Alas Pilipinas mourns sudden passing of young middle blocker Ike Barilea, days after 21st brthday

The Philippine volleyball community is grieving the untimely loss of one of its most promising young talents. Ike Andrew Barilea, a rising middle blocker and member of the Alas Pilipinas Men’s training pool, passed away just two days after celebrating his 21st birthday.

The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the national team’s official social media page on Tuesday afternoon, sending shockwaves across the local volleyball scene.

“The court feels emptier, and our hearts heavier. Rest easy, Alas Ike Barilea,” the announcement 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.”

Known for his infectious energy and boundless enthusiasm, Barilea represented the best of the new generation of Filipino volleyball players—talented, driven, and deeply passionate about the sport.

A native of Negros Occidental, Barilea’s rise was anything but ordinary. From his early days competing in provincial circuits to earning a call-up to the national training pool, he quickly became a player to watch for his athleticism and charisma on and off the court.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

RIP Ike Barilea

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Alas Pilipinas member Ike Barilea. He was only 21 years old, gone far too soon. Ike was involved in a road accident earlier today.

We lost a promising player, who was part of the Alas Pilipinas team… pic.twitter.com/Y8oGuJlCr6

— Volleytrails (@volleytrails) November 11, 2025

National team head coach Angiolino Frigoni, who handpicked Barilea to join the 21-player pool for the 2025 FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship, was one of those who believed in his potential. 

While Barilea was ultimately among the seven players cut from the final lineup, Frigoni had been vocal about the young middle blocker’s future.

The Italian mentor reportedly took note of Barilea’s breakout performance in the 2025 PNVF U21 National Finals, where he erupted for 31 points to lead 1 Silay Volleyball Club to a bronze finish—a performance that underscored his growth and maturity on the court.

Barilea also represented Alas Pilipinas-Cignal in the 2025 AVC Men’s Volleyball Champions League in Japan, marking his first and only international stint under the national banner. Those who played alongside him described him as a “sparkplug” and “the kind of teammate who made the grind lighter.”

As of this writing, his family has yet to release a statement regarding his passing, and the cause of death remains undisclosed.

For now, his teammates, coaches, and fans are left with memories—of a young athlete whose dream burned brightly, even if far too briefly.

Barilea’s legacy, though short-lived, is one built on heart, humor, and hard work—qualities that will live on in the halls and hearts of Philippine volleyball.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!