate about the Philippines,” she said.
Leila made another appearance in 2004, when she joined Brazil in a later edition of the World Grand Prix. Leila’s 2004 return once again drew loud cheers in Manila, showing how deeply her connection with Filipino fans had endured.
Reflecting on her journey, Leila spoke about her values and her ongoing commitment to helping others.
“I think my greatest legacy is the desire I have to keep working for people. I was born an athlete and fulfilled my dreams. I wasn’t an Olympic champion, but I’m part of Brazil’s first Olympic medal-winning generation. So, what more could I want than a better world, and for us, especially myself, to keep helping people grow and have opportunities in my country, Brazil. Mahal ko kayo!” she said, using a Filipino phrase that means “I love you all.”
Leila will celebrate her birthday on Tuesday, two days after the World Championship concludes. When asked about her wishes for the occasion, she kept her response simple.
“Three wishes: health, wisdom, and that I may still, for many years, have other opportunities to return to the Philippines,” she said.
More than two decades since her first visit, Leila’s presence once again bridges generations of Filipino fans, reaffirming a bond that began on the court and has grown into one of the sport’s most enduring connections.
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