Jude Garcia could not hide his elation as he witnessed the growing surge of support for men’s volleyball during the 2026 Volleyball All-Star Showcase in Candon City, Ilocos Sur last Friday.
Garcia was part of Team Power, which secured a 25-18, 25-18, 21-25, 25-23 victory over Team Passion in the Spikers’ Turf All-Star Game, serving as the curtain-raiser for the out-of-town showcase.
The five-time Spikers’ Turf MVP said it was encouraging to see support not limited to women’s volleyball, as more spectators are also showing interest in the men’s game throughout the three-day festivities.
“Ano, sobrang happy ako kasi talaga,” said the Criss Cross star.
“Makikita mo rin yung mga fans talaga na tinatangkilik yung volleyball. Hindi lang sa women’s, kumbaga nakikita mo rin yung kagustuhan nilang panoorin yung men’s talaga,” he added.
Garcia also expressed gratitude to Candon for its warm welcome, noting the city’s hospitality and strong support as host of the Volleyball All-Star Showcase, and said he hopes to return in future editions of the event.
“Sobrang thankful ako sa Candon na nag-host sila ng All-Star. Sana meron pa,” he said.
The 27-year-old winger finished with eight points in the Spikers’ Turf All-Star match, helping Team Power fend off a spirited comeback attempt from Team Passion to secure the win.
Garcia admitted the team initially struggled with chemistry but managed to adjust as the match progressed under the guidance of head coach Sydney Calderon.
He also said he enjoyed the opportunity to play under Calderon, noting a different yet familiar dynamic given their recent meeting in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Finals.
“Masarap sa pakiramdam. Siguro nag-struggle lang kami sa set play, pero kung mahaba-haba pa yung preparation namin, kaya namin i-perfect, close to perfect yung pinapapagawa ni Coach Sydney,” Garcia said.
“Thankful ako kasi nakasama ko si Coach Sydney.”
