[EXCLUSIVE] For Philippine volleyball star Marck Espejo, the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship 2025 is more than just a chance to make history with Alas Pilipinas. It is also the biggest opportunity yet for the 27-year-old outside hitter to fulfill his long-time dream: to play in Europe.
In an exclusive interview with DZRHTV, Espejo admitted that while representing the country is his top priority, he also hopes to use the tournament as a platform to showcase his talent to European clubs and coaches.
“Siguro po gamitin ko po itong world championship para mas ma-expose ako sa mga European teams, kasi isa sa mga dream ko ay makapaglaro sa Europe,” said Espejo.
“Most teams na nasa top countries na naglalaro sa volleyball ay European side and western side, and for the past 5, 6 years sa Asia lang po ako naglalaro.”
Espejo has already built an impressive professional resume in Asia, playing in leagues in Japan, Thailand, Bahrain, and Korea. Yet he admits that Europe is a different level entirely, home to powerhouse leagues in Italy, Poland, France, and Russia where the world’s best players compete.
“Hopefully, kapag nag-expose po ako sa European countries sana makapaglaro po talaga kasi ayun po yung dream ko,” Espejo explained. “And after no'n pwede na 'kong mag-retire.”
The FIVB Men’s World Championship runs from September 12 to 28 in the Philippines, with matches staged at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City and the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.
This year’s edition is historic: it is the first time the Philippines will serve as host and the first time the men’s national team will compete in the tournament.
Placed in Pool A, Alas Pilipinas faces tough opponents in Iran (world No. 13), Egypt (No. 23), and Tunisia (No. 42).
The Filipinos opened their campaign against Tunisia, where they fell in straight sets. They next take on Egypt on September 16 before closing the group stage against Iran on September 18.
