Three years after his last stint with the national team, veteran libero Jack Kalingking made a triumphant return to the Alas Pilipinas Men’s squad on Wednesday night.
Kalingking, who last donned the national colors during the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam, rejoined the fold in the Alas Pilipinas Invitationals and helped the Filipinos clinch their second straight victory, this time over Hyundai Capital, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The PGJC-Navy standout couldn’t hide his joy as he once again represented the country—years after being part of the historic silver-medal finish at the 30th SEA Games in Manila.
“Sobrang saya kasi sobrang tagal ‘eh, halos years ‘ata yung pagkabalik ko rito sa national team. Sobrang saya dahil nandito ulit ako sa national team,” said Kalingking after the Philippines’ four-set win, 25-22, 22-25, 25-21, 25-20, over the reigning Korean V-League champions.
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Kalingking did not play in their opening-day win against Jakarta Bhayangkara Presisi, but got the starting nod against Hyundai Capital in place of Joshua Ybañez. The 29-year-old Perpetual Help alumnus delivered with nine excellent receptions in his return.
Despite sitting out their first match, Kalingking said he stayed ready, knowing that he might be called upon at any moment.
He also expressed his gratitude to Alas head coach Angiolino Frigoni for trusting him with a starting role and giving him another opportunity to wear the national jersey.
“Siguro ang mindset ko this game, maging prepared lang talaga bawat game kasi yung tiwala ni coach sa bawat isa sa amin. Basta yung mindset ko lang this game, ready lang talaga kasi lahat naman sa training, ginagamit ni coach. Talagang nandoon yung tiwala niya sa amin,” he said.
Up next for the Philippines is a highly anticipated matchup against Southeast Asian powerhouse Thailand. And for Kalingking, the opportunity to face a familiar regional rival is one he welcomes with excitement.
“Nakaka-excite rin makalaban yung Thailand kasi sila rin yung pinakamalakas sa SEA Games. Siguro, all out yung lahat dapat. Kung ano yung instruction ni coach, susundin namin palagi.”
#WATCH: Jack Kalingking relishes his return to the national team, once again wearing the flag with pride and passion
@jonashdcd /Tiebreaker Times#Sambansa #AlasInvitationals pic.twitter.com/4EZBHctpHR
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) June 11, 2025
