Volleyball star Marck Espejo honors the late Alas Pilipinas teammate Ike Barilea by auctioning a national team jersey to support the young spiker’s family.
Volleyball isn’t just about spikes and blocks—it’s about the friendships, the memories, and the moments that make the game meaningful.
For Marck Espejo, that truth became painfully real with the loss of his Alas Pilipinas teammate and friend, Ike Andrew Barilea.
The 21-year-old opposite spiker, who had shown incredible promise during the AVC Champions League in May 2025, passed away recently, leaving the Philippine volleyball community in shock.
[ALSO READ: Alas Pilipinas Men pool member Ike Barilea passes away at age 21]
To honor his late teammate, Espejo is auctioning a national team jersey they shared during their time together.
All proceeds will go directly to Ike’s family.
Bidding starts at P5,000 and will be open until November 19, Wednesday, 11:59 p.m., with increments of P500.
“After my season in Japan with Kubota, I returned to Alas Pilipinas to start our journey toward the World Championship. That’s where I met Ike—ang pasaway, pero masaya kasama on and off the court. Ang malaki ang potential sa volleyball,” Espejo wrote on Facebook.
Espejo fondly remembers Ike not just as a player, but as a teammate who brought energy to every practice and match.
“From late-night card games to ramen trips on rest days, the laughs we shared off the court made our bond stronger. I really thought we’d become teammates again in Criss Cross because you even asked if there were tryouts for the team. I didn’t know that would be your last message to me.”
“All proceeds will go directly to Ike’s family. I hope you can support this initiative as we come together to help Ike and his loved ones during this difficult time,” Espejo added.
Ike’s passing is a huge loss for Philippine volleyball, but his spirit will live on through his teammates, the national team, and the fans who cheered for him.
“Thank you, Ike, for the short but meaningful time we got to spend with you. We will never forget you. Fly high, Ike,” said Espejo.
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Inna Mina is a sportswriter with a passion for telling stories that go beyond the scoreboard.
She covers running, athletics, and other major Philippine sporting events, while also following grassroots sports, athlete journeys, and women in sports. Her work also includes lifestyle stories on health, fitness, and community.