From being a top-tier scorer in the UAAP to transitioning into a libero for Alas Pilipinas Men, Josh Ybañez has proven he can thrive in any role.
The standout outside spiker from the University of Santo Tomas embraced the challenge of being converted into a defensive specialist for the Philippine men’s national volleyball team — and it paid off on Sunday night.
Ybañez, a 22-year-old native of General Santos City, was named Best Libero in the second leg of the 2025 Southeast Asia (SEA) V.League held at the Jakarta International Velodrome.
The recognition is a testament to Ybañez’s versatility. After all, he was a two-time UAAP Most Valuable Player as an outside hitter during Seasons 85 and 86, winning MVP honors as a rookie and then defending his title the following year.
Alas Pilipinas wrapped up the second leg in fourth place — mirroring their finish in the first leg hosted in Candon, Ilocos Sur.
Indonesia’s Boy Arnez, an outside hitter, was named Most Valuable Player, while his compatriots Jasen Natanael and Rivan Nurmulki were awarded Best Setter and Best Opposite Spiker, respectively.
Vietnam’s Nguyen Ngoc Thuan joined Arnez as one of the Best Outside Spikers, while Tran Duy Tuyen (Vietnam) and Kissada Nilsawai (Thailand) earned Best Middle Blocker honors.
In the tournament’s opening leg, Filipino opposite hitter Leo Ordiales had been named to the Mythical Team as Best Opposite Spiker.
Looking ahead, Ybañez will compete for one of two libero spots on the national team for the 2025 FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championship, which the Philippines will host in September.
He will be vying for the position alongside veteran Jack Kalingking and up-and-comer Vince Lorenzo.
