By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
Ike Barilea, a member of the Alas Pilipinas Men’s national volleyball pool, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 11, just two days after celebrating his 21st birthday.
The team announced his passing through a social media post, though the cause of death was not disclosed.
“The court feels emptier, and our hearts heavier. Rest easy, ALAS IKE BARILEA,” the post read.
“Thank you for the laughter, the memories, and the heart you gave to the team. Heaven gained an angel, but we lost a piece of ours. Fly high, our dear ALAS,” it added.
A promising middle blocker from Negros, Barilea helped steer the 1Silay Volleyball Club to a bronze-medal finish at the 2025 U21 National Finals. He was later selected to the Philippine team’s 21-player pool for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
Barilea also suited up for Cignal in the 2025 AVC Men’s Champions League in Japan and previously played for Santa Rosa City during the 2022 Spikers’ Turf season.
