Alas Pilipinas face a tough libero decision with Josh Ybañez, Jack Kalingking, and Vince Lorenzo all making strong cases for a spot in the final 14-man roster for the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship.
As the Philippines gears up to host its first-ever FIVB Men’s World Championship in September 2025, Alas Pilipinas still maintains a 21-player pool—soon to be narrowed to 14.
Among them are liberos Josh Ybanez, Jack Kalingking, and Vince Lorenzo, each presenting a compelling case to lead the offense—or defense—in this historic campaign.
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
Vince Lorenzo is part of Alas Pilipinas' 21-man pool 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.
With the final roster due by September 10, just two days before the tournament’s opening, head coach Angiolino Frigoni faces a compelling choice between Ybañez, Kalingking, and Lorenzo.
Only two—or even just one—libero slot remains for the Final 14, making this a truly competitive battle for the defensive backbone.
Regardless of who earns the nod, Alas Pilipinas is fortified by depth and quality at the libero position, setting a strong foundation for their historic World Championship debut.