Criss Cross MVP Jude Garcia explains his decision to skip the upcoming Alas Pilipinas campaign, prioritizing his growing family as he awaits the birth of his first child.
Amid another MVP-winning conference, many fans are left wondering why Criss Cross superstar Jude Garcia has yet to suit up for Alas Pilipinas.
After leading the King Crunchers to the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational title, Garcia explained why that is the case, emphasizing that the choice had nothing to do with willingness or commitment to represent the country.
Instead, it was about being present for one of the most important moments of his life.
“Kumbaga siguro masasabi ko lang doon salamat sa lahat ng mga tao na sumusuporta sa akin, na nagtitiwala,” Garcia told reporters.
“Pero may mga reasons kasi ako eh — sarili ko na. ‘Yung una-una, ‘yung wife ko, manganganak na, so hindi ko pwede iwan kasi sobrang sensitive na magbuntis.”
Garcia and his wife are expecting their first child this year, and with the pregnancy entering a crucial stage, the high-flying outside spiker felt that stepping away from home simply wasn’t an option.
“Napaliwanag ko rin naman sa management ng Alas na talagang hindi pwede iwan ‘yung missis ko kasi first baby namin,” he added. “Kailangan talagang nandun ako sa kanya.”
No issues joining Alas Men
Despite his absence from the current national team pool, Garcia made it clear that he has no issues committing to Alas Pilipinas in the future.
The 27-year-old spiker had even suited up for the national team’s beach squad, already taking home three SEA Games bronze medals.
He also emphasized that Criss Cross management had given him full permission to join the national team and would have been present under different circumstances.
“Sa akin naman, wala naman problema na mag-commit sa Alas,” Garcia said.
“Pati naman ‘yung management namin sinasabihan ako na kung gusto mo mag-Alas, walang problema — 100 percent support kami. Pero nagkataon nga lang talaga may ganyan ang case sa asawa ko, so focus muna ako sa family.”
For now, Garcia is fully focused on fatherhood, though he has left the door wide open for a future return to the national colors, once his family is settled and ready.
If and when that time comes, Alas Men may finally have the league’s reigning four-time MVP at their disposal.
(With reports from Jamie Velasco/One Sports)
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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.