Menard Guerrero of De La Salle University and Popoy Colinares of University of Santo Tomas have taken the next step in their blossoming volleyball careers, officially signing with Criss Cross in the Spikers’ Turf.
Guerrero will bolster the libero rotation of the King Crunchers, joining forces with four-time Spikers’ Turf Best Libero Manuel Sumanguid and John Philip Pepito.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
A two-time Best Libero in the collegiate ranks, Guerrero also collected three Best Libero citations during his high school years with National University-Nazareth School.
Despite having two more years of eligibility left in the UAAP, Guerrero announced his departure from La Salle through a heartfelt Instagram post.
“Forever grateful, DLSU. As I close this unforgettable chapter, my heart is full—of memories, of lessons, and of love. Thank you for shaping me, challenging me, and giving me a home for the past few years. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you later. Animo forever,” wrote the 23-year-old defensive specialist.
Guerrero will be reunited with former Green Spiker teammate Noel Kampton at Criss Cross.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Meanwhile, Colinares emerged as one of UST’s standouts during what turned out to be his final season with the Golden Spikers, even with two more years of eligibility remaining.
The 6-foot-2 middle blocker ranked second in blocks during UAAP Season 87 with 33 total, and also finished third in service aces with 17. He was also a key scoring option for UST, finishing with 146 points in the elimination round — 15th overall in the league.
Colinares capped off his breakout season by being named one of the Best Middle Blockers. He now joins an experienced Criss Cross middle blocker unit featuring Kim Malabunga, Gian Glorioso, Rex Intal, and Chu Njigha.
“Grateful for every moment of my last ride. Thank you, UST,” Colinares wrote on Instagram.
