Marck Espejo savored being part of Alas Pilipinas’ historic FIVB World Championship win over Egypt, calling it a major milestone for Philippine volleyball and a hopeful spark for the sport’s future.
Marck Espejo has been through many memorable moments in his career, but a breakthrough victory for Alas Pilipinas in the 2025 FIVB Men's World Championship is something he probably won't ever forget.
After the Philippines’ emotional four-set triumph over African champions Egypt at the Mall of Asia Arena, Espejo shared that while the team didn’t come in expecting to win, they were grateful for the chance to perform—and deliver.
“Hindi rin po talaga namin inisip na manalo ng game,” said Espejo, who had 13 markers in the historic victory, including the game-winning block.
“Kumbaga, sabi nga ni coach [Angiolino Frigoni], nothing to lose po talaga kami sa World Championship. Blessing na rin po na nothing to lose pero kami po, nakakapag-perform.”
2025 FIVB Worlds or 2019 SEA Games?
Espejo is no stranger already to playing for national team, having been a key member of the silver-winning 2019 SEA Games team.
That Finals run was a pivotal moment for Philippine men's volleyball, as it was the first time the country played for a SEA Games gold medal in 42 years.
Marck Espejo celebrates after his game-winning kill block vs Egypt. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
And with another historic milestone for the Philippines in these world championships, Espejo noted the special nature of the victory even if it wasn't for any medal.
“Iba pa rin po talaga ‘yung SEA Games na feeling kasi may medal ‘yun,” Espejo explained.
“Ito, game pa lang at hindi pa naman po tapos lahat. Pero winning a game dito sa World Championship, parang isa na po talaga siyang big, big, big achievement para sa Pilipinas.”
On the growth of Philippine volleyball
Still, Espejo believes the win over Egypt isn’t just about today—it’s about the future. The former Ateneo standout hopes the Philippines’ strong showing as hosts of the FIVB World Championship can inspire the next generation.
“Siguro sa growth po talaga ng Pilipinas, meron po talagang ibubuga ang Philippines,” he said.
“Hindi man ganun katangkad o kasing-physically fit, pero I hope na itong hosting ng World Championship, makakuha pa ng mga gustong maglaro ng volleyball—and hopefully, mag-represent ng Philippines kapag wala na kami.”
[ALSO READ: Espejo hopes Alas Pilipinas can boost men’s volleyball support in FIVB World Championship]
Lastly, Espejo gave his heartfelt thanks to the Filipino fans who continued to show up and cheer despite the national team's shaky start to the tournament.
Filipino fans showed support for Alas Pilipinas Men in their FIVB World Championship battle vs Egypt. | Photo: RM Chua/One Sports
“Nakaka-miss ‘yung ganitong feeling,” he said.
“’Di lang po namin na-maximize nung first day pero super thankful pa rin po kami kahit super bad day po ‘yun. Nandito pa rin kayong lahat para suportahan kami.”
The journey continues for Espejo and Alas Men as they battle world no. 14 Iran for a Round of 16 spot on Thursday, September 16.
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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.