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The Philippine volleyball community is mourning the loss of Ike Andrew Barilea, a rising star from Alas Pilipinas Men, who passed away as announced by the national team on Tuesday. He had just celebrated his 21st birthday two days ago.

The team did not disclose the cause of his death but shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, paying tribute to the young and passionate spiker whose energy and dedication left a lasting mark on the program.

“The court feels emptier, and our hearts heavier. Rest easy, ALAS IKE BARILEA. Thank you for the laughter, the memories, and the heart you gave to the team. Heaven gained an angel, but we lost a piece of ours. Fly high, our dear ALAS,” the statement read.

Barilea, a proud son of the Visayas, was part of the Alas Men’s training pool for the upcoming 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship under coach Angiolino Frigoni.

He also suited up for Alas Pilipinas-Cignal in the 2025 AVC Men’s Volleyball Champions League and played for 1 Silay Volleyball Club in the PNVF U21 National Volleyball Championships.

Known for his enthusiasm, humility, and love for the sport, Barilea was seen as one of the most promising young athletes in Philippine volleyball—a talent gone too soon, but whose spirit will continue to inspire teammates and fans alike.

Alas Pilipinas Men are ready to make history as the Philippines hosts the FIVB Men’s World Championship for the first time. 

The national volleyball team, led by star spiker Marck Espejo, expressed excitement at the recent Media Day held at the National Museum of Natural History in Manila.

“It’s an honor to be part of this historic event. We’re excited to play and show the level and brand of Philippine volleyball in the world stage,” Espejo said.

The team’s preparations included a European training camp and a home tune-up against Portugal. 

“Sa matagal naming pagsasama sa Europe, nakila po namin lalo ang isa’t isa. Ready na po kami maglaro para sa bayan. Pangakong gagawin po namin ‘yung best namin hindi lang basta makadikit o makakuha ng set pero para manalo ng games.” Espejo added

Organizers expect over 10,000 fans to fill the Mall of Asia Arena for the September 12 opener, where the Philippines will face Tunisia. K-pop group BoyNextDoor will also perform during the opening festivities.

With preparations complete and national pride on the line, Alas Pilipinas Men are fired up to compete on volleyball’s biggest stage.

This also highlights their excitement, recent training, and the significance of the upcoming tournament.

PNVF President, Ramon “Tats” Suzara also leads heads the world championship’s Local Organizing Committee co-chaired by Presidential son William Vincent “Vinny” Araneta Marcos, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano and Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, explaining Alas’ first pre-event for the world stage was a visit at the National Museum. 

Alas, led by team captain Bryan Bagunas and veteran ace Marck Espejo, roamed around the museum for over an hour to take a trip down memory lane in 12 permanent galleries that exhibit the rich biological and geological diversity of the Philippines.

“We are days away from history. Let’s make this happen and show the world that the Filipinos are one of the best fans in the world,” Suzara said.