Espejo back in Alas Pilipinas fold, joins Europe camp

MANILA, Philippines — Grizzled spiker Marck Espejo has rejoined the Alas Pilipinas men training camp in Europe after recovering from his ankle injury, ensuring a full-forced squad for the country’s hosting of the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship from September 12-28 here.

Espejo’s arrival completed the wards of Italian coach Angiolino Frigoni in the thick of their European camp that started in Morocco and Romania before wrapping it up in Portugal.

“I’m taking it day by day, training by training, as I work to catch up with the team after coming back from injury,” said Espejo, who reunited with his teammates in Santo Tirso, a city situated in northern Portugal, earlier this week.

A former UAAP Most Valuable with multiple stints as import in Asia, the 28-year-old outside hitter sustained the said injury last June during Alas’ campaign in 2025 AVC Men’s Volleyball Nations Cup in Bahrain.

But he’s ready now, more than ever, to catch up in the preparations of the squad made up of young and veteran spikers led by team captain Bryan Bagunas, who’s also making good progress in his comeback from a knee injury last year.

“It’s well-balanced team for long-term growth. We have experienced veterans and kuyas who provide leadership, and younger players with fresh legs and a lot of energy,” added Espejo.

“It’s a huge honor and opportunity to be part of the world championship —playing for your country feels different from playing for your club. I’ll make the most out of it because this is a once in a lifetime experience.”

Alas Pilipinas, ranked No. 77 in the world, won two of their three tune-up matches in Europe so far against world No. 81 Morocco before losing steam against world No. 22 Romania.

The Filipino spikers are bracing for a tough duel in Pool A of the 32-team world joust against world No. 13 Iran, No. 23 Egypt and No. 42 Tunisia.