Alas Pilipinas will have Josh Ybañez and Jack Kalingking as liberos in the final 14-man roster for the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship.
[Editor's Note: This article has been updated to reflect the updates in the Alas Pilipinas roster]
As the Philippines gears up to host its first-ever FIVB Men’s World Championship in September 2025, Alas Pilipinas has narrowed its player pool to 14.
Selected to wear the libero uniform are Josh Ybanez and Jack Kalingking. Meanwhile, Vince Lorenzo will move to a specialist role, listed as an outside hitter in the Volleyball World website.
Look back at their contributions so far.
Josh Ybañez
Josh Ybañez suits up for Alas Men during the Invitationals. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
Josh Ybañez first entered the national consciousness as a dominant outside hitter for UST, earning back-to-back UAAP MVP plums in Seasons 85 and 86.
In an impressive display of adaptability, he transitioned from attacker to libero for Alas Pilipinas—and it paid off, as he was named Best Libero in the second leg of the 2025 SEA V.League.
Now, Ybañez is expected to be the main libero for the national team, not just in the World Championship, but also in future international tournaments.
Jack Kalingking
Jack Kalingking made his national team return during the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
Jack Kalingking stands as a seasoned libero with rich experience across collegiate and club stages.
His early successes include NCAA championships with Perpetual Altas in Seasons 89, 91, and 93.
[ALSO READ: Alas veterans Kim Malabunga, Jack Kalingking excited for new experience in FIVB Worlds]
At the club level, he represented the Navy Sea Lions in the Spikers' Turf and earned recognition as Best Libero in the league’s Open Conference.
After time away from the national team, Kalingking made his return to Alas Pilipinas during the Invitationals, proving to be a valuable piece with his leadership both on and off the court.
Vince Lorenzo (Moved to OH role)
Vince Lorenzo is part of Alas Pilipinas final roster for the 2025 FIVB World Championship. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
Vince Lorenzo’s quiet excellence lies in his technical mastery and ball control.
Playing for the Cignal HD Spikers, he stood out in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Open Conference, where he was awarded Best Libero, en route to the team's title victory.
Throughout his club tenure, Lorenzo has led in reception metrics and defense efficiency.
From the outside looking in, the former FEU standout’s precision and adaptability to structured schemes make him a valuable tactical fit for international play.
He has been listed in the outside hitter role, based on the Volleyball World website, and could be expected to serve as a specialist.
[ALSO READ: SCHEDULE, RESULTS | Alas Pilipinas debut at 2025 FIVB Men's Volleyball World Championship]
Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.