Veteran libero Jack Kalingking expressed his joy in returning to the national team after three years as he made his mark in Alas Pilipinas' four-set victory against the Hyundai Capital Skywalkers.
Veteran libero Jack Kalingking is making the most of his return to Alas Pilipinas after a three-year absence.
Kalingking proudly donned the national team colors in the Alas Men’s four-set win over the Hyundai Capital Skywalkers, 25-22, 22-25, 25-21, 25-20, in the 2025 Alas Pilipinas Invitationals on Wednesday, June 11.
The 29-year-old libero last played for the country during the 2021 Southeast Asian Games. Now back in the fold, Kalingking is ecstatic to be back on the taraflex, representing the Philippines on the international stage.
“Sobrang saya dahil nandito ulit ako sa national team,” Kalingking told reporters. “Halos taon din ‘yung lumipas kaya masarap sa pakiramdam na makabalik.”
Putting up nine excellent receptions in the match against the Korean V-League champions, Kalingking’s steady presence helped solidify the team’s floor defense.
“Ang mindset ko lang talaga, maging handa bawat game,” said Kalingking. “Alam ko na nagtitiwala si coach [Angiolino Frigoni] sa lahat ng players, kaya gusto ko lang suklian ‘yung tiwala na ‘yon.”
Now looking ahead, the 2019 SEA Games silver medalist is eager for their upcoming matchup against Thailand, a longtime regional rival.
Kalingking and the rest of Alas Pilipinas take on Thailand tomorrow, continuing their push in the three-day invitational tournament leading up to the 2025 FIVB Men’s World Championship.
“Nakaka-excite ulit na makalaban ang Thailand. Sila pa rin ang pinakamalakas sa Southeast Asia kaya kailangan naming sumunod sa sistema at ibigay lahat,” he closed.