Many have been wondering why Jude Garcia, a many-time MVP in the Spikers’ Turf, isn’t part of the Philippine men’s volleyball program.
Truth is, Garcia got a call-up to be part of Alas Pilipinas for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games. But while representing the country is a huge honor, the Criss Cross star has his priorities in check.
For Garcia, it’s family first.
‘I guess the only thing I really want to say is thank you to everyone who supports me and believes in me. But I also have personal reasons. First of all, my wife is about to give birth, and her pregnancy is very sensitive, so I can’t leave her,’ Garcia told reporters moments after winning his fourth Spikers’ Turf MVP and delivering Criss Cross’ first championship with 35 points in the Invitational Conference on Saturday night at FilOil EcoOil Centre.
‘I explained everything to the Alas management-that I really can’t leave my wife because this is our first baby, and the baby is coming this year, so I need to be there for her,’ he went on.
Garcia, the league’s first Season MVP, was grateful and honored to be considered for the national team.
And if the opportunity comes knocking again at the right time, the 27-year-old outside spiker is willing to answer the call.
‘I’m really grateful to everyone who still supports me being part of Alas,’ he said. ‘For me, I have no problem committing to Alas. Even the management told me, ‘If you want to play for Alas, no problem, we’re giving you 100% support.’ It just so happened that my situation with my wife came up-we’re having our first baby-so I need to focus on my family first.’
Garcia has actually suited up for the national team before in the SEA Games, but in beach volleyball, where he’s taken home a total of three bronze medals in 2019, 2021 and 2023.
When Criss Cross outlasted Japan’s Kindai University in a five-set classic, 25-15, 25-21, 23-25, 23-25, 22-20, Garcia jumped to the stands to hug and share a special moment with his wife.
‘It’s really special because from the moment I joined Criss Cross, she was already my number one supporter. She was the one who pushed me to join the team, saying the management was great and they really take care of their players,’ he said. ‘So winning this championship feels amazing, because it’s like we were able to give back and honor the support the management gave us.’