John Vincent “JV” Gallego (March 26, 1998 – July 18, 2026) passed away on Saturday after being involved in a vehicular accident along the northbound lane of the North Luzon Expressway in Meycauayan.
He was 28 years old.
A 5-foot-10 guard, Gallego represented the Philippines in the 2016 FIBA Asia U18 Championship.
He later suited up for National University from UAAP Seasons 78 to 82 before transferring to San Beda University.
Gallego helped the Red Lions capture the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball championship in 2023.
His lone documented professional stint came in 2024, when he played for Bicol in the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League.
Despite his young age, Gallego ventured into coaching at Colegio San Agustin-Makati.
Gallego’s former Chiang Kai Shek teammate, Fran Yu, paid tribute to his longtime friend.
“To my Batman since Day 1.
Thank you for being an incredible person, a great teammate, and a true friend from the very beginning. Thank you for every memory, every laugh, and every moment we shared on and off the court.
Your kindness, heart, and presence made a difference to all of us. You’ll always be remembered, and you’ll forever be a part of our team and our family.
You will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, Batman.”
Former San Beda teammate Jacob Cortez also wrote a heartfelt post for Gallego, whom he considered a mentor and older brother.
“Rest in peace, my brother. Lucky Lefty. My rookie veteran. I wouldn’t be who I am today without you in my life. I love you, brother. Look after me up there.”
